WATER & COAST

Cayo Costa State Park Beach

Lee County · Gulf Coast

A 2,436-acre barrier island in Charlotte Harbor, four nautical miles west of Pine Island, reached only by boat or kayak. Nine miles of undeveloped shoreline, wind-shaped trees and dunes behind it. Swimming, snorkeling, shelling, fishing and bird watching, with manatees, porpoises and sea turtles offshore and shorebirds in numbers. The ferry service has not run since July 2025, so it is private boats only for now, and overnight stays are closed while the facilities are repaired. Restrooms, and a ranger station open until 4 p.m. Open 8 a.m. to sunset, 365 days a year, $2 a person into an honor box. Pets are allowed in marked areas.