Spend four hours cruising from Punta Gorda to Cayo Costa State Park for shelling, sun, and wildlife viewing. This private boat trip includes shore time on a secluded beach or sandbar and a good chance to see dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The engine hums, the mangrove fringe slides aft and the Gulf opens—silver water daring you toward a barrier island whose shoreline keeps its own rules.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to step on/off a small boat and walk on soft sand for short distances.
Wildlife
History
The island sits on channels once used by the Calusa people and later by fishermen and wreckers; its preserved status reflects 20th-century conservation efforts to protect barrier-island habitat.
Conservation
Cayo Costa is a Florida State Park—stay on designated landing zones, avoid trampling dune vegetation, and carry out all trash to protect nesting birds and fragile dune systems.
Reserve your spot on the Punta Gorda /Boca Grande Four Hour Beach Day/ Cayo Costa Beach today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Mind the tides
Shelling and sandbar access depend on tides—ask the captain about low-tide windows for best beach time.
Protect from sun and glare
Bring broad-spectrum sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, and polarized sunglasses; boat and sand magnify UV exposure.
Pack a dry bag
Keep phones, wallets, and spare clothing in a waterproof bag—waves and spray are common on the approach.
Respect wildlife and nests
If you see shorebird nests or marked turtle areas, give them space and avoid walking through dune vegetation.
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Protects skin during extended sun exposure on open water and sand.
summer
Dry bag
Keeps electronics and valuables safe from spray and quick beach dips.
Water bottle (1L+)
Staying hydrated is essential in Florida heat and on sunny beaches.
summer
Light snorkel set or mask
Useful for quick swims near seagrass beds if conditions allow.
summer