Cheeseburger in Paradise

We left out of Cape Haze bright and early this morning. Next stop—Cabbage Key—home of the famous Cheeseburger in Paradise. As we crossed open water at Gasparilla Sound and Charlotte Harbor we rocked and rolled from white caps hitting our beam. These were probably the roughest seas we have had so far beacause they hit us from the side. It did not last long and by noon we were dropping anchor at Useppa Island across from Cabbage Key Restaurant, Marina and Inn. Cabbage Key is a historic home built in 1929 by the Rinehart family and made a resort area about 30 years ago. Jimmy Buffett is said to have been inspired by their cheeseburger—they definitely have paradise going here. Useppa Island is a popular anchorage in the back of a really nice neighborhood and a short dingy ride to Cabbage Key. A tradition is for everyone to sign a dollar and tape it to the wall in the dining room and bar. After a lunch and really good key lime pie we took a stroll of the grounds where the signs told you about the wildlife,mangrove trees and the various snakes-ick! People watching was superior and watching the boats and ferries come in and dock was fun.

Anchored at Useppa Island

Our dollars--I don't even think they promise good luck--just add them up

Awesome site

Waitstaff where these T-Shirts with answers to oft asked questions.

Go fast boats added some spice to the busy dock