Wingate Creek State Park 265621.73N 811906.17W elev 39 ft Just visible in the background are the fuzzy tops of sable palmettos. The many unique waterways of this region are dotted with an abundance of small islands, most not habitable but suited for exploring, often holding ancient secrets and the occasional Indian mound. Gauthiermade moong dal and couscous with harissa for dinner, and southern hospitality supplied us with sweet potato pudding. Sebastian Inlet State Park If you found this article useful, please share it. One of Floridas best-loved state parks, Honeymoon Islandhas more than four miles of beach to explore along with a three-mile trail through one of the last remaining virgin slash pine forests. Or do u recommend the smaller boat? Kayaking and stand up paddle boarding are very popular on the inside waterways of Cayo Costa State Park. Snorkelers can expect to see schools of fish, starfish, and seahorses. This secluded island at the mouth of Tampa Bay holds rich American history and stunning natural beauty. Half day and full day trips to the park are available. Atlantic Ridge Preserve State Park The cabins are nestled in a wooded area close by the beach and nature trails. Anclote Key Preserve State Park 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. The ferry departs from Jug Creek Marina, 16498 Tortuga St, Bokeelia, FL. The park system may not rebuild the cabins at Cayo Costa and has canceled all future cabin reservations. Don Pedro Island State Park Cayo Costa is an island off of the Gulf coast of Florida that can only be reached by boat. And there you have it. Ichetucknee Springs State Park Blooms of the Florida red tide organism, Karenia brevis, occur in this region, particularly during the summer months. On Friday we took at trip out to North Captiva, this island is also only accessible by boat,, Sanibel contains over 2,200 acres of freshwater wetlands that provide habitat for a sizable population of alligators. Lake Louisa State Park That thar is our handsome inflatable Advanced Elements tandem kayak. Lake June-in-Winter Scrub Preserve State Park Econfina River State Park Visiting this remote barrier island is like stepping into a time machine to the past. Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park Florida Rambler was founded in 2010 by Bonnie and fellow journalist Bob Rountree, two long-time Florida residents who have spent decades exploring the Florida outdoors. We camped on Cayo Costa and wanted to travel in from Orlando (~3.5 hours trip), so we chose the 2:00 boat. John Gorrie Museum State Park A campground provided a convenient place to spend the night. We took tiny sips of aromatic heirloom whiskey by Widow Jane. Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park, About Americas State Parks | Contact Us | Americas State Parks Blog. here: Cayo Costa Island: Beyond the beaches The News-Press, Cayo Costa, North Captiva and Crocodiles Hopeless wanderer, Cayo Costa State Park: Wild beach on a remote island. Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park 8a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. I was afraid of what it might smell like, but Gauthier was afraid of what we might find in it. Cayo Costa State Park lies along an island 2 miles south of Boca Grande. Cayo Costa State Park is a unique island with a rich history of old Florida. Here are some of the trails at Cayo Costa State Park: Experience the beauty of island life as you take a peaceful ride along the trails inside Cayo Costa State Park. St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park If you crave to see Florida in it's pristine state, this place is a must. As you stroll along the 9 miles of soft white sandy beach you will be transported back in time. Read on to learn more. 661, Arcadia, FL 34266, (800) 268-0083. Cayo Costa is an island off of the Gulf coast of Florida that can only be reached by boat. We arrivedlate the first day, leaving us only three hours of paddling before it was time to set up camp. Half day and full day trips to the park are available. There are no sites with electricity. WebFeb 2021. A mile away, on the dock side of the island, and easy to reach via the tram that circulates back and forth, you can buy ice, cold sodas and charcoal. Discover shorebirds, manatees, dolphins, turtles, alligators as well as many native plants and flowers. Thankfully it was the only tick we saw. Bring a phone charger. We left the car at Pioneer Park, where you can parkovernight for free, and took a cab to Fort Meade for $40 including tip. It's only a short boat ride away from Pine Island (provided by Tropic Star, which gives outstanding customer service). Blackwater River State Park (Photo: Bonnie Gross), you can rent cabins from the Tropic Star folks, Matlacha FL: Delightful, artsy, Gulf spot for kayaking, nature, Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park: Kayak to stilt houses, hike to small springs, Six things to do in Cedar Key, a charming, historic, off-the-beaten path spot, 2023 Spring Break in Florida: top spots, hot tips, red tide. Before he left, he said he and his two children would be camping on the other side of the campground and that we wouldnt hear from them again, and insisted that we have some of his home made sweet potato pudding, still warm. Campsites and cabins are available for overnight stays, and a ferry service runs to the island from several mainland locations. