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Tampa, Florida is a vibrant food city where history and culture mix with fresh Gulf Coast flavors and inventive modern cuisine, and just like Tampa Pest Control helps local homes and restaurants stay clean, safe, and pest-free, Tampa’s dining scene is built on quality and care. From century-old Cuban classics to buzzing new restaurants pushing culinary boundaries, this Gulf Coast gem offers something for every palate, reflecting the same reliability and professionalism Tampa Pest Control brings to businesses across the city. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or rediscovering your own backyard, here’s your insider guide to the best restaurants, local dishes, and must-try food spots Tampa has to offer.

Tampa’s Signature Dishes: What to Eat First

Tampa’s culinary identity reflects a fusion of Spanish, Cuban, Italian, Southern, and Floridian seafood traditions. Before digging into individual restaurants, these are the local dishes you must try:

🍞 Cuban Sandwich

Arguably Tampa’s most iconic food, the Cuban sandwich (or “Cubano”) was popularized in Ybor City’s cigar factories and delis. It features roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard — and in Tampa traditionally includes Genoa salami — all pressed in Cuban bread until warm and crisp.

🐚 Deviled Crabs

A beloved local snack made from seasoned crab meat rolled into balls, breaded, and deep-fried — crispy on the outside, savory and tender inside.

🐟 Grouper Sandwich

Reflecting Tampa’s seaside location, the grouper sandwich showcases fresh Gulf fish — grilled, fried, or blackened — in a soft bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce.

🦀 Florida Stone Crab

Available seasonally, these sweet, chilled claws are served with mustard sauce, a classic Floridian luxury.

🥧 Key Lime Pie

No Florida food tour is complete without a slice of tangy, creamy Key lime pie with a graham cracker crust.

Top Restaurants to Taste Tampa’s Flavorful Spectrum

Below are standout spots across Tampa — from historic institutions to modern favorites worth traveling for.

🎉 Historic & Iconic

🇪🇸 Columbia Restaurant – Ybor City
A pillar of Tampa’s food scene since 1905, this Spanish-Cuban restaurant is famous for its Cuban sandwich and 1905 Salad — a refreshing mix of greens, olives, tomatoes, and cheese with a zesty house dressing.
👉 Why go: Experience classic Tampa heritage food in a lively, historic setting.

🥖 La Segunda Central Bakery – Ybor City
This century-old bakery supplies the beloved Cuban bread that makes Tampa’s Cubanos exceptional. Try the medianoche sandwich, pastries, and café con leche.
👉 Local tip: Best place to grab breakfast or lunch before exploring Ybor.

🍽 Innovative & Chef-Driven

🍤 Ulele – Riverwalk
Ulele blends Native-inspired dishes with Gulf seafood and craft brews brewed on site. Think charbroiled oysters, alligator hush puppies, and fresh fish with inventive sides.

🍷 Rooster & the Till – Seminole Heights
Known for a chef-driven menu of modern American small plates, this intimate spot is perfect for adventurous diners seeking creative cuisine.

🍅 Naked Farmer – Water Street
A New American favorite that emphasizes seasonal, local ingredients. A relaxed, flavorful choice for lunch or dinner.

🍤 Seafood & Waterfront Favorites

🌊 Rusty Pelican Tampa – Waterfront
With stunning views and a seafood-forward menu, Rusty Pelican is perfect for fresh catches and Gulf classics — ideal for a special meal or sunset dinner.

🦪 Ocean Prime – Westshore Blvd
A high-end seafood and steak house with excellent service and upscale atmosphere — great for date night or celebrations.

🥂 Stylish & Social Dining

🍷 Armature Works – Historic Food Hall
More than a restaurant — this communal dining destination houses multiple vendors serving everything from tacos to gourmet sandwiches. Try a bit of everything!

🍸 Bulla Gastrobar – South Howard
A lively Spanish tapas bar perfect for sharing plates and sangria with friends.

🍝 Downtown & Classic Favorites

🍕 Jay Luigi – Howard Ave
A Naples transplant with amazing Neapolitan pizza, pastas, and Italian dishes — great for a casual but delicious meal.

🥩 Malio’s – Ashley Dr
A Tampa staple steakhouse with classic cuts, seafood, and wine in an elegant atmosphere.

🍰 Sweet Spots & Fun Finds

🍨 Madame Fortune Dessert + HiFi Parlour
A must-visit for dessert lovers — incredible sweets and creative cocktails in a chic space.

🍽 On Swann
Beloved neighborhood spot for refined comfort food and brunch.

