Captiva Island Guide

Discover the Best of Captiva Island: Your Guide to Beaches, Wildlife, and Local Attractions.

Discover Captiva

Captiva Island, just north of Sanibel off Florida’s Gulf Coast, is a paradise for tourists seeking a serene yet vibrant getaway. With stunning sunsets, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters, Captiva offers a perfect setting for relaxation and adventure. Enjoy activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and sailing amid breathtaking Gulf scenery.

Captiva also boasts a charming village atmosphere with eclectic shops, art galleries, and many dining options. Savor fresh seafood and locally inspired dishes in both casual and upscale waterfront restaurants. With its vibrant arts and culture scene, Captiva Island promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler, whether you’re unwinding on the beach or exploring local creativity.

CAPTIVA WEATHER

See What Captiva Has to Offer

See everything Captiva has to offer from its restaurants and ice cream shops to beaches.

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Dining

Restaurants, Cafes, & more

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Shopping

Groceries, Gifts, & more

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Things To Do

Watersports, Beaches, & more

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1888

Founded

151

Population

1.64 mi²

Size

~160K

Annual Visitors

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to commonly asked questions about Captiva Island.

When is the best time to visit?

We recommend visiting Captiva Island all year long. Different times of the year have pros and cons. Peak season is typically December to April. The weather during this time is mild in temperature, less humid and rain is less likely. Peak season brings busier restaurants and more crowded beaches so many prefer to beat the crowds rather than the heat and rain.

How do you get to Captiva?

To get to Captiva Island, Florida, you primarily travel by car. From Fort Myers, it’s just a short drive and a trip across the scenic causeway and then about a 25 minute drive through neighboring Sanibel Island until you cross Blind Pass onto Captiva. If you’re flying in, the closest airport is Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers, followed by Punta Gorda Airport (PGD). From the airport you can rent a car or contact Sanibel/Captiva Airport Taxi to inquire about their airport shuttle service.

How are the bugs on the island?

The bugs on Captiva Island can be noticeable, and annoying. Although we don’t personally think they are as bad on Captiva as they are on Sanibel because of the small bodies of water on Sanibel, they can get bad for some people during certain times of the year and in specific locations. The main concerns are mosquitos and Noseeums. You may or may not be bothered by the bugs during your visit, but if so, we recommend trying a local natural repellent sold at most groceries and shops.

Is Captiva dog friendly?

Captiva Island is generally considered dog-friendly. Dogs are allowed on Captiva Island beaches, but they must be kept on a leash and under control at all times. Certain areas may have specific restrictions, so it’s advisable to check local regulations and signage. We consider Sanibel to be more dog friendly due to the larger size of the island. Captiva is a fraction of the size of Sanibel so beaches could be more congested at times, potentially making it less enjoyable with your pet(s). Captiva Island doesn’t have the best walking infrastructure so take caution of vehicles when walking around the island with your dogs.

Can I get groceries on the island?

Yes, you can get the basics on Captiva. The Island Store and Provisons are the places you will find groceries but the opening hours and selection provide limitations. Jerry’s, on Sanibel, is a short enough drive and a large enough grocery store to satisfy almost all of your grocery needs. We recommend getting groceries before crossing the causeway if you’re looking for more affordable prices and a larger selection.

Is Captiva bike friendly?

Yes, somewhat. While there is no shared-use bike path like you can find all over Sanibel, there is a bike lane along Captiva Drive, the main thoroughfare, so you can still enjoy biking on the island. The roads can be quite narrow in certain places so take caution. We recommend heading to Sanibel and biking around on the islands extensive network of bike paths.

Where can I find an ATM?

You are unlikely to find an ATM on Captiva. Thankfully, you probably won’t need cash on the Island because most merchants will accept card. If you want to buy local or tip cash, there are multiple places you can get it on Sanibel. The four banks on the Sanibel, Chase, Wells Fargo, Sanibel Captiva Community and Bank of the Islands all have ATMs. You can also find a CitiBank ATM in 7-eleven. You could also withdraw cash before crossing over the causeway of course.

Can I get gas on the island?

No, you can not get gas on Captiva. There is a gas station on Sanibel right next to Tarpon Bay Road, about 15 minutes from Captiva. We recommend filing up off island for more affordable prices.