Boca Grande is a little island South of Sarasota. Over the years, it has become increasingly popular, especially with people from Tampa, mainly because it takes just under two hours to get there, which is not that far when you want a high-quality beach. 

What makes Boca Grande so unique are the other activities besides just going to the beach. For example, there is a town with shops, restaurants, and ice cream parlors. Furthermore, you can also rent a golf cart or bike to ride around town and the island or a paddleboard or kayak to explore the sea life. 

One of the main attractions of the island besides the beaches is the Gasparilla Inn which is a costly hotel that includes a golf course located next to the ocean, a spa, and a fitness center. The Gasparilla Inn has been open since 1913; however, recently, it has been under construction from Hurricane Ian’s destruction. 

One of my favorite things when visiting Boca Grande is looking for sharks’ teeth. The best place to look is the southern tip of the island. This is called the Pass. It is where the tarpon travel to go to the ocean in the spring and summer, which is why there are so many sharks in that area. Not only are there a lot of sharks’ teeth, but there are also pretty shells everywhere, specifically conch shells. 

My favorite restaurants on the island are Sisters, The Temptation, and The Pink Elephant. Sisters is a casual pizza restaurant that is very family-friendly and affordable. The Temptation is arguably the fanciest and most expensive restaurant, but it is also my favorite because of the seafood it offers. Lastly, The Pink Elephant has a bar and is owned by the Gasparilla Inn. It provides food like smash burgers, oysters, and Fish n Chips. 

Overall, Boca Grande is one of the best places to visit for Spring or Summer break because it is close to Tampa and the number of activities you can participate in, from fishing for tarpon to riding around the island in a golf cart. You are always guaranteed fun. 

Gasparilla Inn: 

https://the-gasparilla-inn.com/ 

Sisters: 

http://sistersbocagrande.com/ 

The Pink Elephant: 

https://the-gasparilla-inn.com/dining/the-pink-elephant-menu/