Last Updated on November 3, 2023
Looking for things to do in Cabbage Key? We’ve got you covered.
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.
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.
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.
The boat ride is a mere 12 minutes from Pine Island.
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
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.
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.
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.
Boaters arrive throughout the day to enjoy casual and delicious dining.
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.
Famous celebrities reported who have tacked their dollars include John F. Kennedy, Ernest Hemingway, Jimmy Carter, Rob Lowe, Julia Roberts, and others.
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
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.
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 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?
I love this blog! I’m from the Keys and I can tell you that the cheeseburger in paradise is the real deal.