🍔 Nana Street Food
A local favorite for global street fare with big flavors and small prices.

Savory Street Eats & Casual Bites

Tampa’s food scene isn’t just sit-down restaurants — it’s also about casual, flavorful street eats and quick stops:

• Food Trucks & Markets: Tampa’s food truck culture thrives at spots like Armature Works and local festivals — perfect for adventurous eaters sampling everything from lobster rolls to Asian fusion tacos.
• Grouper & Seafood Shacks: Look for small, local seafood stands serving fried grouper, shrimp baskets, and conch fritters — a Gulf Coast favorite with deep Caribbean roots.

Tips for Exploring Tampa’s Food Scene

🍽️ Go Beyond the Menu

Many restaurants in Tampa focus on local ingredients — especially seafood — but a recent investigation found frequent mislabeling of shrimp as wild-caught, so don’t hesitate to ask about sourcing if that matters to you.

📍 Explore Neighborhoods

• Ybor City: The cultural heart of Tampa’s Cuban and Spanish food legacy. It’s the best place to discover historical dishes like the Cuban sandwich.
• SoHo & South Howard: Known for trendier brunch spots, tapas bars, and lively nightlife dining.
• Downtown & Riverwalk: Great for waterfront seafood, food halls, and group meals.

🍹 Pair Food with Drink

Tampa’s craft beer and cocktail scene is booming. Many local restaurants pair seasonal menus with creative drinks influenced by fresh Florida flavors — perfect for enhancing your meal.

Final Bite

Whether you’re sampling Tampa’s legendary Cuban sandwich, savoring fresh Gulf seafood, or exploring the city’s chef-driven establishments, Tampa offers a food lover’s paradise. From historic flavors rooted in immigrant traditions to inventive contemporary dishes, this city’s dining scene is as diverse as it is delicious. Pack your appetite — Tampa won’t disappoint.

Tampa is one of Florida’s most exciting cities, offering a vibrant mix of waterfront views, cultural attractions, historic neighborhoods, and outdoor adventures. While many travelers associate Florida vacations with expensive theme parks and pricey attractions, Tampa proves that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to have an amazing experience. In fact, some of the city’s best experiences are completely free.

Whether you’re a local looking for weekend plans or a visitor traveling on a tight budget, Tampa offers countless opportunities to explore without opening your wallet. From scenic riverwalk strolls and historic districts to nature preserves and art experiences, there is no shortage of free things to do that showcase the true heart of the city.

This guide highlights the best free activities in Tampa so you can enjoy everything the city has to offer while keeping your trip affordable and stress-free.

1. Walk the Tampa Riverwalk

The Tampa Riverwalk is one of the city’s most iconic attractions and completely free to enjoy. Stretching about 2.6 miles along the Hillsborough River, this scenic pathway connects downtown Tampa to some of the city’s most popular districts and landmarks.

As you walk, you’ll enjoy:

• Stunning waterfront views
• Public art installations
• Parks and shaded seating areas
• Access to restaurants and museums (even if you don’t go inside)

It’s a perfect spot for a morning walk, sunset stroll, or casual evening outing. You’ll often find street performers, joggers, cyclists, and families enjoying the open space. Bring a camera because the river views and skyline backdrops are beautiful, especially during golden hour.

2. Visit Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

Located right along the Riverwalk, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is a lively green space that hosts free events throughout the year. Even on days without scheduled programming, it’s a wonderful place to relax.

You can:

• Picnic on the lawn
• Let kids enjoy the splash pad
• Take photos of the Tampa skyline
• Attend free yoga classes or community events when available

The park regularly hosts free festivals, movie nights, fitness classes, and concerts, making it a hub for budget-friendly entertainment.

3. Explore the Tampa Bay History Center Grounds

While the Tampa Bay History Center museum requires paid admission, the surrounding outdoor areas are free to explore. The waterfront location offers scenic views and access to the Riverwalk.

You can:

• Enjoy the harbor scenery
• Watch boats pass through the bay
• Take photos of historic ships and architecture
• Relax by the water without paying an entry fee

Sometimes, the center offers free admission days, so it’s worth checking their calendar if you’re interested in learning more about Tampa’s rich past.

4. Wander Through Ybor City Historic District

Ybor City is one of Tampa’s most culturally rich neighborhoods and exploring it is completely free. Known for its Cuban, Spanish, and Italian heritage, Ybor City is full of historic brick buildings, colorful murals, and lively streets.

