16 Best Things to Do on Captiva Island, Florida
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If you’re searching for the very best things to do on Captiva Island, Florida — you’re in the right place.
Tucked away on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Captiva may be small (like, blink-and-you-might-miss-it small), but don’t let its size fool you. This island is packed with charm, character, and, yes, plenty of unforgettable things to do. Whether you’re here for a long weekend getaway or a full week of unplugged bliss, there’s something here for everyone: lazy beach bums, thrill seekers, nature lovers, and ice-cream-for-breakfast types (no judgment — I’ve been there).
From watching dolphins dance in the waves, to kayaking through quiet mangroves, to hopping on a boat for the cheeseburger-in-paradise experience at Cabbage Key, I’ve rounded up all the best things to do on Captiva Island — plus a few insider tips from my many visits over the years. And if you’re planning your entire vacation? Don’t miss my Ultimate Guide to Captiva Island, Florida. It’s got everything you need to know before you go.
So grab your sunhat, leave your stress on the causeway, and let’s dive into everything this little slice of Florida paradise has to offer.
Ready? Let’s go.
Things to Do on Captiva Island for Beach Lovers & Relaxation Seekers
If your dream vacation looks like salty hair, sandy toes, and doing a whole lot of glorious nothing, Captiva Island is your paradise. Whether you want to curl up with a book under a swaying palm tree, hunt for the perfect seashell, or treat yourself to a spa day (yes please), this island has all the beachy, laid-back vibes you could ask for. Here are some of the best things to do on Captiva Island for beach lovers and relaxation seekers.
Beach Days & Shelling
There’s nothing quite like starting your morning with a barefoot walk along Captiva’s shoreline, the sun rising behind you and the waves gently rolling in at your feet. And the shells? Let’s just say Captiva doesn’t mess around. With thousands of treasures washed up daily, it’s no wonder the island is a sheller’s dream.
For prime shelling (and sunbathing, let’s be real), head to Alison Hagerup Beach at the north end of the island or sneak across Blind Pass to Turner Beach for even better finds. Don’t forget to bring a mesh shell bag and keep your eyes peeled for sand dollars, conchs, and the elusive junonia.
Hang Out by the Pool
I’ll be honest — sometimes I fully intend to go to the beach but end up spending the entire afternoon by the pool, frozen drink in hand. And at ’Tween Waters, it’s easy to see why. Their pool scene is basically a vacation within a vacation, complete with a big family pool, splash pad for kiddos, and a dreamy adults-only pool tucked away behind swaying palms.
Even if you’re not staying there, keep an eye out — ’Tween Waters also offers day passes if space allows. (Just call ahead to check!)
Oh, and if you still haven’t figured out where to stay on Captiva? I’ve got you covered with this blog post!
Treat Yourself to a Spa Day
Cloudy afternoon? Sunburned shoulders? Just feeling a little extra? It’s time to book a treatment at The Spa at ’Tween Waters. This cozy little spa is the perfect spot to unwind with a massage, facial, or body scrub — especially after a morning of shelling or kayaking.
Pro tip: treatments fill up fast in high season, so I recommend booking as soon as you know your travel dates. Your skin (and soul) will thank you.
Do Absolutely Nothing
This is your permission slip to slow down. One of my favorite things to do on Captiva Island? Nothing. At all.
Sleep in. Linger over your morning coffee. Sway in a hammock under the palms. Watch the sunset from your balcony with a cold drink in hand and zero plans for the evening. Captiva was made for lazy days and simple joys, and sometimes the most relaxing moments are the ones where you let the island work its magic — no itinerary required.
Things to Do on Captiva Island for Outdoor Adventurers
There are plenty of things to do on Captiva Island if your idea of a good time includes salty wind in your hair, sea spray on your face, and a little adrenaline in the mix. Whether you’re paddling through quiet mangrove tunnels or soaring high above the Gulf on a parasail, this island is an absolute playground for nature lovers and thrill seekers alike.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding with Captiva Adventures
If you only do one adventurous thing on Captiva, make it this. Grab a kayak or paddleboard from Captiva Adventures and glide into Buck Key Preserve — an untouched mangrove-lined estuary right off the island.
It’s peaceful, it’s scenic, and it’s full of wildlife. Think dolphins cruising alongside your boat, manatees popping up for air (especially in winter!), and herons stalking fish along the mangrove roots.
Go early in the morning for glassy water and cooler temps — or later in the day for golden hour magic. Either way, it’s one of the most rewarding ways to see a wilder side of Captiva.
Water Sports
Craving something with a bit more zip? You’ve got options.
Parasailing over the Gulf is hands-down one of the best ways to get a bird’s-eye view of Captiva — and trust me, floating above that turquoise water with your toes dangling in the breeze is an experience you won’t forget.
