Renting a new place in a location new to us always causes a tiny bit of anxiety, especially when Little Gasparilla Island did suffer through a hurricane (or two) last Fall. But the house was just perfect inside and out. The interior was very nicely done, and the kitchen was well-stocked, which is important when all the cooking has to happen at home since there is nowhere to go out to eat on the island. But the peace and solitude were exactly what we wanted for a large family gathering to celebrate a milestone birthday. Communication with the property manager was easy through VRBO before arrival and texting upon arrival and thereafter. She is VERY helpful. Booking the ferry and concierge service from the dock to the house was a breeze. With 8 adults, our pile to transport to the island looked HUGE, but it all got there! Although there are more steps to get to LGI, TOTALLY worth it. We spent all day every day and evening on the deck unless we were at the beach. The gulf side of the island is unbelievably scenic, including epic sunsets. And hunting shells was the best we have ever seen...many shark teeth and fossils too! We didn't see many people on the beach, and we appreciated that feeling of privacy. We especially liked the fact that a neighbor has a commercial ice machine so we refilled our large coolers with ice every morning (let's just say we brought lots of tasty beverages). We are already talking about when we can plan this exact same family vacation again! Just do it!