Things to do for free in Ybor City:

• Walk along 7th Avenue and admire the architecture
• Read historical plaques explaining the area’s past
• Spot the famous Ybor City chickens roaming freely
• Visit Centennial Park for a quiet break

The atmosphere alone makes Ybor City worth a visit. It feels like stepping into another era while still being lively and modern.

5. Visit Centennial Park

Located in the heart of Ybor City, Centennial Park is a small but meaningful space that commemorates Ybor City’s immigrant roots. The park features monuments dedicated to the different cultures that shaped the neighborhood.

It’s a peaceful spot where you can:

• Rest on shaded benches
• Learn about Tampa’s immigrant history
• Enjoy a calm break from busy streets

This park is perfect for travelers who love history and quiet moments during their exploration.

6. Enjoy the Tampa Museum of Art on Free Days

The Tampa Museum of Art typically offers free admission on certain days or during special community events. While regular admission is paid, these free days allow you to experience world-class exhibits without spending a dime.

On free days, you can:

• Explore modern and ancient art collections
• Walk the beautiful outdoor plaza
• Take photos of the building’s stunning architecture

Even when not entering the museum, the outdoor area near the museum is scenic and part of the Riverwalk, making it worth a visit regardless.

7. Visit Sparkman Wharf

Sparkman Wharf is known for food, drinks, and entertainment, but simply visiting and enjoying the atmosphere is free. This waterfront gathering space offers:

• Open-air seating
• Live music on select nights
• Views of cruise ships and boats
• A vibrant social scene

You don’t have to spend money to enjoy the ambiance. Bring your own water bottle, relax in the seating areas, and soak up the energy of Tampa’s waterfront culture.

8. Relax at Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park

This massive riverfront park is a hidden gem for budget-friendly fun. Located just west of downtown, Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park offers:

• Walking trails
• Open green spaces
• Picnic areas
• Skyline views
• Playgrounds and sports courts

It’s ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to unwind outdoors without paying for admission.

9. Visit Ballast Point Park

Ballast Point Park is one of the most beautiful free parks in Tampa, located along Hillsborough Bay. This park features:

• A fishing pier
• Waterfront walkways
• Picnic shelters
• Playground areas
• Stunning views of downtown Tampa

Sunsets here are especially breathtaking. Many locals consider this one of the best free spots in the city for photography and relaxation.

10. Walk Along Bayshore Boulevard

Bayshore Boulevard boasts the longest continuous sidewalk in the world, stretching over 4 miles along Tampa Bay. Walking here costs nothing and offers:

• Gorgeous water views
• Skyline photography opportunities
• Fresh air and gentle breezes
• A peaceful environment for exercise or reflection

It’s perfect for early morning walks, sunset strolls, or casual bike rides if you bring your own bike.

11. Visit the University of Tampa Campus

The University of Tampa campus is open to visitors and is one of the most visually stunning campuses in Florida. The former Tampa Bay Hotel building, now part of the university, is an architectural masterpiece.

You can:

• Walk the grounds
• Admire the Moorish-style minarets
• Take beautiful photos
• Relax by the river

This spot combines history, architecture, and scenic beauty at no cost.

12. Explore Tampa’s Public Beaches (Within City Limits)

While many tourists flock to Clearwater and St. Pete, Tampa itself offers waterfront parks and beach-like areas that are free to visit, including:

• Picnic Island Park
• Cypress Point Park

These parks provide:

• Sand, water access, and shade
• Picnic tables
• Walking paths
• Peaceful views away from crowds

They are perfect for a laid-back beach day without the long drive or parking fees often associated with major beaches.

Tampa proves that a great vacation doesn’t require a large budget. From scenic waterfront walks and cultural districts to wildlife encounters and free festivals, the city is packed with opportunities to explore, relax, and create memories without spending a dime.

By planning ahead and taking advantage of Tampa’s parks, neighborhoods, and community events, you can experience the best of the city while staying within your budget. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or living locally, Tampa offers endless free adventures waiting to be discovered

What type of recreational activities can people take advantage of in the Tampa area on a rainy day?

There is no need for disappointment; it is still a great city, even in wet weather. Tampa provides dozens of indoor activities and entertainment options. The following is a list of suggestions of what to do in Tampa on rainy days.

On one rainy day I had my house treated by Tampa Pest Control. If you want the best Tamp Pest Control Company give them a call. The Florida Aquarium is a spectacular structure inside which over twenty thousand different types of aquatic life can be admired. If you are interested in history, don’t forget to check out the SS American Victory, a World War II victory ship that was transformed into a museum inside a ship. It is located right next to the Aquarium.

