Ten Ideas for Vacation Romance

Enjoy a Gulf-front Dinner

Just steps from your room is the best dining experience on Captiva — Old Captiva House Restaurant has been rated the #1 restaurant on Captiva Island by Trip Advisor members. Executive Chef Jason Miller has created a “New Florida” menu with an island-inspired spin on local seafood, prime meats, fresh-baked breads and tempting deserts. As the piano plays and the sun sets over the Gulf, it’s hard to resist the romance and historic charm of this former pioneer schoolhouse. Before you go, take a minute to peruse the historic photographs of the property and the 1930s editorial cartoons by noted Captiva resident J.N. “Ding” Darling.

Take a Kayak Tour

Unwind together as you explore the beauty of mangrove islands and the tranquility of bay waters. From the Marina at ‘Tween Waters Inn, Captain John Houston and his crew will take you on a fun and informative tour of the waters of Pine Island Sound and the unspoiled mangrove island of Buck Key. No experience is required to glide out in a one- or two-person kayak to observe dolphins, manatees and a wide variety of water birds. Your guide will share stories of Captiva’s early settlers and the wildlife and ecosystems of the waters surrounding ‘Tween Waters Inn.

Rejuvenate at the Spa

Indulge yourself and the one you love at the brand-new Spa at ‘Tween Waters Inn. Your couples vacation is an escape from the stresses of the everyday and the spa offers dozens of diversions. Restore your harmony with a blissful couples massage — the new spa features a couples massage room, or our therapists can come to you. After an in-suite massage side by side, relax as the therapist draws you a scented candlelight bubble bath, leaving you with champagne and strawberries to enjoy.

Be a Beach Bum

Travelocity writer Amy Ziff named Captiva “America’s most romantic beach” and you’ll find our private coastline lives up to the name. Lounge to the sounds of the surf, soak up the warmth of the Florida sunshine and take a dip in the calm Gulf waters. When it’s time for a spectacular sunset, why not make it even more memorable? Treat yourselves to a bottle of wine and toast the setting sun with a ‘Tween Waters sunset picnic basket of fresh seafood, cheese and fruit.

Set Sail

Set out together to explore the waters and islands surrounding Captiva. From ‘Tween Waters Marina you can charter the New Moon – a fully equipped 39-foot sailboat – guided by the experience of Captain Mick Gurley. Take a half day trip and cruise along Upper Captiva and the Gulfside. Or take the entire day and have lunch at the historic Old House on Cabbage Key or picnic and enjoy nature at Cayo Costa State Park.

Meet the Natives

Just a short drive from the resort is the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, home to the largest undeveloped mangrove ecosystem in the U.S. and habitat to more than 220 species of birds and other coastal wildlife. Don’t miss the education center — an engaging, interactive showcase of the ecology and history of the refuge. There are a variety of ways to explore the park — take the four-mile wildlife drive by car and stop to explore the trails, take the guided tram tour, bike the road and trails, or set out in a canoe or kayak.

Start a Shell Collection

Shelling is world-renown on our shores. As you stroll the beach you may find yourself doing the “Sanibel stoop,” doubled over to take closer look at the colors and variety of the seashells and collect some for yourself. Lightning whelks, banded tulips and lion’s paws are just a few of the unique treasures you’ll find underfoot. If shelling really strikes your fancy, rent a boat or take a shelling charter to explore the bounty of the outer islands. Also be sure to visit the one-of-a-kind Bailey-Mathews Shell Museum on Sanibel Island.

Have Piña Coladas Poolside

If you and your honey’s idea of vacation adventure is choosing which tropical cocktail to try next, then pull up a chaise lounge. While you enjoy the heated Olympic-sized pool or one of our hot tubs, the Oasis Pool Bar will serve up a variety of frozen drinks, cold beer, fresh sandwiches and salads.

Climb Aboard a Seaplane

Surprise your partner and add some thrill to your romantic getaway with a once-in-a-lifetime seaplane experience. Climb aboard right at the ‘Tween Waters Marina, taxi across Pine Island Sound and take to the sky. From a vantage point few get to witness, you’ll soar over the Gulf of Mexico and get an unforgettable view of Captiva and Sanibel Islands.

Dance the Night Away

All this and live music too? Why, yes! Your room is only a short walk to one of Captiva Island’s top spots for nighttime entertainment. With a warm local pub feel, the Crows Nest is known for cold drinks, great casual dining and the best live acts on the island. It’s your romantic Florida escape, where you can reconnect on the dance floor to the rhythm of blues, rock and jazz. The crowd is upbeat and friendly – they’re on vacation after all – and you’re guaranteed to not notice how late it is.