Travel like a pioneer with a real pioneer family at CAPTAIN MITCH’S AIRBOAT TOURS! With over 35 years in the business, Captain Mitch’s Everglades Private Airboat Tours is the oldest operating airboat tour family in the Everglades.
Skim over the water through thousands of acres of privately owned swampland and see the Everglades as they were meant to be seen. Learn about the ecosystem, while we explore the hardwood tree hammocks. Watch for gators, birds and fish.
Keep your eyes open for banded water snakes or bald eagles flying overhead. There are so many exciting things to see when you take a tour with Captain Mitch and his knowledgeable crew. They are the only tour with the redneck stamp of approval!
Featuring: Happy Hour Drinks • Delicious Small Plates
Fort Myers Fort Myers
From the picturesque and historically rich downtown of Fort Myers to its verdant parks and green spaces, you’ll discover a myriad of places and perspectives to explore and relish. Within downtown Fort Myers, the historic river District serves as a captivating time capsule showcasing early 20th-century architecture. Here, you’ll find historic edifices housing an array of shops, art galleries, and renowned dining establishments. The neighborhood also plays host to a constellation of cultural institutions. Keep an eye out for monthly street festivals celebrating art and music, rooftop bars, craft breweries and a scenic riverside amphitheater.
The historic district of Downtown Fort Myers is a charming and lively town, radiating undeniable appeal. Here, you’ll find an array of distinctive, locally owned shops and restaurants offering a delightful variety of culinary delights. The streets pulse with a trendy and welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a satisfying experience for every visitor. Downtown has monthly Art and Music Walks that showcase talented local artists and musicians from various genres.
Venturing beyond its historic core, Fort Myers offers an array of beautiful parks
where wildlife thrives. These serene oases provide an ideal escape from the rigors of daily life, offering opportunities for hiking, cycling and paddling along scenic trails and waterways. Witness a diverse array of bird species at the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve and the San Carlos Bay Bunche Beach Preserve. A visit to Manatee Park allows you to interact with the gentle giants of the sea, beloved by both residents and visitors. Explore rescued animals and avian creatures while delving into natural history at Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium. For a familyfriendly experience, head to Lakes Park, where children can enjoy train rides, and visitors of all ages can relish in the park’s trails, gardens, playgrounds and options for bike and boat rentals.
Sports enthusiasts will be delighted to partake in MLB Spring Training in Fort Myers, where the Minnesota Twins play at the Lee County Sports Complex/Hammond Stadium and the Boston Red Sox entertain at JetBlue Park at Fenway South. Whether your an avid golfer, a pickleball enthusiast, or simply yearn for outdoor activities, Fort Myers offers a multitude of options to savor the great outdoors.
Photo Credit: River District Alliance
Photo Credit: Fort Myers - Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods
The Wonder Gardens
Try our best selling Swedish dishwashing sponges!
ultimate beach experience
Fort Myers & Fort Myers Beach Fort Myers & Fort Myers Beach
Experience the ultimate getaway to the Beach! While we strive to provide unparalleled amenities, please be advised that certain services may be temporarily affected after Hurricane Ian. As a result, amenities such as grills, showers, pavilions, and public restrooms may not be available at certain locations. For detailed information on our beaches, including the latest updates and available facilities, we invite you to visit visitfortmyers.com/beaches.
LYNN HALL MEMORIAL PARK
950 Estero Blvd. Ft Myers Beach
Parking $2/hour. Must use mobile payment system. Once parked, follow instructions provided. Annual Parking Sticker is NOT accepted. Located just north of the foot of Matanzas Pass Bridge and nestled in the heart of downtown. This park has easy beach access.
LOVERS KEY STATE PARK
8700 Estero Blvd. Ft Myers Beach
Parking $8/vehicle/day. Annual Parking Sticker is NOT accepted. Now open for limited day-use activities. Tram services are running from 8AM - Sunset providing transportation to within 800 ft of the beach. Paddling equipment, beach chairs and umbrellas are available to rent through the concession. The gift shop offers cold water, beverages and select merchandise. The Discovery Center is welcoming visitors Wednesday - Friday 10AM - 1PM. Note the boat ramp is temporarily closed and the park does not have electricity.
BOWDITCH POINT PARK
50 Estero Blvd. Ft Myers Beach
Parking $2/hour. Must use mobile payment system. Once parked, follow instructions provided. Annual Parking Sticker is accepted. Situated at the northern edge of Fort Myers Beach, you’ll find a 17-acre beach park that offers access to both the Gulf and the back bay. This picturesque park features hiking trails, picnic areas and a free public boat dock.