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. Please keep in mind that the park is located on an island, everything (including food and drinks) must be carried in and then carried out. We also drove by a pine tree plantation. Your email address will not be published. Ravine Gardens State Park If you crave to see Florida in it's pristine state, this place is a must. You may also rent kayaks and bicycles there. Dont miss the inland trails. The adventure is just getting started. Numerous islands and the passages between them are teeming with wildlife. Bulow Creek State Park The bugs can get bad. This is what Florida was like before the age of condos and airplanes. (850) 245-2157, Or send an email to: The parks webpage will navigate you to their site. Captiva Cruises are the official ferry service for the park. Samantha is a self-proclaimed "water bug" who spends her time enjoying the coastal environment at Cayo Costa State Park. Restroom facilities are located nearby and have cold showers and flush toilets. In the morning, dew-drenched grass sparkled in the sunlight and revealed many tiny spider webs orb and three dimensional suspended from blades of grass. from Bing. WebCayo Costa is a beautiful island, accessible only by boat. Lovers Key State Park The first steps of this process are to make sure our staff and their families are taken care of, and that they have the time they need to recover in their personal situations. Silver Springs State Park Kayaking and stand up paddle boarding are very popular on the inside waterways of Cayo Costa State Park. Each site has a picnic table, a ground grill and access to potable water. Cayo Costa Sate Park offers a campground with 30 sites and 12 small wooden cabins without water or electricity. Bright lights lit up the fields like fire flies. No matter how lovely the day or how idyllic the beaches, you wont find crowds at Cayo Costa State Park. Youll appreciate the rugged beauty of Cayo Costa State Park as you explore trails by foot or kayak. It was the most peaceful paddling imaginable; effortless in a gently moving current that guided us around bends and islands. Cayo Costa State Park is a true outdoor lover's retreat. Service Road 731 takes you through the town of Venus, Highlands county, home to the experimental architecture project The Venus Project. Park staff and volunteers work hard to ensure the survival of these amazing creatures. White sand and open spaces reward the hearty few who solve the logistic challenge to reach this little corner of paradise. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Wekiwa Springs State Park Cayo Costa State Park is the perfect place to snorkel to spot both larger and smaller marine life. Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park Half day and full day trips to the park are available. Carefully cross Boca Grande Pass along the bay side to Cayo Costa Island. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Visitors can salt water fish, shell, bird watch, swim, and snorkel. Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park The light wasnt great, so I had to doctor these pictures. River cooters are shy like alligators and jump, sometimesfrom impressive heights, into the water when they hear us coming. The weather is much nicer for sleeping, and the mosquito population is significantly reduced. The ceiling of the pavilion was covered in spider webs and mud dauber nests. Settle into a slower pace of life and take in all of the sights and sounds around you. An unspoiled Gulf Coast island evokes images of wind-shaped trees, dunes, beaches and freedom to explore. 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. How do you camp at Cayo Costa State Park? To be continued. The ferry boats from Pineland, Captiva and Punta Gorda cannot access the park as the docks are damsged. The damage to the park was catastrophic. This island is only accessible by boat. The communities on Pine Island welcome everyone interested in selecting the area as their Florida Spring Break destination, however, The Florida Department of Health in Lee County (DOH-Lee) notified residents, Cayo Costa is my proudest accomplishment because of the. Cayo Costa State Park Many native and migrating birds may be seen throughout the park, along the beach, trails and woods. Restroom facilities are located nearby and have cold showers and flush toilets. Are there ferries to Cayo Costa State Park? You come here for life in the slow lane, away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. You may catch a redfish, snapper, whiting, tarpon, flounder, snook, sheepshead or trout. Lake Talquin State Park Related searches to Are there alligators in Cayo Costa? That said, you need to understand who's giving you this advice. This let us leave after breakfast instead of 5:00 am for either of the other two shuttles. We are Jenn and Ed Coleman aka Coleman Concierge. You can read more if you want. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park Pick up a Florida fishing license and spend some quality time surf fishing during your visit to Cayo Costa State Park. Gauthier and I chose to spend Thank-you Day floating down the quiet waters of Peace River this year, feasting our eyes rather than our stomachs. How to Get to Cayo Costa from Captiva Island? Reviews rave about how much fun this cruise is with a narrated tour and frequent dolphin sightings as you cross Gasparilla Sound-Charlotte Harbor. The dock area has limited space available for guests wanting to dock their own water craft. Its 12 feet long! The man in the water smiled and nodded his head and pointed in the direction of the alligator. This will not happen overnight, and will take years to rebuild the park and infrastructure for full visitor use. Myakka River State Park WebCayo Costa State Park protects the Charlotte Harbor Estuary and provides visitors with a majestic piece of untouched Florida. Cayo Costa State Park is Florida in the raw, featuring all its natural beauty and wildlife, from the manatees you may see on the boat trip over to the dolphins playing in the surf to the osprey nesting in the tree snags along the beach. WebCayo Costa State Park protects the Charlotte Harbor Estuary and provides