Cayo Costa State Park
Cayo Costa State Park lies along an island 2 miles south of Boca Grande. Accessible only by boat, this unspoiled and remote paradise is only about 90 minutes from Fort Myers in Lee County, Florida. This pristine ‘Key of the Coast’ delights visitors with its 9 miles of beaches and 9 acres of forest. An escape to this Florida state park offers guests opportunities for camping, swimming, paddling, fishing, hiking, bicycling, shelling, snorkeling and spectacular wildlife viewing.
Activities
Experience this island paradise for yourself. As you stroll along the 9 miles of soft white sandy beach you will be transported back in time. Settle into a slower pace of life and take in all of the sights and sounds around you. Birdwatch, collect shells, swim, picnic, camp, kayak and explore the wooded trails throughout the park. The park’s new ranger station has a gift shop where you can now purchase ice.snacks, drinks and basic camping supplies. You may also rent kayaks and bicycles there. Here are some of the many activities that you can do during your visit to Cayo Costa State Park:
Boating at Cayo Costa State Park
Paddle around the park and discover all of the beautiful life forms that exist both under and above these crystal clear water waters of the gulf. Kayak rentals are offered through the park’s gift shop. The dock area has limited space available for guests wanting to dock their own water craft.
Swimming at Cayo Costa State Park
Swim, snorkel or scuba dive in the clear blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The island’s 9 miles of pristine white sandy beaches are ideal for sunbathing, shell collecting and building sand castles. You must bring your own snorkeling or scuba diving equipment plus any necessary certifications.
Hiking at Cayo Costa State Park
Explore this beautiful remote island paradise and get a closer look at nature and wildlife. The park’s trails wind along the beach and through bushes and wooded areas. Here are some of the trails at Cayo Costa State Park:
- Cayo Costa Trail – Easy 2.5 mile loop that is mostly flat as it winds through a wooded area.
- Quarantine Docks Trail – Moderate 9 mile loop across a mostly flat and sandy trail along the beach.
Biking 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. Bicycle rentals are available at the park’s gift shop.
Fishing at Cayo Costa State Park
Pick up a Florida fishing license and spend some quality time surf fishing during your visit to Cayo Costa State Park. Fishing is excellent at Boca Grande Pass and Charlotte Harbor. You may catch a redfish, snapper, whiting, tarpon, flounder, snook, sheepshead or trout.
Birding at Cayo Costa State Park
Pack your bird guide and your binoculars and get ready for some serious birdwatching. Many native and migrating birds may be seen throughout the park, along the beach, trails and woods. Look out for Snowy Egret, Brown Pelican, Least Tern, Reddish Egret, Snowy Plover, White Ibis and Tricolored Heron.
Nature and Wildlife at Cayo Costa State Park
You’ll appreciate the rugged beauty of Cayo Costa State Park as you explore trails by foot or kayak. Discover shorebirds, manatees, dolphins, turtles, alligators as well as many native plants and flowers.
Pets at Cayo Costa State Park
Well behaved and supervised pets are allowed inside Cayo Costa State Park. Dogs must be kept on a handheld leash no longer than 6 feet and are not permitted in park buildings, including cabins, or on the beach.
Camping at Cayo Costa State Park
Cayo Costa State Park has 30 primitive tent sites and 12 rustic cabins for guests who want to extend their stay. The campsites are located close to the beach in a primitive area. Each site has a picnic table, grill and access to potable water and restrooms. A tram service is provided daily between 10 am and 4 pm to bring campers from the docks to the campground one mile away. The cabins are nestled in a wooded area close by the beach and nature trails. Each cabin is a one room style with 3 bunk beds, a table and a porch, but no electricity or water. An outdoor grill is provided and restrooms are a short walk away. 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.
Park Location
Cayo Costa State Park 4 nautical miles west of Pine Island Captiva, FL 33924 Phone: 941.964.0375 Website Reservations
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Cayo Costa State Park:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to enter a Florida state park?
Most Florida state parks charge $4 to $6 per vehicle (up to 8 occupants). An individual annual pass costs $60, and a family annual pass costs $120, covering unlimited visits to all state parks.
Can I swim with manatees at Florida state parks?
While you cannot swim with manatees (they are protected), several spring parks like Blue Spring State Park offer excellent viewing from boardwalks. Manatees gather in springs from November through March when river temperatures drop.
Are alligators dangerous in Florida state parks?
Alligators are present in virtually all freshwater bodies in Florida. They are generally not aggressive toward humans, but you should never approach, feed, or harass them. Keep children and pets at a safe distance from water edges.
What is the best time to visit Florida state parks?
Winter and spring (November through April) offer the best conditions: pleasant temperatures, low humidity, fewer mosquitoes, and peak manatee viewing. Summer brings extreme heat, humidity, and daily thunderstorms.
Explore More Florida State Parks
Cayo Costa State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Florida. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Florida guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
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