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Planning a trip to Captiva Island, Florida? This Captiva Island guide covers everything you need to know, from post-hurricane recovery updates to the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and hidden gems on this stunning Gulf Coast paradise.
I don’t know about you, but there are certain places in the world that just stick with you—places that feel less like a vacation and more like coming home.
For me, that place is Captiva Island.
Tucked off Florida’s Gulf Coast, Captiva Island is one of those rare destinations that feels untouched by time. The palm-lined streets, pastel-colored beach houses, and endless shell-covered shores make it a literal paradise. It’s where I spent childhood vacations with my mom, where sand was always stuck between my toes, and where life’s worries seemed to melt away the second we crossed the bridge from the mainland.
But, like much of Florida, Captiva has faced its fair share of challenges. After being hit hard by hurricanes in recent years, the island has made a comeback—stronger, more resilient, and just as magical as ever.
So whether you’re a first-timer looking for the best spots to eat (hello, giant slices of cake at The Bubble Room) or a returning visitor hoping to see what’s new post-recovery, this ultimate guide to Captiva Island, Florida has you covered.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know to plan the perfect Captiva Island getaway in 2025.
Introduction to Captiva Island, Florida
Captiva Island isn’t just a place—it’s a feeling. The kind that washes over you the moment you drive over the Sanibel Causeway, salt air filling your lungs as the world slows down and island time takes over.
It’s quirky and charming, with streets lined by towering palms, hidden beach cottages, and the brightly colored mailboxes that remind you this place doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s wild and untouched, where you’re just as likely to spot dolphins playing in the waves as you are to see an artist painting the sunset from their beach chair. And above all, it’s peaceful, the kind of island that you come back to, again and again.
A Brief History of Captiva Island, Florida
While today Captiva Island is known for its relaxed luxury and shell-strewn beaches, it wasn’t always a vacationer’s paradise. According to legend, the island got its name from pirate José Gaspar, who supposedly held his captives here in the 1700s (though historians say this is likely more folklore than fact).
In reality, Captiva was home to Calusa Native Americans long before Spanish explorers arrived. Later, it became a fishing hub and an escape for wealthy adventurers looking for solitude in nature. Today, it remains an oasis for travelers seeking a break from Florida’s more commercialized beach towns—no high-rises, no traffic lights, just pure island bliss.
Why Captiva is a Must-Visit Destination
So, why choose Captiva over Florida’s other islands?
- Unbeatable Shelling: Along with its sister island, Sanibel, Captiva is world-famous for shell-covered beaches (seriously, you can’t take a step without crunching a seashell).
- Gorgeous Sunsets: Every evening, the sky erupts in shades of pink, orange, and gold, best viewed from The Mucky Duck or a sunset cruise.
- Quirky, One-of-a-Kind Vibes: From The Bubble Room’s Christmas-meets-kitsch decor to the hand-painted signs along Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva embraces its weirdness.
- Nature at Its Best: Think dolphins, manatees, and no shortage of tropical birds—perfect for wildlife lovers.
Why Captiva Feels Like Home to Me
Captiva is more than just another island to me—it’s woven into my childhood.
For years, my mom, sister, and I would escape the brutal Illinois winters for a week in this palm-lined paradise. We had traditions: checking into Tween Waters, ordering virgin strawberry daiquiris by the pool (I had a strict two-a-day limit, imposed by my mom), walking the beach at sunset searching for sand dollars, and always, always eating a slice of Bubble Room’s legendary orange crunch cake.
As life got busier, our annual trips faded into memory. But the few times I’ve been able to return to Captiva Island as an adult, it was like stepping back in time. Same warm breeze. Same pastel buildings. Same magical sunsets.
Captiva doesn’t change much. And honestly? That’s the best part.
So, whether you’re coming to relax, explore, or eat your weight in key lime pie, Captiva Island, Florida will leave its mark on you. Just like it did on me.
Post-Hurricane Recovery & What to Expect in 2025
Captiva Island has taken hit after hit in recent years, first with Hurricane Ian in 2022 and then Hurricane Milton in 2024. But if there’s one thing this little island does best, it’s bounce back.
