1. There’s a scenic bike and golf-cart path that runs 6.5 miles, the length of the island, past some great scenery. 2. The historic downtown is full of quaint old homes, churches and stores. We particularly love Whidden’s Marina, a ramshackle waterfront complex that is on the National Register of Historic Places. 3. The fishing has been drawing anglers for more than 100 years. It is one of the best places in the world to fish for tarpon. 4. The beaches have white-powder sand and are good for shelling. There are even “secret beaches” where you can’t park, but which you can access on foot or bike. 5. There are two picturesque lighthouses, one of which you can tour. 6. You can have lunch at the elite Gasparilla Inn dining room or Pink Elephant Restaurant to experience a place that hosts presidents and celebrities or choose another of the excellent restaurants on Gasparilla Island.
One of our first dates!! "When you dine with us you will enjoy a unique, coastal cuisine prepared fresh daily by seasoned Chef Tito and our experienced restaurant crew. Choose the quiet, peaceful setting upstairs at the Eagle Grille, or the more lively atmosphere at Miller's Dockside - downstairs - on the edge of the water, with views of the marina basin."
"Overflowing dishes of the best Italian cuisine that Boca Grande, FL has to offer is only found at Sisters Restaurant! Located at the corner of 5th Street and East Railroad Avenue under the big Banyan tree, Sisters Restaurant offers the most mouth-watering Italian and affordable cuisine, made daily from only the freshest of premium ingredients, passionately created by their Chef, Monty Caputo"
"Captain Danny picks up at several locations around Southwest Florida including Boca Grande, Cape Coral, Punta Gorda and Pine Island. Other arrangements can be made if necessary. We try to make fishing with Reel Fishing Charters as easy as possible. Whether you want to catch the fish of a lifetime or just relax with friends, you can count on Captain Danny to put together the ultimate fishing experience! Our fishing charters are about making your experience unique, fun, and memorable. No matter your age or level of expertise, Reel Fishing Charters can put you on fish targeting several different species. Everyone starts somewhere and he would love it if you started with him!"
1. Explore Englewood Beach: Enjoy the sun, sand, and Gulf of Mexico at this picturesque beach. Just walking distance to beach bars, restaurants, and live music. 2. Stump Pass Beach State Park: Hike the trails, go birdwatching, or try fishing at this scenic state park. 3. Lemon Bay Park: Experience nature with walking trails, kayak launches, and beautiful views of Lemon Bay. 4. Manasota Key: Take a scenic drive along this barrier island, known for its pristine beaches and wildlife. Truely the "Old Florida" feel. 5. Englewood Fishing Charters: Try your hand at fishing with experienced guides for an adventurous day on the water. 6. Blind Pass Beach: Visit this serene beach for shelling, wildlife spotting, and a peaceful atmosphere. Keep an eye out for the manatee and dolphin!
"Lock 'N Key Restaurant in Englewood, FL, is a coastal gem that seamlessly combines a laid-back atmosphere with culinary excellence. Nestled near the serene waters of the Gulf, this eatery offers a diverse menu showcasing fresh seafood, hand-cut steaks, and flavorful pasta dishes. Guests can unwind on the outdoor patio, soaking in the Florida sunshine, or savor their meals indoors with a welcoming, nautical-inspired ambiance. The Lock 'N Key is not just a dining experience; it's a taste of coastal charm in Englewood, where exceptional food and a relaxed setting converge to create memorable moments for locals and visitors alike"
"The Sandbar Tiki & Grill in Englewood, FL, is a vibrant waterfront oasis that beckons with its tropical allure. Overlooking the sparkling waters of Lemon Bay, this establishment offers a casual and lively atmosphere. Guests can unwind under swaying palm trees on the outdoor deck or enjoy the cozy interior with its Tiki-inspired decor. The menu features fresh seafood, delectable appetizers, and refreshing tropical cocktails. Whether you're seeking a leisurely lunch, a lively evening with live music, or a picturesque sunset dinner, the Sandbar Tiki & Grill delivers the Florida experience, blending good food with laid-back coastal vibes"
"Thrill seekers will enjoy skimming across the water with the wind in their hair on a jet ski rental. Our jet skis can carry multiple passengers, so feel free to take your family for a fun ride out on the waves. For an even more memorable experience, ask us about joining one of our dolphin tours, which give you the opportunity to see dolphins and manatees up close"
1. Caspersen Beach: A picturesque beach with clear waters and a unique environment. You can stroll along the white sands and search for shark teeth, which are abundant in the area. 2. Venice Beach: A beautiful beach with palm trees lining the divided avenue. The beach is perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun. 3. Venice Fishing Pier: A great spot to watch the sunset and enjoy the view of the ocean. You can also fish from the pier. 4. Stroll the historic downtown with stunning boutiques, excellent restaurants, and beautiful scenery. 5. Visit the South Jetty and look for dolphins, watch the surfers, and walk out on the rocks to see the crashing waves. Jetty Jacks is a small restaurant there that serves hot dogs, ice cream, burgers, and more!
We recommend the "mango bango"! "Located in the Shark's Tooth Capital of the world and nestled at the base of the famed Venice Fishing Pier, our beach-front restaurant offers a stunning view of the Gulf of Mexico. Well-loved seafood, fantastic frozen drinks, outstanding service and all that represents the very best of Florida's Gulf Coast. Experience a fun and festive atmosphere, soak up some sunshine, catch a sunset or savor live music under the star-filled sky at Sharky's on the Pier"
Our favorite restaurant!!! "Made in Italy is a little Italian restaurant & martini bar located on West Venice Avenue in Venice Florida. Only serving the freshest ingredients. Homemade pasta & bread, wood burning pizza oven & delicious, handcrafted cocktails"
"After an exotically beautiful and shaded stretch of canopied palm trees, you’ll discover Snook Haven, a tin-roofed and rustic restaurant, at the end of the road. Truly unique to Sarasota, the Venice landmark is “Ole’ Florida” at its finest and settled smack dab on the Myakka River. Come on in and take a seat! Snook Haven features an extensive smokehouse-style menu. We prep all of our meats on-site and smoke them in our state-of-the-art smoker daily. Out comes juicy, flavorful and fulfilling meats, including popular options like pulled pork, pulled chicken, beef brisket, ribs and wings. We recommend you drench them in our house-made and well-loved BBQ sauces. Our Original, Sweet, Spicy Whiskey and Carolina Mustard sauce blends will cater to any taste"