Winter is a great time to visit Boca Grande, Florida. Although it can be cold in the morning, usually the sun comes out and warms everything up by afternoon. If the forecast calls for a chill or clouds, don’t be discouraged, there is still plenty to do in Boca Grande if the weather is not cooperating with outdoor activities.

Exercise

I am a huge advocate of exercise at every age, so naturally my trips to Boca Grande include regular work outs. Try a group class at Banyan Street Pilates and Yoga. There are a range of classes to choose from as they run about 30 classes per week.  Offerings include Pilates, yoga, group cycle and barre. Check the website for updates and special programs. When the temperature dips, it is nice to be able to come inside and warm up your body.

Shop the Farmer’s Market

The Boca Grande Farm and Fish Market is open Fridays from 9 am – 1 pm during season. With over 40 vendors, the market is a great place to pick up fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, and even a sandwich for lunch. The flower selection and baked goods are wonderful and if you are looking for a hostess gift, it is the perfect spot. The people and pet watching are a treat as well!

Go Cruising

With a golf cart path that runs the entire length of the island, it is easy to go cruising on a golf cart. There are several businesses in town that rent carts, I rented from Boca Grande Cart Rental on Railroad Avenue. Their rates are the best in town. Bring a blanket and a hot beverage and take a tour at your own pace.

Attend an Event at the Community Center

The Friends of the Boca Grande Community Center organization has so many events during the October – May season, that I can not list them all. They sponsor concerts, movies and presentations. One of my favorites is the Irish music concert in the outdoor pavilion complete with Irish beer which I attended on my golf cart on St. Patrick’s Day. For a complete list of events visit Boca Grande Happenings Community Calendar.

Tour the Johann Fust Community Library

The library is located on 10th street and is a beautiful place to visit. Part of the Lee County Library System, the library offers Kindles for rent for two weeks and special events for children and adults. The grounds are worth a visit because of the gardens, sculpture, amazing seashell collection and unique architecture. For hours and events, visit the website.

Visit the Boca Grande Historical Society

The History Center is located at the corner of Park and Banyan and is open Monday through Saturday. The current exhibition, Boca Grande: Once A Railroad and Industrial Town outlines each of three historically significant areas of the island and provides a glimpse of life here in the early and mid twentieth century. And the Historical Society hosts events throughout the season including a tour of homes and a boat trip to the Calusa Mounds.

Climb a Lighthouse

How many people can say they’ve climbed a lighthouse? You can RSVP for a 20-minute climb to the top of the historic Gasparilla Island Lighthouse as volunteer docents share the fascinating story of this U.S. legacy! All proceeds support the continuing restoration and preservation of this local FL treasure.