Boca Grande Beach

Boca Grande Beach is somewhat of an underrated beach destination on Gasparilla Island on Florida’s west coast. Bathed by the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, this upmarket resort has a laid-back ambience and old-world charm that’s great for families. Couples looking for a romantic escape with a difference will also enjoy time here.

The light-coloured sands of Boca Grande Beach are accessed via several points on 19th Street, where beachgoers will find limited free parking a short stroll away. Edged by palms and other subtropical plants, the offshore winds can be quite strong in the afternoon, with some choosing to bring a windbreak.

Boca Grande Beach is particularly well known for its fishing, and was once a major commercial fishing port. While this era is now firmly in the history books, it’s still very easy to arrange fishing charters with the hope of catching species such as tarpon, speckled trout and snook. Searching for shells is another favourite activity.