FAQ
Ferries, golf carts, pets and the rest.
How do I get to North Captiva?
There’s no bridge or road. Fly into Southwest Florida International (RSW) in Fort Myers or Punta Gorda Airport (PGD), then drive to Pine Island. Two ferry services serve the island, both leaving from Pine Island. Book ahead, especially in season. We share our recommendations in the guidebook after booking. A private charter is a great option for off-hour transfers, more flexible timing, or a more exclusive private transfer, and is how you arrive at our most private residence on Foster’s Bay — right to the dock. See How to get to North Captiva.
Are golf carts included?
Most homes include at least one golf cart for exploring the island, and many offer two. Each home’s page lists what’s included. Our most private residence, on Foster’s Bay, comes with two e-bikes for exploring. See Golf carts and getting around.
Are there bikes at the homes?
Many of our homes come with bikes, and Island Club homes have access to the club’s bikes on a first-come, first-served basis. See Bikes and walking.
When is the best time to visit?
March and April book up first. For the best value, look at May, October, November and December outside the holidays. See The best time to visit North Captiva.
What if weather cancels the ferry?
Ferries and charters run weather permitting. If weather changes your travel day, call, text or email us at 239-610-1161 or hello@stayvanage.com and we’ll help you rework your arrival or departure.
What should I pack?
Pack light. Every home has linens and towels, children’s amenities and a full beach setup. See What to pack for North Captiva.
How do groceries work?
There’s no full grocery store on the island, so we recommend a grocery service. Your groceries can be waiting at the house when you arrive. North Captiva has a small island market that’s good for items you need in a pinch, and for top-ups during your stay, schedule a mid-stay grocery delivery. Grocery delivery services can bring groceries, beer and wine, and even platters or easy meals. See Groceries, dining and private chefs.
Where can we eat on North Captiva?
North Captiva has a handful of restaurants and beach bars, most of them close to the docks — including Anchors Landing, Coconuts Tiki Bar, Mainstay Restaurant & Barnacles Bar, Mango’s Bar & Grill, and Over The Waterfront. Hours change with the season, so check before you go.
Can we book a family photographer or a massage?
Yes. There are on-island photographers and massage options, and the details are in our guidebook after you book.
Is there a guidebook?
Yes. After you book, you’ll get our digital guidebook with even more information: house details, island tips and our favorite local services.
What is there to do on North Captiva?
Beach days, shelling, kayaking, pool time and golf cart rides. See Things to do and Beaches and shelling.
Are there pools and tennis or pickleball courts?
Most of our homes have a private heated pool. All island guests are welcome at the Island Club pool, and Safety Harbor Club homes have access to the club’s pool plus its tennis and pickleball courts.
What does Island Club access include?
Island Club homes come with Island Club access. Guests can use the Island Club’s members-only pool as well as its public pool, and can borrow bikes, kayaks and paddleboards on a first-come, first-served basis. There’s a pool bar in the pool area for drinks and bites. Staying somewhere else? The public pool is open to all island guests. See Island Club homes.
What does Safety Harbor Club access include?
Safety Harbor Club homes come with Safety Harbor Club access. One of the best perks is that the ferry arrives at Safety Harbor’s very private dock. Guests also share a club pool plus tennis and pickleball courts, and have access to the Safety Harbor wharf to park your own or a rental boat; slips are available through the club for a fee. See Safety Harbor Club homes.
How do I find open dates?
Open the calendar on any home page. “Next available” jumps to the first opening, and “I’m flexible” lets you search by month.
What are the house rules and quiet hours?
Quiet hours are 10 PM to 10 AM. Each home’s full house rules are shown before you pay and in your rental agreement.
Are pets allowed?
Many of our homes are pet friendly. Look for the Pet friendly tag, or see pet-friendly homes.
What are check-in and check-out times?
Check-in is 4 PM and check-out is 9 AM at most North Captiva homes. Our off-island homes check out at 10 AM, and each home’s page lists its times.
What’s the cancellation policy?
Cancellation terms are shown before you book.
Why book direct?
Best rate when you book direct, plus perks for returning guests. And you deal with the people who look after the house.