North Captiva Island
Beaches
North Captiva Island known for its pristine white beaches and some of the best shelling in the world
There are 5 miles of beautiful beaches to walk on North Captiva, two-thirds of which border a 700-acre state land preserve.
Enjoy walking for miles and not seeing any signs of civilization except the footprints you leave in the sand. Many rare, colorful shells can be found along the shoreline.
The closest beach to Tarpon Cove is called Dolphin beach. A distance of about 800 ft from Tarpon Cove to the beach. Here, you can place your seat in the sand and make yourself comfortable and enjoy the show. Dolphins show up everyday and they do not disappoint. These wild animals so close to shore is another reason that North Captiva Island is so special.
Or take the kayak out and enjoy a closer view. It’s an experience you’ll never forget. The other larger well known beach is on the South end of the island. There you will find a seemingly endless coastline of beaches home to sea life, plant life, various birds, along with turtles that make nests seasonally. Here you can also enjoy the vast array of shells to take home with you or get closer to the water to play in the surf, snorkel, or fish off the beach.
And once the sun goes down, your view of the sunset on the beach is incredible and can’t be missed. Watch the sun sink into the Gulf of Mexico and if you’re lucky you may even see a ‘green flash’ as it does.
Upper Captiva State Preserve
Almost two-thirds of Upper Captiva is a State Preserve. The nature trails in the state preserve are wonderful. The trails begin over at Windswept (corner of Panama Shell Dr. & Rum Road), and zig-zag to the beach. It’s about an hour and twenty minute walk down to the southernmost point of the Island. On your nature walk you will see the beauty of the island from flora and fauna to birdwatching, turtle-hatching, shelling, sharks and dolphin watching! Make sure to bring water, closed-toed shoes, bug-spray, and sunscreen on your walk. It’s advisable to begin your walk early in the morning when the sun is not as strong.