How to Enjoy a Visit to Captiva Island

Life on Captiva is relaxed, even for the birds!

If your idea of the perfect getaway features lots of fun in the sun in a friendly, laid-back atmosphere, pack your bags and head for Captiva Island. Located just north of Sanibel Island in the Gulf of Mexico, this gorgeous island is a scenic spot with beautiful beaches, pristine nature and fun activities for you and your family. Winter's a great time to visit this tropical Florida paradise, but Captiva is also a lovely and affordable destination in the off-season.

Instructions

1. Rent a bike--anything from a single-speed cruiser to the latest high-tech model--and pedal around the island. There are dedicated bike/pedestrian paths that keep you separate from the car traffic. Most resorts have bike rentals on the premises. Or for something different, rent a motor scooter to explore the area.

2. Drive or stroll around the island and delight in the scenery and colorful communities nestled along the Gulf. Head into downtown Captiva and take a walk along Andy Rosse Lane. You'll see adorable fishing cottages, guest houses and a variety of cozy inns. There is also terrific shopping on this tiny barrier island, and you can enjoy gourmet meals at relatively reasonable prices.

3. Take in the scene aboard a kayak. There are several kayak tours of the area and kayak instructions are also available. The easiest way to get information is to call Sanibel Sea Kayak Wildlife Tours & Adventure at [phone]. Another option would be to put on your snorkel mask and get an up-close look at undersea life.

4. Enjoy Captiva's award-winning beaches. Have some fun collecting shells, swimming, windsurfing, indulging in some diving or just relaxing by the water. Captiva is celebrated for its year-round sunny weather. The deep-blue waters and soaring palm trees will charm you, and in the evening, you're guaranteed a glorious sunset.

5. Get some big thrills sailing, windsurfing, jet skiing and canoeing at the harborside marinas around Captiva's resorts. You can also board a tour boat, rent a boat and do some fishing or take a nature tour to the all-natural Buck Key and learn more about Captiva's tropical environment. You'll find plenty of secluded spots to enjoy a pleasant afternoon. Captiva also offers some of the most interesting birds and natural Florida foliage. You'll spot Blue herons strutting on the beach and see lush vegetation disguising the island's residential areas. Don't leave the island without getting a peek at the past in the Captiva History House.

Tips & Warnings

• Getting to Sanibel and Captiva Islands is easy. You can arrive by boat or rent a car and drive across the causeway from Fort Myers. If you are flying to Florida, the easiest access is from Southwest Florida International Airport, located in Lee County, off Exit 21 on I-75, which provides direct access to the islands. It's about a 45-minute ride. This airport is served by just about all major airlines.