Gasparilla Island State Park

According to legend, the infamous pirate Jose Gaspar used this pristine barrier island as a hideout, thus resulting in the name "Gasparilla." Modern day visitors won't find any of his gold, but the treasures to be discovered here are far more priceless.

Five beach accesses ranging from the southern tip of the island to just south of the village of Boca Grande make up Gasparilla Island State Recreation
Area. The Sand Spur Beach access offers the best swimming, while three of the others (Dunes, Sea Wall and Sea Grape) boast great shelling. Stunning views of the sound can be had at Lighthouse Beach Park, the southernmost of the beaches, though the swift current through Boca Grande Pass makes it unsuitable for swimming.

The oldest building on the island, and its most recognized landmark, the Boca Grande Lighthouse was acquired by the state park system in 1985. Built in 1890, the light saw continuous service until
1966, when the Coast Guard closed it due to beach erosion and neglect. By 1972 the structure had deteriorated to the point of being schedule for demolition, until concerned citizens made an all out effort to save it. They were successful, and after a year of intense renovation, the light was re-commisioned as a working Coast Guard light in 1986. Today it is open as a museum and visitors center for the park, featuring exhibits on Native Americans, the local fishing industry, and the history of Boca Grande and the lighthouse itself.