For something a little more fast-paced, rent a waverunner from YOLO Watersports or CWS Captiva and zoom across the waves like a true island badass. Just be sure to hold on tight — it gets bumpy (and extra fun!).
Biking Around Captiva & Sanibel
While Captiva isn’t known for miles of bike trails like its sister island Sanibel, it still makes for a super scenic (and surprisingly peaceful) ride. Whether you’re cruising along palm-lined roads or detouring down sandy side lanes toward the beach, biking is one of the best ways to see the island from a fresh perspective.
If you’re staying at ’Tween Waters (like I often do — loyal for life!), you’re in luck: there’s nearly a full mile of unspoiled beachfront biking to enjoy right on the resort property. And if you book direct? You get free two-hour bike rentals at their marina.
For the more adventurous, head over the bridge to Sanibel, where 25+ miles of paved trails await. You can ride through town, out to the lighthouse, or deep into nature at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
Bikes can be rented through most resorts, at YOLO Watersports, or local shops—and it’s one of the easiest ways to explore without fighting for a parking space.
Just don’t forget your sunscreen, water, and a sense of adventure!
Fishing Excursions
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just hoping to catch dinner, fishing around Captiva is seriously next level. You can go out for a few hours or book a half-day or full-day charter — either way, you’re in for a salty, sun-drenched adventure.
Inshore charters will take you through the mangroves and backwaters to catch snook, redfish, and sea trout, while deep-sea trips go further out into the Gulf for grouper, snapper, and tarpon (especially big in the spring and early summer!).
No matter what you reel in, a day on the water with a rod in hand is a Captiva classic. Check out ‘Tween Waters recommendations for fishing charters here.
Things to Do on Captiva Island on the Water
If you ask me, the best way to fall in love with Captiva is from the water. Whether you’re watching dolphins leap in the boat’s wake, chasing a watercolor sunset across the Gulf, or hopping between hidden islands you can only reach by boat, this place was made to be explored by sea.
Dolphin-Watching Tours with Captiva Cruises
This is hands down one of my favorite activities on the island. Captiva Cruises has a knack for knowing exactly where to go to find dolphins — and better yet, their boats create a wake that dolphins love to play in. They’ll literally swim up and start leaping through the waves like something straight out of a nature documentary (but real life!).
Tours typically depart from either McCarthy’s Marina in Captiva Village or from the marina at South Seas Island Resort. If you’re visiting during high season, be sure to book ahead — these tours fill up fast!
Sunset Cruises & Sailing
If watching the sunset from the beach is magical, then watching it from a sailboat is next-level dreamy. Captiva Cruises offers gorgeous evening sails that are perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone who wants to sip a glass of wine and soak up that golden hour glow.
You’ll drift across the water as the sky turns from pastel pink to fiery orange, and honestly? It’s one of the most peaceful ways to end a day on Captiva. Don’t forget your camera and a cozy sweater for after the sun goes down.
Island-Hopping Day Trips with Captiva Cruises
One of the absolute best things about being on Captiva is how easy it is to explore nearby islands—and Captiva Cruises makes it ridiculously fun to do so. You can hop aboard for a half- or full-day adventure to places that feel worlds away (but are just a boat ride from the marina).
Here are a few favorites:
- Cabbage Key: Rumored to have inspired Jimmy Buffett’s “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” this rustic little island is famous for its dollar-bill-covered walls and laid-back charm. The burgers are great, the views are better, and you might even spot a gopher tortoise wandering around.
- Useppa Island: A private island steeped in history and elegance, Useppa feels like stepping into a Florida time capsule. Think quiet gardens, historic homes, and a lovely little museum—plus the joy of arriving somewhere that’s not open to just anyone.
- Boca Grande & Tarpon Lodge: If you’re up for a longer day out, these excursions offer a mix of small-town charm, delicious food, and (in the spring) world-class tarpon fishing.
You can browse all the options and book your adventure at: Captiva Cruises
So whether you’re in it for wildlife, romance, or just a chance to feel the sea breeze on your face, getting out on the water is a Captiva must. Just be warned — you may never want to come back to shore.
Things to Do on Captiva Island for Explorers & Shoppers
For those of us who love a little adventure between beach naps (or just need a midday excuse to pop into a cute shop or two), Captiva has the perfect mix of natural escapes and charming finds. Whether you’re wandering nature trails or browsing for breezy dresses and beachy art, this island duo — Captiva and Sanibel — makes it easy to mix relaxation with exploration. Here are some of the best things to do on Captiva Island for explorers and shoppers.
Shop Around in Captiva Village
Captiva Village may be tiny, but it’s full of colorful charm. Here, shopping feels like wandering through a sun-soaked storybook—boutiques tucked beneath palms, art galleries tucked into old cottages, and a vibe that’s more chill than chic.
