Barrier Island Parks Society, Inc.

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Boca Grande, FL
Barrier Island Parks Society, Inc.

Inspire. Educate. Preserve. BIPS mission is to inspire the exploration and preservation of natural a
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06/25/2026

🌟 Become a Docent at the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse & Museum! 🌟

Do you have a passion for history, education, and preserving local treasures? The Barrier Island Parks Society (BIPS) is seeking enthusiastic volunteers to join our docent family at the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse & Museum.

Our docents play a vital role in bringing the island's rich history to life for visitors by sharing stories and knowledge about:
🔹 The Calusa Native Americans
🔹 Early phosphate mining operations
🔹 Boca Grande's world-famous tarpon fishing heritage
🔹 The historic Port Boca Grande Lighthouse

As a docent, you'll help educate the public, preserve our community's history, and ensure that this beloved landmark continues to inspire future generations.

BIPS relies heavily on the dedication of our incredible volunteers, and we'd love for you to become part of our family.

For more information about becoming a docent, please call (941) 964-0060 or email Melissa at [email protected].

Help us keep the historic lights shining for generations to come!

06/24/2026

🎆 Cheers to 250 Years! 🇺🇸

Get ready to celebrate America’s Birthday in style at the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse & Museum! Whether you're looking for the perfect patriotic accessory or a beautiful gift, we're hosting a special one-day event you won't want to miss.

💎 ALL JEWELRY IS 25% OFF! 💎

✨ When: July 1st, 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
📍 Where: 880 Belcher Road, Boca Grande

Come explore our stunning collection, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and celebrate this historic milestone with us! 🎆

06/23/2026

🇺🇸 Holiday Closure Notice – Port Boca Grande Lighthouse & Museum 🇺🇸

In observance of Independence Day, the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse & Museum will be closed on Friday, July 4th.

We wish everyone a safe, happy, and memorable Fourth of July as we celebrate our nation's independence with family, friends, and community.

The museum will reopen on Tuesday, July 7th, and we look forward to welcoming visitors back to explore the rich history of Boca Grande and our iconic lighthouse.

Have a wonderful Independence Day! 🇺🇸✨

🇺🇸🏖️🗽

06/22/2026

🌊🐚 National Seashell Day at the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse & Museum 🐚🌊

What a wonderful celebration we had this past Saturday! A heartfelt thank you to the Englewood Shell Club, especially Meredith Blain, Donna Anderson, and RuthAnn Kort, for helping make National Seashell Day such a success.

Visitors enjoyed an impressive seashell display, refreshments, educational information about shells, free seashell giveaways, and a fun craft activity decorating picture frames with seashells. Most importantly, our guests had the opportunity to learn, create, and connect with fellow shell enthusiasts.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped celebrate the beauty and wonder of Florida's seashells.

🌊🐚🏖️

06/21/2026

🌊 Happy Father’s Day from Barrier Island Parks Society! 🌊

Today, we celebrate all the fathers, grandfathers, stepfathers, and father figures who inspire us through their strength, guidance, and love. Thank you for helping create lasting memories, sharing a love for the outdoors, and teaching future generations the importance of protecting and preserving our natural treasures.

Wishing you a wonderful Father’s Day filled with family, adventure, and special moments along the coast. 💙

06/19/2026

Today, Barrier Island Parks Society recognizes Juneteenth, a day honoring freedom, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of equality in America.

We also reflect on the important and often underrecognized history of Black Floridians whose contributions were foundational to the development of Boca Grande. Throughout the 20th century, Black workers served as the primary manual laborers, railroad workers, and commercial fishermen who helped build and sustain the island’s economy and way of life.

As we preserve and share the stories of our barrier islands, we honor their legacy and acknowledge the enduring impact of their work, strength, and community.

Happy Juneteenth.

06/17/2026

🎁⚓ STILL LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT FATHER's DAY GIFT? ⚓🎁

Skip the ordinary and give Dad something he'll truly appreciate from the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse & Museum Gift Shop!

From comfortable lighthouse-themed t-shirts and stylish ball caps to coffee mugs, books, souvenirs, and unique coastal treasures, you'll find plenty of great gift ideas for the dad who loves history, the outdoors, or Florida's beautiful Gulf Coast.

Plus, every purchase helps support the preservation of our historic lighthouses and educational programs.

Stop by, browse our selection, and find a Father's Day gift that's as unique as Dad!

📍 Port Boca Grande Lighthouse & Museum
🕚 Open Daily Tuesdays - Saturdays from 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

06/16/2026

🐚🌊 THIS SATURDAY! 🌊🐚

Celebrate National Seashell Day with us at the historic Port Boca Grande Lighthouse & Museum this Saturday, June 20, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM!

We're thrilled to welcome the Englewood Shell Club for a fun and fascinating afternoon dedicated to one of Florida's most treasured coastal wonders. Explore impressive shell displays, meet local shelling experts, and learn about the incredible marine life that calls our Gulf waters home.

Whether you're an avid shell collector, a beachcombing enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique family-friendly outing, this is the perfect opportunity to discover the beauty and science behind Southwest Florida's amazing seashells.

Bring your curiosity, bring the family, and join us for a shell-tastic day at the lighthouse!

06/15/2026

Big news coming out of the Suncoast Remake Learning Days Breakfast! ☀️📚

BIPS’ very own Melissa and Claudia were in attendance, connecting with partners, educators, and community leaders committed to expanding hands-on, meaningful learning experiences for youth across our region.

And they’re bringing back exciting news…

📅 The official dates for next year’s Suncoast Remake Learning Days are set:
April 24 – May 8, 2027!

We’re proud to be part of this growing movement that celebrates creativity, curiosity, and learning beyond the classroom, and we can’t wait for what’s ahead.

Stay tuned for more updates as planning begins!

06/11/2026

📅 Mark your calendars! The first Gasparilla Island Lighthouse Climb Tour of the Fall season is set for Saturday, October 24, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM!

Experience one of Boca Grande's most treasured landmarks as you climb 134 steps to the lantern room and take in breathtaking panoramic views of Gasparilla Island, Charlotte Harbor, and the Gulf of America.

Your visit doesn't stop at the top!

🌿 Explore BIPS' beautiful 7.4 acres of nature trails
🛍️ Shop for unique, one-of-a-kind merchandise in our gift shop
📚 Discover the rich history of Gasparilla Island's iconic lighthouse

Best of all, every climb fee and merchandise purchase directly supports the preservation and operation of BIPS' historic lighthouses, helping ensure these treasured landmarks remain for future generations to enjoy.

For all other dates and more information, visit BIPS.org.

We can't wait to welcome you back this Fall!

Address

880 Belcher Road, P0 Box 637
Boca Grande, FL
33921

Telephone

+19419640060

Website

http://www.BIPS.org/

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