Fast forward to 2025, and most of Captiva’s best spots are back in action. Hotels are welcoming guests, restaurants are serving up fresh seafood, and sunset cruises are sailing once again.
What’s Open & Fully Restored
As of early 2025, many of Captiva’s most iconic spots have officially reopened, welcoming visitors back with open arms:
- Open: ’Tween Waters, Jensen’s Marina, South Seas Island Resort, RC Otter’s, Old Captiva House, The Shipyard, The Crow’s Nest, The Green Flash, Boop’s, Captiva Cruises, Captiva Island Inn, and Captiva Beach.
- Almost There: The Bubble Room finally has power and is set to reopen by the end of April 2025. Jensen’s Twin Palm Cottages is currently taking reservations.
- Still Under Repair: The Mucky Duck and The Key Lime Bistro don’t have an open date yet, and some nature trails remain closed.
How Tourists Can Support the Recovery
One of the best ways to help Captiva thrive again is simply by visiting! Here’s how you can make a difference:
- Book a Stay: Support reopened hotels and rental properties.
- Dine Local: Eat at reopened restaurants and tip generously.
- Shop Small: Buy from local businesses and artists.
- Be Mindful: Respect areas still under repair and follow any local guidelines.
Pro Tip: The best way to check if a business is open? Look them up on Facebook! Most local spots post their latest updates there.
Best Time to Visit Captiva Island, Florida
When’s the best time to visit Captiva? Honestly, there’s no bad time. But depending on what you’re looking for (perfect weather, fewer crowds, or cheaper prices), some months are better than others.
Peak Season vs. Off-Season
Peak Season (December-April)
- Why go? Picture-perfect weather, warm but not too hot, and low humidity.
- What to expect? Bigger crowds and higher prices. This is when snowbirds flock to the island to escape the cold up north. Hotels and restaurants book up fast, so plan ahead!
- Best for: Beach lovers, shell collectors, and anyone who wants that classic Captiva experience.
Off-Season (June-September)
- Why go? Fewer crowds, cheaper accommodations, and quiet beaches.
- What to expect? Hotter temps, afternoon rain showers, and higher humidity. It’s also hurricane season, so keep an eye on the forecast.
- Best for: Budget travelers, photographers (cloudy days = epic sunsets), and those who don’t mind a little heat.
Shoulder Season (May, October-November)
- Why go? The sweet spot: warm weather, lower prices, and smaller crowds.
- What to expect? Mostly sunny days with the occasional rain shower. October is especially great for shelling, thanks to shifting tides.
- Best for: Couples, solo travelers, and anyone looking for a chill getaway.
Weather by Season
- Winter (Dec-Feb): High 70s°F, low humidity, perfect beach weather.
- Spring (Mar-May): High 70s–80s°F, warming up but still comfortable.
- Summer (Jun-Aug): High 80s–90s°F, humid, with afternoon storms.
- Fall (Sep-Nov): Mid-80s°F, fewer storms, gorgeous sunsets.
Events & Festivals to Plan Around
- Sanibel-Captiva Art Festival (February) – A must for art lovers! Local artists showcase everything from beachy paintings to handmade jewelry.
- Sanibel Shell Festival (March) – One of the biggest shell festivals in the country. Expect incredible shell displays, expert talks, and lots of shopping.
- Island Hopper Songwriter Fest (September) – A live music festival featuring singer-songwriters performing at local venues.
How to Get to Captiva Island, Florida
Getting to Captiva Island, Florida isn’t complicated, but since it’s a true island escape, there are no direct flights or public transportation options. If you want to explore easily and move at your own pace, renting a car is 100% the way to go.
Nearest Airport: RSW (Southwest Florida International Airport)
The closest major airport to Captiva is RSW (Southwest Florida International Airport) in Fort Myers, about 40 miles away. It’s a straight shot from the airport to the island and usually takes just over an hour — depending on traffic and how many times you stop for snacks.
Other airport options (if you’re combining Captiva with a bigger Florida trip):
- TPA (Tampa International Airport): 2.5-hour drive
- MCO (Orlando International Airport): 3.5-hour drive
- MIA (Miami International Airport): 3-hour drive (psst… check out some of my Miami guides!)