A few favorite spots:
- Jungle Drums Gallery for quirky, tropical art
- The Bubble Room Emporium for Christmas decorations and kitschy souvenirs
- 2 Islands Gallery for handcrafted jewelry and one-of-a-kind finds
And after all that retail therapy? Swing by Boops for an iced latte and a slice of Bubble Room cake (orange crunch or bust). That’s what I call a perfect island afternoon.
Exploring + shopping = a relaxed, no-rush kind of adventure that feels just right on Captiva.
Explore Nearby Sanibel Island
Just a short drive (or bike ride!) over the bridge, Sanibel is the kind of place that begs for a spontaneous day trip. You’ll find more space to roam, a slightly busier vibe, and way more options when it comes to both nature and shopping.
Start with a slow roll through the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge — a beautiful preserve full of wildlife, mangroves, and peaceful trails. Lighthouse Beach is another favorite: gentle waves, scenic views, and some of the best shelling around. And if you’re a shell enthusiast (guilty!), the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum is a surprisingly fun stop.
Beyond the beaches, Sanibel is also packed with adorable boutiques, gift shops, and art galleries. Spend an afternoon strolling through Periwinkle Way, where you’ll find everything from handmade jewelry to local photography to breezy coastal home goods. It’s like a treasure hunt, but with air conditioning and maybe a stop for gelato.
For more on how the two islands compare, check out my Captiva vs. Sanibel post—it’ll help you decide where to spend your time (or convince you to do both, because honestly… you should).
Looking for places to eat between adventures? Don’t miss my list of the best restaurants on Captiva Island, from beachfront bites to island institutions.
Seasonal Things to Do on Sanibel and Captiva
As if the sun, sand, and shelling weren’t enough, visiting Captiva or Sanibel during the right time of year means you might stumble into something extra special—a colorful art fair, a quirky shell celebration, or a week filled with live music under the stars. These little islands know how to put on a good time, and each season brings its own local flavor.
Sanibel-Captiva Art Festival (February)
Held each February, this outdoor art festival is an absolute dream for creative souls (and those of us who love browsing beachy paintings we’ll fantasize about hanging in our future seaside cottage). Stroll past rows of white tents featuring everything from watercolor seascapes to hand-carved driftwood sculptures, chat with local artists, and maybe even pick up a one-of-a-kind souvenir that’ll always remind you of your island escape. It’s definitely one of the best seasonal things to do on Captiva Island!
Sanibel Shell Festival (March)
If you’ve ever gotten a little too excited over a perfectly intact sand dollar — same. Which is why the Sanibel Shell Festival is such a gem. It’s one of the biggest and oldest shell festivals in the country, featuring intricate shell art, rare specimens, and all the coastal crafts your heart could desire. Even if you’re not a shell nerd yet, you will be by the time you leave.
Island Hopper Songwriter Fest (September)
This week-long event brings Nashville-caliber singer-songwriters to intimate venues all across Captiva, Sanibel, and Fort Myers Beach. Think: original songs, sunset stages, and maybe even hearing the next big country hit before it’s recorded. It’s low-key, local, and incredibly fun if you love discovering new music with a drink in hand and the ocean breeze at your back.
Bonus Tip: Check the Calendar
While these are the big-name events, Sanibel and Captiva are always hosting little pop-ups like farmer’s markets, art walks, and beach yoga sessions. Check your hotel’s bulletin board, ask a local, or pop onto the tourism board’s calendar before your trip to find the best events and things to do on Captiva Island. You never know what might be happening the week you’re here!
No matter when you visit, these seasonal events are the perfect way to add a little extra sparkle to your stay.
Final Thoughts
Whether you came for the shelling, the sunsets, the seafood, or the sailing, one thing’s for sure — Captiva Island has a way of working its magic on just about everyone.
There are so many incredible things to do on Captiva Island, whether you’re a beach bum, an adventure lover, a foodie, or someone who just wants to swing in a hammock with a good book. From kayaking in mangrove preserves to sunset sails and fresh seafood dinners, this little barrier island is packed with experiences that are both memorable and refreshingly low-key.
It’s tiny, it’s charming, and it truly offers something for every kind of traveler — whether you’re planning your first visit or coming back for your fifteenth (hi, it’s me). And the best part? You don’t need a packed itinerary to enjoy it. Half the fun is slowing down and discovering your own favorite things to do on Captiva Island along the way.
Been to Captiva before? I’d love to hear from you — drop your favorite Captiva activities in the comments to help inspire fellow beach dreamers!
And if you’re still in planning mode, don’t miss my Ultimate Guide to Captiva Island, Florida. It’s packed with helpful tips, personal stories, and links to everything from where to stay and eat to how to compare Captiva vs. Sanibel.
See you on the island!
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