Travel & Stay

We’re so excited to celebrate our wedding with you in beautiful Boca Grande! Here’s everything you need to know about travel & accommodations.

Airports

Boca Grande is located on Gasparilla Island, and the closest airports are:

  • Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) – Located in Fort Myers, approximately 60 miles (~1 hour) from Boca Grande.

  • Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) – Located in Sarasota, approximately 60 miles (~1 hour) from Boca Grande.

  • Punta Gorda Airport (PGD) – Located in Punta Gorda, approximately 45 miles (~1 hour) from Boca Grande.

  • Tampa International Airport (TPA) – Located in Tampa, approximately 120 miles (2 hours) from Boca Grande.

We recommend renting a car, as ride share services on the island can be limited.

Accommodations

We’ve reserved room blocks at three hotels in Boca Grande. Please book early, as availability is limited!

  • Closest to the venues and town

  • Guests staying here will have access to the Gasparilla Inn’s golf course and beach club. Each guest is allowed to bring one additional guest for golf. (Other amenities are only available only to guests staying at the Inn).

  • In order to book as part of our room block you must call and provide our last names (Shufer/Downing Wedding) when making your reservation. Please note, the block includes single rooms, however, the Inn has a variety of multi-room cottages for larger groups both in town and on the water that can be upgraded to upon request.

    (800) 996-1913

  • A short walk to town and venues

  • Features a pool for guests

  • In order to book as part of our room block you must call and provide our last names (Shufer/Downing Wedding) when making your reservation.

    1-855-643-7557

  • Located slightly farther from town but still convenient

  • Offers a pool for guests

  • In order to book as part of our room block you must call and provide our last names (Shufer/Downing Wedding) when making your reservation.

    941-964-4443

Vacation Rentals

  • For those with bigger groups, there are also vacation home rentals available through VRBO, AirBnB or check out Boca Grande Realty

  • The Island is fairly small, but we recommend staying as close to Boca Grande’s downtown (anywhere near the Gasparilla Inn) to take advantage of the island’s charm and walkability.

Things To Do in Boca Grande

Make the most of your time in paradise with these fun activities:

  • Grab a Coffee or Bite to Eat

    • The Inn Bakery – Perfect for a morning coffee or pastry.

    • The Outlet – A local waterfront favorite for breakfast or lunch.

    • The Pink Elephant – A must-visit for a classic Boca Grande experience.

  • Relax at the Beach

    • Visit the Gasparilla Island State Park Public Beach, a short walk from town, for white sand, unbelievable shells and stunning Gulf views. Don’t miss the historic Port Boca Grande Lighthouse nearby.

  • Explore the Island

    • Rent a golf cart or bike to cruise around the island and enjoy its relaxed vibe.

    • Visit Boca Grande Pass to watch for dolphins or manatees.

    • Book a tee time at the beautiful Gasparilla Inn Golf Course.

    • Ask your hotel about a fishing boat charter! Boca Grande is known for some of the best Tarpon Fishing in the world.

We can’t wait to celebrate with you in this special place. Let us know if you have any questions about travel or accommodations, and we’ll see you in October!