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Downtown Magazine was recently the guest of Mr. John Kern’s dazzling beach home located on Palm Island, one of the four small islands that comprise Little Gasparilla Island. Hidden nicely just to the southwest of Grove City, in Charlotte County, sit these four small islands, recognized by many, as one.
Little Gasparilla Island was once separated from Palm Island, Don Pedro Island, and Knight Island. A storm in the ‘60s united the passes, and now all four are connected and called LGI. Along with neighboring Boca Grande, Sanibel, and Captiva, these islands compose what some call the Gulf Island chain. Unlike the other three islands in the chain, Little Gasparilla Island is not accessible by a bridge, and this is what makes these four islands very unique and special. In fact, the only way to reach the island is by water, taxi, or ferry. The $55 round trip ticket, offered by The Palm Island Transit to Palm Island is the only way to reach this incredibly beautiful land mass with your car.
Little Gasparilla Island exemplifies the term “unique.” Some 7 miles of immaculate white sand beaches with no paved roads and no traffic (unless you consider golf carts traffic) make up this natural land mass. If isolation and solitude are what you desire, this is your destination. In fact, the entire island is littered with beautiful beach houses and just one single condo. Furthermore, no commercial establishments can be found on the island, so plan on bringing your own groceries with you.
Photo: Courtesy of floridastateparks.org
Once here, you will experience nothing but paradise. The island is home to numerous species of birds such as white herons, ospreys, egrets, white pelicans, and a multitude of shorebirds. As you traverse the island by foot or golf cart, you will encounter numerous sea shells of all sizes. Needless to say, the South Florida tropical breeze will be a constant, as will the magnificent blue sky and consistent wave action. Evening will present you with a spectacular sunset, one that you will never forget.
If fishing is your fancy, the opportunities are endless. Kayaking is quite popular here as there are numerous mangrove islands to explore. You will find simply going for a nature walk satisfying on this beautiful island retreat. Personally, I discovered just relaxing with a cold beer and great company was the best option. If you are unable to unwind here, then you do not know the meaning of the word relaxation.
Photo: Courtesy of floridastateparks.org
So if your next vacation to Florida encompasses relaxation, a return to nature, escape from traffic, and multitudes of people, then Little Gasparilla should be on your list. It is the natural Florida and a locale you will never forget.
-by: John Cap Capobianco M.Ed.