Five stars! It is not often that one can win the Trifecta. My wife and I have managed to do so, by renting from Laura and Robert at their two properties in Maine, and now on Little Gasparilla Island. This property is the perfect place to get away from it all, and relax. The cottage is well appointed with authentic rattan furniture and a beach decor. The kitchen is incredibly well stocked with every conceivable appliance and cookware. Many staple non perishable food items are also provided. The cottage is steps away from the beach. From the front porch swing, the ocean breezes and sound of the surf can be enjoyed. Spectacular sunsets are visible from the back yard deck. The cottage is bright and airy. Bedrooms are ample in size. The primary bedroom has a very comfortable firm king bed. The bathroom is a bit dark. There is however, new laminate flooring throughout the home, and a new vanity in the bathroom.
Outside, there is a small manicured front yard with palm trees, sea grapes and lots of foliage to provide privacy. There are two outside showers to use, one of which is private. Umbrellas, chairs, and toys to take to the beach are provided. A large Weber charcoal grill is underneath the house.
From previous posts, I surmise that most guests shop at the Publix grocery store and bring their provisions on the water taxi to the cottage. We elected to use the services of Evan Merritt who will shop for you and stock the cottage prior to your arrival. We paid $50 plus 25% of the entire grocery bill for this service. We were pleased to have this option.
The water taxi runs from 8AM - 5 PM. It is $10 per person each way during normal operating hours. There is a surcharge for trips at other times. After you are dropped off at the dock, you need to walk several hundred feet up a sand path to the cottage. This is not a handicapped accessible cottage.
Southwest Florida is a beautiful and relaxing place to visit. Non locals should know that occasionally, there is a bloom of red algae, known as red tide, which can mar the beaches for several days. This is a natural phenomenon, and not predictable. If this is a concern, purchasing insurance which allows you to cancel “ for any reason “ is an option to consider.
Peacock cottage is idyllic. Many thanks to Robert and Laura for the memories we have had at all three of their homes! We look forward to visiting Maine this autumn, and hopefully Florida next year.
