Let Yourself Be Captivated by the Beauty of Captiva Island
Situated off Florida’s Gulf Coast near Fort Myers, Captiva Island is a true nature lover's’ paradise boasting 2.5 miles of white sand beaches teeming with yet-to-be-coveted seashells. There’s a unique island vibe where the year-round sunshine and turquoise waters attracts people from all ages including their pets, and sometimes, maybe even their kids! Captiva Island vacation rentals are plentiful, as are the variety of people on the island. You'll find everything from quaint bars where you can talk pirate folklore with the locals, to art galleries and seemingly endless opportunities to enjoy water sports, including saltwater fishing.
Exploring Quirky but Completely Loveable Captiva Island
With a year-round population of just under 400 people, the main attraction on Captiva Island is the island itself, but there are a few hidden gems to check out while you’re there. There’s the quaint, seasonal Captiva Chapel by the Sea and the almost eclectic collection of wildlife art in a variety of mediums showcased at Jungle Drums Gallery. Speaking of eclectic, kids and adults alike are sure to be mesmerized by the quirkiness and all-year-round holiday decorations on display at the Bubble Room Restaurant.
Get into the Relaxing Captiva Island Groove
Besides soaking up the rays and seeking out seashells, you can easily explore the natural beauty of Captiva Island by golf cart or on bikes. You can skipper your own boat or sit back and enjoy a serene (or lively!) sunset cruise along the island, or go off in search of dolphins or a great snorkeling spot. If you’re looking to get your adventure on, you can rent wave runners, paddleboards or even try your hand at parasailing. And naturally, there’s a golf course, plus shore and jetty fishing at Turner Beach.
Seasonal weather in Captiva
Travelers enjoy Captiva for its kayaking and boating. If you're hoping to enjoy some warm-weather activities on your vacation, August, July, September and June are the hottest months to visit, when temperatures average 85°F.
Captiva Island: Dolphins, Seashells & Pink Flamingos
With its prime location along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Captiva Island is sandwiched between North Captiva Island and Sanibel Island to the south. When choosing Captiva Island vacation rentals, you'll get the best of all 3 as there are only 9 miles between them. Many attractions are shared among the islands including the Bailey–Matthews National Shell Museum. A visit to J. N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge will bring you up-close-and-personal to wildlife, plants and those iconic pink flamingos, while the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation regularly hosts a variety of programs through their Nature and Garden Centers.
Transportation to and around Captiva
The nearest airport is in Southwest Florida Intl. Airport (RSW), located 26.8 mi (43.2 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you can also fly into Charlotte County Airport (PGD), which is 29.7 mi (47.8 km) away.