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Cheeseburger in Paradise: Authentic Cabbage Key 2023

Last Updated on November 3, 2023

Looking for things to do in Cabbage Key? We’ve got you covered.

Cabbage Key Sunset.

Cabbage Key Florida is a charming island located in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Southwest Florida near Ft. Myers. It’s known for its peaceful atmosphere and picturesque views.

Jimmy Buffett photo and dollar bill at Cabbage Key Restaurant.
Photo source: Cabbage Key

Cabbage Key is an “old Florida” island. It’s the laid-back paradise that many believe Jimmy Buffett made famous when he met the perfect cheeseburger, a piano, and a cold beer after a day of excellent fishing.

Although it turns out Jimmy Buffett wrote the song “Cheeseburger in Paradise” in Tortola, British Virgin Islands, it certainly is understandable why people think it was in Cabbage Key.

Cabbage Key view of the water.

Those who visit Cabbage Key seek “authentic” Florida. It’s a club, a rite of passage, a badge of “authenticity.” One small detail. You have to get there by boat.

You can take your vessel, which we highly recommend. If you don’t happen to have your own boat , you can grab an island taxi leaving Pine Island Marina.

People on a boat.

The boat ride is a mere 12 minutes from Pine Island.

Cabbage Key Island aerial photo.
Source: Cabbage Key

Or if you prefer to leave from Captiva, Punta Gorda, or Boca Grande, party boats leave daily. The island can be found near Channel Marker 60 in the Pine Island Sound.

Arriving at Beautiful Cabbage Key

Boaters first view a sign in Pine Island Sound that marks the channel leading to Cabbage Key, seen in the background.

Arriving at Cabbage Key, visitors are greeted by a harbormaster who oversees the small marina and boathouse. Spotted along the harbor are old white wooden cottages and also a few private homes.

Cabbage Key Inn and Restaurant aerial.

Named for the abundance of cabbage palms, the Cabbage Key Inn & Restaurant and surrounding buildings were built by mystery writer Mary Roberts Rinehart and her son in 1938. Little has changed since then.

Cabbage Key old water tower
Cabbage Key old water tower

An old refurbished water tower looms near the restaurant. Royal Poinciana trees and lovely palms dot the landscape. In addition, ospreys and bald eagles soar overhead.

The main focal point is the historic Inn and restaurant, which sits high on a Calusa Indian mound.

Cabbage Key Stone Crabs.

Boaters arrive throughout the day to enjoy casual and delicious dining.

Cabbage Key Restaurant.

Guests can eat on the patio but don’t miss the collection of famed dollar bills taped to the ceilings and walls inside. Servers report that there are over 70,000 dollar bills on the walls, with written names, sayings, and graffiti.

The tradition started years ago when a commercial fisherman, flush with cash, taped a few bills to the wall, ensuring he would have enough money to return for more libations.

Cabbage Key restaurant dollar bills.
Source: Cabbage Key

Famous celebrities reported who have tacked their dollars include John F. Kennedy, Ernest Hemingway, Jimmy Carter, Rob Lowe, Julia Roberts, and others.

Doll House in Cabbage Key.
The Doll House, Cabbage Key

There are several overnight accommodations. One is appropriately named Doll House, one of the most popular cottages. It has hardwood floors, a screened-in porch, and window A/C units – with a full mangrove view and gentle breezes.

A Night on the Island

Cabbage Key sign.

By evening, and after the boaters retreated, the island is quiet and you might reflect on what it must have been like when the Rineharts lived here.

As Florida’s island outback, the mosquitoes, alone, must have been an interesting challenge.

Cabbage Key.

The experience on Cabbage Key is all about boating and fishing. Additionally, if you are looking for a beach stop, consider the nearby Cayo Costa, an unspoiled island with miles of open beach and nature.

Cabbage Key Cottage.

Cabbage Key is a “must” for authentic travelers – whether stopping for lunch or staying the night.

It’s a delightful reminder of “old” Florida and its past. 

TIPS:

  • Most major airlines fly into Fort Myers – Southwest Florida International Airport.
  • A taxi from the airport takes you to Pineland Marina on Pine Island, where you will catch a water taxi to Cabbage Key.
  • Island Girl Charters – 239-633-8142
    Shuttle service from Pineland Marina to Cabbage Key and private charters for special events.
    Holds approximately 25 passengers or less per boat.
  • Tropic Star Cruises – 239-283-0015
    Specializes in lunch cruises and private charters for special events.
    Holds approximately 49 passengers or less
  • Best way to define Cabbage Key’s location: Channel Marker 60, Latitude N 26º 39′ 24.162″, Longitude W 82º 13′ 20.635″
  • The Sister Property is Tarpon Lodge & Restaurant located at 13771 Waterfront Dr, Bokeelia FL 33922

Cabbage Key Mailing Address: P.O. Box 200, Pineland FL 33945

Looking for more authentic Florida fun?

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