Captiva Island is a small island in Florida.
Lesser known than its sister island, Sanibel Island, Captiva Island is a hidden gem of tropical paradise, fun activities, and breathtaking scenery.
Make sure to check out what the top Sanibel Island beach resorts and some of the best resorts in the world have to offer.
Are you wondering if Captiva Island is a good place to go for vacation?
During a trip to the island, you will find family-friendly activities like museums, bicycle trails, and renowned shelling, as well as a serene and secluded atmosphere perfect for romantic getaways, plus fun-filled recreation that groups of friends will thoroughly enjoy, such as kayaking, parasailing, and boat charters.
Need help finding the perfect place to stay while visiting Florida? Why not check out the all inclusive Florida resorts, and the best Florida beach resorts for family & friends!
Moreover, Captiva Island has fantastic fishing, whether you are trying your luck from a boat or the shore.
In fact, you’ll find that Captiva Island has plenty of fishing guides and charters to get you out on the water, catching species like mackerel, grouper, and redfish.
Also attracting visitors to the island is a traditional sense of warm hospitality, reflected by the resorts that combine a casual vibe with elegant surroundings.
Discover a spectacular oasis and choose the right home away from home with the list below of the best Captiva Island Resorts.
1. South Seas Island Resort
Rating: 4.2★
Hotel class rating: 4-star
Address: 5400 Plantation Road, Captiva, FL 33924
- EV charging stations
- Tennis courts
- Hot tub
- Kitchens available
Why you should go: Escape to paradise at South Seas Island Resort.
During your stay at the 330-acre property, you will find pristine beaches, native wildlife, and luxurious amenities.
What’s more, the resort will ensure you are thoroughly entertained with special events and activities.
Amenities and things to do: Not only does South Seas Island Resort provide a comfortable stay, but also on hand are numerous fun things to do.
Would you like to explore all the different watersports on Captiva Island?
At South Seas Island Resort, you’ll have the opportunity to go kayaking through mangrove forests, parasail over the ocean waters, and feel the thrill of a Wave runner, as well as go paddleboarding and rent a pontoon or beach float.
Additionally, the resort offers everything you need for a day of fishing.
Go shelling with your kids along the beach, take a Scout About tour, or relax poolside while your children enjoy the waterslides.
Moreover, couples who are looking for romantic Captiva Island resorts will be pleased with the couples massage available at the resort’s spa, in addition to intimate sunset cruises.
In addition to romantic cruises, you’ll also find boat tours that include sailing lessons, fishing adventures, and dolphin-watching.
Rent a bicycle or golf cart and explore before participating in fascinating resort events.
In particular, you can learn about the shells of Florida, make crafts, and much more.
For a workout, head to the fitness center or spend some time on the exercise trail.
Alternatively, you can attend a yoga session on the beach,
Once you’ve had a full day of fun, enjoy fresh seafood for dinner and retire to retire to lounge in your guest room, villa, or rental home.
- Website: https://www.southseas.com/
2. ‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa
Rating: 4.4★
Hotel class rating: 3-star
Address: 15951 Captiva Drive, Captiva, FL 33924
- Fitness center
- Poolside bar
- Pet-friendly
- Kitchens and kitchenettes available
Why you should go: Named for its location “between” the beach and bay, ‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa is a paradise of tropical beauty and fun-filled times.
With breathtaking views, the resort accommodations are spacious and stylish, with choices including cottages, studios, suites, and guest rooms.
Also available at the resort are relaxing amenities to keep your vacation laid-back and worry-free.
Amenities and things to do: Spend your days on the beach with direct access to the soft white sand.
While at the beach, you’ll be able to enjoy full beach service while lounging on a chair beneath an umbrella.
For some more active things to do, you won’t have to look far.
Play a game of tennis or pickleball, go for a swim in one of the 2 pools, and take a complimentary bicycle out for a ride, as well as go on a kayak or paddleboard tour.
Additionally, you can take a sightseeing or shelling tour to Cabbage Key or Cayo Costa.
Would you like to go fishing on Captiva Island?
During your stay at ‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa, you can charter a fishing trip with one of several guides and try your hand at catching species like snapper, sea trout, or redfish while exploring the waterways of the area and even getting a customized fishing lesson for your kids.
Once you’re ready for some downtime, head to the spa or unwind with an in-room treatment.
Afterward, soak your muscles in one of the hot tubs or go shopping at the marina retail store.
You and your family can also enjoy a picnic lunch or dinner after grilling up a meal at the barbecue facilities.
Alternatively, visit one of the resort’s restaurants and sample fresh seafood and tropical cocktails that place ‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa among the Captiva Island resorts with the best food.
- Website: https://tween-waters.com/
3. Jensen’s Twin Palm Cottages & Marina
Rating: 4.7★
Address: 15107 Captiva Drive, Captiva, FL 33924
- Private fishing dock
- Tiki huts
- Special boat rental discounts
Why you should go: Jensen’s Twin Palm Cottages & Marina provides a getaway that will allow you to enjoy all that Captiva Island has to offer.
Are you searching for a great marina on Captiva Island?
The marina at Jensen’s Twin Palm Cottages & Marina is an excellent spot with 35 wet slips for you to dock your boat, as well as plenty of boat rental options, as well as fishing charters, a water taxi, and boat tours.
Amenities and things to do: Wake up in your historic cottage rental and prepare breakfast in your kitchen before dining on the lanai or balcony.
Afterward, head out on the water with a kayak, lounge on the beach, or take a tour of the resort’s fishing museum.
During your day, you’ll have the opportunity to view manatees, shop for souvenirs, or take a quiet stroll along the dock.
