Summary:
Sea Turtle Cottage has been lovingly renovated to offer you the best beach experience on Little Gasparilla. Every room in the house overlooks the beach and the house sits right at the edge of the dune for unparalleled views!

Leave your car and your cares at the marina because Little Gasparilla is accessible only by water taxi! That means our beaches are uncrowded and tourists and traffic are just a mainland memory. If you are looking for a quiet tropical island to relax and unplug, this is it!

The Space:
Please note that Little Gasparilla Island is a barrier island accessible only by boat; we provide water taxi information when you book. You cannot drive your vehicle to the island; you park at the marina on the mainland where you catch the water taxi. There are no stores, bars or restaurants on Little Gasparilla which means it has retained much of its "old Florida" ambiance and pristine beauty. For years Little Gasparilla was visited only by locals who would come on weekends to fish, go to the beach and enjoy the privacy, peace and quiet. Now, even though it has been discovered, the lack of commercial establishments means that the island appeals to those who want to get away from crowds, tourists, traffic and technology.

The shady porch overlooks the beach and is the perfect spot to enjoy cooling breezes. Inside, the living room features dramatic views of the beach, as do both bedrooms. This cottage is so close to the beach that you can literally go to sleep to the sound of the waves right outside your bedroom window.

The kitchen of Sea Turtle Cottage has been renovated and offers all appliances and amenities for your beach vacation needs. There is a dining area for four as well as a breakfast bar. Appliances are new and the owners have thoughtfully included a crock pot, toaster, blender (for your tropical smoothies!), microwave, disposal and dishwasher.

The living room features a new TV with unlimited internet as well. There is a fold-out sofa giving you more sleeping flexibility. There is a washer and dryer available for renter use as well as three kayaks and a fire pit. (Liability waiver required for use of kayaks.)

Little Gasparilla's beautiful private beach is just a few steps from the house, so a cool drink or a fresh beach towel is just a quick stroll back to the house. The owners have provided beach chairs, an umbrella and beach towels so all you need to bring are your flip flops!


WiFi -Free with unlimited data

Pet Policy - pet-friendly with $100 non-refundable fee. The following breeds are NOT permitted: Akita, American Bull Dog, Beaucerons, Caucasian Mountain Dog, Chow Chow, Doberman Pinchers, German Shepherds, Great Danes, Keeshounds, Pit Bull, Staffordshire Terriers, Presa Canarios or Rottweilers.

Minimum Renter Age - 25

Community dock - Access to a slip at dock number 26 included in your rental (this is also where the water taxi drops you off)

Complimentary Concierge - will meet you at the dock with a golf cart to assist with transporting your luggage and groceries to the home

Satellite TV - yes

Grill Type - propane

Vacation rental damage protection- The $59 charge listed as a "management fee" on your quote covers your purchase of $2500 of “all risk” damage protection coverage on your rental property. This protection is purchased in lieu of a cash damage deposit. Coverage details are spelled out in your contract.

Parking - $6/night ($8/night if you have a boat trailer) at Eldred's Marina where you meet the boat taxi

PLEASE NOTE: We do require that two members of each group must be over 25 years of age. We apologize, but we can NOT rent to college groups as a courtesy to the homeowners and our island neighbors. Guests will be evicted if found not to meet age requirements upon check in. Additionally, we can not exceed capacity in island homes due to the fragile septic systems.

Getting Around:
The water taxi runs daily on demand, so getting back to the mainland is relatively easy, but most people choose to stay on the island and enjoy the peace and privacy. The water taxi runs daily during daylight hours, roughly 8 to 5, and the fare averages $25 minimum for 2 people with an additional $15 per person. The taxi will run after dark but there is a surcharge for runs after dark. Please note that we do have 911 service on the island as well as paramedics on the island if you are concerned about emergency medical treatment.

Other Things to Note:
Please evaluate your expectations before booking a stay on Little Gasparilla Island. If you are expecting a polished "resort" atmosphere, Little Gasparilla is decidedly more rustic. During periods of heavy rain or tropical storms, there may be standing water on the roadways, at the dock and around the house. This is a tropical environment with mosquitos, rust, power outages and other minor inconveniences. If you are expecting resort amenities and services, the island might not be for you.

Interaction with Guests:
The entire cottage is yours to enjoy, as well as 7 miles of pristine Gulf of Mexico beach. There is also access to a dock slip if you choose to rent a boat. We have a home on the island and also nearby on the mainland. There is an on island guest services manager as well. We value your privacy highly and will not intrude.