Exploring North Captiva on a day trip from Fort Myers Beach offers a blend of scenic waters, relaxing resort amenities, and island adventures. Priced at $109.95 per person, this 6-hour boat tour departs from Moss Marina and takes you past iconic landmarks like the Sanibel Lighthouse and through Pine Island Sound. The tour includes a full day of exploration, with roughly three hours on the island to relax, dine, and rent bikes or golf carts for an even closer look at this tropical paradise. It’s an ideal outing for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a mix of scenery and leisure.

The tour’s highlights include cruising past scenic sights, access to the Island Club’s amenities, and ample time for shelling beaches. It’s worth noting that the tour can be affected by weather, with a full refund or rescheduling offered in case of poor conditions. The tour is conveniently designed with a mobile ticket and is best suited for those comfortable with a moderate boat ride and a few hours of island exploration.

Key Points

6-hour boat tour from Fort Myers Beach to North Captiva with scenic cruising
Price of $109.95 per person includes water, soda, and restroom access
Approximately 3 hours on North Captiva for shelling, dining, and renting bikes or golf carts
Cruises past the Sanibel Lighthouse and through Pine Island Sound, with dolphin and manatee sightings
Access to Island Club amenities: pool, hot tub, and showers
Begin at Moss Marina at 9:30 AM with a return to the same point

Scenic Departure from Moss Marina to North Captiva

The tour begins at 450 Harbor Ct, Fort Myers Beach, with departure at 9:30 AM. The boat cruise takes about an hour each way, passing Sanibel Lighthouse — a classic sight for visitors to Southwest Florida. As the boat crosses under the Sanibel Causeway and enters Pine Island Sound, travelers are treated to views of playful dolphins and, often, manatees. The waters here are calm and filled with marine life, offering a peaceful yet lively start to the day.

The cruise is designed for comfort, with water and soda available onboard, and a restroom on the boat. Group size is capped at 40 passengers, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of space to enjoy the scenery. The route also includes a pass by Captiva Island and the narrow Redfish Pass, separating the two islands. This journey provides a memorable prelude to the island experience.

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Arriving at North Captiva Island and Its Unique Features

Once on North Captiva, the focus shifts to relaxation and exploration. The Island Club offers access to amenities such as a pool, hot tub, and showers, making it easy to unwind after time on the beaches. These facilities are included in the tour, giving visitors a resort-like experience without extra charge.

The island itself boasts shelling beaches where collecting shells is a favorite activity. With approximately three hours available, visitors can enjoy walking along the sands, taking in the tropical scenery, or just relaxing in the sun. The Mangos Bar & Grill provides a convenient spot to purchase a meal, offering a casual dining option amidst the island’s natural beauty.

For those seeking a more active exploration, rental options are available, including bicycles for $15 per person and golf carts. These rentals allow for a personalized tour of the island’s nooks and beaches, perfect for discovering hidden spots or simply enjoying the tropical surroundings at your own pace.

The Shelling Beaches and Their Appeal

The beaches on North Captiva are renowned for their shelling opportunities. Visitors can spend time walking along the shoreline searching for unique shells and marine treasures. The beaches are typically quiet, with soft sands and clear waters, ideal for families or anyone wanting a peaceful escape.

The tour provides about three hours on the island, giving ample time to explore these shelling spots, take photos, or just relax. The beaches are well-suited for a laid-back experience and offer stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. This part of the tour appeals especially to those who enjoy beachcombing and appreciating natural coastal beauty.

Dining Options at Mangos Bar & Grill

During the time on North Captiva, guests may choose to dine at Mangos Bar & Grill. The restaurant offers the convenience of purchasing food and drinks during the visit. While lunch is not included in the tour price, the availability of on-island dining makes it easy to enjoy a casual meal amidst the tropical scenery.

The restaurant’s location provides a scenic backdrop to your meal, with views overlooking the water. This relaxed setting complements the island’s tranquil vibe, making it an ideal spot to unwind after shelling or beach walks.

Renting Bikes and Golf Carts for Island Exploration

For a more personalized experience, the tour offers bike rentals for $15 per person and golf cart rentals. These options allow visitors to explore the island at their own pace, visiting less accessible beaches or discovering charming island spots. Renting a golf cart is especially popular, as it offers an easy way to see more of North Captiva’s scenic areas without extensive walking.

This flexibility turns a simple beach day into a mini adventure, with the ability to create your own itinerary across the island’s varied landscapes. It caters to those who want to combine relaxation with some easy exploration.

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The Return Cruise and Scenic Views

The return trip from North Captiva departs around the three-hour mark after arrival, giving plenty of time for a relaxed experience on the island. The cruise back offers more opportunities for marine sightings, with the chance to see dolphins and manatees again in Pine Island Sound.

The boat ride also provides beautiful views of the setting sun or changing skies, depending on the time of day. The entire experience is designed to balance scenic cruising with peaceful leisure on the island, making it perfect for a half-day escape from Fort Myers Beach.

Practical Details and Booking Considerations

This tour includes landing and facility fees, with no additional admission charges for the island or amenities. Guests should be aware of a parking fee of $10 per booking and plan accordingly. Since the tour is weather-dependent, a full refund or rescheduling is available if poor weather cancels the trip.

Booking approximately 39 days in advance ensures availability, especially during peak seasons. The tour’s flexible cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

Ideal for Families and Nature Enthusiasts

This excursion suits those seeking a gentle, scenic day trip filled with marine wildlife, beachcombing, and optional island rentals. It’s accessible for most travelers, with the only notable requirement being comfort with a boat ride and walking or biking on the island. The full access to resort amenities and relaxed pace make it a rewarding choice for families and nature lovers alike.

North Captiva Island Club Day Excursion: An Authentic Slice of Tropical Paradise

The North Captiva Island Club Day Excursion offers an honest and practical way to experience a beautiful corner of Southwest Florida. Combining a scenic boat cruise with full access to resort amenities and ample beach time, it balances adventure and relaxation. The tour’s highlights — from cruising past the Sanibel Lighthouse to shelling on the quiet beaches — make it a memorable day out.

While weather can impact plans, the flexible policy offers reassurance. The option to rent bikes or golf carts adds a personal touch, allowing guests to craft their own island adventure. This tour provides great value for the price, especially for families or those wanting a mix of scenic views and leisurely exploration.

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North Captiva, Island Club Day Excursion From Fort Myers Beach

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the departure time for the tour?
The tour departs from Moss Marina at 9:30 AM.

How long is the boat cruise?
The entire outing lasts 6 hours, with about 3 hours spent on North Captiva.

What amenities are available at the island?
Guests have access to the pool, hot tub, and showers at the Island Club.

Are food and drinks included?
No, lunch is available for purchase at Mango’s Bar & Grill, and adult beverages are also available to buy on the island.

What activities can I do on North Captiva?
You can explore the beaches, go shelling, dine at Mango’s, or rent bicycles and golf carts.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is appropriate for most travelers, including families, as long as they are comfortable with a boat ride and walking or biking on the island.

How much does parking cost?
Parking at Moss Marina costs $10 per booking.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is poor?
Yes, full refunds or rescheduling are available if the trip is canceled due to bad weather.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers boat transportation, water and soda, restroom access, and landing and facility fees.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 39 days in advance is recommended, especially during busy seasons.

This North Captiva Island day trip offers a well-rounded day of scenic cruising, island relaxation, and optional exploration. It’s a practical choice for those wanting a taste of tropical Florida’s natural beauty with the convenience of resort amenities.