The Tampa Museum of Science, The Florida Holocaust Museum, the Ybor City Museum, the Salvador Dali Museum, and the newest one, the Bay History Center are just mentioning a few of the most popular museums. Here, adults and children can learn about Tampa’s history, appreciate some artwork, or be flabbergasted by a butterfly garden, amongst other things.

It is always a good idea to watch a movie while is raining outside and Tampa has great theaters to entertain you. A popular and extravagant movie theater is CineBistro: Hyde Park, which offers a full bar where martinis, mojitos, and a selection of draft beer can be ordered. A hostess will accompany you to your seats and a waiter serves you meals, such as flatbreads, burgers, ahi- tuna, pasta, and desserts. If you wish, you are served drinks from the bar during the movie.

Inside sporting events will make you forget that it is raining outside and Tampa offers good places, such as the USF Sun Dome. In the USF arena, not only sporting events take place every year but also trade shows, ethnic festivals, rodeos, and concerts.

A nice evening can be spent in the St. Petersburg’s Mahaffey Theatre, in the Clearwater’s Ruth Eckerd Hall, or the Tampa’s TBPAC. With such a great variety of plays, there will always be one that pleases your taste.

A fun way of ending your night is the perfect combination of food and theater. In a dinner theater, you can spend a romantic time with your partner or have a fun time with your family or friends. Among your options, you will find places like Bollywood Café, Detective Dinner Theater, Angel Cabaret Theater, Early Bird Dinner Theatre, Show Palace Dinner Theatre, and hundreds more.

Go shopping. If you are running out of places to go on rainy days, check out the International Plaza; it is a charming and entertaining shopping and dining destination where you can find trendy stores and an open-air village with nice restaurants.

If you follow these suggestions, you will discover another side of Tampa and discover that it is a place where even on rainy days there is no reason to stay at home.

Dozens of festivals and events take place in Tampa Bay every year and all year long. The biggest and most famous one is the Gasparilla Pirate Festival. It is a mock pirate invasion and an enormous celebration with four hundred thousand participants.

It has been a major event since 1904 and is organized between January and February. Other Gasparilla festivities are celebrated until the month of March, such as the Gasparilla Festival of the Arts, the Sant’Yago Knight Parade and the Gasparilla Children’s Parade, the Gasparilla Distance Classic and the Gasparilla International Film Festival.

All of these festivals as well as the Clearwater Jazz Festival, where different musicians perform every year, can be enjoyed for free. People bring lawn chairs and watch celebrities like Richie Cole and Dave Brubeck in an open area.

Not every event is free, however, but there are tons of very cheap events going on in Tampa. Last year, fans went crazy when USF football season tickets were sold for super low prices such as $ 6.50. People had their dreams come true watching Tampa Bay Rays games for cheaper than a hamburger.

Tampa hosts many other events during the year, such as the annual Florida State Fair. This Fair lasts for eleven days and people can participate in competitions and try fun food. The Florida Strawberry Festival is a very traditional festival with a parade and takes place in late spring around the time of the strawberry harvest.

Tampa also offers attractions that can be visited all year long, such as the Lowry Park Zoo, a unique zoo for its interactive exhibits. At the interactive discovery center, visitors can ride camels, pet and feed animals and enjoy activities such as the river eco-tour and encounters with West Indian Manatees. As a nonprofit organization, the Lowry Park Zoo can be visited free.

Tampa has beautiful beaches that are visited by people from all over the world. The North Beach at Fort De Soto Park is the most famous one in the area and in the United States, it is considered to be one of the best beaches in the country. It is always full of residents and tourists enjoying amazing beach breaks.

However, Tampa also has beaches for people who are looking for different ways of enjoying a sunny day. Caladesi Island State Park is an island with beautiful and calm beaches and mangroves that can be visited by kayak. Thus, it is not too frequented and a perfect place to relax.

Siesta Key Beach, which is famous for having the whitest sand in the world, is another gorgeous beach while the Blind Pass Beach with dunes can offer lots of fun. There is a beach for all tastes and ages in Tampa but in any case, one is going to be astonished by their natural beauty.

With all of these entertainment options, there will not be enough time to enjoy all of it and there is no doubt about it that many tourists decide to come back to appreciate all the other attractions that were missed out on.

Tampa can be a great travel destination for people who like sports, as the city offers a wide range of sports events all year long. There are sports events for every taste, from football, baseball, and roller derby games to dog races, bull riding, and kickball for kids and adults. Successful local teams can be watched and cheered on, such as the NHL Lightning Hockey Team, the MLB Devil Ray Baseball Team, and the NFL Buccaneers Football Team.

