Cabbage Key is a small island located in Southwest Florida, accessible only by boat. Known for its lush vegetation, historic inn, and famous “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” Cabbage Key is a popular destination for boaters and tourists alike. In this blog post, we’ll take you through the steps of planning a trip to Cabbage Key by boat, what to take, the best time to visit, and things to do on the island.
Planning Your Trip to Cabbage Key
The first step in planning your trip to Cabbage Key is to decide how you will get there. There are several options, including private boat, water taxi, or tour boat. If you have your own boat, you can launch from several public boat ramps in the area, including the Pineland Marina, Matlacha Boat Ramp, and the Boca Grande Causeway. If you don’t have a boat, you can take a water taxi from the mainland or join a guided tour boat.
Next, you’ll want to decide how long you want to stay on the island. Cabbage Key has a historic inn with several overnight accommodations available, as well as a restaurant, bar, and gift shop. If you’re planning on staying at the inn, make sure to book in advance, as they fill up quickly.
What to Take
When visiting Cabbage Key, there are a few essential items you’ll want to take with you. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are a must, as the Florida sun can be intense. Make sure to pack plenty of water, as there are no stores or restaurants on the island other than the Cabbage Key Inn. Other items to consider bringing include insect repellent, a camera to capture the island’s natural beauty, and a sense of adventure.
The Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Cabbage Key is during the cooler months, from November to April, when temperatures are milder and there is less humidity. During these months, you’ll also have a better chance of seeing wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species. The summer months can be hot and humid, with the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms.
Things to Do on the Island
Once you’ve arrived on Cabbage Key, there are several things to do to make the most of your visit. The island has several hiking trails, including the 1.5-mile Nature Trail, which winds through the island’s lush vegetation and leads to a lookout tower with stunning views of the surrounding waters. Visitors can also spend the day shelling, swimming, and snorkeling in the clear waters of Pine Island Sound. The island is a popular spot for fishing, and visitors can also rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the island’s waterways.
No trip to Cabbage Key would be complete without a visit to the Cabbage Key Inn, where visitors can enjoy a famous “Cheeseburger in Paradise” at the inn’s restaurant, which was a favorite spot of Jimmy Buffett himself. After lunch, be sure to stop by the inn’s gift shop to pick up a souvenir to remember your visit.
In conclusion, visiting Cabbage Key by boat is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Southwest Florida and enjoy a laid-back island vibe. With a little planning and the right gear, visitors can spend a day or longer exploring the island’s hiking trails, beaches, and waters. And, of course, no trip to Cabbage Key is complete without trying the famous cheeseburger and soaking up the island’s unique charm.
So, whether you’re a seasoned boater or a first-time visitor to Southwest Florida, be sure to add Cabbage Key to your list of must-visit destinations. With its historic inn, scenic trails, and tasty cuisine, this hidden gem is sure to be a highlight of any trip to the area.
The Best Way To Get There: Rent a Boat From Paradise Boat Rentals
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