Along the way you can see many species of birds, including several rare and endangered, that visit our island in the spring and fall, during their migratory journeys. Enjoy a leisurely walk on our nature trails, which meander through our beautiful barrier island. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park. The island contains unique tropical vegetation . Paynes Creek Historic State Park Enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the pristine, blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The park is accessible only by private boat or ferry. The island sits immediately south of Boca Grande and to the north of North Captiva Island, some 20 kilometers west of Cape Coral. Born in the Canary Islands, Padilla became a U.S. citizen in 1862, while a resident of Key West. Cayo Costa State Park is a unique island with a rich history of old Florida. Anclote Key Preserve State Park But if you are looking for a little more comfort, you can also rent a wooden hut with beds. Each cabin is a one room style with 3 bunk beds, a table and a porch, but no electricity or water. Accessible only by boat or kayak, this former fishing ground of the Calusa Indians features 9 miles of undeveloped shoreline for swimming, snorkeling, shelling, fishing, bird-watching and exploration along with several walking and bicycling trails through the islands interior. Located in the day-use area, our amphitheater provides a centralized location for our interpretive programs. Lee County Public Library System Pine Island Public Library: 6.3 miles: Boca Grande Lighthouse: 8.1 miles: Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park [9], Another species found on the island is the common raccoon (Procyon lotor). Cayo Costa State Park is an island with nine miles of beautiful beach, acres of pine forests, an abundance and variety of sea shells, more than six miles of biking and hiking trails and is only accessible by boat. Big Lagoon State Park Enjoy a leisurely bike ride on our trails, which meander through our beautiful barrier island. Separated from the mainland by Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound, this island is part of a chain of Gulf Coast barrier islands. Cayo Costa State Park protects the Charlotte Harbor Estuary and provides visitors with a majestic piece of untouched Florida. All Rights Reserved, LOOK TO THE STARS! Amelia Island State Park Is the water in the restrooms potable? Bring the whole family for an afternoon of fun. Cayo Costa Island is one of a chain of barrier islands that shelter Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound. Fort Mose Historic State Park [16] This plant can grow up to fifty feet tall, and is often found close to the ocean because it is relatively salt-tolerant.[16]. Samantha is a self-proclaimed "water bug" who spends her time enjoying the coastal environment at Cayo Costa State Park. It is accessible only by boat and is served by a public ferry from nearby Pine Island. Jonathan Dickinson State Park Waccasassa Bay Preserve State Park An outdoor grill is provided and restrooms are a short walk away. The majority of our 572 sea turtle nests had already hatched before the storm. They are a small white heron with long, slender black legs and yellow feet. [14], The Eastern Coachwhip (Masticophis flagellum flagellum) is a docile and flighty snake that can be found all around the island. Caladesi Island State Park On the island, visitors can swim or snorkel in the surf, enjoy the sun, and picnic in the shade. Cayo Costa is a popular destination for local boaters, shell collectors, and fisher- folk. Cabbage Key. Crystal River Preserve State Park The speed limit in the school zone is 20 mph and is heavily patrolled by the sheriff. Because of this road, it takes about 45 minutes longer to reach the marina on Pine Island than Punta Gorda. Potable water is also available at the restrooms. All rights reserved. For ferry information and reservations call (239) 283-0015, located at Pineland Marina, 13921 Waterfront Drive, Pineland, Florida 33945, due East of Cayo Costa and West of Cape Coral and N. Ft. Meyers. Popular attractions McCarthy's Marina and Jungle Drums are located nearby. Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park We found amazing shells and sand dollars. Fees Admission $2 per person. This organism blooms in cycles, so it isnt present at all times so check the red tide forecast from Florida Wildlife to see if it might be a problem during your trip. Best to visit during the week depending upon why you are visiting. Egmont Key State Park Dunedin FL 34698, Contact the Statewide Information Line: Fort Pierce Inlet State Park Copyright document.write(new Date().getFullYear()) Boca Beacon. There is no direct connection from Fort Myers to Cayo Costa State Park. Stay at this 4-star spa hotel in Cape Coral. Skyway Fishing Pier State Park 37 Cayo Costa State Park Premium High Res Photos Browse 37 cayo costa state park stock photos and images available, or search for boca grande or dry tortugas national park to find more great stock photos and pictures. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. 95% of travelers recommend this experience. San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Accessible only by passenger ferry or private boat. Florida state parks are open between 8 AM and sundown every day of the year, including holidays. Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park Nature lovers will enjoy seeing the wide variety of birds, plants, and of course shells. Select any campsite icon to see a detailed description of the individual campsite and what it has to offer. Cedar Key Museum State Park They have basic sit-on-top kayaks. The park contains nine miles (14 km) of soft white sandy beaches and 2,506 acres (10 km 2) of pine forests, oak-palm hammocks, and mangrove swamps. There is only one boat making this run which goes from Pine Island Cayo Costa Cabbage Key Cayo Costa Pine Island Cayo Costa. Your email address will not be published. Koreshan State Park Keep your spirits up and your hands clean. This let us leave after breakfast instead of 5:00 am for either of the other two shuttles. Enjoy WiFi, an in-room DVD player, and barbecue grills. Correct change is required. For those camping for first time prepare for bugs, wind and rain as it is rustic camping with running water and flush toilets. There are 2 ways to get from West Palm Beach to Cayo Costa State Park by bus Select an option below to see step-by-step directions and to compare ticket prices and travel times in Rome2rio's travel planner. [12], Snowy egrets (Egretta thula) can be found on the island. We went up to the store about 10 am and rented bikes easily. Hillsborough River State Park 26.6775266351727-82.2373008728027 13 satellite. Each cabin is furnished with three bunk beds and a table. They crawled over our tents in the night and they chewed anything and everything. As we'd chosen Cape Coral for boating, we decided to take the opportunity to visit the Cayo Costa State Park which is only accessible by your own boat or ferry. [15], Seagrape (Coccoloba uvifera) is found at Cayo Costa. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park John D. MacArthur Beach State Park Parking is $5, but there is also a $6 toll to cross over to Captiva Island. Cayo Costa State Park on La Costa Island is lined with undisturbed, pristine white beaches. Big Shoals State Park Length: 6.5 mile network of trails. Rainbow Springs near Dunnellon often is considered the most beautiful of the state's 33 first-magnitude springs . Temps were in the upper 50's and low 60's at night which was great for sleeping. What hotels are near Cayo Costa State Park? The only facilities that appear intact or in seemingly repairable condition are the ranger station, gift shop, bayside restroom and main gulfside restroom. Shelling Tours - Fort Myers Beach / Naples, Haunted History of Fort Myers Walking Tour, Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour, Everglades Day Safari from Fort Myers/Naples Area, Lovers Key Guided Eco Tour-Mangrove Estuary, Manatees and Mangrove Tunnels Small Group Kayak Tour, Dolphin Tours - Fort Myers Beach / Naples, Boca Grande Historical Society and Museum, Barbara Sumwalt Useppa Island Historical Museum. The burial markers that exist today are not representative of who is buried at Cayo Costa Cemetery. Cayo Costa State Park by boat. Indian Key Historic State Park View all hotels near Cayo Costa State Park on Tripadvisor, View all restaurants near Cayo Costa State Park on Tripadvisor, Hotels near Port Boca Grande Lighthouse Museum, Hotels near Boca Grande Historical Society and Museum, Hotels near Southwest Florida Regional Airport (RSW), Hotels near Charlotte County Airport (PGD), Motels near Charlotte County Airport (PGD), Motels near Southwest Florida Regional Airport (RSW), Adrenaline & Extreme Tours in Boca Grande, Port Boca Grande Lighthouse Museum: Tickets & Tours, 6-hour Snorkeling & Lunch Tour - Shared Tour, Small-Group Amalfi Coast Day Cruise from Positano, With Locals City Escape: Andorra PRIVATE Day Trip by PRIVATE Car, Cave Tubing at Nohoch Che' en Caves Reserve, Vampire's Lair Escape Room Game for Private Group, Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid Small Group Day Trip. 4.4/5 Wonderful! Go back to see more maps of Cayo Costa U.S. Maps The islands only store is shutdown due to COVID-19. It appears as if there had been an uptick in the number of day trippers visiting as there were 3 different ferry boats bring people in. It is well known among locals, who make jellies or wines from the grapes. The cabins are very primitive and do not have electricity or any other amenities. However, you can take the line 140 bus to Btwr Shops @ Bell Twr Shops Ave, take the line 30 bus to Agulinda Blvd @ Sw 38Th Ter, then take the travel to Cayo Costa State Park. Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Cayo Costa State Park: Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. [3], Tervio (Tariva, Toribio) Padilla, commonly known as "Captain Pappy", settled on Cayo Costa in the second half of the 19th century. Eden Gardens State Park Map. Pick up a Florida fishing license and spend some quality time surf fishing during your visit to Cayo Costa State Park. Yellow River Marsh Preserve State Park Surf fishing can yield catches of flounder, snook, trout, redfish, snapper, whiting, sheepshead and tarpon. Cayo Costa State Park Map - Park - Florida, United States - Mapcarta North America USA Florida Cayo Costa State Park Cayo Costa State Park is a state park in the U.S. state of Florida, on Cayo Costa, an island directly south of Boca Grande and just north of North Captiva Island, approximately 12 miles west of Cape Coral. Highlands Hammock State Park Recommended option Bus 3h 45m Take the bus from West Palm Beach to Ft Myers"Greyhound" $19 - $28 1 alternative option Video. Dennis has been a volunteer for over a decade and loves doing what he can to help others appreciate Cayo Costa as much as he does. RATS everywhere at night. Be forewarned! Blackwater River State Park Cayo Costa State Park is an island with nine miles of beautiful beach, acres of pine forests, an abundance and variety of sea shells, more than six miles of biking and hiking trails and is only accessible by boat. The trip runs from 9:00 to about 4:30, so its a little longer than the other tours to help accommodate the extended passage. (1,003 reviews) The island is remote and the only other option would have been to transport the deceased to the mainland. This is what Florida was like before the age of condos and airplanes. T.H. Rainbow Springs State Park Estero FL 33928, Offshore island Cayo Costa is nine miles of relatively quiet beaches, coastal shrub, and native trees and wildlife. Explore this beautiful remote island paradise and get a closer look at nature and wildlife. Silver Springs State Park Youll appreciate the rugged beauty of Cayo Costa State Park as you explore trails by foot or kayak. More than 95 percent of the island is owned by the State of Florida and reserved for park lands. Kayak rentals are offered through the parks gift shop. The parks webpage will navigate you to their site. Each one offers something a little different, which might sway your decision one way or the other. 4.8/5 Exceptional! On Saturday nights from October through May, there are slideshow programs for our overnight visitors. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Annual Entrance Passes can be purchased at all park ranger stations and museums. Northeast Florida bike trails could be the nation's best-kept cycling secret. Includes potable water at restroom locations. Camp Helen State Park 8a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. The downside, if you want to call it that, is that the cruise takes 2 hours to reach Cayo Costa and you only stay on shore for 2.5 hours. @ Clicking on the park map or selecting one of the camping area links just below the park map will allow you to see a map of the individual campsite locations. Or, browse all pet friendly campgrounds and RV resorts in Bokeelia if you're still looking. Anastasia State Park A lot of people had even anchored their boats to the beach and you couldn't go more than a few yards without stepping over someone's mooring line or under their fishing pole. The loggerhead turtle is found far more than the others, and the green turtle is