Whidden’s Marina in Boca Grande: A Historic Waterfront Landmark Now at a Crossroads

For nearly a century, Whidden’s Marina has stood as one of Boca Grande’s most treasured waterfront landmarks — a place where Old Florida charm, fishing heritage, and island community life come together at the edge of the harbor. Today, this iconic marina is facing a pivotal moment in its long history.

Whidden’s Marina is currently for sale, and many locals, visitors, and preservation advocates are urging people to experience it now — before redevelopment permanently changes one of the last authentic historic marinas on Gasparilla Island.

A Marina That Helped Shape Boca Grande

Founded in 1926 by Sam Whidden, the marina began as a small waterfront operation serving fishermen, boaters, and early island visitors. Over time, it evolved into much more than a dock — it became a social gathering place, outfitter hub, and community anchor.

During Boca Grande’s rise as the Tarpon Capital of the World, Whidden’s played a key role in supporting fishing guides, tournament anglers, and visiting sportsmen. Generations of island families and visitors passed through its docks, store, and waterfront spaces, making it one of the most culturally significant maritime sites in Southwest Florida.

The marina’s weathered buildings, wooden docks, and relaxed atmosphere still reflect this history — offering a rare glimpse into a Florida that has largely disappeared elsewhere.

What Makes Whidden’s Marina Special

Unlike modern resort marinas, Whidden’s Marina retains its original personality and charm. Visitors quickly notice the difference.

Historic Waterfront Setting

Located along the Boca Grande Yacht Basin, the marina offers sheltered dockage and peaceful harbor views framed by palm trees and historic structures.

Family-Run Tradition

For generations, Whidden’s remained in the founding family, preserving not just the property but the values of hospitality, simplicity, and community connection.

Gasparilla Island Maritime Museum

The marina is home to the island’s maritime museum, which shares stories of early fishing culture, boat building, and Boca Grande’s working waterfront past.

Old Florida Atmosphere

From its general store feel to dockside conversations and passing boats, Whidden’s Marina captures the relaxed rhythm of coastal life that many visitors actively seek — and rarely find anymore.

Now For Sale: Why This Moment Matters

With Whidden’s Marina now on the market, many in the community fear that future redevelopment could erase one of Boca Grande’s most important historic sites.

Across Southwest Florida, waterfront properties have increasingly been replaced by luxury condominiums and high-density developments. While growth is inevitable, Whidden’s represents something irreplaceable: a physical connection to Boca Grande’s origins as a fishing village and working harbor.

Preservation advocates encourage:

  • Visiting the marina while it still retains its historic character

  • Supporting heritage tourism on Gasparilla Island

  • Raising awareness of the marina’s cultural significance

  • Advocating for preservation-minded ownership and redevelopment options

For many, Whidden’s is not just real estate — it’s living history.

Where to Find Whidden’s Marina

Whidden’s Marina
📍 190 1st Street East
Boca Grande, FL 33921
📞 (941) 964-2878

Marine Coordinates (approximate):
📍 N 26° 44.767′ | W 82° 15.465′

Located on the west side of the Boca Grande Yacht Basin, the marina is easily accessible by foot from downtown Boca Grande and by boat from Charlotte Harbor and surrounding waterways.

Why You Should Visit Now

Walking the docks of Whidden’s Marina feels like stepping into Boca Grande’s past. You’ll see historic structures, working slips, local boaters, and museum exhibits that tell stories of tarpon tournaments, island pioneers, and early coastal life.Whether you arrive by boat, bike, golf cart, or on foot, visiting Whidden’s today offers a chance to experience a piece of Florida history that may not exist in the same form tomorrow.

For longtime island lovers and first-time visitors alike, this moment represents both celebration and urgency — celebrating what Whidden’s has meant to Boca Grande and recognizing the importance of protecting the heritage it represents.

A Legacy Worth Protecting

Whidden’s Marina has survived hurricanes, economic cycles, and nearly 100 years of change. Its future now depends on decisions being made today.

Preserving places like Whidden’s isn’t about resisting progress — it’s about honoring identity, maintaining cultural landmarks, and ensuring future generations can still experience the places that shaped Florida’s coastal story.