Frequently asked questions.
Is Little Gasparilla Island truly bridgeless? Sounds blissful! How do I get there and how do I get around the island?
Yes, Little Gasparilla Island is completely bridgeless—part of its rare and timeless charm. You’ll reach our condos by a tranquil, complimentary 10-minute ferry ride across the bay from the mainland. The private passenger ferry is reserved exclusively for Placida Beach owners and their guests, operating hourly or every other hour depending on the season. (Please note: ferry service may occasionally be affected by weather.)
Once on the island, a scenic pier leads directly to our bayfront condo, or just a quick one-minute stroll brings you to the beachfront condo. Getting around the island is delightfully simple—most guests explore on foot along the beach or the winding sandy paths shaded by palms.
While you’ll spot a few golf carts along the way, our condo association maintains a peaceful, pedestrian-friendly environment, so carts aren’t permitted on property. However, if you’d like to explore farther, we can connect you with Brett’s Island Taxi or a local day cart rental for a guided island tour or a fun day of adventuring
Where is Little Gasparilla Island and how do I get there?
Little Gasparilla Island is a hidden gem tucked along Florida’s southwest Gulf Coast—about an hour north of Fort Myers or an hour south of Sarasota. The island sits just offshore from the quiet coastal town of Placida, surrounded by turquoise waters and soft white sand.
You can easily reach us by car or plane. Nearby airports include Punta Gorda (PGD)—just 45 minutes away—Sarasota (SRQ), and Fort Myers (RSW). Tampa International (TPA) is another convenient option, roughly a 90-minute drive. Most major airlines offer direct flights into these hubs.
From the mainland, you’ll take a short, scenic ferry ride across the bay to the island. If you’re not renting a car or using a rideshare, we’re happy to connect you with a trusted private car service that provides seamless, door-to-dock transfers straight to the ferry landing
If I am driving my own car or renting a car, is there somewhere to park and is my car secure on the mainland?
Yes. Our condo complex provides complimentary, private mainland parking within a secure, gated facility reserved exclusively for residents and guests. Your vehicle will remain safely behind the guarded entry gate for the duration of your stay.
We’ll add your name to the guest list prior to arrival, and you’ll receive easy access instructions—both through a mobile app and a personalized five-digit gate code—so you can come and go seamlessly.
Are there any grocery stores, restaurants, or bars on the island?
Little Gasparilla Island is blissfully free of commercial development—no stores, no restaurants, and no bars—just unspoiled beauty and the rhythm of island life. Guests bring their own provisions for everything from casual beach picnics to gourmet dinners enjoyed on the balcony under a canopy of stars.
The conveniences of the mainland are just a short ferry ride away. Within ten minutes of the dock, you’ll find grocery stores, restaurants, golf courses, and local favorites. The nearest Publix and liquor store are just a two-minute drive from the secure mainland parking area.
During your stay, you might find yourself mastering the art of the island cocktail or mocktail. And if you’d like to elevate your culinary experience, we’re happy to connect you with a private chef, fresh seafood, or even insider favorites like clay-oven pizza and key lime pie made on the island and delivered by golf cart.
What should I pack?
On Little Gasparilla Island, less truly is more. Life here moves at an easy, barefoot pace—so pack light and embrace the simplicity.
Flip-flops we also provide complimentary hotel slippers for lounging indoors—yours to keep.
Your favorite toiletries we stock premium organic shampoo, conditioner and body wash, plus a small back supply of other essentials if you forget anything.
Two swimsuits because nothing feels better than slipping into a dry one tomorrow.
A breezy beach cover-up for walks or ferry rides.
A sun hat
Sunscreen and bug spray we keep extras on hand if you run out.
Cozy loungewear for sunset cocktails or curling up after a day in the sand.
Pack light. Breathe deep. The island will take care of the rest.
Are your condos a good fit for me?
If your perfect vacation involves long walks on the beach, slow mornings with a book and coffee, and evenings spent watching the sunset instead of chasing nightlife—then yes, you’ll feel right at home here.
Our guests come from all walks of life: couples seeking a romantic escape, lifelong friends reconnecting, families making memories, golfers enjoying a week away, or solo travelers craving a peaceful retreat from northern winters. What they all share is an appreciation for quiet luxury—the beauty, comfort, and calm that Little Gasparilla Island offers in abundance.
You’ll find every modern comfort here, from plush king beds to thoughtful amenities and easy ferry access. But what makes our community special is the shared respect for the island’s natural rhythm and its residents. We kindly ask all guests to honor the tranquility that makes this place so extraordinary.
Can I stay at your condos if I have any smokers or pets with my group?
We’re sorry, but pets and smoking aren’t permitted in our condos or within the Placida Beach complex. This policy helps us maintain the serene and impeccably clean environment our guests have come to expect.
We truly appreciate your understanding as we preserve the calm, pristine setting that makes Little Gasparilla Island—and our homes—so special