Matlacha Pass

Pine Island definitely lends a hand toward living in the moment, as there are no traffic lights or high-rises to be found anywhere on the island. Once you enter Island Time, you will find that no one is in a hurry. You’ve now become part of the largest island on the southwest Florida coastline. In fact, Pine Island, is easily one of the most cherished locations in southwest Florida. It would be a challenge to find a group of people who care more for one another than those who make up this 17-mile long, two-mile wide island space. Pine Island is a community made of tight-knit neighbors. In fact, many islanders, were at one point day trippers who stumbled upon this idyllic place and decided to make it their home. From the Matlacha (most “fishing-est”) Bridge to the tip of Bokeelia or Saint James City, you can fish, hunt for goodies, or relax and breathe in the salt air.

Old Florida is not only one of the catch-phrases that suits Pine Island but one of the things that makes it such an exceptional place. This once-upon-a-time, commercial fishing village, still boasts many marinas, where locals drop off or stop in to clean their daily catch. In Matlacha, boutiques and shops line the road with sights that are likely to fill your day. When you’ve shopped, examined, and studied the various artistic expressions of the locals, let them fill your belly with fresh shrimp, grouper, or trout. If education piques your interest, some of these destinations should top your list.

Whether you’re here to shop, eat, or play, from Matlacha to Bokeelia and Saint James City, Pine Island has something for everyone. Enjoy your visit to one of the most extraordinary finds in Southwest Florida!

PLACES TO GO

Randell Research Center

Visitors can tour this internationally significant site and learn about Calusa culture and their environment. The book store is now open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday-Saturday. The Calusa Heritage Trail was closed at press time due to the impacts of Hurricane Milton. Please call ahead to check on its status. Restrooms, book and gift shop, and classroom are open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guided tours are available by special request for family groups, with COVID protocols, dependent on guide availability. To request a guided tour, call the RRC.

More info: www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/rrc/ or 239-283-2157

Address: 13810 Waterfront Drive, Bokeelia

Museum of the Islands

Located in Pine Island Center, this little gem’s exhibits include shells, dolls, household items, and fishing artifacts. The museum is housed in a former library building. It opened in 1989. Museum hours are: May-October, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday 11 a.m.-3 p.m. November-April, Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and Sunday, 1-4 p.m.

More info: www.museumoftheislands.com or 239-283-1525

Address: 5728 Sesame Drive, Bokeelia

Pine Island Tropicals

This tropical plant nursery and outdoor farmers market specializes in organically grown plants and vegetables. Frequent visits to the nursery reveal the seasonality of the fruits and vegetables; therefore not all of the produce is available year round. They continually do research and development of different plant cultivars to further not only their education but enhance the wide varieties they offer.

More info: https://pineislandtropicals.com or 239-283-4874

Address: 12870 Stringfellow Road, Bokeelia

Gallery

If artwork is on your radar, you may enjoy a visit to what Pine Island has to offer:

Bokeelia Art Gallery: Hours are seasonal and subject to change. This unique Art Gallery set in beautiful Charlotte Harbor features many local painters, pottery, glass and jewelry.

More info: www.bokeeliaartgallery.com or 239-738-5280

Address: 8315 Main Street, Bokeelia

CABBAGE KEY

Only accessible by boat, this 100-acre island proudly features the well-known Cabbage Key open air restaurant with its “dollar bill bar” if you’re in the mood for a bite, or an historic inn and rental cottages for those who plan a longer stay than the average day-tripper. This is a great stop on your island-hopping tour, whether your interests are in fishing, reading with a water backdrop, or simply stopping for lunch.

More info: https://cabbagekey.com or 239-283-2278

Address: Channel Marker 60

USEPPA ISLAND

Located near the northern end of Pine Island Sound and currently the home of the private Useppa Island Club, this 100-acre, boat accessible, private island is a destination for many who have a desire for security as well as privacy. More info: www.useppa.com or 239-283-1061

Useppa Island Club is currently open to members and their accompanying guests. Members are welcome to visit the island, but there are some areas currently under construction and inaccessible.

CAYO COSTA

Cayo Costa State Park was significantly impacted by Hurricane Ian, and as a result, the park remains closed for repairs. Friends of Cayo Costa is proud to be actively supporting the rebuilding efforts and asks visitors to be patient as the state works to address all concerns.