Boca Grande, Florida

Inns, Lodges, Resorts

February 2024

By Polly Dean

Photos by Jimmy Jacobs

Construction of this resort hotel that would cater to wealthy northerners was conceived and planned by the Boca Grande Land Company in 1909. It would be upscale and attract wealthy buyers to the area. It opened its doors during the 1911-1912 season. Though most guests were escaping the winter weather of the industrial northeastern portion of the country, many also were lured by the tarpon fishing.

Prominent tycoons, including J.P. Morgan, Henry Dupont, Henry Ford, Harvey Firestone and famous portrait painter John Singer Sargent were early guests. It was also an annual holiday destination for the families of Presidents George H.W. and George W. Bush..

Accommodations include standard guest rooms, standard and luxury suites in the main building, villas, houses and beach cottages. Luxury suites in the main inn include the Terrace Suite, Veranda Suite and the Presidential Suite. Villas with private screened porches are ideal for groups and families. Accessible rooms are available as well. They feature open floor plans with spacious living room and fully stocked kitchens. They also have a washer/dryer combo, garage, large TV, WiFi, work area and safe.

Their most luxurious accommodations are the Beach Cottages. They are three- or four-bedroom homes located directly on the Gulf of Mexico. They include all the services of the inn, plus a swimming pool and cabana for the cottage guests to mix and mingle in a more private setting. Additionally, complimentary golf carts and grocery delivery services are provided.

Dining options on site are  the inn’s dining room for a full breakfast and a four-course dinner. It is open to the inn guests and the public. A more casual lunch or dinner is offered at the Pink Elephant, a short stroll from the inn. Residents and regulars affectionately refer to it as “The Pink.” It is open daily for lunch and dinner. For over 60 years guests have gathered at the eatery for great food, signature drinks and refined service. The fare is composed of fresh local seafood and regional comfort food. Guests can dine in the downstairs pub, dining room or patio outdoors.

The Beach Club is private and reserved for guests and members only. It is located on their private beach and is popular for weddings and special events. BZ’s is located on the main floor of the inn, and is a popular gathering place from mid-day to late night. The décor features an Old Florida charm that reminds guests of a bygone era, with bar and ceiling made of cypress wood, along with comfortable upholstered chairs and sofas. The terrace is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the view of the fifth green of the Gasparilla Golf Club.

The inn also features a salon and spa, that offers a myriad of treatments and massages, including acupuncture. Bath facilities with steam room, saunas, lounges and 80-foot heated lap pool are also available.

Today, the Gasparilla Inn & Club is noted for being a resort for well-healed fishermen, but it provides accommodations that the non-sportsman or woman will appreciate as well.

For more details, visit the Gasparilla Inn & Club website.