As a Florida wedding photographer, I can tell you there’s nothing quite like a Gasparilla Inn wedding. This stunning venue perfectly balances Old Florida charm with luxury, so it feels both grand and intimately welcoming.

Built in 1913, this incredible property has been hosting unforgettable celebrations for generations. With its iconic pale yellow exterior, sweeping white pillars, and breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico, Gasparilla Inn will take your breath away. The Inn spans over 180 acres of pure Florida magic, and it was recently honored on the National Register of Historic Places. It offers everything from stunning beach views to historic architecture.

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about choosing to have a Gasparilla Inn wedding!

 

Why do you love working at Gasparilla Inn?

As a wedding photographer, Gasparilla Inn is my absolute dream venue. From the moment you arrive, you’re surrounded by a perfect blend of historic charm and coastal beauty. The property offers an incredible variety of stunning backdrops, including the iconic white pillars and breathtaking Gulf views. Every wedding photo I take here feels classic and timeless!

 

What’s special about Gasparilla Inn weddings?

What sets Gasparilla Inn weddings apart is the seamless blend of luxury and laid-back island charm. While the venue exudes sophistication, there’s an inherent warmth that makes every celebration feel like an intimate gathering, even if you choose to have hundreds of guests. The professional staff orchestrates everything with impeccable attention to detail, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the celebration while I capture all those genuine, joyful moments.

 

What ceremony and reception spaces are available at Gasparilla Inn?

There are quite a few venues available for wedding ceremonies and receptions! 

Ceremony venues:

Banyan Tree

You can exchange vows beneath the Gasparilla Inn’s renowned banyan tree. It can accommodate ceremonies of up to 350 guests. It’s truly an unforgettable wedding ceremony backdrop!

Driving Range

The driving range overlooks Charlotte Harbor and offers a spectacular ceremony setting. With breathtaking water views and space for up to 350 guests, it’s a popular choice for couples. The elevated location is particularly stunning during late afternoon ceremonies when the sun is setting.

Golf Gazebo

Perfect for ceremonies of up to 120 guests, the classic white gazebo provides a quintessential Florida wedding backdrop. 

Golf Course Lawn

This sophisticated outdoor setting offers views of both the historic Inn and the perfectly manicured golf course. It can comfortably accommodate up to 350 guests. The surrounding palm trees and tropical landscaping create a beautiful backdrop for your ceremony. 

 

Reception venues:

The Beach Club 

The crown jewel of Gasparilla Inn’s reception spaces is the Beach Club. It offers stunning Gulf views and cool ocean breezes for your celebration. This spacious venue features expansive windows, a wraparound terrace, and direct beach access. The combination of elegant indoor space and beachfront charm makes this a favorite for couples!

Croquet Lawn

You can dine and dance under the stars on this perfectly manicured lawn with the historic Inn as your backdrop. This versatile outdoor space transforms beautifully with tenting options and creative lighting designs. It can accommodate both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations of up to 350 guests.

Golf Gazebo

This charming location offers an intimate setting for smaller receptions. It’s surrounded by lush landscaping and golf course views. The classic white gazebo makes for a beautiful focal point for your celebration, while the surrounding space provides plenty of room for dining and dancing under the Florida sky.

There are additional venues on the property that you can consider for a smaller reception, your welcome party, or farewell brunch. 

• Banyan Room: Elegant indoor space with classic architectural details
• Pelican Club: Cozy setting with traditional Florida charm
• BZ’s Lounge & Terrace: Perfect for morning events with indoor/outdoor flow
• Sharp Room: Sophisticated private dining space
• Garden Room: Intimate setting for smaller gatherings (no amplified music)
• Palm Room: Charming indoor space ideal for intimate receptions (no amplified music)

 

 

Are there any church ceremony venues nearby?

If you’re dreaming of a traditional church wedding on Gasparilla Island, you’re in luck! There are two local churches that offer beautiful settings for your ceremony, each with its own unique character.

Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church

Built in 1950, this classic white church looks like something out of a Florida postcard. Six majestic Royal Palm trees line the entrance. Inside, beautiful wooden pews lead down a center aisle. With its timeless charm, this church is a great option for couples. Learn more about wedding ceremonies at Our Lady of Mercy here.

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

St. Andrew’s is a more contemporary option for couples looking to host a church ceremony on the island. This church offers couples a modern and beachy venue for their ceremony. Learn more about St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church wedding ceremonies here.

 

What type of couple will love Gasparilla Inn?

From my experience photographing at this venue, Gasparilla Inn attracts couples who appreciate timeless elegance and impeccable service. If you’re dreaming of a celebration that combines historic old Florida charm with luxury amenities, you’ll feel right at home here. 

 

Any insider tips for a Gasparilla Inn wedding?

As someone who knows every corner of this property, here’s my photographer’s perspective on making the most of your celebration:

1. Consider taking advantage of the whole island for your wedding weekend. I love capturing pre-wedding moments of couples and their guests exploring downtown Boca Grande by bike or golf cart. Or, plan something like a sunset sailboat cruise to welcome your guests! The Beach Club is the perfect spot for a poolside welcome party! There are so many fun options that make for incredible photos.
2. The light is particularly magical during golden hour, so I always recommend we make time to take a few minutes of sunset portraits! Either on the golf course or by the beach, the views are just unmatched.  As your Boca Grande wedding photographer, I’ll work alongside your wedding planner to ensure we have enough time to capture incredible portraits, while making sure you are fully present with your guests!
3. If you have your ceremony on Banyan Street, build in time to do a walking recessional from Banyan back to the Gasparilla Inn! It’s such a fun experience for the couple, their wedding party, and guests. A groomsman can carry a speaker and play music on blast to get the party started before you reach the Inn! 
4. Don’t miss the opportunity for portraits in some of the Inn’s historic indoor spaces! The vintage architectural details create stunning backdrops. This is nice if we encounter inclement weather, too.

 

 

What are your favorite photo locations at this venue?

Here are three prime photo locations I love capturing at Gasparilla Inn:

The Beach Club at Sunset 

As a photographer, I live for the dreamy sunset moments! There’s something special about the warm glow across the Beach Club’s shoreline. The weathered wooden boardwalk, swaying sea oats, and endless horizon create the perfect backdrop for romantic portraits. 

The Historic Front Entrance 

The Inn’s iconic white pillars and grand staircase create a timeless, elegant setting that never fails to impress. The late afternoon light here is particularly magical. I love this spot because it perfectly captures the venue’s Old Florida charm and heritage.

The Banyan Tree Gardens 

One of my favorite places to steal couples away for sunset portraits is beneath the banyan tree. The surrounding manicured gardens provide endless opportunities for capturing those quiet, romantic moments between the newlyweds.

 

Gasparilla Inn at a Glance

Address: 500 Palm Avenue Boca Grande, FL 33921

Phone number: (877) 764-1420

Website: https://the-gasparilla-inn.com/

 

As a Florida wedding photographer, I can tell you that the Gasparilla Inn provides an unforgettable backdrop for your celebration! Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering beneath the banyan tree or a grand celebration at the Beach Club, I’d be honored to capture your Gasparilla Inn wedding. Get in touch today to learn more about my services and availability!