a distant second. With primitive cabins, tent campsites, an old village to explore, and more than 6 miles of hiking trails meandering from the bayside mangrove forests to the oceanfront palms. Cayo Costa is in Lee County, in Southwest Florida, and best known as home to a state park. The park has the following available for purchase: ice, sun lotion, bug spray, T-shirts, hats, bird keys, shell keys, and postcards. They operate from one of two docks on Captiva Island so make sure you check which one you are supposed to leave from. Apparently, that was naive on my part. 91% of travelers recommend this experience. We made it to our first North American Travel Journalist Association (NATJA) conference, took our first, 2019 Bucket List Trips and the Stories Behind the List. Sleeves are 32.5" from back middle of neck and bottom seam to end of sleeve. Just back Walk is .7 miles and tram is timed to match ferrys. Ochlockonee River State Park Come for peace, beauty and relaxation. Copyright 2023, AmericasStateParks.org. [7], A variety of wildlife can be seen in Cayo Costa State Park. Dade Battlefield Historic State Park Haw Creek Preserve State Park Framed in forests of mangrove trees, the shell mounds and ridges of Mound Key rise more than 30 feet above the waters of Estero Bay. Even if you cant physically explore the world, we hope that you enjoy the escape our site provides. Once there, youll get a flavor of what Florida once was. Cayo Costa is one of the largest underdeveloped barrier islands remaining in Florida. The park is accessible only by private boat or ferry. Lovers Key State Park Discover shorebirds, manatees, dolphins, turtles, alligators as well as many native plants and flowers. Please use the honor box to pay fees. With 90% of the island claimed as a State Park, it is undeveloped. There was a small town feel to the place, plenty of space and privacy but also the opportunity to visit with other campers. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park Our 9 miles of beautiful beaches are excellent for sunbathing and collecting shells, contributing to the overall wonderful experience. If map below doesnt show be sure to refresh browser. FSP.Feedback@FloridaDEP.gov, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Encounter a staggering nine miles of untouched beaches. 0.74 mi Q u a r a n t i n e T r a i l Osprey Trail S c r u b T r a i l 0.79 mi G u l f B e . Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park, Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park, Constitution Convention Museum State Park, Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park, Dr. St. Marks River Preserve State Park Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park Required fields are marked *. $2per person. Things to Do in Cayo Costa State Park Is this home right up your alley? Padilla Family. The parks new ranger station has a gift shop where you can now purchase ice.snacks, drinks and basic camping supplies. King Fisher Fleet runs out of Punta Gorda, which is the northernmost ferry to Cayo Costa with easy access to I-75. You must bring your own snorkeling or scuba diving equipment plus any necessary certifications. They are centrally located to bathrooms and showers. I noticed it has changed over the years and now with the population boom in Florida, it is more crowed then in the past. Cayo Costa Island State Park is a barrier island on the gulf coast of Florida. CAYO COSTA STATE PARK - 109 Photos & 30 Reviews - Beaches - 4 Nautical Miles West Of Pine Islands, Cayo Costa, FL - Phone Number - Yelp Cayo Costa State Park 30 reviews Unclaimed Beaches, Parks Closed 8:00 AM - 6:30 PM See 114 photos Gasparilla Island State Park Bowman's Beach Turner Beach Port Charlotte Beach Swimming Pool Gulfside City Park A tram service is provided daily between 10 am and 4 pm to bring campers from the docks to the campground one mile away. Snorkeling at Cayo Costa located west of Ft Myers, Florida. The Half Day runs from 9:30 AM 1:00 PM and the full day runs from 9:30 AM 3:30 PM. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Your email address will not be published. PELICAN BAY ANCHORAGE - CAYO COSTA STATE PARK. Stump Pass Beach State Park The island has a lot to explore, my son and I left on a Friday and stayed until Sunday which came a lot quicker than we expected. Perdido Key State Park Here is a short YouTube video with some history on Ybor City Museum State Park: Americas Parks 2023-01-09T17:34:22-05:00 January 9th, . It was chilly the day we went (60's, but I am from Arizona so anything less than about 75 is cold to me!) Devils Millhopper Geological State Park This is the third time we have been to Cayo Costa and it never disappoints. