Cayo Costa State Park

Accessible only by passenger ferry or private boat, Cayo Costa State Park occupies most of an island situated in Pine Island Sound north of Sanibel and Captiva. An extraordinary illustration of the pristine barrier islands that once lined Florida's coastline, Cayo Costa enchants the visitor with its miles of unspoiled beaches. In the island's interior, six miles of hiking trails roam through acres of pine forests, oak and palm hammocks and mangrove swamps. Spectacular bird life will keep the naturalist content for hours, and the park offers programs on subjects as varied as sea turtles and Calusa Indians. The fishing in Pine Island Sound is renowned, particularly for tarpon, while snook, flounder, redfish, trout and sheepshead are also abundant.

For those looking to truly appreciate this island paradise, camping at Cayo Costa creates the aura of being shipwrecked on a deserted island. Nothing can compare with watching the sun set into the vast Gulf of Mexico, or the absolute stillness of an early morning walk along the beach. Thirty-five primitive tent camping sites are available, as well as six rustic cabins. Bring all supplies with you as nothing except drinking water is supplied in the camping area. Facilities are limited to cold showers, restrooms, picnic tables and grills.