This list of frequently asked questions typically come up in planning a vacation or are important to know before planning your trip. Please contact us directly if you have additional questions and we will be happy to answer them. We want to make sure your stay with us is the best it can be.
How big is the island?
The island is actually about 7 miles long and varies in width. The part typically referred to as “Little Gasparilla Island” is about 2 miles long. The remaining 5 miles is made up of Don Pedro, Knight and Palm Island.
Are there any cars on the island?
Since Little Gasparilla is a bridgeless barrier island there are very few cars on the island. There are a few but mostly for construction or service use. The normal mode of transportation on the island is either by foot or by golf cart.
Are there any paved roads on the island?
No, and this is a good thing. The twisting sandy paths add to the charm and appeal of the island.
How many houses are on the island?
There are about 400 single family homes and about 130 individual condo units on the island.
What do I bring?
Pack light!!! Each house has its own list of amenities and furnishings so please check our website first to see what you may need in addition to what is already provided. You will need to bring all of your sunblock, bug spray, groceries and paper products (toilet paper, paper towel and trash bags) that you will need for your stay since there are no stores on the island.
Where do I shop for groceries?
Since there are no stores on the island you will need to get your groceries before you meet the ferry. When checking out please ask the clerk to double bag your order for your trip to the island. They sometimes call this a “boat bag” (a paper bag with a plastic bag wrapped around it) This will make it easier to take your groceries in the ferry with you and makes for a much safer trip for your groceries.
Where do I get my key?
When you arrive to the area please stop by our office. This is where you will pick up your key and check-in packet.
Where do I park?
You may park at Eldred’s Marina. Please pay for your parking and/or launching of your boat when you arrive in the marina office. Click here for directions to Eldred’s marina. There is a fee at Eldred’s for parking your vehicle and they also only take cash.
What time is check-in?
Check in is between 2:00 and 5:00 p.m. of your arrival day. Check out is 10:00 a.m. on the day you depart. No exceptions. An early or late check-in/check-out must be arranged and approved in advance.
How do we get to the island?
Captain Emmett of Pirate’s Water Taxi will take you from Eldred’s Marina to your dock. You will need to schedule and pay for your trip (cash only). For all interior and Gulf front houses you will be met and provided assistance to your house (during normal business hours, and at check-in only). You will need to confirm your arrival time with Capt. Emmett by calling him at 941-697-5777. You must call if early or late to ensure you don’t miss the boat.
How do we get around while on the island?
Most Islanders get around either on foot or by golf cart. If you need to rent a golf cart, we can provide you with the name and number for island rentals.
What if I want to go fishing?
We have a number of excellent fishing guides that we recommend. Please see our fishing section for more information and remember to make your reservations early. Since these are the best guides in the area, they book up quickly.
What do we need to do on our check-out day?
Please read all check-out instructions included in your packet prior to departure. Fill out your guest survey regarding your stay, and drop it off at the office with your key. If no one is in the office, there is a key drop slot located between the two front doors. The day before, you should call Capt. Emmett of the Pirate’s Water Taxi to arrange your ferry back to the marina. Come by the office or call to reserve your house for next year and have a safe trip home!
All units are privately owned and most are occupied by the owners at some times of the year. Furnishings and decor vary from home to home, but all are equipped with standard electric appliances, central heat and air conditioning, and essentials for everyday living. Kitchens are fully equipped and linens and towels are provided. Most accommodations have phones and the unit number is noted on your confirmation. All outgoing long distance phone calls are to be collect or charged to a phone card of a Visa or MasterCard. Please note in the descriptions of the units, the amenities provided in and with each unit. If you require a specific item, please ask us!
Don Pedro, Knight/Palm Islands and Little Gasparilla Island are connected by over seven miles of white sandy beach. All owners have platted beachfront accesses. Shelling is a favorite pastime, and better fishing can’t be found! We have a Fire Station, Garbage pick up and Public Utility Water service to the island. Whatever you plan, however, don’t miss our sunsets. . . they’re spectacular!
Access to the Islands is either by private boat (dock at your door), or Palm Island Transit ferry for a fee.
Grocery shopping is within a mile of the Island Ferry access (there are no stores on the Island). Other larger and discount stores are located within a five mile radius. Several restaurants and lounges are also within a few minutes’ trip.
Our area boasts a choice of golf courses easily accessible on the mainland. Information on fishing trips, boat rentals, golf cart rentals, and other things to do and places to see are available on our area information pages.
Dress is casual! Don’t forget the sunscreen and bug spray! Groceries, supplies, and paper products (toilet paper, paper towel and trash bags) that your family will use is all that is needed. Please bring beach towels and charcoal – if needed.
Units are booked on availability. Confirmation is sent upon receipt of a required security deposit of $500.00. This deposit is refunded no later than 30 days after departure, pending inspection of property and any possible phone charges or damages. Garbage pick-up/disposal fee (if applicable) and cleaning fees are included in the posted rental rates. Twelve percent state and local sales tax will be added to rental sales (rates, fees and sales tax is subject to change).
Full Payment due 60 days prior to arrival. We accept checks, credit cards and wire transfers. Payments should be made in US funds. Personal checks and money orders should be made payable to Tarpon Rental Services.”
All rates for units are based on a maximum number of guests. In some cases, additional guests may be permitted with a per person charge per day or per stay. All homes and condos are individually owned and they are for the sole use and enjoyment of registered guests. They are not for gatherings or parties in excess of the occupancy specified for each unit. Occupancy violation will subject all guests to immediate eviction without refund.
In the event an accommodation becomes unavailable between the time you confirm your reservation and your arrival date, we retain the right to move you to a comparable unit or refund your deposit in full if nothing is available.
Please don’t hesitate to phone, fax, write us, or email us for more information or details. We look forward to hearing from you and assisting you in a memorable vacation experience!