There are many well-equipped places to offer you great games, such as the St. Pete Times Forum, the USF Sun Dome, the Tampa Bay Times Forum, the Raymond James Stadium, the Tampa Greyhound Track, and the Sun Dome. The latter one is a multi-purpose facility where hundreds of events are organized, making it busy almost every day of the year.

Sporting events such as taekwondo tournaments, wrestling, gymnastics and cheerleading competitions, boxing, rodeos, youth sports camps, home and garden shows, ethnic festivals, concerts, bull riding competitions, trade shows, religious services and conventions, community and university events, and commencement ceremonies as well as lectures and political rallies entertain every taste.

Tampa occasionally hosts professional boxing matches with famous boxers such as Antonio Tarver, Winky Wright, and Jeff Lacy. Ice hockey fans will not be disappointed when watching the Florida Panthers and it is interesting to see how even in a warm state, teams can be successful.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers amaze people with their quality football which brought them a title in 2003. At the University of South Florida Bulls, games take place all year round and with a variety of almost twenty different sports, individuals and families of different sports preferences and ages can find what they are looking for.

Located less than 10 miles from Downtown Tampa, golf lovers can play at high-carat clubs such as Westchase Golf Course, Old Memorial Golf Club, Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club, and Pebble Creek Golf Club. Tennis can also be played not far from downtown, such as at Carrollwood Village Golf & Tennis Club-Meadows/ Pines Course.

Horseback riding can be enjoyed at The Breeze Horse Ranch which offers pony rides, children’s birthday parties and nature trail rides for beginners and amateur riders. People who like bowling will find great opportunities at places like Pin Chasers and Panorama. At the bowling center Splitsville, it is possible to play a game for only $2 every Tuesday, which means maximum entertainment for a minimum price.

Tampa possesses some of the most famous beaches in the United States as people from all over the world travel to the U.S. in the winter to soak up the sun’s rays. Sports fans can also find what they are looking for at the beaches where they are surrounded by fun recreational opportunities.

Clearwater Beach is one of the best destinations for the ones who like sports; people go jet skiing, fishing, parasailing, playing volleyball, and practicing many other kinds of beach sports.

Tampa is an awesome destination for sports fans, no matter at what time of the year, with a multitude of indoor as well as outdoor sporting events.

Orlando is a highly urbanized city in the heart of the United States. But even though, modernization has been inevitable, it managed to preserve most of its natural scenic beauties. Orlando is just a good place to travel to and still it is one of the most visited cities in Florida. So, whenever you want to go down there and spend the rest of your vacation or holidays, here are the four places you may want to hang out with;

Clermont

It is known to be the Home of the Florida Citrus Tower which is just a short drive west of Orlando. Modernization cannot be stopped, the natural citrus groves have been destroyed to give way to the business establishments. But, its proximity to Disney World gave a good start for progress and business which changed the place forever.

Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards

You must have been wondering where all the premium wines in Florida come from. Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards has all the authority to own the famous premium winemaker in Florida, in the U.S., and even export to other countries. It is conveniently set in Clermont which started to operate in 1989. A lot of people then objected and surprised having been able to see a vineyard in the heart of citrus groves; they said that this establishment will never last long. But they were proven wrong because the winery just became popular and most visited in Orlando.

Scott’s Corn Maze

In every fall season, each year, if you will take a little time traveling 30 miles northwest of Orlando. A corn maze may not be the first thing that you can think of whenever you are in Florida, however, the one which exists has become one of the most visited tourist destinations. They have the best Orlando Pest Control so you won’t be seeing any pests in the corn maze. Even though the old form of the art game, maze, have already or just almost been forgotten, Mount Dora has its way of reincarnating it so that travelers and tourists can enjoy it. It is just a 6.5-acre cornfield well-maintained and well-planned to provide a unique experience for tourists, travelers, and vacationers while they are at the peak of happy times.

Cassadaga

If you haven’t heard it yet, Cassadaga is home to the spiritualists, healers, and psychics in the southeastern part of the United States. The people have their talent of healing the sickness in which medical science finds impossible to heal plus, they even claim that they can communicate with the dead. With their claims, they became so famous in the United States and a lot of tourists find time to experience the “unusual or unnatural”.” But there is nothing to be scared about although, the place is spooky and scary because these people know what you are up to in going to the place. Thus, if you are looking for a few extraordinary experiences just before you go home from your vacation, maybe Cassadaga can offer you the things you are looking for.

