Page Updated: September 18, 2023
Cabbage Key
Cabbage Key - FL
Cabbage Key is a quaint hundred acre island, only accessible by boat or kayak, with old-Florida charm and winding nature trails. The historic inn and restaurant has views of Pine Island Sound and cozy cottages, and sits on top of a 38 ft Indian shell mound created by the Calusa people. It’s the perfect spot for fishing, shelling or a romantic getaway.
On September 28, 2022, Category 4 Hurricane Ian made landfall near the island of Cayo Costa, FL. Damage to the island and the surrounding greater Fort Myers area was catastrophic. Many communities lost businesses and homes. The determined began the arduous process of rebuilding. Others have chosen to move on.
We had an hour and a half on Cabbage Key as a lunch stop before ferrying over to Cayo Costa for the afternoon.
Lunch was at the Dollar Bill Bar, located in the inn, where bills from decades of patrons seem to hang from every conceivable surface. I read somewhere that as dollars fall throughout the year, they are collected: at the end of the year, there given to charity. I’d like to think this true.
Cabbage Key Restaurant slyly plays off “Cheeseburger in Paradise.” Is it the origin? Who knows... But if you’re trying to decide between the blackened mahi-mahi sandwich and the cheeseburger, choose the burger. The Tito’s Bay Breeze is refreshing, and the Cabbage Creeper is exceptional.
After lunch, we took the steps up the island’s water tower to take in the views. As we climbed, we joked how we should’ve climbed before we ate. It’s really not that awful a climb, but tougher with a full belly!
The recluse in me imagines how serene morning strolls and tropical sunsets must be sans day-tourist!
-b&b
Edison Ford Winter Estates
Cayo Costa State Park
