"The Big House" -- Main residence of a 5-acre estate fronting both bay and beach on Little Gasparilla Island, and consisting of three houses plus auxiliary buildings. Island access is by boat only (water taxi available). Waterfront on 3 sides. Private and serene natural setting --- surrounded by state-designated "exceptional waters" and nature preserve. Pristine white sand beach. Unique. An "Old Florida" gem.

Updated twice over the years the "Big House" comfortably accommodates up to 4 adults in the two King bedroom suites plus 3 to 6 youngsters (depending on age/size) in "youth-type" beds----mostly single bunks which are accessed by ladders and not suitable for adults.

Little Gasparilla Island is NOT a normal tourist destination---no traffic, no high-rise condos, no crowds, no putt-putt golf, no T-shirt shops, no bars, restaurants, or coffee shops. But it's perfect for folks who want a real vacation---ready to explore beaches and backwaters, angle for fish or photos, collect shells and shark teeth (fossilized, not fresh), enjoy family or friends, or just relax in the sun and sand. While not far from Orlando and Miami, Little Gasparilla Island is truly "off the beaten path", a world away from Disney South or Orlando Disney .

Managed by the owners, the Gasparilla Getaways property offers the best of this "world away". Whether you are honeymooning, vacationing with family, or retreating for business, our 3-house property offers a setup that will make it special. We occupy just over five acres stretching beach to bay at the north end of the island, surrounded on three sides by natural park and aquatic preserve, and interlaced with mangrove lagoons. Our "Beach Cottage", "Boat House", and "Big House" are three distinct properties that can be rented individually or as a unit. They each maintain their privacy, but larger groups who would like to rent multiple properties can enjoy proximity and shared amenities. These shared amenities include a full outdoor kitchen and dining area (the "Bistro"), an outdoor coffee and smoothie bar (with complimentary coffee, cream & sugar), a fire pit, yard games, kayaks, and beach gear.

At GasparillaGetaways, we offer comfort, beautiful-but-casual accommodations, and uncommon privacy on an island that is only accessible by boat. There are no cars (no traffic and no parking lots) and no commercial activity----just miles of raw natural beauty.

The property fronts on Lemon Bay Aquatic Preserve and the SWFL Blueway Kayak Trail, and borders the Don Pedro state Nature Preserve.

The wrap-around porch offers conversation and dining with a beautiful view of the bay. , and is fully equipped to accommodate up to eight people with the same high 5-star-review standard of comfort and quality as our other two rental properties, VRBO numbers 400780 (Beach Cottage) & 624895 (Boat House).

BAY HOUSE ARRANGEMENTS:
(Note: We offer this house as a rental while we travel. The "owners suite" is not included in the rental or in this description). Main level master bedroom with king bed and en suite full bathroom (a second bathroom door allows access from the hallway)
Fully equipped kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite counter tops
Large dining table and open floor plan
Living area with wood burning stove
Additional living area with large television for movie watching
Third bedroom has three kid-type bunk beds
Additional half bath on main level
Wrap around screened porch on main level with multiple seating areas and a large dining table
Bonus loft with wraparound upper deck, french doors, daybed, and sitting area
Washer and dryer
Custom tile and original artwork throughout

PROVISIONS:
Kayaks
Linens, bath towels, and beach towels
Beach chairs and umbrellas
Propane for the grill
Wood for the fire pit
Pots, pans, dishes, utensils
Slow cooker
Kitchenaide mixer
Smoothie maker/ Blender
Coffee maker, milk warmer/frother
Salt and Pepper and other assorted spices
Hair dryer, Q tips and cosmetic pads
Starter rolls of paper towels and toilet tissue
Dish washing soap
laundry detergent and fabric softener sheets
Ironing board
Garbage bags




RENTAL AGREEMENT
Check in is 3:30 pm or after
Check out is by 10:00 am
No pets
No smoking
Up to eight occupants
Guests agree to hold owner harmless for any injuries or illnesses incurred while using our home, boardwalks, kayaks, grill, or other property.
Guests agree to remove all food items and all garbage from the property upon departure (can be disposed of at the marina for $3 per large bag.)