visitors with a majestic piece of untouched Florida. Social Distancing on Soquel Creek in Capitola, May2020, Spring Flowers in a Mountain Forest, May2019, Monteray Bay National Marine Sanctuary (Calif.), Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve (Calif.), Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park (Fla.), Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park (Fla.), John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (Fla.), Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Picking or disturbing sea oats is punishable by fine in Georgia, Florida, and North Carolina (according to Wikipedia). All of a sudden an opening through the unforgiving mangroves appeared with room enough for a good sized boat to pass into an ever widening expanse of flat calm water which, at last revealed itself as an absolutely breathtaking sizable protected lagoon. You have at least 2 chances to see alligators with a stop at Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park! Can you kayak from Captiva to Cayo Costa? Half day and full day trips to the park are available. Okeechobee Battlefield Historic State Park On the way home we stopped for lunch at Wheelers in Arcadia and browsed the antiques on sale in the stands that line the street every Saturday. Torreya State Park Can you kayak from Boca Grande to Cayo Costa? Numerous islands and the passages between them are teeming with wildlife. We left the car at Pioneer Park, where you can park overnight for free, and took a cab to Fort Meade for $40 including tip. Captiva, FL 33924 Troy Spring State Park The parks trails wind along the beach and through bushes and wooded areas. You have at least 2 chances to see alligators with a stop at Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park! Snorkelers can expect to see schools of fish, starfish, and seahorses. And theres Ollie in his jersey; cute and functional, it prevents him from getting covered in sticky burs. It had overflowed from several days of rain, which sometimes made it difficult to tell which way the river bent. San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve State Park One final warning, pets are allowed in Cayo Costa Park, but not the beaches or camp area, so bringing Fido along will limit what you can do. WebCayo Costa has 30 tent sites in a primitive environment. The parks Citizen Support Organization (Barrier Island Park Society or BIPS) has kayaks and stand up paddleboards available to rent at the camp store to get you started on your adventure. San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park No wonder the Calusa had the highest population density of south Florida! WebFakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park is located along the Tamiami Trail, which is a road that leads from Southwest Florida to Miami where there are many stops you can make for a chance to see alligators. Collier-Seminole State Park Estero Bay Preserve State Park John D. MacArthur Beach State Park Their compact little bodies make melodic plopping sounds whenthey hit the water. We passed by a canal and docks that signified the entrance to the State Park which encompasses a significant portion of the northern part of the 17 mile long Island. For updates you can visit floridastateparks.org as well as follow facebook.com/BarrierIslandParksSociety/ or BIPS.org for ways that you can help. The communities on Pine Island welcome everyone interested in selecting the area as their Florida Spring Break destination, however, the island does not have a public beach. An unspoiled Gulf Coast island evokes images of wind-shaped trees, dunes, beaches and freedom to explore. document.getElementById( "ak_js_4" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Super Fun Things to do in Hattiesburg MS for Outdoor Lovers, 11 Reasons Why You Need to Stay at Proximity Hotel, Greensboro North Carolina. Years before that my dad went to grade school on Punta Blanca Island just to the east. WebCayo Costa State Park is only accessible by private boat or Captiva Cruises. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. And, often, you will spot manatees, dolphins, and stingrays making for a memorable snorkeling experience. See all the oyster shells! Loop Rd, Big Cypress National Preserve, Ochopee, FL 34141, USA Landscapes from the protected Cayo Costa State Park, a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico, as seen on JANUARY 08 in Cayo Costa, Florida. WebCayo Costa State Park is a state park in the U.S. state of Florida, on Cayo Costa (formerly known as La Costa Island or Padilla Rancho), an island directly south of Boca Grande ( Gasparilla Island) and just north of North Captiva Island, approximately 12 miles (19 km) west of Cape Coral. Explore Cayo Costa State Park in Southwest Florida Drone Footage, Great Shelling, Ferry Info, Are There Alligators In Cayo Costa? WebCayo Costa is a beautiful island, accessible only by boat. The critter collection also includes gopher tortoises, loggerhead, They eat pretty much anything and destroy the land. Remaining staff and teams from other parks will continue downed vegetation and tree removal throughout the visitor service areas and trails. There are multiple trails throughout the 2,426 acre park, not to mention just walking on the white sandy beaches along the Gulf of Mexico. You can book 11 months out and spring dates are snagged as soon as they become available, as are holidays weekends. Information related to the topic Are there alligators in Cayo Costa? Breakfast was scrambled eggs with fresh green onion, followed by pita bread filled with Nutella, peanut butter and honey. Please use the honor box to pay fees. We departed the marina at the northwest end of Pine Island and skirted the rippled blue green shallow waters along the southern most stretch of