Pack your bags and apply some sunblock, you’re heading to the beautiful oasis that is North Captiva Island. Located in Lee County, Southwest Florida. North Captiva is found just offshore adjacent to the Gulf of Mexico.
The Island has something for everyone. Packed with white sandy beaches, lively day activities, delicious restaurants and a night life to boot– here are some helpful hints to get you headed to your island getaway:
Getting to North Captiva Island
Your First Stop is The Welcome Center
Your first stop is the Guest Welcome Center located on Pine Island in St. James City, FL. From there your luggage, groceries and supplies will be loaded onto a bus and then drive to the marina dock where it will be loaded onto the ferry.
Make sure to book your ferry first and arrange with the reservation how many people are traveling in your party, what supplies you need, how many bins you will need, etc..
For any additional FAQ’s please click on the link below:
- Airport Arrival
You can come by air. For convenience you’ll either fly into either Fort Myers or Punta Gorda Airport. Fort Myers is more commercial and has all the big airlines traveling through it. It is only about an hour away from North Captiva Island. Punta Gorda is also about an hour away from the island and is a smaller airport serving Allegiant Air. From either of these airports you would then take an airport shuttle or car.
- Airport Shuttle
You can come by Land. Travel can be stressful. That is why the team at Pine Island Taxi and Limo are here to help. They provide airport transportation to all Cape Coral and Lee County’s Coastal Islands. Imagine stepping off the plane at RSW (Southwest Florida International Airport) and having a driver waiting for you. This is especially handy if traveling with friends, family or large groups. With rides that can accommodate groups of all sizes, and offering not only airport transportation but a list of other services, Pine Island Taxi and Limo gets you to where you’re going. They can even arrange for you to have groceries delivered to where you are staying! For more information or to book an online reservation click here.
- Ferry Reservations & Schedule
You can come by Sea. The ferry to the island runs every 1-1.5 hours. You can book your reservation online or see the upcoming schedule here.
- Boat Slips
You can come by sea… again. If you are traveling by boat, or want to bring and dock your own boat you have options. Safety Harbor Club homes or homes with membership to the North Captiva Marina Association include docking arrangements for a small fee. There are also several rental properties along the canal and conveniently include two boat slips. You can also request a boat slip here.
- Order Groceries Ahead of Time
You can pack food and beverages within the allotted amount of cargo you bring with you. You can also plan groceries ahead of time. We have grocery services that can help. They can pick up your order from Publix and have your place stocked before your arrival! Your groceries will be conveniently packed, labeled and waiting for you. Another option they offer is to have your order delivered to your scheduled ferry. If this sounds like the way to go, here are a few more details to know when ordering:
- All groceries are procured through Publix
- If you order alcohol, you must verify you are of legal age and liquor will be purchased from Friendly Frankie’s located next to Publix
- Forms must be submitted at least 72 hours in advance but the sooner the better! (March/April, and all holidays are very busy so be mindful and send your form as soon as possible to guarantee being put on the schedule)
- Cancellations must be no later than 48 hours before arrival. If you cancel within 48 hours you will incur a $50 cancellation fee.
- For more information click here and take the headache out of mealtime.
What You Can Transport to North Captiva Island
- TRANSPORTING CARGO: There is a generous cargo limit, but please keep in mind your baggage will travel by sea, golf cart, and human hands so be sure to pack economically. Any piece of luggage exceeding 60 lb will incur an additional fee. This is to help ensure the safety of the staff, efficiency of gas mileage, and overall expediency of the transport.
- CARGO ALLOWANCES PER PASSENGER:
- 1 full sized piece of luggage (not exceeding 60 lb)
- 1 large bin (not exceeding 30 gal)
- 1 case or container of beverages (not exceeding 100 lb)
As an example– a party of 4 is allowed up to 4 large pieces of luggage , 4 large bins, and 4 cases of beverages. You are also welcome to do combinations of the above as long as your group doesn’t go over the previously listed limitations.
