4 Best Resorts on Captiva Island, FL

Captiva Island is a little slice of paradise, perfect for visitors who enjoy a more laid-back, natural beach vacation. Much quieter than its more popular neighbor, Sanibel Island, Captiva is the perfect beach destination for those who like to take things slow. The fact that Captiva boasts a handful of great resorts makes that easy to do.

Being small in size, there are only a few resorts on the island of Captiva, but each boasts comfy rooms and amenities that make them worthy of a stay.

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly resort bursting with activities and crystalline pools, or a secluded retreat in a romantic hideaway, you’re sure to find the perfect place to rest your head on lovely Captiva Island.

Easy access to the famous stretch of silky-soft sand along the isle’s western shore is one of the main perks of staying at a resort on Captiva. Parking is either next to impossible or insanely expensive for non-resort guests, making it difficult to find public access to Captiva beaches. Staying at one of the area resorts, however, grants you immediate access, sometimes within mere steps of your room.

Choose the ideal spot for your next Florida beach vacation with our list of the best resorts on Captiva Island.

1. South Seas Island Resort

Accommodation: South Seas Island Resort

There are many reasons why the four-star South Seas Island Resort has been deemed the best resort on Captiva Island.

First, it’s massive. The resort’s various buildings and pools sprawl across 300 acres and include a protected wildlife sanctuary. Two-and-a-half miles of wide sandy beach line the shore, brushing up against the cool, emerald waves of the Gulf. The resort literally takes up the entire northern tip of the island.

This is the perfect place to head out for a cruise, frolic in the waves, Jet Ski, parasail, or boogie board. If you love to boat or fish, head to one of the resort’s two marinas: Yacht Harbour & Marina and Bayside Marina, where you can rent a kayak or boat, or climb aboard a fishing charter.

The Captiva Provision Company is a big hit with those who like to cook in their accommodations. This gourmet market boasts a deli counter, as well as groceries and sundries. The resort can also arrange to have groceries delivered to your room when you arrive.

You’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to quelling those hunger pangs. Multiple restaurants and quick-serve coffee shops (hello, Starbucks and Ships Store) make it easy to grab a bite either inside, outside, by the pool, or on the run. Your children (and the kid in you) will have trouble saying “no” to an icy treat at Scoops and Slices.

Kids will love the children’s activities, waterslides, and three outdoor pools at this family-friendly resort. The whole family can enjoy a nine-hole round of golf, a tennis match, water sports, and on-site bike rentals.

Camp Skullywags is a hit with kids ages 3 to 11, who can also partake in the Sanibel Sea School where they’ll learn about the area’s ecosystem. Guides will take little ones on shelling or bird-watching tours, as well as surfing, snorkeling, or net fishing adventures.

With 471 rooms that vary in size from small villas to condos to full-size homes, guests are also spoiled for options on where to stay. This retreat is so large, you’ll need to ride a bike, hop on the resort’s trolley, or travel by golf cart to get to all the amenities.

Tip: Stay in one of the newly revamped Harbourside Water View Guest rooms (at Harbourside Hotel), which boast picturesque coastal views over the Pine Island Sound, private balconies, and updated furnishings

Address: 5400 Plantation Road, Captiva Island, Florida

2. Jensen’s “On the Gulf”

Accommodation: Jensen’s “On the Gulf”

Looking for love in all the wrong places? Head to Jensen’s “On the Gulf.” As its name implies, this quiet little hideaway is steps from the soft, sandy beach and so close to the shops and restaurants in town that you can ditch your car in favor of a hand-held walk. It’s also, obviously, right across from the emerald waves of the Gulf of Mexico.

You won’t need to worry about rowdy guests, loud aqua aerobics classes, or a zillion kids screaming down waterslides while staying at Jensen’s. Instead, this quaint resort offers a serene experience in an intimate environment that feels instantly like home.

Everything you need for a perfect beach vacay is included with your room: beach chairs, umbrellas, and water toys. Thatched roof tiki pavilions house picnic tables and BBQs on the beach, making it easy to dine alfresco as the sun sets. Each room (be it a cozy studio or suite) boasts a private, screened patio or porch, a BBQ, toaster, mini fridge, and microwave.

It’s easy to meet other guests in such a small and cozy environment. Who knows, you may just leave having met a new best friend.

Address: 15300 Captiva Drive, Captiva Island, Florida

3. ‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa

Accommodation: ‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa

Set between the Gulf of Mexico and Pine Island Sound, ‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa is both an idyllic spot to unwind and an uber fun place to hit the waves. The Play Pool is pretty self-explanatory, as is the Serenity Pool, which boasts a soothing rock waterfall and private cabanas to rent, as well as a poolside drinks service.

You’ll also find a lavish spa (we highly recommend the laugh-line-cleansing facial) to help you relax. Plus, a slew of activities like kayaking, canoeing, parasailing, tennis, pickleball, and fishing to tickle your adventurous side. This is one of Captiva’s top resorts for good reason!

Build sandcastles with the kids, go shelling, or play volleyball. You’re welcome to choose to do as much or as little as you like–it’s your vacation, after all. Another bonus: there are no resort fees, and most activities (excluding motorized water sports) are included in your nightly rate.

The resort is home to five restaurants that will tempt a variety of tastebuds. Grab a giant beach burger by the pool, sip on a smoothie or ice cream at Tween’s Beans by the play pool, or enjoy some live music and a classic island meal at the Crow’s Nest.

When it comes time to rest your sun-drenched heads, turn in to your comfortable bay studio, pretty guest room, or charming beach cottage. One-, two-, and three-bedroom suites are also available to help you stretch out.

Pets are welcome but will incur a daily fee for their stay, and no more than two four-legged friends are allowed in one unit.

Address: 15951 Captiva Road, Captiva Island, Florida

4. Captiva Island Inn Bed & Breakfast

Accommodation: Captiva Island Inn Bed & Breakfast

A quaint retreat just steps from the beach, the Captiva Island Inn is an affordable, clean, and adorable place to put your feet up and enjoy the Floridian sun. Dubbed “a bed and breakfast with a splash of fun,” this sweet inn makes it easy to feel like a local.

The crystal-clear pool, comfy lounge chairs, tree-shaded hammocks, and prime location in the heart of Captiva Village makes it one of the best resorts on Captiva Island. Choose from one- or two-bedroom suites or cottages and two- and three-bedroom villas, depending on your needs and the size of your travel party.

No matter which type of room you pick, daily breakfast for two is included at Keylime Bistro or RC Otter’s Island Eats. While you’re welcome to bring kids, there aren’t any scheduled activities, children’s clubs, or activities on-site. You’ll have to head to the beach to keep them active.

Hate leaving Fido at home? Bring him along! The Captiva Island Inn welcomes pets for an additional daily fee. Call before you arrive to let the inn know you’re bringing a furry friend.

Address: 11509 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva Island, Florida

Map of Resorts on Captiva Island, FL

Captiva, FL – Climate Chart