We stopped for a look at the historic Boca Grande Lighthouse
Boca Grande is located about 50 miles south of our home on Siesta Key. Today was Saturday and we felt like exploring a part of the Sunshine State we had never experienced before. Our first stop was a public beach pull-off for a cooling dip in the surf. The water was extremely calm (as the Gulf normally is) but the salt water soon had us in an island state of mind.
This is a look down Banyan Street — a shady avenue in Boca Grande
Boca Grande, which translates to Big Mouth, is a pretty secluded area known as a getaway for the rich and famous. It is also a popular destination for sport fishermen. The island is just north of the more well-known Captiva and Sanibel Island.
The Historic Gasparilla Inn (circa 1912) was closed for summer season
I couldn’t resist peeking in the front window. Classic looking front porch and lobby area. In fact, I thought for a minute that Jack Nicholson might open up the front door and scream, “Here’s Johnny!!!!”
We enjoyed lunch at The Loose Caboose in the town’s old train station
Eileen and I enjoyed the fresh Grouper Finger Basket – good eatin’!
The food was good and the atmosphere was comfortable. I love old train stations. The grouper tasted super fresh and the homemade tartar sauce was really a nice touch. PJ’s Seagrille, another interesting looking eatery along Park Avenue, was closed for the summer. The Temptation, a combo bar, restaurant, and liquor store, was open and offered more adult surroundings. We went the family route, but I would like to go back and try the Temp sometime. Take a closer look at www.temptationbocagrande.com.
A/C, Cold Beer, and “Olde Florida Charm” — what more could you ask for???
The mighty tarpon (seen in wall mural) helped put Boca Grande on the map
A look at a quaint street in the heart of Boca Grande’s downtown
Boca Grande Outfitters is one of the shopping highlights along Park Ave.
The golf cart is the vehicle of choice on this scenic Florida island
This was one of the more tricked out carts we saw. It had a custom island paint job and, better yet, faux alligator seats — seriously! Golf carts have their own roads on Boca Grande, so you don’t have to worry about them slowing your Harley or El Camino down as you cruise around the island.
Great pictures… Loved your close ups! Can’t wait to see more!
Oh, forgot to mention that when you come back, in season, check out the Strawberry Chicken salad at the Temp, its great. Also the lobster rolls at Newlins are the best and the home brewed sweet tea at the Pink Pony aka Dolphin Cove is “SWEET!”
Thanks, Christine — appreciate the dining tips!
We look forward to our next visit to BG.
Hi,
Hope you don’t mind, but I’ve linked to your post on my blog, and have included your picture of The Loose Caboose (with link back to your site and a link to your ‘About’ page).
Our blog is aimed at helping guests at our villa make the most of their stay, so it’s helpful to have an independent view of the area (and eating places) from sites such as yours.
Many thanks.