Posted on October 29, 2025
By Steve Waters, Miami Herald
Bokeelia, Fishing & Boating, Pine Island, Tarpon Lodge
The lodge got its name from the bucket list gamefish that attracts anglers from around the world seeking to hook up with the silver king, the nickname given to the regal tarpon.
Posted on October 26, 2025
By Robyn George, News-Press.
Dining, Tarpon Lodge
Posted on October 16, 2025
By Emily Young, Fox 4
History, Tarpon Lodge
CAPE CORAL, Fla. — As tributes continue to pour in for former President Jimmy Carter following his passing, memories of his time in southwest Florida remain fresh in the minds of those fortunate enough to have met him. It was exactly 20 years ago that President Carter made that memorable visit to our community—an occasion still talked about with fondness by locals who met him in person.
Posted on December 15, 2023
By Alicia Watts, Cosmopolitan
Cabbage Key, Reviews, Tarpon Lodge
John Coletti//Getty Images
If you’re a fan of low-key, chain-free restaurants and hotels, protected wildlife, island hopping around secluded beaches and making real memories in a slice of paradise, Florida’s Gulf Coast could be calling your name. Here’s our travel guide of the best places to stay, where to eat and drink and what to do while you’re there. Basically, here’s what your adventure could look like.
Posted on October 6, 2023
By Travelweek
Boating, Cabbage Key, Dining, Fort Myers, Tarpon Lodge
Inhale those fresh Gulf breezes and feel the warmth of the sun on your face as the day unfolds before you.
All throughout Fort Myers’ islands, beaches, and neighborhoods, you can go straight from an exhilarating boat ride to an amazing meal while overlooking the water.
You’re invited to experience a local legend. Cabbage Key Inn sits on its own 100-acre island and has been feeding guests for decades. Hop aboard a charter or book your own private boat to reach this remote restaurant famed for its cheeseburgers, fresh seafood and frozen Key lime pie. Its defining feature is the thousands of dollar bills taped to the restaurant’s ceilings and walls, and you’ll likely spot tortoises and other wildlife roaming the walkways outside.
Feel the charm of an Old Florida landmark at the Tarpon Lodge & Restaurant in Bokeelia on Pine Island. This historical 1926 house overlooks Pine Island Sound and is surrounded by a restored boathouse, bungalow-style cottage and comfortable Island House. Enjoy a leisurely lunch or exquisite evening meal at Tarpon Lodge Restaurant, where you can dine on the catch of the day, prized Gulf pink shrimp or other locally sourced favourites.
This is an excerpt from an article originally published by Travelweek.
Posted on May 5, 2023
By Tarpon Lodge
Awards, Cabbage Key, Tarpon Lodge
We are excited to share that Tarpon Lodge & Restaurant and Cabbage Key were finalists in 17 categories in Gulfshore Life Magazine’s Best Of rankings. And we’re even more thrilled to announce that we WON the following:
Tarpon Lodge:
Cabbage Key:
These honors are a result of community and guest votes which means we could not have done it without you! We take pride in our history and we strive to provide the best “Old Florida” dining and getaway experience for our guests. After the year ⛈ we’ve all had, your votes mean the world to us and our wonderful employees. Thank you for contributing to this achievement. 🥰
Posted on January 4, 2023
By Susan Glaser, cleveland.com
Cabbage Key, Pine Island, Reviews, Tarpon Lodge
The pool at sunset at Tarpon Lodge, an old-Florida retreat on Pine Island in Southwest Florida.
PINE ISLAND, Florida – There are no sandy beaches on this Florida island, no high-rise condo complexes, no fancy stores.
What you’ll find instead on Pine Island, just west of Fort Myers: a mostly rural atmosphere with exotic fruit farms and some of the best fishing in the state.
There’s also a unique old Florida place to spend the night, the Tarpon Lodge, with 22 overnight rooms and cottages, many with views of the Pine Island Sound.
Posted on May 23, 2022
By Tarpon Lodge
Awards, Cabbage Key, Tarpon Lodge
to have been selected as a FINALIST in Gulfshore Life’s “Best of the Gulfshore” 2022 awards for Best Hotel/Resort, Best Seafood, Best Business Lunch, Best Date Night Restaurant and honored to have WON
In case you missed it, our sister property, Cabbage Key was voted Best Boating Destination.
Thank you for your support. You bring out the best in us!
Posted on May 23, 2022
Dining, Fort Myers, Recreation, Tarpon Lodge
Special thanks to Southern Living Magazine for highlighting Tarpon Lodge in its Spring 2022 Issue: South’s Best — Your favorite Scenic Drives, Beach Towns, Barbecue Joints, Family Getaways, State Parks, Bakeries, and Resorts.
Posted on May 23, 2021
By Southern Living
Lodging, Matlacha, Recreation, Tarpon Lodge
Photo Credit: Robbie Caponetto
Think of Matlacha (pronounced MATT-luh-SHAY) as Mayberry meets Woodstock. Locals in town—and on the island that shares its name—offer the kind of warm welcome you’d expect from a small Southern town. But Matlacha’s proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and its chill island vibe attract outdoor adventurers, as well as free-spirited artists and entrepreneurs who have set up shop here.
Come in July and you’ll have the run of the place, with many spots open for limited hours; show up between December and April and the joint will be jumpin’. Either way, stop by Bert’s Bar & Grill, snag a table outside on the dock, and get acclimated (bertsbar.com).
Our staff is standing by to help you book your stay and answer any questions you may have about your relaxing Old Florida getaway. (239) 283-3999or
Make a Reservation
October 27 – Gatlin
A crowd favorite returns! Enjoy a 4-course dinner while being entertained by the dynamic duo Gatlin, known for their harmonies and fun stage presence.
November 12 – Bring Your Own Blanket
Join us under the palms for a relaxed evening on the Tarpon Lodge lawn—spread a blanket, watch the sunset over Pine Island Sound, and enjoy live music by award-winning Jessica Norman.
December 1 – Mad Violets Wine Dinner
Celebrate the season with a festive wine dinner featuring bold pours from Mad Violets Wines and a menu designed to delight.
December 17 – Brush & Bubbles
Join us under The Island House at Tarpon Lodge—paint your own “Message in a Bottle,” sip wine, and let your imagination drift to sea.
January 26 – Long Shadows Wine Dinner
Ring in the new year with a premier wine experience, highlighting the artistry of Long Shadows’ award-winning collection.
More information can be found by calling us at 239.283.3999 or checking out our EVENTS page.
Why not spend the night?
Check out our SPECIAL OFFERS for discounted rates or extra days in paradise!
