Port Boca Grande Lighthouse stands at the south end of Gasparilla Island on Florida's southwest Gulf Coast, within Gasparilla Island State Park. Built in 1890, the wood-framed light was restored and now houses a museum operated with the help of the Barrier Island Parks Society, telling the island's story from the Calusa to its phosphate-shipping and tarpon-fishing eras. It is the only lighthouse open to the public on Florida's Gulf coast.
Best season — Winter and spring (best shelling, mild weather)
At a glance
The facts worth checking before you roll out
Conservative, source-minded facts for planning your visit — always worth confirming against current conditions before you travel.
State
Florida (southwest Gulf Coast)
Built
1890
State park
Gasparilla Island State Park
Operated with
Barrier Island Parks Society
On the ground
On the southern tip of Gasparilla Island, the 1890 light marks the entrance to Boca Grande Pass, long famous for its tarpon fishing. The wood-framed tower was restored within Gasparilla Island State Park and now holds a museum, run with the Barrier Island Parks Society, that traces the island's history from its Calusa roots through its phosphate-shipping era.
For RV travelers exploring Florida's southwest Gulf barrier islands, Gasparilla Island pairs the lighthouse and museum with swimming, shelling, and beachcombing. The Florida State Parks page is the source for current park access, museum hours, and fees.
Official sources
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Planning an RV trip near Port Boca Grande Lighthouse: A Gulf Coast RV Traveler's Guide?
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