Tarpon Lodge: Get Away From It All On Pine Island

Royal palms and banana tree leaves shade the front entrance to the historic Tarpon Lodge on the northwest corner of Pine Island, west of Cape Coral. For a romantic evening or a stay, the historic estate is like a page out of an Ernest Hemingway novel set in an “Old Florida”-type lodge. The cool breeze of the island harkens back to the glory days of an unspoiled southwest Florida. Stunning views of the water and beautiful sunsets area a staple at the Tarpon Lodge and Restaurant. From Cape Coral, the drive is scenic---straight down Pine Island Road stretching through the landscape of the Little Pine Island wetland restoration area and shell mounds. Secluded and off a winding road, the Tarpon Lodge is a wonderful place where you can get drinks, head to the dock to watch a sunset then return to your table on the porch and finish your meal. The restaurant is open every day for lunch and dinner from 11:30 AM-9:00 PM. Like the old days, the wait staff provides attentive yet unobtrusive service. Delicious food is served in a relaxed environment with amazing views. Serene and right on the water, the Tarpon Lodge entertains guests with live music, and you can choose a table either in the indoor dining room or the screened patio overlooking Pine Island Sound. Customers are particularly pleased with the restaurant’s entrees, which include filet mignon with mashed potatoes and green beans, as well as crab tortellini, and sea scallops. For those who wish to extend a stay and vacation or spend a romantic weekend, the Tarpon Lodge grounds are lovely with a large lawn and a pool, winding walking paths and a dock on the water. The picturesque setting begs you to take a walk around the island and venture back in time for a day of fishing, nature or visit the storied past of the ancient Calusa heritage of the area and shell mounds. See Indian art and sacred burial grounds. Small boats ride the Pine Island Sound, sometimes docking at the Tarpon Lodge or the Pineland Marina located nearby. The Tarpon Lodge is across the street from the Calusa Heritage Trail. It’s the perfect place to disconnect since only the main building has a phone and Internet access. Space is limited at Tarpon Lodge. The 1926 historic house has 9 rooms with original hardwood floors and some offering water views. One cottage and a restored boathouse come with kitchenettes, porches and great water views. The Island House behind the main building has 12 rooms, 6 with water views. If you come for a visit and decide you want to stay for a lifetime, here is a resource to explore Pine Island real estate options.