Port Boca Grande Lighthouse & Museum

Perched atop iron pilings at the extreme southern end of Gasparilla Island is found the beautifully restored Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and its look-alike companion, which served as the assistant keeper’s dwelling. These two pieces of history were almost lost, as by 1970 the sea had whittled hundreds of feet off the southern end of the island and was lapping at the lighthouse’s foundation. Fortunately, pressure from local concerns prompted the government to take measures which proved successful in regaining much of the eroded island and in saving the lighthouse so it could be enjoyed by future generations. To get to Gasparilla Island, take the Boca Grande Causeway near the southern end of Highway 775 southwest of Port Charlotte. Once on the island, follow the main road to the southern end of the island where you will find Gasparilla Island State Park and the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse. The Port Boca Grande Lighthouse is open daily, November through April, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. except on Sundays when the hours are noon to 4 p.m. From May through October, excluding August when the lighthouse is closed, the lighthouse is open Wednesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. The lighthouse is closed for all major holidays. To confirm hours or for more information, call (941) 964-0060.