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Packing Guide: Gasparilla Inn

March 31, 2021

Packing Guide: Gasparilla Inn
📍 Gasparilla Inn, Boca Grande

Gasparilla Inn, Boca Grande, Florida, Packing Guide, beach, Tory Burch

Tunic (also) (similar) || Jeans || Sandals || Clutch

In the past few months, we’ve made enough trips to the Gasparilla Inn for it to feel like home. I joke that I’m on my best self in Boca Grande. After each visit, my most frequently asked question comes from fellow travelers who would be visiting shortly. Namely, “what should I pack?” This is always a critical question when traveling to someplace new, one that I’m more than happy to answer! Because the Gasparilla Inn has a dress code for some of the restaurants, I thought it would be fun to answer by activity to make packing a breeze!

Morning Coffee and Exploring

Every morning in Boca Grande starts at the Inn Bakery. Located just down the block from the historic Inn, you can give yourself a nice little workout first in the morning. So, first thing first, you have to get yourself out of the luxurious bed, out of your Lake pajamas, and ready for the day! Coffee time at the Gasparilla Inn is a surprisingly casual event. It’s a time where you can get to know the other guests and do some exploring around Boca Grande. My favorite outfit of choice is a simple tee shirt and bright pair of chino shorts. Whether it’s sandals or sneakers, consider wearing a comfortable pair of shoes for your post-coffee walk. Don’t forget a pair of sunglasses and a baseball hat for the sunnier days.

A Day at the Beach Club

This my favorite part of any Gasparilla Inn trip, doing nothing at the Beach Club. Since this is a family-friendly hotel, I always like to make sure I dress modestly and comfortably. There is an infinite number of swimsuit styles out there, but my current favorite has been a high-waisted bikini bottom and bandeau top from J. Crew. It has an old-world glam feel without feeling stuffy. Pack a breezy cover-up to wear as walk around the pool and to/from the hotel. This boho midi dress has been a recent favorite over the past few years. It’s one I can dress down for the beach or make a little dressier for lunch at the Pink Elephant. Since the Gulf can be windy at times, this will help you stay warm on the not-so-hot days. Finally, don’t forget to bring a tropical-inspired tote bag to hold all of the extras: hats, sunscreen, and a good beach read!

A Match at the Tennis Club

Each time we visit the Gasparilla Inn, I always bring my tennis racket in hopes to get on the court. Since my focus is almost solely the Beach Club, that hasn’t happened yet, but I know it will soon. Right next to the Beach Club is the Tennis Club which has seven courts available. Even at the hottest point of the day, you’ll still see a few courts filled up and the cutest tennis outfit. Tennis whites aren’t required, so feel free to add a pop of color. I love this stunning blue sleeveless polo from Tory Burch on a hot summer day and coordinating navy tennis skirt. Be sure to pack proper tennis shoes and buy a Gasparilla Inn logo hat from the Inn Boutique.

Dinner at the Inn Dining Room

The Inn Dining Room was the one place where I found there to be a specific dress code. For gentlemen, in particular, be sure to pack a blazer if you visiting in the Fall and Winter. For the ladies, this is your dressiest opportunity while visiting the Gasparilla Inn. Have fun with the evening and wear a dress that makes you feel special and a great pair of heels. Before your reservation sure to join your fellow guests at BZ’s for a pre-dinner cocktail.

If you have a trip to the Gasparilla Inn or any beachside resort planned, I hope this helps! Be sure to check the weather and treat yourself to something fun along the way! Happy travels!

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

Lunch at the Gasparilla Inn

March 29, 2021

Lunch at the Gasparilla Inn
📍 Gasparilla Inn, Boca Grande

Dress (also) (also) || Sandals || Clutch || Bracelet

Because it feels like it’s just down the road, I never say no when a Gasparilla Inn trip presents itself. That’s even true if the visit just for a few hours and lunch. One of my dear friends from New York, Sydney, just happened to be in the area. With that, David and I happily made the drive for a quick afternoon away from it all. This short change in scenery was exactly what I needed to get inspired and recharged for the work week ahead.

Gasparilla Inn, Boca Grande, Florida, Banjanan, Spring

Coffee To-Go

We opted to get into town a little early and make the most of the day. For us, that always means grabbing a coffee and pastry to go from the Inn Bakery. Since it’s the only coffee shop on the island, it was positively buzzing when we arrived. They have an entire menu of delicious treats and it’s honestly a chore having to pick only one. My standing order is a flavored iced coffee and whole wheat croissant, but this time I decided to switch it up with an iced tea and a maple-bourbon scone. We took our treats to go and found a shady spot on the Inn’s front porch. It turned into the perfect place to people watch, get caffeinated, and have a quiet morning with David.

