Southwest Florida is filled with fascinating barrier islands, including some remote islands which are only accessible by boat. Whether you travel by land or by sea, a quick trip north from Naples homes for sale is all it takes to visit these island getaways. Our real estate agents have the local knowledge on 7 great activities to enjoy while island hopping in SWFL.
- Explore the J.N. Darling National Wildlife Refuge – 1 Wildlife Dr., Sanibel, FL 33957
With a convenient location near Sanibel homes for sale, the J.N. Darling National Wildlife Refuge is a wonderful place to enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities and spot plenty of native wildlife while you explore. After you visit the Visitor & Education Center, spend some time hiking the trails, watching the birds, doing some fishing, or paddling along the serene waterways around the refuge. - Dine at the Cabbage Key Inn – Pineland, FL 33945
A remote island oasis with an area of just 100 acres that's only accessible by boat, Cabbage Key is located a quick trip north across the water from Captiva Island. You won't find much development here, aside from the Cabbage Key Inn, which has been welcoming visitors with its Old Florida charm ever since it was first constructed in the 1930s. Rent a room at one of the quaint cottages that are part of the inn, or just stop by the fun, quirky restaurant to enjoy a great meal. After you're done dining, take a leisurely stroll along the island's nature trails to discover stunning scenery and local wildlife. - Paddle Through Buck Key Preserve – Just East of Captiva Island, FL
Another place that's only accessible by boat, Buck Key Preserve runs parallel to Captiva Island for about two miles. This completely undeveloped, uninhabited area of mangroves and island scenery is the perfect place for your next paddling trip. Bring your kayak or canoe, then follow the well-marked kayaking trail to be transported to another world. - Collect Shells at Cayo Costa State Park – Captiva, FL 33924
Wouldn't it be nice to have your own private beach? While you're likely to encounter other people during a trip to Cayo Costa State Park, it will still feel like your own little slice of paradise. There are 9 miles of beautiful beaches to explore, and the island's remote nature means this is one of the best places in SWFL to collect shells near Captiva homes for sale. - Visit Port Boca Grande Lighthouse Museum – 880 Belcher Rd., Boca Grande, FL 33921
The Port Boca Grande Lighthouse Museum is the main attraction on Gasparilla Island, which you will find north of Captiva Island. Tour the historic lighthouse, which was built in 1890 to help guide local seafarers, then head inside to the museum to learn more about the lighthouse and uncover fascinating stories about local history. - Fresh Seafood at Bonita Bills Waterfront Cafe – 702 Fishermans Wharf, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
San Carlos Island, located just a short trip south from Fort Myers homes for sale, is known for its shrimping industry and abundant harvests. Bonita Bills Waterfront Cafe is one of the only restaurants on the island, and it's the perfect place to sample the catch of the day. You can drive there if you'd like, but island hopping is just a little sweeter when you tie up your boat at the on-site dock and head inside for a meal. - Explore the Artsy Fishing Community of Matlacha – Matlacha, FL 33993
Covering just 427 acres with a full-time population of fewer than 1,000 residents, the tiny island of Matlacha is easy to miss if you're not looking for it. The island is part artist enclave, part fishing community, with whimsy and art waiting around every corner. Whether you come for the fishing or for the sights, this is one unique piece of Florida culture that you definitely won't want to miss.
Whether you're searching for a home on an island or in a coastal community, our local real estate team is here to help you accomplish your goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes in Southwest Florida communities.
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