Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum (Boca Grande)

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Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum and its collection

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The Port Boca Grande Lighthouse is a significant landmark located on the southern tip of Gasparilla Island in Boca Grande, Florida. This historic lighthouse marked the Boca Grande Pass entrance to Charlotte Harbor and was first lit on December 31, 1890. It is a two-story frame dwelling raised on iron screw-piles, with the lantern placed in a cupola at the peak of the roof. The lighthouse keeper used to live in the building, and a similar house was built next to it for the assistant keeper.

Historical Role of the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse

The Port Boca Grande Lighthouse has a rich history of serving ships transporting cattle from ports on Charlotte Harbor to Cuba. Phosphate ore from the Peace River area became an important cargo in the 1890s, and the construction of the Charlotte Harbor and Northern Railway to Port Boca Grande in 1909 resulted in increased traffic. The lighthouse saw its peak traffic during World War II, when it served as a safe harbor for shipping in the Gulf.

The Historic Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum

The Historic Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It opened to the public in 1999 and is operated by the Barrier Island Parks Society. The museum offers a glimpse into the history of the lighthouse and the area, providing an enriching experience for visitors.

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Visitor information Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum

Opening hours

November through May:

Wednesday to Monday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Closed Tuesdays.
June through July:

Wednesday to Monday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Closed Tuesdays.
The lighthouse is closed during the month of August and on major holidays.

September through October:

Wednesday to Monday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Closed Tuesdays.

Admission

0+

Free

Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum.

Location & Map

880 Belcher Rd, Boca Grande

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Exhibitions

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Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum Reviews

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Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

The Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum offers visitors a chance to explore the maritime history of Boca Grande, Florida. Located at the southern tip of Gasparilla Island, this restored lighthouse provides panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico and Charlotte Harbor. The museum, housed in the former assistant keeper's dwelling, features exhibits on local history, fishing, and the phosphate industry that once thrived in the area. Visitors appreciate the well-preserved lighthouse structure and the opportunity to climb to the top for scenic vistas. The museum's displays are informative, though some find them limited in scope. The picturesque setting and beach access are highlights for many guests. While the museum is relatively small, it offers a good overview of the area's past. Some visitors note that the experience can be brief, but most find it worthwhile, especially when combined with a beach visit or as part of a larger exploration of Gasparilla Island State Park. The staff is generally described as friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing the educational value of the visit. However, accessibility may be a concern for some, as climbing the lighthouse requires navigating steep stairs. Overall, the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum provides a pleasant and educational stop for those interested in local history and coastal landmarks.

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Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum