10 Captiva Island Summer Bucket List Experiences in 2025
June 16, 2025
Welcome to Captiva Island, where summer unfolds not in hurried schedules, but in sun-drenched moments and the slow rhythm of the tide. Here at South Seas, we believe summer should be a chapter of effortless joy when your calendar is filled with beach walks instead of meetings, and your most important decision is whether to lounge by the pool or paddle toward adventure.
To help you make the most of your 2025 summer stay, we’ve curated a collection of iconic experiences, little luxuries, and memory-making moments that await you on the shores: our 2025 Captiva Island Summer Bucket List.
1. Set Sail into the Sunset
Yes, the sunsets here are every bit as magical as you’ve heard — like fiery brushstrokes across a watercolor sky. But viewing them from the deck of a boat on the Gulf? That’s an entirely different kind of magic. Step aboard a Wildlife Sunset Cruise from Captiva Cruises or reserve a private charter where you can raise a glass of something crisp and celebratory. Let the Gulf breeze remind you what summer should feel like. Dolphins make frequent cameos.
Reserve a Wildlife Sunset Cruise – Captiva Cruises
2. Spot a Dolphin
On Captiva Island, magical moments tend to arrive unannounced, and few are as unforgettable as your first dolphin sighting. These graceful marine mammals are commonly seen year-round, surfacing just offshore in playful arcs
At South Seas, you don’t need to travel far to catch a glimpse. In fact, you might spot one while floating in the Bayview Pools, strolling along Sunset Beach, or casting a line from the Bayview Fishing Pier.
For a closer look, consider reserving a private wildlife charter through Yacht Harbour Marina. Our seasoned local captains know where dolphins love to play. Or, join a Captiva Cruises Dolphin and Wildlife Cruise, where naturalists guide you through the surrounding waters while offering insights into the area’s thriving marine life.
Reserve a Private Wildlife Charter
Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise – Captiva Cruises
3. Paddle Through Mangrove Forests
Explore the pristine natural beauty surrounding Captiva such as Buck Key Preserve, located just beyond the resort’s edge. Whether you’re gliding by kayak or stand-up paddleboard, you’ll find yourself immersed in a hushed world of tangled mangroves, roseate spoonbills, and the occasional gentle manatee. It’s serene, it’s surreal, and yes — it’s perfectly acceptable to pretend you’re the star of your own nature documentary.
Kayaks and paddleboards are now available to rent for Club Captiva and registered South Seas Resort guests. Life vests are included with your rental in various youth and adult sizes.
Reserve Kayaks and Paddleboards in the South Seas App
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4. Trade in Your Car Keys for a Slower Pace
At South Seas, we encourage a slower pace, so what better way to explore than by bicycle or resort cart? Bicycles and resort carts (similar to golf carts) allow you to explore at a more relaxing speed, offering the chance to soak in the Gulf-side scenery and enjoy soft island breezes. Cruise past pastel cottages, peek into island boutiques, and wave to fellow travelers who are also wondering if that was, indeed, a dolphin breaching in the distance. (It probably was.)
Car parking is limited at South Seas and across Captiva Island, but bike and resort cart parking is rarely in short supply, making these smaller, open-air transportation options ideal.
Reserve Bicycles and Resort Carts in the South Seas App
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5. Master the Art of Shelling
South Seas is nestled along one of the most treasured shelling corridors in the world. Venture to Sunset Beach at dawn, bucket in hand, and discover the joy of getting low and unearthing nature’s tiniest masterpieces. The locals call it the “Captiva Crouch;” we call it a meditative practice with unexpected muscle-building benefits. Just remember—admire, don’t take, anything still living.
6. Toast the Sunset at Harborside
Since 1961, Harborside has been a beloved part of the South Seas experience—though long-time guests may remember its original name, Capt’n Al’s. Perched beside Yacht Harbour Marina, this signature Italian steakhouse-inspired eatery is a flavorful slice of Captiva history served with a side of Gulf breezes.
Come for the fresh-caught seafood and expertly crafted cocktails; stay for the atmosphere, where the glow of lanterns and the lull of boats in their slips create a mood that’s equal parts relaxed and refined. Whether you’re sipping a crisp Sauvignon Blanc at sunset or indulging in the catch of the day after a day on the water, Harborside is where summer evenings settle into their most delicious rhythm.
Harborside is accessible to Club Captiva and registered South Seas Resort guests.
7. Join the Sunset Shell-a-Bration
We have a longstanding tradition at South Seas: at the end of each day, just before the sun disappears below the horizon, make your way to Sunset Beach. As you approach the Gulf shore, keep your eyes on the sand until you find the perfect shell. Then, at the exact moment the last glimmering edge of sun disappears below the waves, toss your shell into the water and make a wish!
8. Island-Hop to Cayo Costa
For an unforgettable day trip, take a short boat ride to the wild beauty of Cayo Costa State Park. This uninhabited barrier island offers 9 miles of pristine beaches, snorkeling, and the kind of silence that feels like a gift. It’s what people mean when they say “off the grid,” only with better seashells and zero need for Wi-Fi.
Private Charters to Cayo Costa can be reserved through our Marina by calling 855-777-3625, or you can reserve a tour through Captiva Cruises.
Private Charters at South Seas
Cayo Costa Beach and Shelling Cruise – Captiva Cruises
9. Savor Something Sweet
You’re on vacation…so treat yourself accordingly! Grab a cone from Scoops & Slices, where unique flavors offer options for every taste. This retro-inspired poolside shop also features indulgences like a candy wall, classic banana splits, sundaes, soft serve, and Captiva Cyclones — soft serve blended with your choice of candies.
Did you know that Captiva Island used to be home to a Key lime plantation? Although the groves are long-retired, Redfish Grill at South Seas still serves house-made Key lime pie, a resounding guest favorite. If you find yourself returning the next day (or later the same day), don’t worry — we’re not counting! Island time comes with island calories, which are scientifically proven to not count. (Probably.)
10. Cast Your Line on a Fishing Charter
Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner hoping to reel in your first snook, a private fishing charter arranged through Yacht Harbour Marina offers an unforgettable way to connect with both nature and those you’re traveling with. The expert captains of Southwest Florida know these waters like old friends, guiding you to abundant inshore flats, lush mangroves, or deeper offshore runs where tarpon, redfish, and grouper await. You’ll be outfitted with top-tier gear, insider tips, and perhaps a tale or two from your captain.
And if the fish happen to bite? Well, that’s dinner (and a story) for later. Just be warned: once you’ve fished these waters, you may find yourself planning next year’s charter before you’ve even docked.
Your Summer, Your Story
Whether you’re here for sun-soaked serenity or barefoot adventures, we at South Seas Resort are honored to be part of your story. Summer 2025 is calling…and it promises to be warm, wild, and wonderfully unforgettable.
See you on the sand.