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Celebrate Cayo Costa to highlight barrier island, Calusa Indians

By Staff | Oct 31, 2018

The Friends of Cayo Costa will host its annual Celebrate Cayo Costa event on Nov. 3 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

The mission of the Friends of Cayo Costa is to “preserve, protect and promote the unique unspoiled natural beauty and heritage of Cayo Costa State Park for present and future generations.”

“This is a great opportunity for Floridians and guests to visit the park and enjoy the unique qualities this pristine barrier island has to offer,” Elaine McLaughlin, chairperson for the group, said. “The day will feature nature and beach tours of the island, crafts for kids and even a barbecue lunch from Bubba’s.”

The island of Cayo Costa, which means “Key by the Coast,” is a barrier island located south of Boca Grande and west of Pine Island. It is only accessible by passenger ferry or private boat.

Cayo Costa was inhabited for over 10,000 years by the Calusa Indians and several of their shell mounds still remain. Dedicated to learning and teaching the archaeology and history of Southwest Florida, the Pine Island-based Randell Research Center will have Calusa Indian artifacts on display.

The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife will have live animal demonstrations on site.

There are several island walking tours scheduled. One is to the “pioneer family” cemetery, where Capt. Peter Nelson is buried. Nelson was a Cayo Costa pioneer who helped start the first school in Lee County and the first school on Cayo Costa. Nelson also served as the Cayo Costa postmaster.

“We are very excited that this year we’ll have a barbecue lunch that is provided by Bubba’s Roadhouse,” McLaughlin said. “During lunch, entertainment will be provided by Sheena Brook. Ms. Brook is a Fort Myers Beach songwriter fresh from the Island Hopper Songwriter Festival.”

Tickets are $40 for adults and $30 for children under 12.

Friends of Cayo Costa members receive a $10 discount per adult ticket.

“This is an affordable all-inclusive day,” McLaughlin said. “Tickets include the round-trip boat ride from any of the four departure points: Bokeelia, Boca Grande, Captiva and Punta Gorda. All activities and lunch are included. We also offer a free pass to visit another Florida state park.”

Captiva Cruises, Tropic Star and Kingfisher Fleet tour boat services are sponsors of the event and are offering round-trip transportation included with admission on a limited, first come first serve basis.

Boats have a limited capacity and attendees are encouraged to reserve early.

For reservations departing from Captiva, call 239-472-5300.

Private boating parties are encouraged to attend and may purchase tickets on the island; dock space is limited and available on a first come first serve basis.

The event will take place rain or shine.

The Friends of Cayo Costa State Park is based on Pine Island. A division of the Barrier Islands Park Society, the non-profit organization is the official Citizens Support Organization for Cayo Costa, Gasparilla, Stump Pass, Don Pedro State Parks, and Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum. All funds raised by FoCC are used exclusively for Cayo Costa State Park.

For more information, visit www.friendsofcayocosta.org.