Pine Island
By PAULETTE LeBLANC
Locals know – Pine Island is a slice of old Florida and a dream for many people who count on quiet from the bustling city life with no traffic lights or high-rise buildings to get in the way of precious Island Time. Pine Island is one of the largest islands on the Southwest Florida coastline, and considered a gem, whether you’re visiting or you’re lucky enough to live here.
An island filled with musicians, fisher folk and artist , off-season gives locals an opportunity to browse the most amazing places to shop and eat and explore. All the way from Matlacha to Bokeelia and back to the other end of the island in Saint James city, Pine Island offers the most extraordinary finds that are also often unexpected.
PLACES TO GO
THINGS TO DO
Fantastic Fishing, Dining and Exploring
• Enjoy some island fare at Miceli’s Restaurant at 3930 Pine Island Road in Matlacha. Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays with live music overlooking the water on the back lanai.
• Captain Cathy Boat Tours also launches from Miceli’s restaurant. She is a boat captain with more than 30 years of experience navigating the waters through Matlacha Pass. To book one of her tours call 239-994-2572.
• The Perfect Cup, 4548 Pine Island Road, Matlacha. This low-key cafe open daily from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. is the perfect meeting place for friends to have breakfast and lunch, or simply enjoy a cup of coffee.
• Blue Dog Bar and Grill is an upbeat watering hole with plenty of fresh seafood. Owners John Lynch and Jesse Tincher are ready to welcome all of their neighbors, saying, “Please come eat in support of their loyal staff, as well as local commercial fishermen.” They are at 4597 Pine Island Road in Matlacha. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 11a.m. to 9 p.m.
• The Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce welcome center is at 10530 Stringfellow Road. Daycationing in your own backyard? Chamber officials can point you in the right direction no matter what you’re looking for.
• If you’re a history buff, you can get an education on fascinating local Pine Island history at Museum of the Islands (MOTI) at 5728 Sesame Drive in Bokeelia. Open Tuesday and Saturday from 11a.m. to 3 p.m. According to the museum curator, Vickie Duflo, MOTI has many new exhibits on display. For inquiries call 239-283-1525.
• Koucky Studios, at 5971 Bay point Road in Bokeelia offers an array of original designs by local artisan Chuck Koucky, including both acoustic and electric cigar box guitars and ukuleles for sale, as well as original horsehair, raku and stoneware pottery. To visit Koucky Studios call Chuck or Nancy Koucky at 239-410-2852.
• Randell Research Center, 239-283-2157, at 13810 Waterfront Drive in Bokeelia. According to operations manager, Annisa Karim, for safety reasons, there will be limited access to the trail, however people will be able to access the first 1,000 feet. There will also be guided tours and harbor history tours, she said, recommending guests check posted schedules. If you’d like to help in the on-going recovery process, Karim said, they are currently taking applications for volunteers and since the cost of rebuilding will be immense, donations are gladly accepted.
Tarpon lodge and Cabbage Key
For those of us who call Pine Island home, a staycation can be pretty nice. If that is what you are in the mood for, Tarpon Lodge may be just the place! The staff promises to welcome you to a piece of Pine Island paradise and they will take such good care of you that you’ll not easily forget your visit. Tarpon Lodge is the Pineland Marina, where, by boat, the islands of Cabbage Key, Useppa and the spectacular beaches of Cayo Costa are just a splash away! Whether you’d like to day-trip, sitting by the pool with a drink in your hand or take them up on accommodations, they are ready for your call 239-283-3999 or you can make a reservation on their website.
More info: www.tarponlodge.com.
Address: 13771 Waterfront Dr., Bokeelia, FL 33922
Sister property of Tarpon Lodge is Cabbage Key, also on Pine Island sound. You can get a room, or simply enjoy dining, and recreation for the day. Call to find out what events are planned today! 239-283-2278 Cabbage Key boasts 100 acres of tropical vegetation surrounding their historic restaurant inn and rental cottages. There are no roads or cars to be found on the island, just winding nature trails and picture perfect views by which you can relax.
Cayo Costa State Park
The beach facing the Gulf of Mexico at Cayo Costa State Park is open daily, 8 a.m. to sunset for those with private vessels. Ferry services, docks, electricity, drinking water and overnight accommodations are not available. Access to the island is not available from Pelican Bay. Restrooms are available on the gulf side of the island. Please adhere to all posted signs and avoid closed areas.
Useppa Island
Located near the northern end of Pine Island sound and currently the home of the private Useppa Island club, this lOO-acre, boat- accessible private island is a destination for many who have a desire for security as well as privacy.
For more information visit www.useppa.com or call 239-283-1061. Useppa Island Club is currently open to members and their accompanying guests.