Driving to Captiva Island, Florida
No matter where you’re coming from, you’ll need to cross Sanibel Island first. Captiva is connected to Sanibel by a small bridge.
From RSW Airport:
- Take I-75 S to Exit 131 (Daniels Pkwy/CR-876 W).
- Follow Daniels Pkwy west—it turns into Summerlin Rd (keep going!).
- Take Sanibel Causeway onto Sanibel Island ($6 toll).
- Drive through Sanibel on Periwinkle Way, then turn onto Sanibel-Captiva Rd (this road leads straight into Captiva).
- Cross the small Blind Pass Bridge, and boom—you’re on Captiva!
From Tampa (2.5 hrs): Take I-75 S → Exit 131 → Follow directions above.
From Miami (3 hrs): Take I-75 N (“Alligator Alley”) → Exit 131 → Follow directions above.
Sanibel Causeway Toll
To get to Captiva, you’ll first cross the Sanibel Causeway, a scenic stretch of bridges and islands connecting the mainland to Sanibel and Captiva.
Toll Cost:
- $6.00 if you have a physical transponder (like SunPass or E-ZPass).
- $9.00 if you don’t have a transponder ($6 toll + $3 admin fee for license plate billing).
Pro Tip: The causeway itself is beautiful. It’s the moment your Captiva adventure really starts. You can even pull over for a quick beach stop before driving onto the island!
More details on paying the toll? Check out this guide for everything you need to know.
Car Rental vs. Shuttles: What’s Best?
Renting a Car (What I Recommend!)
- Gives you full freedom to explore Captiva and nearby Sanibel.
- Essential if you plan to visit beaches, restaurants, or go on day trips.
- Most resorts don’t offer shuttles, so a car makes logistics easier.
Shuttle Services (Limited Options)
- Some companies offer airport-to-Captiva shuttles ($60+ per person).
- Once on the island, you’d need to rely on bikes, golf carts, or taxis.
- Good for: Those planning to stay in one spot (like a resort) without exploring much.
Final Verdict? Rent the Car.
Every time I’ve visited Captiva, I’ve rented a car, and I wouldn’t do it any other way. Captiva might be small, but having wheels means you can easily hop between beaches, grab dinner at The Bubble Room, or take a spontaneous drive down to Sanibel for more shelling.
So if you’re debating whether to rent one, just do it. Your Captiva trip will be way more flexible (and fun) with a car at your disposal!
Where to Stay on Captiva Island, Florida: Best Hotels & Resorts
Finding the perfect place to stay on Captiva is pretty easy — there aren’t any high-rises, chain hotels, or cookie-cutter resorts here. Instead, you’ll find charming beachside inns, waterfront cottages, and just a couple of full-service resorts. Whether you’re looking for laid-back luxury, a budget-friendly stay, or a private vacation rental, here’s where to check in.
(P.S. We’re total ‘Tween Waters lifers—it’s where we’ve stayed all but once!)
Luxury Resorts on Captiva Island, Florida
’Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa (Our Forever Favorite!)
- The perfect mix of luxury + laid-back island vibes.
- Private beach access, multiple pools, a marina, and an on-site spa.
- Home to The Shipyard Restaurant, The Crow’s Nest Steakhouse, and Old Captiva House (three must-visit restaurants!).
South Seas Island Resort
- The most upscale option on Captiva, with a huge property spanning the northern tip of the island.
- Known for fighting back against island building regulations—which, let’s just say, hasn’t made them super popular with those who love Captiva’s rustic, small-town charm.
- Best for families looking for an all-in-one resort experience, with pools, restaurants, and activities all in one place.
Mid-Range Cottages
Captiva Island Inn
- Small, colorful cottages right in the heart of Captiva Village.
- Walking distance to restaurants, shops, and the beach!
- Choose from the Lantana Suite, Gardenia Villa, Celebration House Villa, Celebration House Penthouse, or Harbour House.
Jensen’s Twin Palm Cottages & Marina
- Old Florida vibes with adorable waterfront cottages.
- Great for anyone who wants to fish, boat, or just relax on the docks.
