Gasparilla Island
Charming pastel-colored cottages and palm tree-lined streets make up the picture-perfect Gasparilla Island. Named after the pirate José Gaspar, who allegedly used the island as a base and hideaway for his buried treasure (which was never found), the barrier island is home to the Gasparilla Island State Park, which offers swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. A must-visit point of interest is the historic Port Boca Grande Lighthouse built in 1890.