SAN CARLOS BAY-BUNCHE BEACH PRESERVE
18201 John Morris Rd. Ft Myers
Parking $2/hour. Must use mobile payment system. Once parked, follow instructions provided. Annual Parking Sticker is accepted. Positioned in Fort Myers near the Sanibel Causeway, this natural beach is a favorite spot for swimming, fishing and bird watching. Visitors can take advantage of kayak rentals and the paddleraft launch for additional recreational activities. This beach also offers a stunning vantage point for watching breathtaking sunsets over San Carlos Bay and Sanibel Island.
CASUAL CLOTHING
Shell seekers’ & Beach Lovers’ paradise
With their lovely shell-strewn beaches, Sanibel & Captiva Islands are nature retreats for beach lovers and outdoor adventures. Check out the free Wonder Map app to find out what activities and businesses are open as the destination comes back after Hurricane Ian. Shell-seekers and beach lovers will be thrilled to know that many of the islands’ famous beaches are open, see our list below. Sanibel offers miles of shared-use paths that can help you explore the island by bike or on foot, or explore the sparkling waters and spot wildlife on a lunch or sunset cruise.
When hunger strikes there are over a handful of restaurants open for business and ready to welcome hungry visitors.
All Sanibel Beaches are proudly dog-friendly! Please remember that while enjoying the beach, it is required to keep your dogs leashed at all times and please clean up after your pet.
BLIND PASS BEACH PARK
6491-6499 Sanibel Captiva Rd. Sanibel
Parking $5/hour. Annual Parking sticker is NOT accepted.
Uncover the hidden gem of Blind Pass Beach, tucked away between Captiva and Sanibel Islands. This secluded and adaptable haven caters to shell collectors, anglers and water sports aficionados, making it a true paradise for all. Enjoy the unique advantage of having access to both the bay and the Gulf, where you’ll come face to face with abundant wildlife, relish exhilarating water sports, and discover an exceptional assortment of seashells. Venture to Blind Pass and create lasting memories at this remarkable destination. - Photo credit Visit Fort Myers
BOWMAN’S BEACH PARK
1700 Bowman’s Beach Rd. Sanibel
Parking $5/hour. Annual Parking sticker is accepted.
Embark on a journey to Bowman’s Beach, the beloved and scenic destination on Sanibel Island. Delight in exceptional shelling opportunities, convenient amenities and a quick five minute hike from the parking lot. Stroll for miles along the unspoiled white sandy shores adorned with seashells. Soak in the pristine natural beauty and the limited development that defines Bowman’s Beach.
LIGHTHOUSE BEACH PARK
One Periwinkle Way Sanibel
Parking $5/hour. Annual Parking sticker is NOT accepted
Located on the southern tip of Sanibel Island stands the historic lighthouse, built in 1884, and a gorgeous beach. Due to the damage done by Hurricane Ian the fishing pier and bayside lot are closed as repairs are ongoing. Gulf-side beach is open and water shoes are highly recommended as there may be debris in the sand and water. This beach park offers a truly enchanting beach experience. Take in the breathtaking Gulf views as you walk along the shoreline, discovering numerous pristine shells scattered along the sands. Enjoy various activities such as fishing, shelling, wading in the warm waters and kayaking. It’s essential to note that ocean currents converge near the island’s tip, making swimming inadvisable in this area. However, you can move further down the beach, away from the island’s tip, for a safer swimming experience.
Parking $5/hour. Annual Parking sticker is NOT accepted.
Discover the all-encompassing appeal of Tarpon Bay Beach on Sanibel Island, where you can seamlessly enjoy shelling, swimming, fishing, relaxation, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Its nearness to public parking for recreational vehicles, along with three easily accessible handicap parking spaces at the beach entrance, ensures a hassle-free experience. Surround yourself with the wonders of nature through the nearby nature trails, enhancing the charm of this beach destination. Tarpon Bay Beach invites you to savor the finest that Sanibel Island has to offer.
GULFSIDE CITY BEACH PARK
2001 Algiers Lane, Sanibel
Parking $5/hour. Annual Parking sticker is NOT accepted.
Unearth the splendor of Gulfside City Beach Park also known as Algiers Beach, a tranquil expanse on Sanibel Island designed for pure relaxation. Meander at your own pace along the loop trail while savoring the informative nature walk it offers. This beach serves as a perfect setting for picnics and leisurely repose. Accessing this exceptional destination is made effortless by the convenient boardwalks.
