Pine Island

Just 30 minutes west of Fort Myers, Pine Island, Southwest Florida’s largest barrier island, has the small-town feel of an Old Florida fishing village, offering visitors a respite from the busy mainland and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation.

With the waters of Pine Island Sound to the west, Charlotte Harbor to the north, and Matlacha Pass to the east, boating and water activities are all around, and Pine Island’s rugged makeup and coastline of mangroves mean that boating, fishing, and paddling take center stage. As you explore the island, you’ll pass farms growing a variety of crops, including vegetables, tropical fruits, sugar cane, and coconuts, and the local Outdoor Island Market features local growers.

During your stay, be sure to check out the Museum of the Islands, Randell Research Center, and Calusa Heritage Trail, which all offer a glimpse into the island’s history. Take the ferry four nautical miles to the east to reach Cayo Costa, which is only accessible by boat. There, you can sunbathe on the pristine white-sand beaches, paddle, swim, and look for shells and shark teeth.

When it’s time to eat, Tarpon Lodge offers fine dining with a sunset water view and Street Eatz & Ale serves cold beer and casual, fresh seafood and sandwiches.

Plan your trip at Visit Fort Myers.

BEACHES

Take a ferry to the unspoiled beaches of nearby Cayo Costa.

• Cayo Costa

WATERWAYS

The waters around Pine Island include Pine Island Sound and Charlotte Harbor.

• Pine Island Sound
• Matlacha Pass
• Charlotte Harbor

FAMILY FUN

Spot dolphins on a boat tour and look for shells and shark teeth on Cayo Costa.

• Sightseeing boat tours
• Cayo Costa activities

MUSEUMS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Tour the museum and learn about the island’s history, check out local art, and go to the research center to see shell mounds left by the Calusa Indians.

• Museum of the Islands
• Randell Research Center
• Calusa Heritage Trail
• Bokeelia Art Gallery
• Stone Crab Festival

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Hike, bike, kayak, and take a boat ride around Pine Island.

• Boat tours, kayak rentals, and bike rentals
• Galt Preserve
• Calusa Island Preserve
• Pineland Monument Park
• Matlacha Park
• More parks and nature

DINING

Find fresh seafood, casual eats, sweet treats, and boat-in dining on Pine Island.

• Places to eat

SHOPPING

Browse local arts, clothing, fresh produce, and gifts at Pine Island stores.

• Places to shop

PLACES TO STAY

Book a stay at a Pine Island inn, lodge, cottage, or campground.

• Places to stay