Vacation Rentals on Captiva Island, Florida
Want a private home or beachfront condo instead? There are tons of options, from cozy cottages to multi-bedroom villas.
Vacation rentals are great for longer stays or if you want a full kitchen to cook meals instead of dining out for every meal (though, let’s be real, you’re still going to want that giant slice of Bubble Room cake).
Here are a few great options you can book through Booking.com:
- Casa Captiva – 5 BR Villa Steps to Beach
- Family-Friendly Bayside Villa at South Seas Resort
- Seaduced- Luxury Villa with Heated Pool
- Lollipop Home
- Dancing Dolphin Home
- Adorable Coastal-Themed 1 Bedroom Condo on Captiva – Snook Villa at South Seas 3118
Best Things to Do on Captiva Island, Florida
Captiva might be small, but there’s no shortage of ways to fill your days. Whether you’re here to chill by the pool, get out on the water, or explore the island’s hidden gems, you’ll never run out of things to do on Captiva Island (unless, of course, doing nothing is exactly what you came for).
Beach Days & Shelling
If you come to Captiva and don’t spend at least one morning collecting seashells or lounging on the sand, are you even doing it right? The beaches here are some of the best in Florida—quiet, beautiful, and absolutely covered in shells.
Hang Out by the Pool
Look, I love a good beach day, but sometimes you just need a poolside piña colada moment. If you’re staying at ‘Tween Waters, you get the best of both worlds—a big family-friendly pool + a separate adults-only pool (aka pure heaven).
If your hotel doesn’t have a pool, ‘Tween Waters offers day passes depending on availability!
Go on a Dolphin-Watching Tour
One of my absolute favorite Captiva activities is hopping on a dolphin-watching tour with Captiva Cruises.
- The boat creates a wake that dolphins LOVE, so they actually come to you, jumping and playing right behind the boat.
- Bonus: You also get a guide sharing fun facts about the local wildlife.
Tours leave from McCarthy’s Marina or the South Seas Resort Marina. Book in advance during high season!
Kayak or Paddleboard with Captiva Adventures
Want a more active way to explore? Grab a kayak or paddleboard from Captiva Adventures and head out into Buck Key Preserve, a peaceful mangrove-lined waterway full of wildlife.
Expect to see:
- Dolphins swimming nearby
- Manatees hanging out (especially in the winter)
- So. Many. Birds.
It’s calm, scenic, and an absolute must-do if you love being on the water.
Explore Nearby Sanibel Island
Sanibel is just a short drive away and definitely worth a day trip if you:
- Love biking → Sanibel has tons of scenic bike trails.
- Want even more shelling → Bowman’s Beach is a shelling paradise.
- Enjoy nature → The J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit.
Be sure to check out my post on the 16 best things to do on Captiva Island for even more ideas!
Where to Eat: Best Restaurants & Cafés
One thing about Captiva Island, Florida? You’ll never go hungry. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood with a sunset view, casual island eats, or a pizza night in, this tiny island packs a punch when it comes to dining.
Heads up! Some longtime favorites (The Bubble Room, Keylime Bistro, and The Mucky Duck) are still rebuilding. But don’t worry, there are plenty of other amazing spots to check out.
Fine Dining & Upscale Eats
Old Captiva House (Historic + Highly Rated!)
A true national historic landmark that’s been around for over a century. Expect ultra-fresh seafood, top-quality meats, house-made breads, and decadent desserts—all in a bright, nautical setting.
The Shipyard Restaurant (New & Nautical!)
Captiva’s newest dining spot, The Shipyard, pays tribute to the island’s rich maritime history — from sport fishing to (alleged) Prohibition-era smuggling.
Crow’s Nest Steakhouse (Steak + Sunset Views!)
Perched above The Shipyard, Crow’s Nest is Captiva’s only second-level steakhouse with a glorious beachfront view (read: unreal sunset dinners).
Casual Island Vibes & Waterfront Views
The Green Flash (Best Waterfront Dining!)
If you want to watch the gulf while you eat, this is the place. Boats pull right up to the dock, and the seafood is always incredibly fresh.