ALISON HAGERUP BEACH PARK (Captiva)
14790 Captiva Dr. Captiva Island
Parking $15/hour, $25/2 hours; $40 all day (dawn to dusk).
Annual Parking sticker is NOT accepted.
Indulge in the magic of Alison Hagerup Beach, affectionately dubbed Captiva Beach, celebrated for its vast sandy expenses and often referred to as “one of the most romantic beaches.” While it may not offer extensive amenities, its unspoiled natural beauty is beyond compare. Gazing westward, this beach provides an ideal perch to witness awe-inspiring sunsets that cast a spell on all who behold them. Be on the lookout for dolphin sightings, further enchanting the charm of this extraordinary destination.
TURNER BEACH (Captiva)
17200 Captiva Dr. Sanibel
Parking $5/hour. Annual Parking sticker is accepted.
Situated on the northern side of Blind Pass bridge, this particular expanse of shoreline marks the initial beach you encounter when entering Captiva Island. Renowned for its exceptional shelling opportunities, it’s a cherished location for anglers as well. If you continue your leisurely stroll along the beach, away from the influence of Pass currents, you’ll discover a more serene stretch with tranquil waters.
dazzling jewel tones of
Bonita Springs & Naples Beaches
Bonita Springs & Naples Beaches
Featuring more than 30 miles of shoreline in dazzling jewel tones, the beaches of Bonita Springs, Marco Island and Naples beckon. These beaches are far from one-size-fits-all; each possesses its own unique allure. Please be aware that certain beaches are currently undergoing restoration, and hours of operation and access may vary.
In this area, the focus is on the water. Sitting on the beach or aboard a boat, numerous opportunities exist to revel in the region’s waterfronts and wetlands. Some of the most exceptional beach experiences in the area are exclusively reachable by boat. Whether you seek relaxation, excitement or a genuine escape, there is a selection of favorites for every preference.
BONITA BEACH PARK - Parking $2/hour.
27954 Hickory Blvd. Bonita Springs
Annual Parking Sticker is NOT accepted. On Little Hickory Island, between Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Springs, this attractive beachfront park is great for swimming and offers sheltered picnic areas as well as sand volleyball.
DOG BEACH PARK - Free Parking
14436 Bonita Beach CSWY, Bonita Springs
Located south of Lovers Key State Park on Little Hickory Island, this park allows dogs to run off-leash. Because this area is a tidal flat, during mid to high tides the beach can only be accessed by wading through the water. Dog showers are available. Please clean up after your pet Photo Credit:
VANDERBILT BEACH
280 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, Naples
This beach park stands out as a well-loved beach, located in North Naples. Visitors can engage in a variety of activities such as bird watching, shelling and stand-up paddleboarding on this attractive white-sand beach.
DELNOR-WIGGINS PASS STATE PARK
11135 Gulfshore Dr, Naples
Anglers, nature enthusiasts, shell collectors, picnickers and paddlers discover an ideal haven at this well-frequented beach on the northern tip of Vanderbilt Beach. Note: Beach access is open and the boat ramp is in operation. Some sections may be restricted, please adhere to the posted signs and avoid closed areas.
LOWDERMILK PARK
1301 Gulf Shore Blvd, Naples
As one of Naples’ premier beachfront parks, offers a range of amenities such as parking spaces, volleyball courts, a children’s playground, picnic tables, benches, restrooms and shower facilities as well as two gazebos available to rent and ADA beach access mats.
LITTLE HICKORY ISLAND PARK
Parking $2/hour
26082 Hickory Blvd. Bonita Springs, Annual Parking Sticker is accepted.
Also known as access #10, this small, secluded park is just minutes away from Bonita Beach.
BAREFOOT BEACH PRESERVE
505 Barefoot Beach Blvd, Bonita Springs Hurricane Ian caused significant damage to the Preserve and it is open with limited parking. Parking lots 2 and 3 are available. Parking lot 1 is CLOSED. There are four portable restrooms and one wash station available. Collier County Park Rangers are on site to monitor parking availability and provide directions where you can access the beach. Call (239) 252-4000 for more information.
KEEWAYDIN ISLAND - Naples and Marco Island
This barrier island is positioned between Naples and Marco Island. Accessible only by boat, this beach island holds the distinction of being the only pet-friendly beach in the Naples/Marco Island area. The Hemingway Water Shuttle operates seven times a day, facilitating drop-off and pick-up trips to the Keewaydin Beach.
