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Cayo Costa!

 

 

“Florida’s Untouched Island Escape”

Anna Maria Island

Cayo Costa

An Island in Lee County, Florida

Cayo Costa, Florida, is a remote and largely undeveloped barrier island located off the Gulf Coast in Lee County. Known for its pristine beaches, lush mangroves, and abundant wildlife, the island is preserved as Cayo Costa State Park and is accessible only by boat or ferry. It offers a rare glimpse of “Old Florida,” free of cars, crowds, or commercial development, and is popular for shelling, camping, kayaking, and birdwatching.

Cayo Costa has been significantly impacted by hurricanes over the years. Most notably, Hurricane Ian in 2022 caused extensive damage to the island’s natural landscape and park facilities, including infrastructure like docks and cabins. The storm’s storm surge that peaked 10-15 feet above ground level, and winds dramatically altered portions of the shoreline.

Despite these setbacks, restoration efforts have been underway, with a focus on repairing trails, rebuilding campsites, and restoring beach habitats. The island’s resilience and ecological importance continue to make it a treasured, though fragile, part of southwest Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Image by SondraP from Getty Images Signature

Location & Size

Cayo Costa is a barrier island located in Lee County, Florida.  Located between North Captiva Island to the south and Boca Grande to the north in southwest Florida. 

Accessible only by boat or ferry, the island encompasses approximately 2,426 acres of land and is home to the Cayo Costa State Park, which preserves much of its natural beauty.

Founded

Cayo Costa was originally inhabited by the Calusa Indians, and later by Cuban fishermen in the 18th and 19th centuries.

In 1976, the state of Florida established Cayo Costa State Park to protect its unique ecosystems and historical sites.

CAYO COSTA WEATHER

Population

Cayo Costa has no permanent residents. The island is uninhabited, with only park staff and visitors present during operational hours.

Known For

  • Pristine Beaches: Nearly 9 miles of undeveloped, white-sand beaches ideal for shelling and sunbathing.

  • Natural Habitats: Diverse ecosystems including pine forests, oak-palm hammocks, and mangrove swamps.

  • Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to see manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, and a variety of bird species.

  • Recreational Activities: Popular for kayaking, fishing, hiking, and camping.

Cost of living

As Cayo Costa is a state park with no residential or commercial development, there is no cost of living data.

 

 

Things to do

  • Beachcombing and Shelling: Explore the extensive beaches for unique shells.

  • Camping: Stay overnight at one of the park’s primitive campsites or cabins.

  • Hiking and Biking: Traverse the island’s trails through diverse habitats.

  • Wildlife Observation: Spot native species in their natural environments.

  • Kayaking and Fishing: Engage in water activities in the surrounding waters.

For More information on travel to Cayo Costa State Park, Please Visit the Florida State Park website.

Fun Facts

  • Name Origin: “Cayo Costa” translates to “Key by the Coast” in Spanish.

  • Accessibility: The island is only reachable by boat or ferry, preserving its secluded nature.

  • Historical Significance: Home to ancient Calusa shell mounds and remnants of early Cuban fishing camps.

  • Conservation Efforts: The state park aims to maintain the island’s natural state, offering a glimpse into Florida’s past.

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