RC Otter’s Island Eats (Laid-Back & Family-Friendly!)
A classic casual island eatery with live music, tropical drinks, and a fun, funky vibe.
Casual & Quick Bites
Captiva Crust (Best Pizza on the Island!)
Tiny but mighty, Captiva Crust is the go-to spot to grab pizza to go. They’ve got a ton of fun and creative pizza options!
Boops by The Bubble Room (For That Iconic Cake Fix!)
While The Bubble Room isn’t open yet, you can still grab a slice of their legendary cake at Boops, the adorable café next door.
- What to Get: Orange Crunch Cake (trust me).
- Good to Know: They also serve great coffee — perfect for a mid-morning treat.
Not Open Yet (But Worth Watching!)
- The Bubble Room → Still rebuilding, but Boops has their famous cakes!
- Keylime Bistro → Currently closed—check their Facebook for updates!
- Mucky Duck → Not open yet, but when it is, it’s the best sunset spot on the island!
Captiva Island Beaches & Shelling Guide
There are two types of people who visit Captiva Island, Florida: those who come for the lazy, toes-in-the-sand beach days, and those who wake up before sunrise to hunt for the ultimate seashell treasures.
Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun or fill your pockets with shells, here’s everything you need to know about Captiva’s beaches.
Best Public Beaches
Alison Hagerup Beach Park
The only true public beach with parking on Captiva, located at the very end of the island. Perfect for sunsets, shelling, and peaceful vibes.
Captiva Beach
More of a general area than a designated beach, but any beachfront rental or resort will give you easy access. Bonus: the further north you go, the quieter it gets.
Heads up! Parking is very limited on Captiva, so get there early or prepare to walk.
Private Beach Access
South Seas Island Resort
If you’re staying here, congrats—you have access to some of the most beautiful, untouched beaches on the island.
’Tween Waters Island Resort
Our go-to Captiva stay (seriously, we’re obsessed) comes with private beach access right across the street. Less crowded, and perfect for shelling.
Why Captiva & Sanibel Are Shelling Paradise
If you’re wondering why Captiva and Sanibel are world-famous for shelling, here’s the secret:
- They sit at just the right angle → Unlike most barrier islands, they face east-west instead of north-south, which means they collect insane amounts of shells.
- They have gentle waves → So instead of getting crushed, shells wash up perfectly intact.
- Storms bring in the best finds → After a big storm, the beaches are shell heaven.
Basically, it’s impossible to walk Captiva’s beaches without crunching a few shells underfoot.
Shelling Tips & Best Times to Collect
Want to find the good shells? Here’s when to go:
- Early Morning: Less competition = better shells.
- Low Tide: More shoreline = more shells exposed.
- After a Storm: The ultimate shelling jackpot.
Pro tip: Bring a mesh bag! That way, the sand falls out and you don’t end up taking half the beach home with you.
Rules for Taking Shells Home
Look, I get it—finding the perfect shell feels like winning the lottery. But before you fill up your suitcase, here’s the golden rule of Florida shelling:
- NO live shelling. If the shell has a critter inside, put it back. It’s illegal to take live shells from Florida beaches.
- Empty shells? Fair game! Just be mindful of how many you take (do you really need 50 conch shells?).
Captiva vs. Sanibel: Which One is Right for You?
If you’ve made it this far, you probably already know that Captiva and Sanibel are sister islands, connected by a small bridge, sharing the same seashell-covered beaches, but offering totally different vibes.
So, which one is right for you? Let’s break it down.
Captiva: Laid-Back & Luxury
Captiva is smaller, quieter, and more exclusive than Sanibel. It’s all about slow mornings, sunset cocktails, and toes-in-the-sand relaxation. You won’t find bike paths or big grocery stores here—just beachfront resorts, charming inns, and some of the best shelling beaches in Florida.
Best for:
- Couples & honeymooners looking for a romantic, peaceful escape.
- Luxury seekers who love resorts with private beach access.
- Travelers who want fewer crowds and a more intimate island feel.
Stay here if you want to kick back, unwind, and enjoy the quiet charm of old Florida.