- ADDITIONAL CARGO FEES: If you need to bring more things with you– no problem! Sometimes you can’t fit it all in one bag. If you feel you will exceed your cargo limits, please reply to your confirmation email at least 48 hours in advance so adjustments can be made.Please find the additional fees below you will be charged per specific piece:
- $10 per full size additional piece
- $10 per additional large bin
- $2 per additional large container or case of beverages
- COMPLIMENTARY BINS: You’ll have the option to be provided with a complementary 38 gal Rubbermaid bin. It’s great for transporting groceries or other loose items. The bins must be returned within 4 hours of your arrival to avoid incurring a retrieval fee.
Arriving at North Captiva Island
After you check in at the Transportation and Wellness Center the staff there can assist you with all your arrival needs. Once you and your group are settled it is time to explore all the island has to offer you!
Dining Out in North Captiva Island
You may be renting a beautiful beach house but that doesn’t mean you still can’t go out for a meal. Here are some amazing island eats:
- Mangos Pool Bar
Conveniently located in the pool area, Mangos Pool Bar offers a full array of beverages and bites. From classic cocktails to signature creations to a variety of nonalcoholic concoctions enjoy some sips while lounging by the pools. With that in mind, don’t forget to eat something! Mango Pool Bar also offers some mouth-watering lunchtime nibbles.
- Mangos Store
Want to grab a few essentials for the rental? Mangos Store also has a grocery section so you grill up some memories right where you’re staying. They provide a wide variety of snacks and basics such as eggs, milk or canned goods. Dining in or out during your stay has never been easier, or more delicious. You can also eat here. An affordable outdoor dining experience, Mangos serves lunch or dinner to you and your family right along the poolside. Take out is available so you can get the famous Blue Crab Burrito to stay or to go.
Activities on North Captiva Island
What is an island vacation without a little fun in the sun? Here are just a few of the ways you, your friends and your family can stay entertained:
- Pools
The Island Club allows access to Olympic swimming pools for all Club guests and members. These heated beauties are large enough to get some laps in for exercise and refreshing enough for just a quick dip. There is no shortage of space as the 10,000 square foot pool area has over 80 chaise lounges. You won’t need to seek out food or beverage while relaxing poolside either as the pool bar Mangos is happy to serve you beverages and bites during your visit.
- Tennis
Tennis anyone? If you’re looking to work up a sweat before cooling off in the pool area be sure to check out one of the two neighboring har-tru surface tennis courts. No need to pack your tennis supplies as racquets can be checked out at the front desk and balls are for sale at the store!
- Kayaks & Bikes
No bike? No Kayak? No problem. Club guests are welcome to check out any of the complimentary bikes or kayaks. You can check either out for the whole day! If you have someone in your group uninterested in those activities, they are welcome to check out one of the complimentary beach chairs so they can relax while you ride.
- Jet Ski Rentals
Nothing says vacation like soaring through waves atop a jet ski. Boats-n-Fun works with guests to offer exclusive deals on jet ski rentals. This is a sure fire way to make some memories.
- Boat Rentals & Fishing
Boats-n-Fun also offers boat rentals. So pack your nautical themed pashmina afghan, it’s time to grab the friends and family, and luxuriate on any variety of boat you choose. There is also great fishing while you are on the open sea so be sure to check out some fishing poles.
- Yoga & Massage
If you have tried one or all of the above activities it may be time to unwind with a replenishing yoga class or relaxing massage. The Island Club personnel can help direct you to convenient offerings best suited to your needs.
The Best Time with the Best Rates to Book Your Trip
An island excursion is luxurious but doesn’t have to break the bank. If your timeline is flexible, book your trip during the slow season! You’ll have many options at lower pricing which always makes it easier to indulge a bit more while you’re here. The best times for these great rates would be from August 14th through December 15th (excluding Thanksgiving) or April 26th through May 26th. Not only will it be a bit less crowded, but makes your vacation budget stretch further.
Book Your Beach Rental Today
It’s a saturated market when looking where to book your stay online. Though there are several options, most come with hidden fees and surprise expenses. So skip the middleman and book directly through this website and get the best rates on rental homes and cottages on North Captiva Island.
Your trip to North Captiva Island should be as much of a relaxing getaway or fun adventure as you desire. Take the stress out of traveling by letting others take care of you. All you have to do is get here. Book that limo, hop on that ferry, rent that beachfront property. The rest is just a day at the beach.