When I first moved to Florida two years ago, I was amazed at the peace and quiet in the part of the state I lived in. But nothing I’ve experienced to date can compare with the peace and serenity I experienced during my stay at the Tarpon Lodge on beautiful Pine Island.
We have always been fascinated with the rich and storied history of our community. Working at Tarpon Lodge has allowed us to share these unique and exciting facts with our guests who are curious about the area and how it all began. While not historians or archeologists, living and working in proximity to the Florida Museum of Natural History’s Randell Research Center has given us a lot of information to pass on. For the history buffs out there, here’s what we have learned:
The very famous Juan Ponce de Leon, whom we all learned about in elementary school, “discovered” Florida in 1513, supposedly while searching for the Fountain of Youth. I put discovered in quotes because apparently there was already a large population here – this was the home of the Calusa Indians.
Newlyweds enjoying sunset views at Tarpon Lodge in Pineland, Florida
A dream of the perfect wedding often includes pristine water views graced by vivid sunsets and soft, twinkling lights. Imagine a hush falling over the crowd as bride and groom promise their “I Do’s.” The air is filled with the gentle sounds of softly lapping waves and whispering Gulf breezes. When the ceremony ends, the spirit of celebration begins – wining and dining, dancing and laughing, revisiting memories and creating new ones. For couples who realized their own dreams, we asked what were the most important criteria for their island wedding. Here are their top five:
1. Private Island Ambiance
The number one reason for an island wedding is to create a unique event in a lovely, secluded setting that is classic and timeless. This is an opportunity to fulfill a vision of being surrounded by panoramic water views, swaying palm trees and rolling, manicured lawns, the perfect backdrop to a most memorable day.
Awaken is a first-of-its-kind, digital ecological calendar, combining time-lapse photography with an online calendar that reminds users of the many, year-round, natural seasons and migrations of The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel.
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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
Events at Tarpon Lodge
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.
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