Sanibel: Family and Budget-Friendly
Sanibel is bigger, busier, and better for exploring. It has tons of bike paths, nature preserves, and cute shops, making it a great place for families or travelers who want a little more to do.
Best for:
- Families who need more budget-friendly hotels, kid-friendly restaurants, and activities.
- Active travelers who want to bike, kayak, and explore wildlife.
- Shell collectors—Sanibel is one of the best shelling spots in the world!
Stay here if you want a balance of beach time and outdoor adventure.
So, Which One Should You Choose?
- Want to wake up steps from a quiet beach? → Captiva
- Want to bike everywhere and explore? → Sanibel
- Love waterfront dining and resort vibes? → Captiva
- Obsessed with shelling? → Sanibel
Honestly? You can’t go wrong with either. They’re only a short drive apart, so you’ll definitely have time to hit up both, whichever one you choose to stay on!
(Stay tuned for a full Captiva vs. Sanibel post coming soon!)
Essential Captiva Island Travel Tips
Captiva is the kind of place where you want to go with the flow — but a little planning goes a long way! Here are my top travel tips to help you save money, pack smart, and travel sustainably.
Budget Tips: How to Save on Your Captiva Trip
Captiva has a reputation for being a luxury destination—and while you can splurge, there are plenty of ways to do it on a budget.
Enjoy Free Activities:
- Beach days & shelling (Captiva’s beaches are all public beyond the high tide line).
- Sunsets at Alison Hagerup Beach (no need to pay for a dinner with a view).
- Window shopping in Captiva Village — it’s small, but fun to wander!
Save on Food:
- Pick up groceries on the mainland before heading to Captiva (island restaurants aren’t cheap!).
- Split meals. Portions at spots like The Bubble Room (when it reopens) and The Green Flash are huge!
Save on Lodging:
- Travel in the off-season (May-November) for lower hotel rates.
- Look into vacation rentals (especially if you’re traveling with a group).
Packing Guide: What to Bring to Captiva
Essentials for Beach Days & Exploring:
- Reef-safe sunscreen (protects your skin and the ocean).
- Bug spray (mosquitoes love Florida).
- Water shoes (some beaches have sharp shells!).
- Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated, save money).
- Snorkel gear (great for spotting fish & shells underwater).
Extras That’ll Level Up Your Trip:
- Binoculars (for spotting dolphins & birds).
- Mesh shelling bag (so the sand stays at the beach).
- GoPro or waterproof phone case (for all those ocean pics!).
Eco-Friendly Travel: Leave No Trace
Captiva is one of Florida’s most beautiful islands, and keeping it that way starts with small, mindful choices.
- Skip the Plastic: Bring a reusable water bottle and say no to plastic straws.
- Follow Shelling Rules: If a shell has a live creature inside, put it back!
- Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from birds, dolphins, and manatees.
- Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you bring to the beach.
Final Thoughts: Why Captiva Island is Worth Visiting
Captiva isn’t just another Florida beach town — it’s a feeling. It’s that deep breath the second you cross the Sanibel Causeway, the way the sunsets seem more colorful here, and how time slows down as you sink your toes into the sand.
For me, Captiva is pure nostalgia. It’s where I spent countless childhood trips with my mom, where shells piled up in our suitcases, and where I first understood the magic of a place that feels untouched by time. Even now, every time I return, it feels like stepping back into a familiar, sun-drenched dream.
And after everything Captiva has been through in recent years — the hurricanes, the rebuilding, the resilience — it feels more important than ever to support this island and the people who make it special.
Why 2025 is the Year to Visit
Captiva is back and thriving.
- Adventures are waiting — whether it’s a sunset sail, a kayak through the mangroves, or a spontaneous dolphin encounter.
- Beaches are calling — warm sand, perfect shelling, and the most peaceful walks you’ll ever take.
- Local restaurants & businesses need visitors — come eat, shop, stay, and experience the magic for yourself.
Whether it’s your first trip or your fifteenth, Captiva stays with you long after you leave. And trust me—you’ll already be planning your next visit before you even cross the causeway home.
Been to Captiva before? Planning a trip? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your favorite Captiva memories or help answer any trip-planning questions!
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