Frequently Asked Questions:
Where is Little Gasparilla Island?
How do I get there?
The marinas nearest to Little Gasparilla Island are about 1 hour away from the Sarasota and Ft Myers airports, and about 1.5 hours from Tampa International Airport. Rental cars are typically more economical than taxi services from any airport.
To get to the island, book the water taxi (they know where our property is, and they have plenty of room for you and all your belongings), rent a boat, or bring your own. The boat ride takes about 15 minutes. We'll provide you with detailed directions on how to book the water taxi, where to park your car, and how to get to the dock when you book your trip.
When is check in/ check out?
Check-in begins at 3:00 pm. Check-out is at 10:00 am.
What about food?
We suggest you make a detailed grocery list ahead of time so you will be ready to stop by the closest grocery store on your way to the marina. You can take your groceries on the boat with you, and the water taxi captain will be happy to help you with your bags. You can also take boat trips to local restaurants.
What else do I need to bring?
Don't forget your sunscreen, bug repellent, or toiletries! It never hurts to bring your favorite board games along, too. Top quality linens, bath towels, and beach towels are provided. A detailed list of what's in the house will be provided when you make your reservation.
How many guests can you accomodate?
The Beach Cottage and Boat House are each equipped to accomodate up to 4 guests (5 including an infant still sleeping in a crib.) The Bay House is equipped to accomodate up to 8 guests.
How private is it?
The visitor population on the island is sparse, even during peak seasons, and the "full time" population numbers fewer than 100.
Our Beach Cottage is the most secluded property on the island. Though it has spectacular Gulf views, it is tucked in behind the sand dunes and is accessible only by a private boardwalk. It is bordered by the state park and a mangrove lagoon.
The Boat House is also incredibly secluded. A tall privacy fence ensures that the only structure in view is the property owner's home. It is bordered by the bay and its own private beach access.
Together, the properties stretch from bay to beach with no one else around. If you are a large group renting and sharing both properties, you will feel as though you own the whole island. However, each house has its own private beach access, so if you're a smaller group renting only one, you may never see the other visitors.
Is there cell phone reception?
What about Internet?
Your cell phones, smart phones and tablets will get great reception regardless of which provider you use, so you can fully rely on your own plan. If you would like to bring your laptop and desire wireless Internet access, our Verizon Jetpack is also available with unlimited data.
Is there a TV?
We have smart TVs in each house that connect to the internet and are also equipped for watching DVDs. (So you can log into your own Netflix or Hulu account!) We offer a small selection of DVD movies, but we encourage you to bring your own! We do not have broadcast TV.
How do you take payment?
All rentals are booked and paid through VRBO or AirBNB.
What if I need to cancel or leave early?
The security deposit is fully refundable at any time if your trip is cancelled. The security deposit is also fully refundable if you depart early, provided that there is no damage to the property.
Any unused portion of your rental fee is refundable if your cancellation is due to hurricane or Red Tide.
Rent is also fully refundable if your trip is cancelled 30 days or more before check-in; or if your cancellation is made within 48 hours of booking and the check-in date is at least 14 days away. Rent is 50% refundable for cancellations made at least 7 days before check-in. No refunds for cancellations made within 7 days of check-in.