Charlotte Harbor, where it meets Pine Island Sound, and made a beeline towards Boca Grand Pass, famous for outstanding Tarpon fishing. He said the mud daubers wouldnt hurt you unless you crushed one, which was unlikely to happen unintentionally. There just arent many places like this left. Tickets are only $36.50 with free parking. It was like a bird highway. There is a ferry service, the Tropic Star, that makes multiple trips from Pine Island to Cayo Costa. The state park is nice, but the water between Pine Island and Cayo Costa is better. Koreshan State Park Four nautical miles (about 4.6 miles on land.). Maybe they'll show it on the news now that it's the landfall point of hurricane Ian. Florida Caverns State Park That said, you need to understand who's giving you this advice. There are no sites with electricity. Snorkelers can expect to see schools of fish, starfish, and seahorses. Judah P. Benjamin Confederate Memorial at Gamble Plantation Historic State Park Once on the island, be sure to walk the beach in both directions. Indian Key Historic State Park The 10 Correct Answer, To start your Cayo Costa Camping Adventure you must, Whether you are planning a day trip or overnight stay, Cayo Costa State Park is, A day trip to Cayo Costa State Park is the perfect way to enjoy this beautiful barrier island and its many treasures. Rustic, it had no water or electricity, although there was a pavilion, bonfire pit, porta-johns, an elaborate, four-grill barbecue and a dumpster. (Its located, not suprisingly, on the cemetery trail.) Landscapes from the protected Cayo Costa State Park, a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico, as seen on JANUARY 08 in Cayo Costa, Florida. And, often, you will spot manatees, dolphins, and stingrays making for a memorable snorkeling experience. The 5 Detailed Answer, Which Neurotransmitter Is Your Happy Drug? Constitution Convention Museum State Park Lake Manatee State Park This year we kayaked upper Peace River, from Fort Meade to Zolfo Springs. WebCayo Costa State Park protects the Charlotte Harbor Estuary and provides visitors with a majestic piece of untouched Florida. An auroch, Gauthier said it was. Landing site: Pioneer Park, Pioneer Blvd, Zolfo Springs, FL 33890, (863) 735-0330. It is perhaps the best way to see Florida the way it was, before theme parks and boardwalks. To the north, as you reach Boca Grande pass, the beach is studded with trees turned to whitened driftwood. And, often, you will spot manatees, dolphins, and stingrays making for a memorable snorkeling experience. WebAn alligator soaks up the sun on the edge of a tidal pond on January 5, 2020 at Cayo Costa State Park on Florida's west coast. Visitors are reminded that camping is allowed only in designated sites in the campground on Cayo Costa. Bald Point State Park If you want to collect some amazing shells hop on a boat out here from Captiva (we took Captiva Cruises - excellent). Discover shorebirds, manatees, dolphins, turtles, alligators as well as many native plants and flowers. Youll appreciate the rugged beauty of Cayo Costa State Park as you explore trails by foot or kayak. Before you go, please check outthe latest CDC recommendations for travelers. I'm sorry, I can't recommend a specific section of the beach. Thank you, and our thoughts and prayers are with all of our affected staff and volunteers, local communities and all of Southwest Florida who were impacted by this catastrophic event. Great blue herons coasted down the river 20 feet above the water, following its bends like a race car driver follows the bends of a race track. We heard lots of alligators; we saw few because they tended to jump in the water with a loud splash before we could getclose enough to see them. The river widened near Wauchula. Fort George Island Cultural State Park Fanning Springs State Park Long before there was a state park here, this was simply an island home to the Calusa Indians, various species of native flora and fauna, and eventually, Spanish Cuban fisherman, and settlers. Once there, youll get a flavor of what Florida once was. Cayo Costa is a great place to go camping in Florida with kids. Details: (239) 283-0015. Captiva Island is the farthest south of the Cayo Costa ferries, but it takes 20 minutes longer to reach Captiva than the King Fishers docks from the south because of the circuitous routing and road speed. Cayo Costa lays at the southern end of the pass across from Boca Grand. River Rise Preserve State Park Tickets are $50 for the full day tour to the northern island of Cayo Costa. (The cabins and campsites fill up far in advance so if you want to visit, you need to plan ahead.). Friends of Cayo Costa is a committee of the Barrier Island Parks Society with the goal to preserve, protect, and promote the pristine barrier island. 4905 34th St. South, #5000 Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. From the north, it will take you an hour and fifteen minutes longer to reach Captiva. There is also the potential for horrific consequences from irresponsible travel. Even though there isnt electricity at the campground, there is around the ranger station and camp store. The Florida Department of Health in Lee County (DOH-Lee) notified residents there is a red tide bloom near Cayo Costa State Park. Long Key State Park Come 4:00 it was time to start looking for another place to camp. Hillsborough River State Park Cayo Costa is only accessible from Captiva Island by boat and we recommend renting a boat at Jensens Marina or scheduling a water taxi ride to the island. Copyright 2023, AmericasStateParks.org. After roughly two miles, youll see the Cayo Costa State Park boat dock. It has always captivated and mesmerized me, but it now grosses me out because there are so many rats in and around the campground. With all of these ferries, you want to show up at least 30 minutes prior to departure, so you dont miss the boat and make reservations at least 24 hours in advance. If youre determined and flexible, vulturing for cancellations can work. Bicycle rentals are available at the parks gift shop. Passes can be purchased during regular business hours 365 days a year. An outdoor grill is provided and restrooms are a short walk away. Maybe they 'll show it on the inside waterways of Cayo Costa State Park store... Reach Boca Grande it had overflowed from several days of rain, which unlikely... ( provided by Tropic Star, that makes multiple trips from Pine island ( provided by Star. 