Welcome to a collection of places and experiences that are simply better when you arrive by water. From quiet back bays and hidden islands to waterfront restaurants and social sandbars, this is your starting point for exploring Southwest Florida by boat. Each destination is paired with video inspiration from across the boating community, giving you a real look at what to expect before you go. Whether you’re planning your next trip or just looking for ideas, this is where your next day on the water begins.
Cabbage Key — A Cheeseburger Worth the Journey
Tucked away along the Intracoastal Waterway near Pine Island, Cabbage Key is one of Southwest Florida’s most iconic boating destinations. Known for its laid-back, Old Florida charm, this historic stop is famous for its waterfront restaurant, dollar-bill-covered walls, and a legendary cheeseburger that keeps boaters coming back year after year. Arriving by boat is part of the experience, cruising through mangrove-lined waters before tying up and stepping into a place that feels completely removed from the everyday. Whether you’re stopping in for lunch, exploring the grounds, or just soaking in the atmosphere, Cabbage Key is a must-visit along our Southwest Florida coast.
Beer Can Island — A Social Island Escape
Tucked away in the Tampa Bay waters near Apollo Beach, Beer Can Island is a boating destination known for its energetic vibe and social sandbars. Accessible only by boat, it’s a place where the journey is part of the experience, cruising across the bay before easing into calm, clear water and pulling up along the beach. The island blends natural beauty with a social atmosphere, where boaters gather to swim, explore, and unwind under the sun. Whether you’re anchoring out for a few hours or settling in for the day, Beer Can Island offers a fun, easygoing escape that captures the spirit of boating in our area.
The Ten Thousand Islands — A Vast Coastal Wilderness
Stretching along Florida’s southwest coast near Everglades City, the Ten Thousand Islands offer a boating experience shaped by winding channels, mangrove-covered islets, and remarkable wildlife. Reached only by water, this vast network invites boaters to slow down and explore a quieter side of Florida. Along the way, you may come across hidden beaches, sheltered coves, and wildlife sightings ranging from dolphins and manatees to a wide variety of coastal birds. Whether you spend the day navigating farther into the maze of islands or dropping anchor for a peaceful stop, the Ten Thousand Islands feel remote, scenic, and deeply tied to the natural world.
Fort Myers Beach — A Classic Coastal Hangout
Situated along Estero Island, Fort Myers Beach is a lively boating destination known for its mix of waterfront dining, open Gulf views, and easygoing coastal atmosphere. By boat, the approach takes you through Estero Bay and into a stretch of shoreline where restaurants, beaches, and boating activity all sit close together. Whether you’re tying up for a meal, heading ashore for a while, or making it one stop on a longer day on the water, Fort Myers Beach offers an energetic Southwest Florida experience with plenty to see and do.
Shell Key Preserve — A Hidden Gulf Getaway
Located just off St. Pete Beach, Shell Key Preserve offers a quieter, more natural side of Southwest Florida. Accessible by boat, this undeveloped barrier island is known for its soft sand, clear Gulf water, and some of the best shelling in the region. Arriving by boat sets the tone, cruising across open water before dropping anchor along a shoreline that feels untouched and far removed from the mainland. Whether you’re spending the day swimming, exploring the beach, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings, Shell Key Preserve is a go-to destination for a relaxed day on the water.
Gasparilla Island — A Timeless Coastal Retreat
Located along Florida’s Gulf Coast near Boca Grande, Gasparilla Island offers a refined yet relaxed boating destination known for its historic charm, clear waters, and quiet shoreline. Approaching by boat, the island reveals a mix of natural beauty and old Florida character, from sandy beaches to iconic landmarks like the Boca Grande Lighthouse. Whether you’re anchoring off for a swim, cruising along the coast, or stopping into town for a bite, Gasparilla Island delivers a peaceful, scenic escape that feels both timeless and effortlessly inviting.
Cayo Costa State Park — A Remote Barrier Island Adventure
Just north of Captiva, Cayo Costa State Park offers a more open and beach-driven boating destination along Florida’s Gulf Coast. This undeveloped barrier island is known for its long stretches of shoreline, clear water, and laid-back natural beauty. Coming ashore by boat, visitors are greeted by a setting that feels quiet and untouched, with wide beaches, shelling opportunities, and a slower pace that encourages you to linger. Whether you stop for a swim, take a walk along the sand, or spend time exploring beyond the beach, Cayo Costa offers a simple, peaceful day on the water centered around the island itself.
Egmont Key — A Historic Island Experience
Located at the mouth of Tampa Bay, Egmont Key offers a distinctive boating destination where natural beauty and history meet. Accessible only by boat, the island is home to the historic Egmont Key Lighthouse, quiet beaches, and the remains of Fort Dade, which was established in 1858. As you approach, the route takes you across open Gulf waters to a shoreline shaped by both coastal scenery and a rich military past. Whether you’re exploring the island’s historic structures, relaxing on the beach, or watching for wildlife along the shore, Egmont Key delivers a memorable day on the water with a strong sense of place.