Pine Island

PHOTO BY CHARLENE RUSS

Pine Island, referred to by many as one of the last remnants of “old Florida,” is located just west of Cape Coral. Once you’ve crossed over the Matlacha Bridge (often called the world’s most ‘fishingist’ bridge) you’re on island time. You’ll notice this island has no traffic lights or high rises, which is just the way locals like it. The speed limits on this two-lane island are lower allowing everyone to take in the colorful architecture, where the streets are lined with shops, art galleries, and eateries, as well as the scenic water-view and beautiful wild nature preserves.

Plenty of rich island history can be found at the volunteer-run Museum of

PHOTO BY PAULETTE LeBLANC

the Islands, (known by residents as MOTI), where many exhibits await discovery. The museum now stands in what was once the island’s first library, preserving an array of artifacts donated by locals, many of whom are third, fourth, and even fifth generation Pine Islanders. Winter hours: (Nov. 1 April 30) Tuesday through Saturday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.; Sunday 1 - 4 p.m.; closed Mondays. Summer hours: (May 1 - Oct. 31) Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday 11 a.m. 3 p.m. Group Tours available by appointment Admission $3 adults; $1 children

Education abounds at the Randell Research Center in Pineland where the Calusa Heritage Trail is now open from sunrise to sunset. Face coverings were required on the deck at time of publication and in the Visitor Center’s gift store and classroom. While practicing proper physical distancing, masks are optional on the Calusa Heritage Trail. The Calusa Heritage Trail is open daily for self-guided visits from sunup to sundown. Restrooms, book and gift shop, and classroom are open Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guided tours are offered to the public during peak season (Jan. - April) on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Groups may also schedule guided tours at other times by calling the RRC at 239-283-2157. Requested donations for visitors to the Calusa Heritage Trail are $7 for adults, $5 for seniors, and $4 for children. Members of the Friends of the RRC are admitted free. Pine Island Tropicals in Bokeelia is a tropical plant nursery as well as an outdoor farmers market, specializing in organically grown plants and vegetables. Frequent visits to the nursery reveal the seasonality of the fruits and vegetables; therefore not all of the produce is available year-around. They continually do research and development of different plant cultivars to further not only their education but also to enhance the wide varieties they offer. For over 100 years people have enjoyed fishing from the Bokeelia Fishing Pier at Bocilla Island Seaport. Located at the northern tip of Pine Island stretching into the waters of Charlotte Harbor. No fishing license is required, just come and enjoy the fun. Rod & Reel rentals available for $10 a day from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Little Pine Island

Little Pine Island is a 4,700-acre wetland preserve found along the way from Matlacha to Greater Pine Island. Little Pine Island is an extensive coastal wetland between Pine Island and Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve, whose restoration began over 23 years ago. This habitat is responsible for the discharge of organic biomass to the estuary while simultaneously supporting a diversity of wildlife. It also serves as a nursery for juvenile fish, while providing breeding areas for migratory birds.

Cayo Costa

The Tropic Star Ferry will take you on a short ride from Pine Island to Cayo Costa, one of the areas most beautiful barrier islands. Here you can spend the day visiting dolphin and manatee or lengthen your stay if you enjoy camping either in a tent or rustic cabin. With nine miles of pristine beaches and hiking trails to discover, this is a place your family can disconnect with the mainland and reconnect with nature. Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, at publication it is federal law that all persons on a tour boat, ferry or other park-provided watercraft within Florida State Parks are required to wear a mask.

Cabbage Key

Cabbage Key is only accessible by boat. Located near marker 60 on the inter-coastal highway this 100-acre island, owned by the Wells family, proudly features the well-known Cabbage Key “open air” restaurant with its “dollar bill bar” if you’re in the mood for a bite or an historic inn and rental cottages for those who plan a longer stay than the average day-tripper. This is a great stop on your island-hopping tour, whether your interests are in fishing, reading with a water backdrop, or simply lunching.

Useppa Island

Useppa Island is located near the northern end of Pine Island Sound. Currently the home of the private Useppa Island Club, this 100-acre bridgeless private island is a destination for those who have a desire for security as well as privacy. Club membership as well as real estate inquiries invited. For more information explore the website at useppa.com