The bride’s guide to a happy wedding

At Tarpon Lodge we want your special day to go off without a hitch. We have compiled this list of frequently asked questions to assist you in your planning. Please do not hesitate to contact our friendly staff with any additional questions you may have. PLEASE NOTE: February through April is our busy “high season”. Given how important it is to us that your special day is perfect in every way, we do not host weddings during these months or holidays and their associated weekends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should you get married near home or in some exotic destination?

Tarpon Lodge provides both! If you live in Southwest Florida, Tarpon Lodge is an exotic location that is easy to get to by car, by boat or by helicopter. Even if you arrive from out-of-town, Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) is served by numerous airlines and is just about an hour from Tarpon Lodge by rental car or taxi.


What about guests?  Will they be able to get to your wedding site?

Tarpon Lodge may be off the well-worn path, but it’s well worth the effort!  It’s an easy drive where Waterfront Drive meets Pine Island Sound.  Guests can even arrive by boat at our on-site docks.


Will out of town guests have places to stay?

Tarpon Lodge has 8 rooms in the 1926 historic lodge, 12 rooms in the stilt building called the Island House, plus 2 efficiencies; all maintained with a true “Old Florida” feeling.


What about weather?  As unpredictable as it can be, planning months ahead can be a real challenge.

Tarpon Lodge is subject to the same weather uncertainties as any wedding destination.  Generally, our climate is benign with mild temperatures in the winter and balmy breezes that blow in from the Sound in the summer.  If inclement weather threatens, there is a comfortable indoor space available as a back-up to an outdoor venue.  Evening after evening, the sun puts on a spectacular show as it sets on the Western horizon.


Should you have an outdoor wedding or say your vows in a chapel?

This is a matter of personal preference. Even if you decide to get married in a nearby church or synagogue, you still can have your guests’ accommodations, rehearsal dinner, or wedding reception at the Tarpon Lodge.


What about catering?  Will your chosen location offer suitable food for your wedding and wedding guests?

Tarpon Lodge’s fine dining restaurant is among the most respected in Southwest Florida.  Our innovative cuisine regularly receives raves and outstanding reviews from local restaurant critics.  Our Restaurant Manager and Executive Chef will work with you for the perfect event, menu and service.


Will you be able to arrange entertainment?

Tarpon Lodge has a list of versatile and popular entertainers.  We have the contacts to find exactly the kind of entertainment you want for your wedding or for any special event.


Who will take care of flowers?

If you want our assistance with this, Tarpon Lodge works with local, experienced florists to provide the freshest, most beautiful flowers and foliage available from our bountiful Southwest Florida region.


Will local transportation be available?

Transport services are readily available to and from the airport and for local transportation.  Tarpon Lodge can give you comprehensive contact information from taxi vans to town cars to limousines.


Can you honeymoon here?

So glad you asked!  Your honeymoon in one of our cozy efficiencies will be a great start!  Then, may we suggest an extended escape on our sister property, historic Cabbage Key. It is just a short, water taxi ride away, with easy access via the Intercoastal Waterway.


More About Weddings at Tarpon Lodge


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