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Elev 39 ft Just visible in the campground on Cayo Costa State Park as you cross Gasparilla Sound-Charlotte Harbor another... Has 30 tent sites in the background are the fuzzy tops of sable palmettos, into the water and... Density of south Florida Tampa Bay holds rich American history and stunning natural beauty transported in. Book 11 months out and Spring dates are snagged as soon as they become available as!
Cayo Costa is an island off of the Gulf coast of Florida that can only be reached by boat. 
And there you have it. Ichetucknee Springs State Park Blooms of the Florida red tide organism, Karenia brevis, occur in this region, particularly during the summer months. On Friday we took at trip out to North Captiva, this island is also only accessible by boat,, Sanibel contains over 2,200 acres of freshwater wetlands that provide habitat for a sizable population of alligators. Lake Louisa State Park That thar is our handsome inflatable Advanced Elements tandem kayak. Lake June-in-Winter Scrub Preserve State Park Econfina River State Park Visiting this remote barrier island is like stepping into a time machine to the past. 
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park Florida Rambler was founded in 2010 by Bonnie and fellow journalist Bob Rountree, two long-time Florida residents who have spent decades exploring the Florida outdoors. We camped on Cayo Costa and wanted to travel in from Orlando (~3.5 hours trip), so we chose the 2:00 boat. John Gorrie Museum State Park A campground provided a convenient place to spend the night. We took tiny sips of aromatic heirloom whiskey by Widow Jane. Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park, About Americas State Parks | Contact Us | Americas State Parks Blog. here: Cayo Costa Island: Beyond the beaches The News-Press, Cayo Costa, North Captiva and Crocodiles Hopeless wanderer, Cayo Costa State Park: Wild beach on a remote island. Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park 8a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. I was afraid of what it might smell like, but Gauthier was afraid of what we might find in it. Cayo Costa State Park lies along an island 2 miles south of Boca Grande. Cayo Costa State Park is a unique island with a rich history of old Florida. Here are some of the trails at Cayo Costa State Park: Experience the beauty of island life as you take a peaceful ride along the trails inside Cayo Costa State Park. St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park If you crave to see Florida in it's pristine state, this place is a must. As you stroll along the 9 miles of soft white sandy beach you will be transported back in time. Read on to learn more. 661, Arcadia, FL 34266, (800) 268-0083. Cayo Costa is an island off of the Gulf coast of Florida that can only be reached by boat. We arrivedlate the first day, leaving us only three hours of paddling before it was time to set up camp. Half day and full day trips to the park are available. There are no sites with electricity. WebFeb 2021. A mile away, on the dock side of the island, and easy to reach via the tram that circulates back and forth, you can buy ice, cold sodas and charcoal. Discover shorebirds, manatees, dolphins, turtles, alligators as well as many native plants and flowers. Thankfully it was the only tick we saw. Bring a phone charger. We left the car at Pioneer Park, where you can parkovernight for free, and took a cab to Fort Meade for $40 including tip. It's only a short boat ride away from Pine Island (provided by Tropic Star, which gives outstanding customer service). Blackwater River State Park (Photo: Bonnie Gross), you can rent cabins from the Tropic Star folks, Matlacha FL: Delightful, artsy, Gulf spot for kayaking, nature, Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park: Kayak to stilt houses, hike to small springs, Six things to do in Cedar Key, a charming, historic, off-the-beaten path spot, 2023 Spring Break in Florida: top spots, hot tips, red tide. Before he left, he said he and his two children would be camping on the other side of the campground and that we wouldnt hear from them again, and insisted that we have some of his home made sweet potato pudding, still warm. Campsites and cabins are available for overnight stays, and a ferry service runs to the island from several mainland locations. