1010 Captiva

Captiva Island Guide to Attractions, Places to Stay, Restaurants and Resources

Captiva Island guide to attractions, places to stay, restaurants and local resources - all designed to help you plan and enjoy a better vacation: has info about things to see and do, where to eat and shop and info about shelling, kayak and eco-tours, beaches, boating and golfing.

Captiva Island is an adorable barrier island located just to the north of Sanibel Island on Florida's Gulf Coast.

Welcome to Captiva Island

updated - January 27, 2012

A living masterpiece, and living up to her name, Captiva Island will capture your imagination and heart.

Two distinct legends surround the naming of this gorgeous stretch of sand on Florida's Gulf Coast. One, striking similar to that of the Pocahontas story, the other attributed to the nefarious pirate Jose Gasparilla.

What's not in contention is that Captiva Island offers pristine beaches, awesome sea shelling in a distinct tropical setting.

While shelling (collecting sea shells) is a favorite pastime due to favorable ocean currents and tides, there are two areas of preserve that are of special significance. Biking, hiking and kayaking are all very much encouraged, and seem to be the sort of activity that is well suited to the area.


Captiva Island

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.

If you'd like to see some of Sanibel Island, we have a site devoted to that area as well.

Restaurants

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.    

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.  

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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Captiva Island Vacation Resources

Florida Travel & Vacation Websites

Sanibel Island, Florida - Sister island to Captiva, Sanibel Island offers much of the attraction as Captiva and has more shopping and restaurants.

Fort Myers, Florida - This is the mainland area that connects the Lee Islands (Sanibel and Captiva Islands) with Southwest Florida. Major Airport (RSW).

Related Vacation Websites

Florida Vacations - find other Florida vacation websites to places like Sarasota, Naples, Marco Island and Clearwater.