CLAM PASS PARK - Seagate Dr, Naples
Picturesque beach access point in the North Naples area, perfect for family outings, fishing or paddling in the serene waters. With 35 acres of coastal habitat, the park preserves this environment through a ¾-mile boardwalk that winds through a mangrove forest, leading visitors to the sandy beach.
TIGERTAIL BEACH PARK -
480 Hernando Dr, Marco Island. At 32 acres, this barrier island stands as a crucial habitat for wintering and nesting shore birds. A Tidal Lagoon separates the park from Big Marco Pass Critical Wildlife which is a haven for wildlife that includes horseshoe crabs, needlefish, Florida fighting conchs and more. Visitors can choose to wade through the lagoon or take a stroll around the south side of the lagoon to the 3 miles of soft white sandy beach.
BONITA SPRINGS
NAPLES & MARCO ISLAND
southwest Florida’s Crown Jewel
Naples Naples
Naples, nestled along the sun-drenched Gulf of Mexico beaches, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and luxurious amenities. Renowned for stunning sunsets, pristine white sand beaches, and championship golf courses, the city is a testament to opulence with breathtaking waterfront estates and condos. As the crown jewel of Southwest Florida, Naples captivates with world-class shopping, delectable dining, and challenging golf courses, exuding sophisticated charm.
Proximity to secluded islands and the untamed Everglades provides a unique opportunity to explore diverse landscapes, from idyllic beaches to friendly parks catering to sports enthusiasts and picnickers.
The iconic Naples Pier, standing since 1888, symbolizes the city’s essence despite damage from Hurricane Ian.
Miles of picturesque beaches, like Clam Pass Park and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, provide tranquil retreats with calm waters and pristine shores.
The city boasts unparalleled beauty with a polished downtown, offering world-class dining, boutiques, galleries, and theaters.
Steps away, a beach lined with coconut palm trees and tranquil Gulf waters kissing powdery sand hosts grand mansions in the dunes as retreats for elites and entertainers.
Naples, with its pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods, is perfect for exploring on foot. Discover the charm of Old Naples Downtown District, Fifth Avenue South, and Third Street South, each featuring tree-lined sidewalks, serene courtyards, captivating art, and vibrant floral displays. Stroll, shop, dine, and relish the open-air ambiance, wandering from downtown to Naples Beach to capture breathtaking sunsets in this coastal oasis for unforgettable memories.
Did you know? The Everglades is the only place in the world where you can find both Alligators and Crocodiles coexisting.
The adorable alligator is a fresh water creature and said to be a little more docile. Gators eat bigger prey. Their snouts are U-shaped and are capable of exerting great force, strong enough to crunch on a hard turtle shell. The upper jaw is bigger than the lower jaw, so when closed the upper jaw covers the lower jaw and their teeth are covered when their mouths are closed.
The creepy crocodile is a saltwater reptile and is said to be on the fiesty side. Their diet consists of mostly fish. A croc’s snout is narrow and V-shaped so it can reach into smaller spaces. Their jaws are the same size, when they close their mouths their teeth interlock, making them clearly visible.
a nature lover’s paradise
Marco Island Marco Island
Spanned by nearly 100 miles of islands, bays and estuaries that will forever remain untouched, Marco Island stands as the largest gem in Southwest Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands. It is encircled by the Gulf of Mexico on one side and embraced by pristine mangrove estuaries on the other. Immediately south of Marco Island lies the Ten Thousand Island National Wildlife Refuge and the Gulf Coast segment of Everglades National Park. This immaculate saltwater wilderness extends all the way to the southernmost tip of mainland Florida and is renowned as a prime destination for anglers from the country and around the world in pursuit of prized Florida gamefish.
A true paradise for nature lovers, Marco Island has pristine, white sand beaches and an aura of unassuming luxury. Explore unspoiled natural enclaves where you’ll unearth your personal sanctuary amid immaculate waterways and mangrove forests. Stroll along the coastline at Tigertail Beach park, where a tranquil lagoon beckons to wading birds. Choose a kayak or a motor-powered boat rental and enjoy the boundless natural splendor. For visitors, there’s a treasure trove of experiences to relish from the beaches to an array of aquatic adventures, encompassing backcountry and offshore fishing, boating and paddling.
subtropical sanctuary
Southern to the cities of Naples and Marco Island, Everglades National Park stands as the sole subtropical sanctuary in North America. It forms an integral part of the United States’ largest wetlands ecosystem and proudly claims its place among the 24 World Heritage Sites in the country. Nestled within Everglades City, the Gulf Coast Visitor Center serves as one of the park’s primary entrances, and this charming Old Florida-style town rests on the wilderness’ very cusp.