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. Please keep in mind that the park is located on an island, everything (including food and drinks) must be carried in and then carried out. We also drove by a pine tree plantation. Your email address will not be published. Ravine Gardens State Park If you crave to see Florida in it's pristine state, this place is a must. You may also rent kayaks and bicycles there. Dont miss the inland trails. The adventure is just getting started. Numerous islands and the passages between them are teeming with wildlife. Bulow Creek State Park The bugs can get bad. This is what Florida was like before the age of condos and airplanes. (850) 245-2157, Or send an email to: The parks webpage will navigate you to their site. Captiva Cruises are the official ferry service for the park. Samantha is a self-proclaimed "water bug" who spends her time enjoying the coastal environment at Cayo Costa State Park. Restroom facilities are located nearby and have cold showers and flush toilets. In the morning, dew-drenched grass sparkled in the sunlight and revealed many tiny spider webs orb and three dimensional suspended from blades of grass. from Bing. WebCayo Costa is a beautiful island, accessible only by boat. Lovers Key State Park The first steps of this process are to make sure our staff and their families are taken care of, and that they have the time they need to recover in their personal situations. Silver Springs State Park Kayaking and stand up paddle boarding are very popular on the inside waterways of Cayo Costa State Park. Each site has a picnic table, a ground grill and access to potable water. Cayo Costa Sate Park offers a campground with 30 sites and 12 small wooden cabins without water or electricity. Bright lights lit up the fields like fire flies. No matter how lovely the day or how idyllic the beaches, you wont find crowds at Cayo Costa State Park. Youll appreciate the rugged beauty of Cayo Costa State Park as you explore trails by foot or kayak. It was the most peaceful paddling imaginable; effortless in a gently moving current that guided us around bends and islands. Cayo Costa State Park is a true outdoor lover's retreat. Service Road 731 takes you through the town of Venus, Highlands county, home to the experimental architecture project The Venus Project. Park staff and volunteers work hard to ensure the survival of these amazing creatures. White sand and open spaces reward the hearty few who solve the logistic challenge to reach this little corner of paradise. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Wekiwa Springs State Park Cayo Costa State Park is the perfect place to snorkel to spot both larger and smaller marine life. Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park Half day and full day trips to the park are available. Carefully cross Boca Grande Pass along the bay side to Cayo Costa Island. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Visitors can salt water fish, shell, bird watch, swim, and snorkel. Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park The light wasnt great, so I had to doctor these pictures. River cooters are shy like alligators and jump, sometimesfrom impressive heights, into the water when they hear us coming. The weather is much nicer for sleeping, and the mosquito population is significantly reduced. The ceiling of the pavilion was covered in spider webs and mud dauber nests. Settle into a slower pace of life and take in all of the sights and sounds around you. An unspoiled Gulf Coast island evokes images of wind-shaped trees, dunes, beaches and freedom to explore. 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. How do you camp at Cayo Costa State Park? To be continued. The ferry boats from Pineland, Captiva and Punta Gorda cannot access the park as the docks are damsged. The damage to the park was catastrophic. This island is only accessible by boat. The communities on Pine Island welcome everyone interested in selecting the area as their Florida Spring Break destination, however, The Florida Department of Health in Lee County (DOH-Lee) notified residents, Cayo Costa is my proudest accomplishment because of the. Cayo Costa State Park Many native and migrating birds may be seen throughout the park, along the beach, trails and woods. Restroom facilities are located nearby and have cold showers and flush toilets. Are there ferries to Cayo Costa State Park? You come here for life in the slow lane, away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. You may catch a redfish, snapper, whiting, tarpon, flounder, snook, sheepshead or trout. Lake Talquin State Park Related searches to Are there alligators in Cayo Costa? That said, you need to understand who's giving you this advice. This let us leave after breakfast instead of 5:00 am for either of the other two shuttles. We are Jenn and Ed Coleman aka Coleman Concierge. You can read more if you want. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park Pick up a Florida fishing license and spend some quality time surf fishing during your visit to Cayo Costa State Park. Gauthier and I chose to spend Thank-you Day floating down the quiet waters of Peace River this year, feasting our eyes rather than our stomachs. How to Get to Cayo Costa from Captiva Island? Reviews rave about how much fun this cruise is with a narrated tour and frequent dolphin sightings as you cross Gasparilla Sound-Charlotte Harbor. The dock area has limited space available for guests wanting to dock their own water craft. Its 12 feet long! The man in the water smiled and nodded his head and pointed in the direction of the alligator. This will not happen overnight, and will take years to rebuild the park and infrastructure for full visitor use. Myakka River State Park WebCayo Costa State Park protects the Charlotte Harbor Estuary and provides visitors with a majestic piece of untouched Florida. Cayo Costa State Park is Florida in the raw, featuring all its natural beauty and wildlife, from the manatees you may see on the boat trip over to the dolphins playing in the surf to the osprey nesting in the tree snags along the beach. WebCayo Costa State Park protects the Charlotte Harbor Estuary and provides visitors with a majestic piece of untouched Florida. Social Distancing on Soquel Creek in Capitola, May2020, Spring Flowers in a Mountain Forest, May2019, Monteray Bay National Marine Sanctuary (Calif.), Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve (Calif.), Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park (Fla.), Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park (Fla.), John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (Fla.), Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Picking or disturbing sea oats is punishable by fine in Georgia, Florida, and North Carolina (according to Wikipedia). All of a sudden an opening through the unforgiving mangroves appeared with room enough for a good sized boat to pass into an ever widening expanse of flat calm water which, at last revealed itself as an absolutely breathtaking sizable protected lagoon. You have at least 2 chances to see alligators with a stop at Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park! Can you kayak from Captiva to Cayo Costa? Half day and full day trips to the park are available. Okeechobee Battlefield Historic State Park On the way home we stopped for lunch at Wheelers in Arcadia and browsed the antiques on sale in the stands that line the street every Saturday. Torreya State Park Can you kayak from Boca Grande to Cayo Costa? Numerous islands and the passages between them are teeming with wildlife. We left the car at Pioneer Park, where you can park overnight for free, and took a cab to Fort Meade for $40 including tip. Captiva, FL 33924 Troy Spring State Park The parks trails wind along the beach and through bushes and wooded areas. You have at least 2 chances to see alligators with a stop at Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park! Snorkelers can expect to see schools of fish, starfish, and seahorses. And theres Ollie in his jersey; cute and functional, it prevents him from getting covered in sticky burs. It had overflowed from several days of rain, which sometimes made it difficult to tell which way the river bent. San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve State Park One final warning, pets are allowed in Cayo Costa Park, but not the beaches or camp area, so bringing Fido along will limit what you can do. WebCayo Costa has 30 tent sites in a primitive environment. The parks Citizen Support Organization (Barrier Island Park Society or BIPS) has kayaks and stand up paddleboards available to rent at the camp store to get you started on your adventure. San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park No wonder the Calusa had the highest population density of south Florida! WebFakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park is located along the Tamiami Trail, which is a road that leads from Southwest Florida to Miami where there are many stops you can make for a chance to see alligators. Collier-Seminole State Park Estero Bay Preserve State Park John D. MacArthur Beach State Park Their compact little bodies make melodic plopping sounds whenthey hit the water. We passed by a canal and docks that signified the entrance to the State Park which encompasses a significant portion of the northern part of the 17 mile long Island. For updates you can visit floridastateparks.org as well as follow facebook.com/BarrierIslandParksSociety/ or BIPS.org for ways that you can help. The communities on Pine Island welcome everyone interested in selecting the area as their Florida Spring Break destination, however, the island does not have a public beach. An unspoiled Gulf Coast island evokes images of wind-shaped trees, dunes, beaches and freedom to explore. document.getElementById( "ak_js_4" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Super Fun Things to do in Hattiesburg MS for Outdoor Lovers, 11 Reasons Why You Need to Stay at Proximity Hotel, Greensboro North Carolina. Years before that my dad went to grade school on Punta Blanca Island just to the east. WebCayo Costa State Park is only accessible by private boat or Captiva Cruises. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. And, often, you will spot manatees, dolphins, and stingrays making for a memorable snorkeling experience. See all the oyster shells! Loop Rd, Big Cypress National Preserve, Ochopee, FL 34141, USA Landscapes from the protected Cayo Costa State Park, a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico, as seen on JANUARY 08 in Cayo Costa, Florida. WebCayo Costa State Park is a state park in the U.S. state of Florida, on Cayo Costa (formerly known as La Costa Island or Padilla Rancho), an island directly south of Boca Grande ( Gasparilla Island) and just north of North Captiva Island, approximately 12 miles (19 km) west of Cape Coral. Explore Cayo Costa State Park in Southwest Florida Drone Footage, Great Shelling, Ferry Info, Are There Alligators In Cayo Costa? WebCayo Costa is a beautiful island, accessible only by boat. The critter collection also includes gopher tortoises, loggerhead, They eat pretty much anything and destroy the land. Remaining staff and teams from other parks will continue downed vegetation and tree removal throughout the visitor service areas and trails. There are multiple trails throughout the 2,426 acre park, not to mention just walking on the white sandy beaches along the Gulf of Mexico. You can book 11 months out and spring dates are snagged as soon as they become available, as are holidays weekends. Information related to the topic Are there alligators in Cayo Costa? Breakfast was scrambled eggs with fresh green onion, followed by pita bread filled with Nutella, peanut butter and honey. Please use the honor box to pay fees. We departed the marina at the northwest end of Pine Island and skirted the rippled blue green shallow waters along the southern most stretch of Charlotte Harbor, where it meets Pine Island Sound, and made a beeline towards Boca Grand Pass, famous for outstanding Tarpon fishing. He said the mud daubers wouldnt hurt you unless you crushed one, which was unlikely to happen unintentionally. There just arent many places like this left. Tickets are only $36.50 with free parking. It was like a bird