As you spend time at the resort, you’ll learn about its storied history, which includes visits from the likes of Danny Devito, Kevin Costner, and John F. Kennedy Jr.
For dinner or lunch, take advantage of the picnic area and barbecue facilities.
Once you’re ready to call it a day, return to your nautical-themed cottage with views of the sun setting over the water.
- Website: https://jensensmarina.com/
4. Jensen’s “On the Gulf”
Rating: 4.5★
Address: 15300 Captiva Drive, Captiva, FL 33924
- Kitchens available
- Picnic area
Why you should go: The sister resort to Jensen’s Twin Palm Cottages & Marina, Jensen’s “On the Gulf” is a boutique inn nestled on the beach.
The secluded property is a fantastic spot for anyone looking for resorts in Captiva Island for couples, with private suites and tropical surroundings.
What’s more, the elegant accommodations each have pristine scenic views of the beach.
Amenities and things to do: With the beach right at your doorstep, you can easily take a tranquil walk along the shoreline and do some shelling.
Lounge on the beach under an umbrella or do some fishing along the coastline.
Looking for one of the best locations to stay at on Captiva Island?
Jensen’s “On the Gulf” is just a quick walk away from high-end restaurants, art galleries, and a spectacular shell museum, as well as marinas and access to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
At the end of the day, enjoy the sunset from your private balcony or lanai.
- Website: https://www.gocaptiva.com/
5. Captiva Island Inn
Rating: 4.2★
Hotel class rating: 3-star
Address: 11508 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva, FL 33924
- Pet-friendly
- Vacation home rentals available
- Kitchens available
Why you should go: Captiva Island Inn offers colorful and charming accommodations that include cottages, villas, and suites.
What’s more, the destination is perfect for finding fun things to do, being one of the Captiva Island resorts in a prime location.
During your stay, you’ll find a casual atmosphere, warm hospitality, and a home away from home.
Amenities and things to do: Begin your day with a cup of coffee on your private lanai or balcony.
Head to the beach and soak up some sun or take a dip in the outdoor pool.
Once you’re ready to explore, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained.
Take a sailing lesson while catching sight of manatees or dolphins, take a guided wave runner tour, or soar above the waters while parasailing.
For landlubbers, there is a multitude of activities like shelling, as well as exploring by scooter, bicycle, or golf cart.
In the evening, discover numerous restaurants just a short stroll from the resort.
Particularly, you will find eateries that range from alfresco dining and live music to cantinas servicing Mexican cuisine.
Moreover, you’ll find a festive atmosphere at The Key Lime Bistro, where you can dance the night away to live music.
- Website: https://captivaislandinn.com/
Resorts to Consider Near Captiva Island:
6. The Island Club at North Captiva
Rating: 4.5★
Address: 4421 Bartlett Parkway, Captiva, FL 33924
- Hot tub
- Tennis court
Why you should go: Located on North Captiva Island, The Island Club at North Captiva offers large vacation beach homes that ensure privacy and solitude.
Additionally, the resort provides club amenities that will keep you and your companions entertained.
Amenities and things to do: Wake up surrounded by the lush vegetation of North Captiva Island and fix breakfast in your full kitchen.
Afterward, take your personal golf cart to the marina for a stroll along the water or some fishing.
Alternatively, you can take a private ferry to Pine Island and do some exploring or head to the beach and lounge in the sun.
For dinner, head to Mangos, where you will find casual cuisine by the pool, as well as tropical drinks.
- Website: https://northcaptiva.com/
7. West Wind Island Resort
Rating: 4.3★
Hotel class rating: 3-star
Address: 3345 W Gulf Drive, Sanibel, FL 33957
- Sister resort to ‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa
- Gift shop
- Barbecue facilities
Why you should go: Approximately 20 minutes from Captiva Island, West Wind Island Resort offers unique amenities.
Moreover, the resort includes a private beach, spacious accommodations, and superb dining.
Amenities and things to do: Start your vacation off by unwinding with a book on the beach or a leisurely swim in the heated pool.
If you’re in the mood to explore, head out on the water with a complimentary paddleboard or rent a bicycle.
Do you want to play some golf near Captiva Island?
While a guest of West Wind Island Resort, you’ll be pleased with discounts at Dunes Golf & Tennis Club, where you can play on an 18-hole championship course catering to all skill levels, take a lesson, and dine at the clubhouse, as well as play a game of tennis or pickleball.
In the evening, dine at the resort’s Normandie Seaside Café and enjoy tropical cuisine, followed by poolside drinks at the Upper Deck Pool Bar.
Lastly, retire to your private balcony or patio to unwind and relax.
- Website: https://westwindislandresort.com/
8. Island Inn
Rating: 4.6★
Hotel class rating: 3-star
Address: 3111 W Gulf Drive, Sanibel, FL 33957
- Kitchens and kitchenettes available
- Private beach
Why you should go: For a family vacation, Island Inn on Sanibel Island is a great choice, with fun activities both you and your kids will love.
Additionally, the resort brings you directly to the breathtaking golden beaches of the island and is located only 20 minutes from Captiva Island.
Amenities and things to do: Rent a bicycle and enjoy a tropical morning as you explore.
Once you’re ready for some lunch, head to the barbecue facilities and have a relaxed family picnic.
In the afternoon, you’ll have plenty of options for entertainment, whether you choose to lounge on the beach, go shelling, or head out on the water with a kayak or paddleboard.
Once you’ve had a full day of fun, return to your guest room or suite.
While there, you can sip a cold drink and unwind on your private balcony.
- Website: https://islandinnsanibel.com/