Captiva Island
Sit back and relax...
Captiva Island is part of the small archipelago that has become known as the Lee Island Coast. With Sanibel and Captiva Islands being the most well-known, they offer a slower pace than most Florida barrier islands and are unique in that you won't find any condo styled buildings on either island.
Among the many things to do on the island are the remains of the Calusa Indians ceremonial shell mounds.
As far as shopping is concerned, you can't expect much when the island is all about eschewing development and focused on keeping things "the way they were" - so no outlets and no malls equals no blight. It does mean, however, that you will be delighted by the number of unique small boutiques, galleries and the old-fashioned General Store.
If you'd like to see some of Sanibel Island, we have a site devoted to that area as well.
Captiva Island Walking Tour
Captiva is one of the prettiest small towns on the Gulf Coast of Florida. The island itself measures about 5 miles from end to end; a few blocks at its widest and just wide enough for the two lane road that runs the length at the narrowest.
Now, there’s nothing like a nice walk along the beach, and Captiva has plenty of shore line to offer. The thing you might not realize is just who quaint and picturesque the island is, and it makes for a perfect morning walk about town - If you enjoy your morning walk, Captiva Island may be one of the nicest.
With the main thoroughfare conspicuously traveled by bicycles, golf carts and pedestrians, the automobile traffic is exceptionally well-behaved and courteous. Possibly because, sooner or later, everyone on Captiva becomes a pedestrian, and with everyone on the island traveling by foot and bike, you become more conscious of the automobile’s impact.
About two thirds the way up the island once you cross the bridge from Sanibel, you’ll find “The Village”. The Village is the heart of Captiva – with most of the restaurants, shops, marinas and other commercial activity. If Mayberry were a coastal town in Florida, with just a bit of panache mixed in, this would be it.
There’s a grocery store, several small scale marinas, a dozen or so good places to get lunch or dinner, a coffee shop or two. You won’t find a gas station or a convenience store, no Circle K or Seven-11, no chain hotels or Motel 6 - and a CVS or Walgreens would be completely out of place here. But, for better or worse, you can find a Starbucks.
The people here, both residents and visitors, display a ubiquitous congeniality that’s hard to find – even at many of the best vacation destinations. This genuine, good natured attitude will help you find gas – at one of the local marinas, or an arm load of those ghastly bright colored beach toys kids can’t seem to get enough of – where else, but at the Beach Stuff Store.
Captiva is a place where Kayaks outnumber jet skis. There are more manatees calling the area around Captiva home than there are cars.
Restaurants
Cantina Captiva
This fun, lively and brightly colored Mexican and Southwestern eatery is sure to spice up your stay on Captiva. Features all the usual items for eat in, eat outside or take-out: tacos, quesadillas, tamales, burritos, enchiladas and fajitas - and Margaritas, wine and cervezas from the bar. 14970 Captiva Drive.
Captiva Pizza
Located in the Village, this Pizzeria is one part pizza parlor, yogurt shop, salad bar and gift shop - no sense standing around doing nothing while your pizza gets cooked! Browse among the treasures of shells, coral, jewelry, artwork and numerous other items. 11513 Andy Rosse Lane.
The Green Flash
Named after the optical phenomena that many swear they've seen as the sun makes that last gasp of brilliance upon setting. On the water with great views both east and west. As much bar as restaurant, it's a friendly and cheerful place as revilers pass away the hours - or, maybe, just pass out. Food emphasis is on local seafood. 15183 Captiva Drive.
Key Lime Bistro
One of several eateries in the historic and picturesque Captiva Village. Serves up all the familiar and favorite American dishes breakfast, lunch and dinner. 11509 Andy Rosse Lane in the Captiva Village area.
The Bubble Room Restaurant
Step into this 1940's time machine that features a themed collection of 1940s era Christmas and Hollywood bric-à-brac. Enjoy chiefly American fare with oversized portions and tasty desserts. 15001 Captiva Road.
RC Cotter's Island Eats
Traditional American fare serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Located within the historic Captiva Village, this local favorite has a menu that runs the gamut from fresh seafood to chops, steaks and pasta dishes. 11506 Andy Rosse Lane.
Sunshine Seafood Cafe and Wine Bar
Featuring their special "Sunshine Paella", fresh Florida Red Snapper and other meat and seafood dishes. Nice selection of dessert items - so save some room. 14900 Captiva Drive.
Old Captiva House
Many consider the Old Captiva House offers the best dining experience on the island. Exceptionally popular with the local population and those who have a penchant for Continental Cuisine. 15951 Captiva Road.
The Mucky Duck
Serving lunch and dinner daily with an emphasis on seafood. Beach and Gulf vistas are plentiful and many guests opt for the best dessert in Captiva - the stunning sunset. Try the wine-based margaritas. 11546 Andy Rosse Lane.
Places to Stay
South Seas Island Resort
With an enviable location on the extreme northern tip of Captiva Island and surrounded by water on three sides, this secluded and sprawling condominium-styled resort features a wide range of accommodation styles - from homes to hotel rooms and in between. The fact that it has 15 outdoor pools should give you some idea of the scale of this property. They try very hard to live up to their namesake, and sometimes you may just think that you are, indeed in the South Seas. 5400 Plantation Road.
'Tween Waters Inn
What began in 1931 as a collection of fishing cottages has morphed into a much appreciated laid-back Island Resort with lots of activities and things to do. Boaters traveling the Intracoastal through Pine Island Sound are welcome. 15951 Captiva Drive.
Attractions
Captiva Cruises
Features day trips and cruises to the Lee Island area outposts accessible only by water. Visit Cabbage Key for a "Cheeseburger in Paradise", dolphin, shelling and sunset cruises, visit the unspoiled Cayo Costa Island State Park, and many other interesting excursions. Departs from the Marina at South Seas Island Resort.
Local Resources
Lee County Visitors & Convention Bureau
Captiva Island is represented by the Lee County association. You might want to contact them or pay a visit to obtain more information about Captiva Island, Sanibel Island, the Lee Island Coast and the greater Fort Myers area. 12800 University Drive in Fort Myers.
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