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Captiva Island!

 

 

” Where Sunset Meets Serenity”

Anna Maria Island

Captiva Island

An Island in Lee County, Florida

 

Captiva Island, Florida, is a picturesque barrier island located off the Gulf Coast near Fort Myers, just north of Sanibel Island. Known for its white-sand beaches, vibrant sunsets, and charming, laid-back atmosphere, Captiva offers a peaceful retreat from the bustle of everyday life. The island is a haven for shell collectors, boaters, and nature lovers, with abundant opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. With its colorful cottages, art galleries, and unique eateries like the whimsical Bubble Room, Captiva captures the essence of “Old Florida” charm in a serene, tropical setting.

Captiva experienced significant impacts from Hurricane Ian in September 2022. The hurricane caused widespread damage, including the destruction of parts of the Sanibel Causeway, which temporarily cut off access to the island. The island’s beloved landmarks, including the Bubble Room and the Mucky Duck restaurants, sustained damage but survived the storm.  

By September 2023, significant progress had been made in the island’s recovery, however, the island faced major setbacks in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton in late 2024.

Hurricane Helene made landfall in late September 2024 as a powerful Category 4 storm. The hurricane brought an approximate 5-foot storm surge, leading to widespread flooding across the island.

Hurricane Milton followed closely in early October 2024, making landfall as a Category 3 storm. This hurricane caused extensive damage to Captiva Island, with aerial footage revealing widespread destruction to hotels, resorts, beaches, and landmarks. The storm’s impact included significant sand and water displacement, leading to alterations in the island’s landscape.

Despite the setbacks, the resilience of the Captiva Island community remains strong, and restoration initiatives continue to progress.

South Seas Resort has reopened as of December 2024 and the beaches off the Sanibel Causway have reopened as of May 2025.  Island Icons, The Bubble Room and The Mucky Duck remain closed and hope to reopen in 2025.

 

Photo by Ameer Basheer on Unsplash

Location & Size

Captiva Island is a narrow barrier island located in Lee County, Florida, just north of Sanibel Island. It spans approximately 1.64 square miles, with 1.18 square miles of land and 0.46 square miles of water.

The island is accessible via the Sanibel Causeway and a small bridge over Blind Pass connecting it to Sanibel Island.

Founded

Originally part of Sanibel Island, Captiva was separated in 1926 when a hurricane’s storm surge created Blind Pass. The island was homesteaded in 1888 by William Herbert Binder, whose grave remains near the Chapel by the Sea. Over time, Captiva evolved from a remote fishing village to a sought-after tropical destination.

CAPTIVA WEATHER

Population

As of the 2020 census, Captiva had a population of 318 residents. However, estimates in 2025 suggest a significant decline to approximately 43 residents, possibly due to the impacts of recent hurricanes.

Known For

  • Stunning Beaches: Captiva boasts pristine white-sand beaches ideal for shelling, sunbathing, and watching spectacular sunsets.

  • Outdoor Activities: The island offers opportunities for fishing, boating, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.

  • Artistic Community: Captiva has attracted artists like Robert Rauschenberg and Roy Lichtenstein, contributing to its vibrant cultural scene.

  • Unique Dining: The Bubble Room, a multi-themed restaurant filled with vintage toys and memorabilia, is a notable culinary attraction.

Cost of living

  • Median Household Income: As of 2000, the median household income was $64,821, with a per capita income of $76,139.

  • Housing Costs:

    • Median Home Sold Price (April 2025): $2,000,000, indicating a 23.1% increase from the previous year.

    • Average Rent: Monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment ranges from $1,500 to $2,500.

  • Overall Living Expenses: The total annual expenditure is estimated at $112,211, with housing (rent/mortgage) averaging $16,927 annually.

Things to do

  • Beach Activities: Enjoy sunbathing, shelling, and swimming at Turner Beach and Alison Hagerup Beach Park.

  • Water Sports: Engage in kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing in the surrounding waters.

  • Wildlife Viewing: Spot dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species.

  • Dining: Experience local cuisine at establishments like Old Captiva House and The Green Flash.  Island staples The Mucky Duck and The Bubble Room are temporarily closed with hopes to reopen in 2025.

  • Art Galleries: Visit Jungle Drums Gallery to explore wildlife-inspired art.

  • By Boat: Visit Mangos Bra & Grill or Tween Waters Inn.

Fun Facts

  • Shelling Paradise: Captiva, along with Sanibel Island, is renowned for its abundance of seashells, attracting collectors worldwide.

  • Historical Guests: Notable visitors have included Teddy Roosevelt and Charles Lindbergh, who reportedly landed his plane on the beach in front of ‘Tween Waters Inn.

  • Cultural Influence: The island’s unique charm has inspired various artists and has been featured in films such as “G.I. Jane” and “Manhunter.”

Nearby Cities

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