Orlando is one of the places in Florida to offer world-class attractions and sceneries. But there are also places in which only a few people have explored because these places are not so popular, still, you have to expect that you surely would enjoy your stay. Here is a list of five unexplored places in Orlando, Florida;

Holy Land Experience

This place is not only for religious people but for everybody who wants to experience being in the Holy Land. There are lifelike reenactments of the important happenings in the bible. So, if you have so much to learn about the biblical past, this place can help you understand. It will bring you back to the time when Christians are persecuted and the times when religion does not exist.

The Gatorland

If you wanted to meet with really toothy creatures, then Gatorland would be a perfect spot for you. Here, you will be able to witness different species of crocodiles and alligators. There are educational shows every day as well as wrestling shows to see how these species fight. Above all, this place also serves as their breeding marsh.

Bok Tower Gardens

It is located near Lake Wales and is home to thousand of species of botanical plants. Bok tower garden is where people who are looking for a serene and clean place go. It could be a perfect getaway for families or even friends. Only a few take time to reminisce the legacy of Edward Bok, builder of the tower while having a quiet stay in the garden.

Medieval Times

The reenactment of medieval times is one of America’s traditions. Thus, a lot of travelers wanted to experience and witness how things happened in medieval times. Medieval Times, however, is not a popular tourist destination, it’s one of the Dinner Shows in the area that offers a unique experience when you eat.

SAK Comedy Lab

If you are one of the comedy fans who always look for a good laugh, SAK Comedy Lab is just a perfect place to stay. It is famed for its improvisational shows and comedies which will make you laugh your heart out. This has been one of the most popular comedy bars in central Orlando. Up until now, the place still offers improvisational shows, games shows, and Broadway comedies.

These places may not be the best in their category but sure enough, you will enjoy your stay. Being not so popular, they remain to be some of the places in Orlando that only a few have explored.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvKUTcU9Foo

So you think you have arrived when you get to Captiva Island? Don’t be too sure. It is true that everything that you could possibly desire in a tropical island vacation can be found right on Captiva Island, Florida. There are some of the best and most luxurious hotel facilities in the world and restaurants that will make you forget all about any healthy eating plan that you were trying to follow before you arrived. There are white sandy beaches and all that fresh salt air and abundant sunshine that make a tropical island…well….a tropical island paradise.

Captiva Island simply overflows with opportunities to engage in all of the tropical island activities…fishing, swimming, boating, scuba diving, etc. There are so many wonderful and entertaining activities that one could see themselves simply living forever in this paradise but there is even more than meets the eye.

Just because you have arrived in what is apparently a tropical paradise doesn’t mean that there is not more of paradise to see. Think cruise!

There are many opportunities for cruises available on Captiva Island. One of the better known cruise lines is Captiva Cruises….that is the name of the company and a very fitting name it is. The line was founded in 1986 and is an excursion boat company. Cruises are available that last from only one hour up to half a day. Some of the most popular cruises that Captiva Cruises offer are:

The Dolphin Watch and Wildlife Cruise:

The Dolphin Watch and Wildlife Cruise last about an hour and a half. There are dolphins seen on about 95% of the cruises so the odds are very good that you will have to pleasure of seeing these magnificent creatures as you enjoy the sight from a comfortable and safe setting. There is narration provided on the Dolphin Watch and Wildlife Cruise by knowledgeable volunteers from the Sanibel and Captiva Conservation Foundation.

The Sunset Serenade Cruise:

This cruise features live music most often performed by Danny Morgan who is an island music legend. The Sunset Serenade Cruise lasts about one hour. There is always an open cash bar. Seeing the sun sink into the Gulf of Mexico while Island music is being played and a wonderful island drink is being enjoyed is a very romantic experience that won’t be soon forgotten.

The Coya Costa Beach and Shelling Cruise:

This cruise is scheduled to last about three hours. It takes you to Florida State Park beaches that are undeveloped and are accessible only by boat. You are allowed from two to four hours to explore these undeveloped beaches, swim, in the clear warm water, bird watch or look for shells.

The Cabbage Key Cruise:

This one might be the most fascinating of all. It lasts a full half-day and it will take you to the famous Cabbage Island…the place that inspired Jimmy Buffet to write “Hamburger in Paradise”. You will see a room in what is now the Inn that is papered in autographed dollar bills. The house that is now the Inn was built in 1938 by the famous novelist, Mary Roberts Rinehart.