Cayo Costa Island State ParkLocated on La Costa Island, which is west of Pine Island, south of Gasparilla Island, and north of North Captiva. Except for the basic State Park buildings, dockage, a few camping cabins and restrooms, this is a completely undeveloped island. You can only reach this island wilderness by boat. It is one of the few islands on the peninsular Florida Gulf Coast that appears much as it would have to the early explorers, especially now that the invasive Australian pines have mostly been removed. The island is heavily forested with cabbage palms and small oaks. There is a lot of wildlife, including wild hogs descended from those brought by the Spanish Explorers. Various businesses operate ferry or tour boat service to Cayo Costa and other islands like Cabbage Key, North Captiva, and Useppa Island. From Pine Island I take the Tropic Star. The Tropic Star will also help you haul your camping gear and kayak to Cayo Costa. Their prices are very reasonable and they are the "Official" ferry to Cayo Costa. Check out the video below I helped produce (with the help of Summer Lott and Steve McFadden) of our trip to Cabbage Key and Cayo Costa when I was freelancing for VISITFLORIDA.com, serving as their "beaches and surf expert." |
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A quiet gulf beach on Cayo Costa. |
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A beach on Pine Island Sound. Gasparilla Island in the distance across Boca Grande Pass. |
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The main crescent beach on Cayo Costa, where most day trippers settle in. |
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Bring your own shade to Cayo Costa State Park. Cayo Costa Island State Park is a full day trip from Pine Island on the Tropic Star. You'll need to bring cold water and drinks, food, shade, a change of clothes, insect repellent (just in case) and a good pair of walking shoes. In other words, whatever you think you'll need, bring it. Bring more cold water than you think you'll need. There are other boats in the area that have shelling trips to Cayo Costa that are less than a full day. |
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Cayo Costa has many miles of trails all over the island. |
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Cabins can be reserved in advance for camping on the island. They do not have electricity. |
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Many folks prefer to camp in tents. The camping area overlooks the Gulf beach. No electric. |
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A family heads back to the tram station after a day at the beach. |
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Afternoon on Cayo Costa beach. |
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The tram carries campers and passengers from the dock to the beach area. |
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Bike rentals are available on Cayo Costa Island State Park. |
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Campers can purchase firewood from the camp store. |
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The Tropic Star carries passengers and campers from Pine Island to Cayo Costa. |
