Restaurants
North Captiva’s dining scene is small, unique, and perfectly suited to island life. There are no chain restaurants—just a handful of locally loved spots offering great food, friendly service, and unforgettable views. All on-island restaurants are located near the ferry dock and are easily reached by golf cart.
Mango’s Pool Bar & Grill
Location: North Captiva Island Club
Grab a cocktail and a bite to eat while enjoying the Island Club’s pools. Mango’s is the most casual dining option on the island and a favorite for families.
- Vibe: Laid-back, poolside, outdoor seating
- Food: Burgers, tacos, salads, pizza, breakfast burritos, and huge club sandwiches
- Extras: Kid-favorite milkshakes and full bar
- Reservations: Not required (seat yourself)
- Open: 7 days a week
- Kitchen closes: 6:00 PM
- Note: 18% gratuity is automatically added
- Island Store: Sunscreen, snacks, ice cream, grab-and-go items, and essentials
northcaptiva.com/mangos-pool-bar
Over The Waterfront (OTW)
Text for reservations: 239-689-9335
One of Florida’s few true over-the-water restaurants, Over The Waterfront offers a memorable dining experience with views of Safety Harbor—and frequent dolphin sightings.
- Vibe: Intimate, romantic, and scenic
- Food: Seasonal menu featuring fresh seafood, steaks, and pasta
- BYOB: Bring your own wine or beer (non-alcoholic drinks available)
- Reservations: Required
- Operation: Very small—run by Chef Peter (expect a relaxed pace)
Hours:
- Lunch: Wednesday–Saturday | 11 AM – 2 PM
- Dinner: Saturday & Sunday | 5 PM – 8 PM
Located within Safety Harbor Club (open to the public)
SHC Office: (239) 472-1019
Non-member reservations available one week in advance ($10 table fee)
facebook.com/otwshc
Island Market
Your go-to stop for coffee, ice cream, essentials, gifts, and grab-and-go food.
Hours:
Sunday–Monday: 8:40 AM – 6:30 PM
Tuesday–Saturday: 8:40 AM – 7:00 PM
Know Before You Go
- Reservations: Required for dinner at Over The Waterfront
- Dress Code: Island casual (swimsuit + cover-up is fine for lunch)
- Kid-Friendly: Yes, all on-island restaurants welcome families
- Payment: Credit cards accepted, but bringing some cash is smart
- Hours: Can vary seasonally—call ahead when possible
Dining by Boat Near North Captiva Island
Exploring nearby islands and waterfront towns by boat is one of the best parts of visiting North Captiva Island. From Old Florida seafood shacks to iconic Captiva and Boca Grande restaurants, these popular spots are all boat-accessible from North Captiva and perfect for lunch, dinner, or sunset dining.
Waterfront Restaurant & Marina – Pine Island
St. James City, Pine Island
239-283-0592
waterfrontrestaurantmarina.com
Estimated Boat Time: 35–45 minutes
Pine Island’s original and oldest waterfront restaurant, serving classic Old Florida cuisine in a relaxed marina setting.
- Fresh seafood, burgers, salads, and daily specials
- Full-service marina with dockage
- Casual, authentic Florida atmosphere
Phuzzy’s Boat Shack – Pine Island
St. James City, Pine Island
239-283-5555
phuzzysboatshack.com
Estimated Boat Time: 35–45 minutes
A funky, canal-side favorite known for its laid-back vibe and boater-friendly dock.
- Outdoor bar with rum drinks and cold beer
- Burgers, seafood, and live music on select days
- One of Pine Island’s most popular boat-up bars
The Pink Elephant – Boca Grande
Boca Grande, Florida
877-764-1420
the-gasparilla-inn.com/dining/the-pink-elephant-menu
Estimated Boat Time: 45–60 minutes
Located at the historic Gasparilla Inn & Club, The Pink Elephant offers upscale island dining in a refined setting.
- Steak, seafood, and craft cocktails
- Bi-level dining with outdoor patio
- A favorite for special occasions
The Mucky Duck – Captiva Island
Captiva Island
239-472-3434
muckyduck.com
Estimated Boat Time: 20–30 minutes
A legendary Captiva Island beachfront restaurant known for cold drinks and unforgettable sunsets.
- Fresh seafood and casual beach fare
- Iconic sunset views over the Gulf of Mexico
- Lively yet relaxed atmosphere
The Bubble Room – Captiva Island
Captiva Island
239-472-5558
bubbleroomrestaurant.com
Estimated Boat Time: 20–30 minutes
A world-famous Captiva landmark where it’s always Christmas.
- Lunch, dinner, and legendary desserts
- Family-friendly and wildly unique décor
- Home of the famous Bubble Room cakes
Boating Tips for Dining Out
- Boat times vary based on tides, weather, and vessel speed
- Always confirm dock availability and restaurant hours
- Reservations are recommended during peak season
- Sunset dining fills quickly—arrive early
Prefer to Dine In?
Many guests enjoy cooking at their rental.
- Grocery Delivery: Order from Publix, Whole Foods, or private shoppers for ferry-side delivery
- Island Backup: Mango’s Island Store has basics (higher prices)
- Private Chef: A great option for special occasions—book 2–4 weeks ahead
Cooking fresh-caught fish on your deck at sunset may just be your favorite meal of the trip.