Long Strolls Through Boca Grande

Since we had some time to kill, we decided to take a walk through Boca Grande. Like you would expect from any cute beach town, the homes were breathtaking! There’s one that’s currently a work in progress right next to the Beach Club. Each time we visit, the progress noticeable moves along. Recently, they gave this home a fresh coat of bright coral paint that I loved! Of course, I instantly asked if we could paint our home the same color, but I bet you could probably guess the answer. We also had the opportunity to do some window shopping at the boutiques downtown. Since it’s such a small island, there’s not a huge number of shops, but they are all quality!

Gasparilla Inn, Boca Grande, Pink Elephant, Florida, lunch

Lunch at the Pink Elephant

Because of our walk, we were hungry again when lunchtime came around. Lovingly called The Pink, The Pink Elephant is the place to dine on Boca Grande. The name alone is enough to get me in the door. We had a perfect little table that was outside, but miraculously in the shade on a sunny Florida day. Quickly, the pink libations were ordered and it was the perfect way to catch up and talk about all things travel! Each drink comes with a sweet little elephant figurine, so it’s fun to collect as the visits add up. I ordered the Pink BLT which may have been the best BLT I’ve ever had! It was the mozzarella and gouda cheese that did it for me. Our lunch flew by and before we knew it, it was almost 4 o’clock. I consider this to be a Sunday well spent!

When you visit the Gasparilla Inn, you quickly see and hear their tagline. It’s “Florida as it’s meant to be.” Obviously, this means so many different things to different people. For me, it’s all about slowing down the clock and enjoying a long outdoor lunch with quality people. Honestly, what could be better than that?

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

Mornings in Boca Grande

March 1, 2021

Mornings in Boca Grande
📍 Gasparilla Inn, Boca Grande

Boca Grande, Gasparilla Inn, early mornings, coffee, beach

Dress (also) || Sandals || Clutch || Similar Earrings

The more I travel, the more I learn about myself. For one thing, I’ve noticed that my daily schedule on vacation is surprisingly similar to my normal routine. David and I get up early and we get the ball rolling. The first priority is always grabbing coffee, especially from the local shop. I don’t know if that means my life is close to a vacation or I need to relax more. Either way, we were up to our usual habit while in Boca Grande. For a teeny tiny barrier island, the place is surprisingly buzzing first thing in the AM. Here’s a quick look into how to start your day the right way. After all, it’s the best way to fight the intense Florida humidity.

Coffee at the Inn Bakery

First thing first, let’s get some caffeine. While it’s owned by the local Gasparilla Inn, the Inn Bakery seems like it’s the hub for village life with the locals. Each morning we were there, we saw the same group of men who are clearly there on a regular basis. Order your typical morning beverage and a delicious pastry to go along with it. I’m partial to bagel and cream cheese, but the danishes and scones look simply delicious!

Stroll Through Boca Grande Village

Since this was our first trip, we decided to walk and sip to explore the island. Boca Grande is extremely walkable and the town is so pristine. I really enjoyed window shopping along the main road and branching off to daydream over the rows upon rows of gorgeous homes. Trust me, I’ve already hand picked a few to store as ‘future home inspiration’. The style is exactly what you would expect on a Florida island. While I’m not an expert, I want to call it Caribbean colonial with a twist. Think pastel colors, big front porches, and well loved gardens. Note: If walking isn’t your thing, the preferred mode of transportation is actually golf carts, available for rent.

Have a Heartier Breakfast

They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. If that’s your mantra, then you may want something a bit more filling than coffee and a bagel. The Main Dining Room at the Gasparilla Inn is a good option for you. While we didn’t get a chance to eat here, the menu is simply stacked! They have your standard fare, but some dishes are considered Gasparilla traditions. Lobster Scrambled Eggs or Southern Shrimp and Grits both sound like very decadent and tasty ways to get going. After all, you’re on vacation!

Claim Your Spot at the Beach

Whether you’re taking advantage of the Gasparilla Inn Beach Club or enjoying the Boca Grande public beaches, getting there early will guarantee the best view in the house. After you grab your morning coffee, grab a spot by the water. The early morning light is the perfect way to enjoy a fun beach read or go shelling.

Mornings in Boca Grande are such a refreshing experience! It’s a tiny piece of paradise right next to bustling St. Pete. I can’t wait for our return trip and I promise you I’ll keep daydreaming until then.

Love from Florida,
Katie

Thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.