Last Updated on November 2, 2023
Our hearts go out to the people of Pine Island following the devastation caused by Hurricane Ian. Stay strong!
When it comes to things to do in Pine Island Florida, old Florida authenticity is everywhere. It’s important to put this unique destination on your travel itinerary so you don’t miss this rare Florida treasure.
Located just 30 minutes from Fort Myers, Pine Island is one of the largest islands off Florida’s west coast. But it’s not your typical beach or island destination. Surrounded by mangroves and acres of palm, this Florida island has surprisingly avoided major commercial development and high-rise buildings. It has also been able to stay under the radar as a popular beach destination.
Things to Do in Pine Island Florida
“Real” Florida abounds in its laid-back atmosphere. It’s a perfect place for art lovers, nature lovers, and people who just long for a small-town, sleepy beach way of life. There are no amusement parks anywhere near this hidden treasure. “Fishy” Florida rules!
Matlacha (Mat-la-shay) is the gateway town to Pine Island. It’s a historic fishing village, home to assorted motels and cottages, gift and specialty shops, bait and seafood shops, restaurants, and unique, offbeat, colorful art galleries. It’s a great place for a day trip or to spend a few nights.
As you pass through Matlacha, you’ll drive over the renowned “Fishiest Bridge” packed with anglers vying for their fresh daily catch. Note: it’s always fishing season on the west coast of Florida.
If you are pressed for time and heading elsewhere on Pine Island, we have two best things to do in Matlacha recommendations. First, stop at the Lovegrove Gallery & Gardens, and second, have a meal at the Olde Fish House Marina Restaurant. (Both are within walking distance of each other and have easy access off the main Pine Island Road.) We promise you won’t have any regrets.
Lovegrove Gallery & Gardens
This is our favorite art gallery not only in Florida but possibly on the planet. Every inch of the Matlacha Leoma Lovegrove Gallery & Gardens is painted with bright, tropical, psychedelic colors – indoors and out. You can’t help but feel like you are in a 60’s Love Fest & Peace-In. When it comes to colorful galleries, this one is hard to beat.
Lawlessness, disobedience, and fun reign supreme. This place is a “must-see” for any Beatles fan smitten with the “Fab Four.” You’ll also love the irresistible “fishy” fish paintings.
Bottom line, if you love fun, zany, irreverent art, owner and artist Leoma Lovegrove is your gal. If not in the market for art, the Gallery has a great collection of trinkets, cards, wall signs, painted shells, and ridiculous stuff no one could resist.
Leoma Lovegrove Gallery & Gardens, 4637 Pine Island Road NW, Matlacha, Florida 33993
(239) 938-5655
Hours: Monday thru Saturday 10 am – 5 pm; Sunday 11 am -5 pm. The Garden closes at 4:45 pm.
Olde Fish House Marina Restaurant
While working up an appetite at the Lovegrove Gallery, we inquired about an authentic lunch stop and chose the Olde Fish House Marina Restaurant. Charmed by the restaurant, menu, food, and owners, we would venture to say this is one of the freshest and most reasonable seafood eateries in Florida.
Customers order at the outside window counter. The fish is fresh-caught blackened, broiled, grilled or fried. Fish tacos are a specialty. We had fried clams, tasty mullet and fritters with homemade hush puppies, coleslaw and key lime pie. All the desserts are freshly made and delicious.
The back patio dining area sits adjacent to a boat dock. The ambiance of the restaurant was refreshingly authentic with funky Florida memorabilia everywhere. Home Sweet Home. The wall signs read: EAT MORE MULLET and EAT FISH – LOVE LONGER.
The Olde Fish House Marina & Restaurant is located at 4530 Pine Island Road, Matlacha.
239-282-9588 (Restaurant); 239-282-9577 (Market)
Pine Island Communities
Pine Island has five communities: Matlacha Island, Pine Island Center (central island with shopping, and community services), St. James City (south end of the island, more than ½ the island residents live there), Bokeelia (north end community, farming of tropical fruits and palm trees, plus marinas), Pineland (Randell Research Center & marinas).
Pine Island Sound Aquatic Preserve
The Pine Island Sound Aquatic Preserve is a protected area that includes the waters of Pine Island Sound, Charlotte Harbor, and their adjacent estuaries. The natural preserve was established in 1974 to protect the area’s natural resources and to provide opportunities for recreation, research, and education. The preserve covers approximately 1,400 square miles of water and includes over 100 islands. It is a popular destination for boaters, fishermen, and nature lovers.
This area is definitely for the birds. You are bound to see osprey, herons, roseate spoonbills, wood storks, egrets, white pelicans, hawks, owls and more. There are designated areas for hiking. We even spotted a few wild hogs on one of the nature trails.
Regarding accommodations, we stayed at the Tarpon Lodge in Pineland. It was comfortable and fairly reasonable with lovely waterfront views in close proximity to neighboring islands off Pine Island Sound.
Across the street, we enjoyed the Randall Research Center (part of the Florida Museum of Natural History), dedicated to the archeology and history of the area, particularly the Calusa Indians’ culture. The Calusa Indians inhabited the area by building significant ancient Indian shell mounds and intricate canal systems while fishing in the rich estuaries.
If you want to venture out on the water, check out Captain Tony’s Boat Tours. Whether you want to see dolphins, catch a sunset or take a ride over to nearby islands, like Cabbage Island to experience a Cheeseburger in Paradise, Captain Tony is your guy.
Also, the Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce has a wealth of detailed information. This destination is truly one of the best places you can visit in Florida.
Related Southwest Florida & Florida’s Gulf Coast articles:
Known as a “gateway to the Gulf,” Pine Island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with fishing, kayaking, and bird watching all popular pastimes. The island also boasts a rich history dating back to the early 19th century, when it was first settled by fishermen and farmers. Today, Pine Island is home to a number of unique shops and restaurants, as well as an annual shrimp festival. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed vacation, Pine Island has something to offer everyone.