Adventure Collective
Water Activities at Cayo Costa with Captiva Cruises - Fort Myers

Water Activities at Cayo Costa with Captiva Cruises

Captivaeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

4 hours

Fitness Level

Open to all fitness levels; comfortable walking and sitting required

Overview

Discover Florida’s Gulf Coast with a half-day trip to Cayo Costa from Captiva Cruises. Perfect for shelling, beach lounging, and witnessing pristine natural beauty. Dive into this unforgettable coastal adventure!

Captiva, Florida

Cayo Costa Half Day Beach & Shelling

All Ages! • 3 Hours

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About This Adventure

Cayo Costa State Park is an island accessible only by boat and considered to be one of the best shelling beaches in the world.

Duration

3 hours

About

With nine miles of beach visitors may enjoy shelling, fishing, birdwatching and snorkeling on this beautiful barrier island that is only accessible by boat.

The half-day trip to the southern end includes about a 30-minute boat ride each way with approximately two hours on the beach. The boat pulls up on the beach and guests will have to make their way up and down a 4-step ladder. Guests will get wet while disembarking the boat at the beach. Please dress appropriately, we strongly recommend no jeans or sneakers. Swimming attire, water shoes, and sandals are recommended. The boat will stay with you as there are no amenities on this section of the island. Please note there is a $2.00/person park entry fee that will be added to each ticket

Preparing for your trip: Passengers are encouraged to bring along anything they would like to be comfortable at the beach for the amount of time you are there, keeping in mind there is nothing provided on the boat or on the island itself. Food, drinks, coolers, chairs, umbrellas, towels, sunscreen, snorkels, fishing rods (and a license too if applicable) are a few recommendations.

More Info

Family owned and operated since 1986, Captiva Cruises is the ideal way to cruise from Captiva Island, Florida. A barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico, off the southwest coast of Florida, Captiva Island is a magical setting and the perfect starting point for any vacation. From here, we take you beyond the shore, visiting other barrier islands and introducing you the breathtaking views and abundant wildlife on the water in Pine Island Sound. Embark on a day cruise departing from McCarthy’s Marina on Captiva Island to the destination or activity of your choice.

Experienced and Knowledgeable Captains

Our experienced USCG Certified captains provide a safe, fun and enjoyable experience for all passengers.

Whatever your age or background, you’ll find they take a personal approach to ensuring your enjoyment. They know the local waterways like the back of their hands, and they are a wealth of knowledge about local history, wildlife, weather and more. The best tour guides on the islands, they contribute their local perspective and passion with the utmost professionalism. Most importantly, they truly care about each and every guest!

Adventure Tips

Arrive early for the best shelling finds

Getting to the island early means fewer crowds and more shells left behind.

Wear sun protection

Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to stay comfortable in the Florida sun.

Bring water and snacks

Pack refreshments to stay energized for shelling and exploring.

Respect the wildlife and shoreline

Keep a safe distance from animals and avoid disturbing nests or shells in sensitive areas.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • brown pelicans
  • bottlenose dolphins

History

Cayo Costa was once inhabited by Native Americans and later served as a site for fishing communities before becoming a state park in 1970.

Conservation

The park emphasizes eco-conscious tourism, conserving the delicate shoreline, wetlands, and native flora and fauna.

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Adventure Hotspots in Fort Myers

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Sunscreen

Essential

Protects your skin during outdoor activities in the sunny Gulf Coast.

summer specific

Beach hat or cap

Essential

Provides shade and helps keep you cool during sun exposure.

summer specific

Waterproof footwear or sandals

Essential

Ideal for walking on sandy beaches and shell-strewn shores.

spring;summer;fall specific

Camera or smartphone with extra batteries

Capture the scenic views and unique shells you find.