Beach Focus: Roughing it in the paradise known as Cayo Costa State Park.

Cayo Costa State Park is a remote, undeveloped barrier island in Southwest Florida accessible only by boat,

making it one of the quietest and least crowded park destinations in the state. Cayo Costa is just north of North Captiva, and just moments from Cabbage Key and Useppa Island.

A total of 12 rustic cracker-style cabins are available for rent but be on notice:

• No electricity

• No air conditioning

• Bunk beds

• Community latrine and showers

• No roads

All that aside, look at all you can enjoy!

Boating

Boaters may visit the beach daily, 8 a.m. to sunset.

Fishing

Surf fishing can yield catches of flounder, snook, trout, redfish, snapper, whiting, sheepshead and tarpon. All fishing within the park must conform to regulations concerning size, number, method of capture and season. 

• A fishing license may be required. More information is available at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission’s Fishing in Florida.

  
  

Paddling

Experience the thrill of paddling through the crystal-clear waters and encountering various species of wildlife.

Scuba Diving

Scuba diving can be enjoyed off the beaches of Cayo Costa State Park.

For everyone's safety, the following rules must be observed:

• All persons participating in scuba diving activities do so at their own risk.

• Each diver must dive within the limits of their certification.

• A dive party must consist of at least two divers.

• A diver-down flag must be displayed.

• Fossils and artifacts must not be disturbed or removed. Aquatic plants must not be trampled or disturbed.

• Do not carve or otherwise deface rocks or any other surfaces.

• Keep a minimum distance of 50 feet between you and manatees at all times.

• Dives must be completed one hour before sunset.

  
  

Shelling

Beachcombing or shelling is a favorite pastime of many visitors, and the beaches of Cayo Costa State Park are a great place to find them. Collectors can find a multitude of shells, including clam, scallop, oyster and olives.

Plan your shelling around the low phase of the tide, which exposes the most beach area. Please be aware that most everything you find on the beach was, is or still could be alive.

Snorkeling

Snorkeling is a favorite activity in the pristine, blue waters of the Gulf of America. You must provide your own equipment.

Swimming

Enjoy swimming in the pristine, blue waters of the Gulf of America. Our nine miles of beautiful beaches are excellent for sunbathing and shell collecting, contributing to an overall wonderful experience.

Wildlife Viewing

Manatees, porpoises and a multitude of shorebirds are just some of the animals you might observe during your visit. Sea turtles and many species of shorebirds use our beaches to nest. Bird nesting season is generally late winter through spring. Sea turtle nesting season begins in May and continues through October.

All nests are protected by law and are well-marked and easily recognized.