In the expansive landscape of this coast, encompassing Collier County, more than 80 percent of the region is devoted to parks and nature preserves. A significant portion of this territory is enveloped by the Everglades ecosystem, which is home to a multitude of fascinating inhabitants. Among them are hundreds of species of vibrant birds, both fresh and saltwater fish, alligators, bobcats, Florida black bears and endangered Florida panthers.
Often mistaken for just a ‘swamp,’ the Everglades reveals itself as a vast, winding river of beauty. The iconic airboat ride becomes the perfect way to navigate the dense expanse known as the “Rivers of Grass” and reach otherwise inaccessible areas. Ideal for the whole family, these airboat rides promise an unforgettable adventure.
Florida’s
Florida’s
Choose from one of these airboat tour companies and embark on your journey today.
CAPTAIN MITCH’S PRIVATE AIRBOAT TOURS
Embark on an immersive journey with a real pioneer family at Captain Mitch’s. Explore enchanting hardwood tree hammocks and encounter sights like banded water snakes and majestic bald eagles. Join the knowledgeable crew for an exciting tour filled with discovery and memorable experiences.
CAPTAIN JACK’S
Dive into the Everglades with airboat, buggy and swamp buggy tours through the mangroves and grassland. Explore the sanctuary with a free alligator show and the opportunity to interact with baby alligators. The sanctuary houses rescued wildlife, including snakes, turtles, crocodiles, alligators, river otters and big cats.
EVERGLADES CITY AIRBOATS
Founded by Captain Doug House, Everglades City Airboats is family-run. They operate a small fleet to establish genuine connections with guests. The personal touch and captivating local tales make for a truly special journey, offering authentic insight into the Everglades.
Everglades Everglades
JUNGLE ERV’S
Explore the wild wonders of the Florida Everglades on thrilling rides, encountering alligators and herons. Join us for an adrenaline-pumping experience at Jungle Erv’s Airboat Tours - where extraordinary adventures come to life.
WOOTEN’S
Established in the 1950s, Wooten’s is a renowned airboat tour operator with a rich history. Offering thrilling experiences like airboat rides and swamp buggy tours, they also have extensive animal sanctuary, Florida panthers, lions, otters and over 100 alligators. Connect with nature, explore the Everglades and witness the diverse beauty of the animal kingdom.
Just beyond Everglades City lies the expansive Big Cypress National Preserve, which offers an even wider array of outdoor recreational opportunities compared to Everglades National Park. These include hunting, off-road vehicle adventures, hiking, paddling, biking and the exploration of several extensive wilderness drive areas. Big Cypress holds the distinction of being the first site to receive the National Preserve designation with the US National Park system.
& NATURE PARK
Shelly says
Crave adventure and comfort food? Adore bargains and cute critters? How about catching a show? The Shell Factory & Nature Park is the place for you! We have tons of fun happening every day of the week all year long. You’re gonna love it as much as I do!
Check out our Facebook page and website for upcoming events and info! 16554 N. Cleveland Ave. (US 41) N. Fort Myers, FL 33903 (239) 995-2141 • shellfactory.com
Sloths/Gators
a coastal gem
Cape Coral Cape Coral
Cape Coral, distinguished by its network of over 400 miles of canals, has established itself as a prime boating destination and a sought after locale for vacation home rentals.
This coastal gem, surrounded by water, embodies a charming and inviting community that caters to nature enthusiasts, families and couples alike. The warm and lively atmosphere plays host to an array of events, ranging from family-friendly outdoor movie nights in the park to bustling farmers markets and special holiday festivities.
The city boasts five marinas, some of which offer fishing and yacht charters or boat, kayak and paddle boat rentals.
While Cape Coral may be intricately woven around its waterways, it offers over 1,500 acres of pristine parks, featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, tennis facilities and waterfront parks equipped with boat ramps, kayak launches and swimming opportunities. At Rotary Park, nature enthusiasts can take a leisurely stroll along a nearly mile-long footpath, which is a segment of the great Florida Birding Trail, that
offers birdwatchers a chance to spot a variety of avian species in the serene uplands and salt marshes.