highway. There is a ferry service, the Tropic Star, that makes multiple trips from Pine Island to Cayo Costa. The state park is nice, but the water between Pine Island and Cayo Costa is better. Koreshan State Park Four nautical miles (about 4.6 miles on land.). Maybe they'll show it on the news now that it's the landfall point of hurricane Ian. Florida Caverns State Park That said, you need to understand who's giving you this advice. There are no sites with electricity. Snorkelers can expect to see schools of fish, starfish, and seahorses. Judah P. Benjamin Confederate Memorial at Gamble Plantation Historic State Park Once on the island, be sure to walk the beach in both directions. Indian Key Historic State Park The 10 Correct Answer, To start your Cayo Costa Camping Adventure you must, Whether you are planning a day trip or overnight stay, Cayo Costa State Park is, A day trip to Cayo Costa State Park is the perfect way to enjoy this beautiful barrier island and its many treasures. Rustic, it had no water or electricity, although there was a pavilion, bonfire pit, porta-johns, an elaborate, four-grill barbecue and a dumpster. (Its located, not suprisingly, on the cemetery trail.) Landscapes from the protected Cayo Costa State Park, a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico, as seen on JANUARY 08 in Cayo Costa, Florida. And, often, you will spot manatees, dolphins, and stingrays making for a memorable snorkeling experience. The 5 Detailed Answer, Which Neurotransmitter Is Your Happy Drug? Constitution Convention Museum State Park Lake Manatee State Park This year we kayaked upper Peace River, from Fort Meade to Zolfo Springs. WebCayo Costa State Park protects the Charlotte Harbor Estuary and provides visitors with a majestic piece of untouched Florida. An auroch, Gauthier said it was. Landing site: Pioneer Park, Pioneer Blvd, Zolfo Springs, FL 33890, (863) 735-0330. It is perhaps the best way to see Florida the way it was, before theme parks and boardwalks. To the north, as you reach Boca Grande pass, the beach is studded with trees turned to whitened driftwood. And, often, you will spot manatees, dolphins, and stingrays making for a memorable snorkeling experience. WebAn alligator soaks up the sun on the edge of a tidal pond on January 5, 2020 at Cayo Costa State Park on Florida's west coast. Visitors are reminded that camping is allowed only in designated sites in the campground on Cayo Costa. Bald Point State Park If you want to collect some amazing shells hop on a boat out here from Captiva (we took Captiva Cruises - excellent). Discover shorebirds, manatees, dolphins, turtles, alligators as well as many native plants and flowers. Youll appreciate the rugged beauty of Cayo Costa State Park as you explore trails by foot or kayak. Before you go, please check outthe latest CDC recommendations for travelers. I'm sorry, I can't recommend a specific section of the beach. Thank you, and our thoughts and prayers are with all of our affected staff and volunteers, local communities and all of Southwest Florida who were impacted by this catastrophic event. Great blue herons coasted down the river 20 feet above the water, following its bends like a race car driver follows the bends of a race track. We heard lots of alligators; we saw few because they tended to jump in the water with a loud splash before we could getclose enough to see them. The river widened near Wauchula. Fort George Island Cultural State Park Fanning Springs State Park Long before there was a state park here, this was simply an island home to the Calusa Indians, various species of native flora and fauna, and eventually, Spanish Cuban fisherman, and settlers. Once there, youll get a flavor of what Florida once was. Cayo Costa is a great place to go camping in Florida with kids. Details: (239) 283-0015. Captiva Island is the farthest south of the Cayo Costa ferries, but it takes 20 minutes longer to reach Captiva than the King Fishers docks from the south because of the circuitous routing and road speed. Cayo Costa lays at the southern end of the pass across from Boca Grand. River Rise Preserve State Park Tickets are $50 for the full day tour to the northern island of Cayo Costa. (The cabins and campsites fill up far in advance so if you want to visit, you need to plan ahead.). Friends of Cayo Costa is a committee of the Barrier Island Parks Society with the goal to preserve, protect, and promote the pristine barrier island. 4905 34th St. South, #5000 Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. From the north, it will take you an hour and fifteen minutes longer to reach Captiva. There is also the potential for horrific consequences from irresponsible travel. Even though there isnt electricity at the campground, there is around the ranger station and camp store. The Florida Department of Health in Lee County (DOH-Lee) notified residents there is a red tide bloom near Cayo Costa State Park. Long Key State Park Come 4:00 it was time to start looking for another place to camp. Hillsborough River State Park Cayo Costa is only accessible from Captiva Island by boat and we recommend renting a boat at Jensens Marina or scheduling a water taxi ride to the island. Copyright 2023, AmericasStateParks.org. After roughly two miles, youll see the Cayo Costa State Park boat dock. It has always captivated and mesmerized me, but it now grosses me out because there are so many rats in and around the campground. With all of these ferries, you want to show up at least 30 minutes prior to departure, so you dont miss the boat and make reservations at least 24 hours in advance. If youre determined and flexible, vulturing for cancellations can work. 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Book 11 months out and Spring dates are snagged as soon as they become available as!