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park This will not happen overnight, and will take years to rebuild the park and infrastructure for full visitor use. This place is only accessible by boat and while there are cabins for those who want to spend a few nights, we were just here for the afternoon. It is perhaps the best way to see Florida the way it was, before theme parks and boardwalks. Warm Mineral Springs Park's Spa Buildings and Cyclorama (below) (depicting Ponce de Leon's purported discovery of the Fountain of Youth) were constructed near the spring in 1959 to accommodate a . Closest private lot to the main path and beach.. The situation is horrible and I strongly recommend you reconsider camping overnight at this park. Bus operators. 98% of travelers recommend this experience. St. Andrews State Park Historically, Palatka's docks carried cattle, ceda, We expected a little climbing when we took the Pal, Any guesses why this place is called Green Springs, Blue Springs State Park might be best known as one, 2022 was an action-packed year with trips every mo, We finally made it to Amelia Island, and we have p, Concierge Guide to Northeast Florida Bike Trails and Cycling Routes, 11 Unforgettable Jordan Adventures of Biblical Proportions, the latest CDC recommendations for travelers, Reservations may be made up to 11 months in advance through. Welcome to the Cayo Costa google satellite map! Crystal River Archaeological State Park 7 0 obj <> endobj Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. Cayo Costa State Park lies along an island 2 miles south of Boca Grande. Charter a private cruise for you and the whole family or friends. hb``g``g``` Not the true gravel bikes but good enough for a comfortable 8 miles. On a barrier island that defines the south entrance to Charlotte Harbor, Cayo Costa State Park is a vacation destination in itself. At this 2,426 acre state park visitors can salt water fish, shell, bird watch, swim, snorkel, hike, and bike. Forest Capital Museum State Park This site has morning sun and afternoon shade. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. An unspoiled Gulf Coast island evokes images of wind-shaped trees, dunes, beaches and freedom to explore. hbbd```b``f `RDrWAc09DzIF`6y"59e@$ U DzMA A picnic pavilion, restroom facility, tables and grills are available on the island. Cayo Costa lies north of Sanibel and Captiva islands and is accessible only by private boat or ferry. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park Discover campgrounds like Cayo Costa State Park Campground Florida, find information like reviews, photos, number of RV and tent sites, open seasons, rates, facilities, and activities. Jan 22 - Jan 23. If you require immediate use of your pass, this is the best option. The park is accessible only by charter boat (with or without captain), private boat, ferry[1] or helicopter. Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park One can find true peace there. Cayo Costa State Park is located on the island of Cayo Costa, just offshore of mainland Florida , United States. Each cabin is conveniently located to the beach area and nature trails. If this drawbridge is up you could be delayed 15 30 minutes. Some of our staff will be reassigned or transferred to other parks temporarily, and the rest of us will be working hard to begin the recovery process. The Park View/download map Cayo Costa (Spanish for 'small coastal island') is an island gem that takes you back to the real Florida of 100 years ago. Saltwater anglers can fish from their boats or throw a line out into the surf. Cayo Costa State Park Up your game by getting a scooper and a bag. Hontoon Island State Park Experience the subtropical wilderness and expansive beaches on this secluded little island. Park staff and volunteers work hard to ensure the survival of these amazing creatures. Boat trip to Cayo Costa State Park. Wekiwa Springs State Park Manatees, porpoises, and a multitude of shorebirds are just a few of the wildlife you may observe during your visit. Madison Blue Spring State Park This beach is perfect for shelling, swimming, snorkeling, fishing, hiking, and sunbathing. [8] Cayo Costa State Park is a major nesting site for sea turtles in Florida.