North Captiva and Captiva Island

Question

Hi,

My family of 5 is traveling to North Captiva Island in couple weeks. I have made transportation arrangements from Fort Myers Airport with Pine Island taxi, stopping to pick up Fresh Pick Groceries and then the ferry to the island with either Island Girl or Boats and Fun.

After realizing how much it costs to get to the island I was thinking about our return trip to the airport and going back through Captiva to see other islands. We have never been here and have a 8pm flight so thought we'd have the day.

My thought was for Boats and fun to taxi us to Captiva with a drop off at McCarthy's marina. We would spend some time in shops/restaurants and then head to Tween Waters to check that out and depending on time get a day pass. I would then get a taxi (unsure of which company) to get to the airport.

I thought this would be good use of our time and $ for the return trip. Although I think this is a good plan it may not be and I am very open to suggestions!

Thank You!

Answer

Your plan for the return trip from North Captiva Island through Captiva is reasonable and a good way to maximize your day and experience more of the islands. Here’s a detailed breakdown and some suggestions:

Using Boats and Fun to taxi from North Captiva to Captiva and stopping at McCarthy’s Marina is a practical choice. McCarthy’s is a central hub with shops, art galleries, and restaurants, giving you a chance to stretch your legs, grab a bite, and enjoy the local atmosphere.

You can spend 1-2 hours at McCarthy’s Marina exploring boutiques, souvenir shops, and having a casual meal or snack. Many visitors enjoy casual seafood or key lime pie here.
If time permits, a short drive or golf cart rental can take you to nearby Captiva Village, which has charming streets, local galleries, and additional small restaurants.
Heading to Tween Waters is a good idea if you want a resort experience. They often offer day passes for beach access, pools, or dining, allowing you to relax before your ferry or taxi back.

For your taxi back to Fort Myers Airport from Captiva or Tween Waters, several local options exist:

Boats and Fun can sometimes arrange transfers back to the mainland. Confirm availability and pricing in advance.
Pine Island Taxi or other local taxi services can pick you up from Captiva Village or Tween Waters and drive you to the Fort Myers Airport. Make sure to book ahead, especially if your flight is at 8pm.
Consider leaving the island by early afternoon to account for ferry or taxi timing, traffic, and airport check-in.

Additional tips:

Bring sunscreen, water, and light snacks for your island-hopping day.
Keep your luggage stored safely at your rental on North Captiva or ask the ferry company if they can hold it while you explore Captiva.
Check ferry schedules carefully to avoid delays; the last return trips can fill up quickly during peak season.

Overall, your plan efficiently combines sightseeing, a bit of shopping and dining, and some leisure time at Tween Waters before heading back to catch your flight. It’s a great way to see multiple islands without feeling rushed, as long as you manage timing for the return journey.

North Captiva and Captiva Island

More North Captiva Island Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions