The Boca Beacon has released its annual recap for 2025, highlighting the year’s significant events and challenges faced by the community of Boca Grande. The report emphasizes ongoing recovery efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, which left many properties and civic amenities under repair. As residents celebrate the return to renovated homes, numerous facilities, including the Boca Grande Fishing Pier and parts of the Boca Grande Community Center, still await completion.
The year 2025 was marked not only by reconstruction but also by community discussions. A heated parking debate resurfaced, drawing attention at board meetings. Additionally, a lighthearted dispute emerged regarding the naming of local waters, with some advocating for “Gulf of America,” while others preferred to align with traditional terminology. Despite these controversies, the island community found solace in an absence of severe storms, although the lack of rainfall raised concerns for 2026.
January began with a red tide outbreak that caused the death of numerous fish along the beach. In response, Lee County Parks & Recreation deployed a dumpster and surf rake to remove the carcasses. The month also celebrated the reopening of the Range Light, and the Suncoast Humane Society welcomed visitors to its new campus in Englewood. The Boca Grande Preschool, which suffered destruction during the hurricanes, secured a temporary location in Grove City.
During February, the parking debate intensified at a Lee County Commissioners meeting, leading to a proposal for amendments in parking regulations for Boca Grande. As local businesses began to reopen, the Pink Pony received a fresh coat of paint, and the historic Boca Grande Old Theatre Mall resumed operations. The Boca Grande Film Festival took place, with the film “Tokyo Cowboy” winning top honors.
In March, the Lighthouse United Methodist Church hosted its annual Strawberry Festival, raising $50,000 for local women and children in need. The Boca Grande Area Chamber of Commerce organized its inaugural chili cook-off, and the community enjoyed various events, including a street party with live music. However, the ongoing parking issue remained a focal point, with discussions continuing throughout the month.
The community’s spirit shone brightly in April as the Boca Grande Woman’s Club hosted its first talent show, replacing the traditional Bike Parade. A groundbreaking ceremony was held for the expansion of The Island School, marking a significant step in the Friends of Boca Grande’s Renaissance Campaign. The month also saw the return of the Boca Grande Easter Egg Hunt, celebrating its 50th anniversary at Wheeler Road Community Park.
As May arrived, the highly anticipated tarpon season kicked off. The Barrier Island Parks Society reopened the historic Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum after extensive repairs. Despite delays in the parking ordinance discussion, community members gathered to voice their opinions. The month concluded with a successful tarpon tournament season, highlighting local fishing talents.
In June, the community faced a serious incident when a nine-year-old girl suffered a shark bite while snorkeling. Emergency responders acted swiftly, airlifting her to a hospital for surgery. Tarpon tournament activities continued, but the month was also marked by a rise in marine thefts, prompting concerns among local residents.
July brought traditional celebrations, including a Golf Cart Parade for the 4th of July, attracting over 150 participants. Construction efforts ramped up with the Gasparilla Island Bridge Authority commencing a causeway armoring project. Lee County Sheriff’s Office reported ongoing marine thefts, raising alarms among boat owners.
In August, significant progress was made as the Gasparilla Island parking ordinance passed unanimously, introducing new regulations for parking limits in the area. The Boca Grande Community Center also began renovations. Meanwhile, the reopening of the post office, closed for nearly a year, provided a much-needed boost to community morale.
As the summer transitioned into September, the parking debate continued, with residents voicing their concerns at community meetings. The Boca Grande Health Clinic’s future was marked by a ceremonial beam signing for the upcoming construction of a new facility.
October saw businesses return for the season, with the Gasparilla Island State Park completing its beach renourishment project. The Boca Grande Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual golf scramble, raising more than $34,000 for local scholarships.
The social season officially commenced in November with community events, including the Friends of Boca Grande’s welcome back bash. Amid ongoing discussions regarding parking, the Board of Charlotte County initiated conflict-resolution procedures with Lee County. Notably, turtle season concluded with a summary from the Boca Grande Sea Turtle Association, reflecting the year’s environmental efforts.
As 2025 came to a close in December, residents prepared for the holiday season with various festive activities. The Boca Grande Yacht Club held a lighted boat parade, and the community celebrated the 40th anniversary of the Bike Path with a rededication ceremony.
The year marked a period of resilience and community spirit, as Boca Grande residents navigated the aftermath of natural disasters while cherishing their vibrant local culture.
