Boca Grande is more than a quiet retreat—it's a summer destination that celebrates tradition, community, and natural beauty. As the temperatures rise and the Gulf waters warm, Gasparilla Island offers a curated mix of family-friendly events, seasonal festivals, and outdoor adventures. For those visiting or considering a home here, summer 2025 promises memorable experiences for all ages.
This year, the island continues to honor its heritage while embracing the vibrant rhythms of seasonal life. Here’s your complete guide to what’s happening in Boca Grande this summer.
So: what can you look forward to?
Tarpon Fishing Season and Tournaments
One of the most iconic events of the Boca Grande summer calendar is tarpon season. Known as the "Tarpon Capital of the World," Boca Grande draws anglers from across the country. The season peaks in May and June, when silver kings flood into the Pass.
In 2025, two major tournaments headline the fishing season:
- Ladies Day Tarpon Tournament – Held on May 10, this live bait tournament invites female anglers to compete in a tradition that dates back more than three decades. It’s as much a social event as it is a sporting challenge.
- World’s Richest Tarpon Tournament – Taking place on May 14 and 15, this celebrated event emphasizes ethical angling and conservation. It attracts seasoned professionals and enthusiastic newcomers alike, offering substantial prize money and bragging rights for the season.
Lighthouse Tours and Historic Attractions
The Gasparilla Island Lighthouse offers climb tours throughout the spring and early summer. In 2025, tours are scheduled on May 3 and May 17, running from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Gulf, Charlotte Harbor, and the island itself.
These events are hosted by the Barrier Island Parks Society and provide a chance to explore Boca Grande’s maritime history. Whether you're a resident or visitor, it's a worthwhile stop for those interested in the island’s past and natural landscape.
Memorial Day Weekend at The Gasparilla Inn
The Memorial Day holiday kicks off the summer season in Boca Grande with the Beach Bliss Package offered by The Gasparilla Inn & Club. From May 23 to May 25, this special weekend includes exclusive access to beach club amenities, lawn games, and activities for all ages.
If you’re staying on the island or entertaining guests, this is a great way to welcome the start of summer. Dining options, golf, and tennis are also available throughout the weekend, making it a complete luxury experience.
Fourth of July Golf Cart Parade
The annual Fourth of July Golf Cart Parade is a beloved local tradition. In 2025, the parade will begin at 9:00 AM, with lineup starting at 8:30 AM in the gravel lot near Scarpa’s Coastal. Residents and visitors decorate their carts with red, white, and blue and cruise through the village in a display of patriotic spirit.
It’s a family-friendly event that captures the small-town charm Boca Grande is known for. Spectators line the streets to cheer on the decorated carts, and children often bring buckets to collect candy tossed by participants.
Events at the Community Center
The Friends of Boca Grande Community Center will host several events throughout the summer. These include art exhibitions, guest lectures, cultural performances, and enrichment programs. From local history talks to seasonal workshops, the programming offers something for everyone.
Keep an eye on their online calendar, especially if you're planning a summer stay. These events are a great way to meet residents, learn more about the island, and immerse yourself in the lifestyle that defines Boca Grande.
Outdoor Exploration and Family Adventures
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy Boca Grande’s natural offerings. The Boca Grande Bike Path runs the length of the island and is ideal for casual cycling. Gasparilla Island State Park offers opportunities for shelling, birdwatching, and photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Families can rent kayaks or paddleboards and explore the backwaters, where manatees and dolphins are often spotted. For beachgoers, the island's uncrowded shores are perfect for swimming and picnics. It’s also sea turtle nesting season, so keep a respectful distance from marked nests and nighttime activity.
Dining, Shopping, and Local Flavor
Even in the quieter summer months, Boca Grande’s restaurants and boutiques remain open, offering fresh coastal cuisine and curated collections of clothing, gifts, and art.
Top spots include:
- The Pink Elephant is a go-to for Gulf-inspired fare in a casual setting.
- The Temptation is known for its historic charm and classic seafood dishes.
- Hudson’s Grocery is perfect for stocking up on picnic essentials or island provisions.
Shopping in the village offers a mix of designer brands, local artists, and one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Whether you're furnishing a new home or selecting a gift, the island's merchants bring personality and quality to the experience.
Real Estate Opportunities This Summer
Summer is a strategic time to explore real estate opportunities in Boca Grande. The pace is slightly more relaxed than the winter season, and you'll have more time to view homes, evaluate neighborhoods, and get a true sense of the lifestyle.
Whether you’re seeking a waterfront estate, a renovated historic home, or a cozy seasonal retreat, the island's properties reflect the charm and exclusivity that continue to draw discerning buyers.
The summer also allows for valuable insights into what day-to-day life is like, when the pace slows and the island’s natural beauty takes center stage.
Reach Out to The Steffan Sieglaff Team
Angela Steffan and Zeke Sieglaff know that Boca Grande is more than a market—it’s a lifestyle. As trusted members of The Steffan Sieglaff Team, they help clients navigate the nuances of this exclusive island with clarity and confidence.
Whether you're planning a visit or ready to make Boca Grande your summer destination, Angela and Zeke bring deep local knowledge, personalized service, and a genuine commitment to finding the right property for each client. Their expertise spans everything from waterfront estates to historic village homes, making them the ideal team to help you explore your options.
If you’re ready to explore your real estate options in Boca Grande, FL, reach out to Angela Steffan and Zeke Sieglaff of The Steffan Sieglaff Team for trusted guidance and insight.