Set aside a few hours to experience the Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve, where you can saunter along a picturesque boardwalk flanked by the mangroves that line the scenic Caloosahatchee River. Wildlife encounters are not confined to wilderness areas alone - within Cape Coral’s neighborhoods and community parks, you may see small burrowing owls emerging from their underground dwellings. In fact, the city is home to a population of over 1,000 nesting pairs of this rare species. Every February, the Burrowing Owl Festival offers guided tours of their burrows, activities for children and informative sessions about these unique birds and other species in Southwest Florida.
When hunger strikes, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the waterfront restaurants that offer mesmerizing vistas that rival the delectable cuisine and craft beverages on their menus. Venture to the South Cape district in downtown to the array of restaurants dishing up wide varieties of fare.
water-centric haven
Charlotte Harbor Region
Charlotte Harbor Region
Nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, the Charlotte Harbor region boasts an abundance of waterfront landscapes. This area encompasses the second largest estuary in Florida, a water-centric haven that remains a hidden gem, shielded from the hustle and bustle of the mainstream.
Apart from the splendid harbor, the region is graced with an array of rivers and coastal wonders that offer seclusion and an abundance of old Florida charm. The Gulf islands here are tucked away from the well-traveled routes, preserving their unique character and tranquility.
Punta Gorda, one of the oldest and foremost fishing communities in the Charlotte Harbor area, originated as a deepwater seaport and railway resort town in the 1880s. Situated at the mouth of the Peace River, its historic mansions, reminiscent of an era of opulence, grace the waterfront, providing a picturesque backdrop to lovely Gilchrist Park. This park now serves as a gathering place for strollers, cyclists and the occasional musical jam session.
To further celebrate the town’s rich heritage, more than 20 murals adorn the sides of downtown buildings, each telling a unique story. One mural pays tribute to old Hotel Charlotte Harbor and its distinguished guests that includes Thomas Edison, Andrew Mellen and W.K. Vanderbuilt. The renovated
downtown streets also feature a collection of intriguing sculptures, creating an engaging atmosphere. Here, you’ll find delightful new shops and restaurants in historic structures, ranging from brick edifices to charmingly painted bungalows. Fishermen’s Village is another shopping destination that occupies a former crab-packing plant along the water. Not far away, history traces back even further to Ponce de Leon, who is believed to have met his fate, by a fatal arrow blow, at a waterfront spot now occupied by the City of Punta Gorda’s Ponce de Leon Park and the Peace River Wildlife Center, a facility dedicated to rehabilitating injured, sick and orphaned animals. In the eastern outskirts of Punta Gorda, former cattle ranches have been transformed into wilderness eco-adventure and recreational areas for outdoor enthusiasts.
On the opposite bank of Peace River, the tranquil town of Charlotte Harbor faces Punta Gorda and offers charming motels, a fishing pier park, miniature golf course and the Charlotte County Historic Center.
Adjacent to the quaint historic village, Port Charlotte stands as the most modern of the area’s cities, having been the last to be established. As a family-oriented community, its one beach park borders Charlotte Harbor providing a range of recreational activities including a fishing pier and swimming pools.
Before heading to Pine Island, take the time to explore the quaint town of Matlacha, a beloved community that faced significant challenges due to Hurricane Ian. Despite the adversity, the spirit of “Pine Island Strong” is evident every day, showcasing the resilience of its residents. Matlacha has bounced back, with businesses reopening their doors to visitors. You can now savor a meal at a few establishments before trying your luck on the renowned “World’s Fishingest Bridge.”
Pine Island is a natural masterpiece blending scenic beauty with artistic communities. Spanning 18 miles by 2 miles, it’s a serene haven just 15 minutes from Cape Coral and 30 minutes from Fort Myers. The island offers tranquil landscapes, featuring mangroves, aquatic preserves, and lush groves, preserving its natural charm. Pine Island Sound, the crown jewel, lures fishing enthusiasts and delights birdwatchers. Hiking trails, waterways, and ancient shell mounds beckon exploration. Evolving into a vibrant creative hub, Pine Island attracts artists and boasts fine art galleries. Culinary delights, especially fresh seafood, enhance the island experience. Explore Pine Island’s hidden treasures, local businesses and unique offerings, letting its spirit captivate you in a journey of natural beauty, artistic inspiration and warm hospitality.
Bokeelia, located at the island’s end, is a true boating paradise, it features picturesque canals, marinas and breathtaking waterfront views.
