Find the buried pirate treasure of Jose Gaspar, often nicknamed "Gasparilla"
This cache commemorates the legend of the historic pirate, Jose Gaspar and the legend of his connection to Captiva Island.
Often nicknamed “Gasparilla,” José Gaspar is the legendary pirate said to have terrorized the Gulf of Mexico from his base off southwest Florida. According to the tale, he began piracy after leaving the Spanish navy, built a “pirate kingdom” on Gasparilla Island, and used nearby isles like Captiva Island to hold captives for ransom. He is said to have met his dramatic end in 1821—choosing to wrap himself in an anchor chain and leap overboard rather than be captured by the U.S. Navy.
Also according to legend, Captiva is entwined in the tale of José Gaspar: The story goes that his female prisoners were held on “Isle de los Captivas” (Captiva). Although the pirate tale is likely fictional, the island retains its old-Florida charm and is a popular destination for those seeking laid-back beaches, nature and history.