Motels
Bridge Water Inn (shown at left) at 4331 Pine Island Rd., tel. 800-378-7666 or 239-283-2423, www.bridgewaterinn.com, lets you experience Mat-la-cha's fishy side while providing the creature comforts you might be looking for. Its wide wraparound deck accommodates anglers who love nothing better than to step out their door and cast. In addition to eight individually decorated rooms, the owners rent several cottages that are set along the bay. $$-$$$.
In Pineland, Tarpon Lodge at 13771 Waterfront Dr., tel. 239-283-3999, www.tarponlodge.com, occupies a historic sportsman's inn remade into a barebones, fish-fanatic kind of place with an excellent restaurant and fishing charters. $$-$$$.
Rental Agencies
Most visitors to the island rent long-term. Throughout the island you can find rentals, from mobile homes to luxury condominiums. In season, monthly rates are $1,500-$3,300. For information call Pine Island Realty, tel. 800-741-0805 or 239-283-1028 in Bokeelia; tel. 800-531-5937 or 239-283-0909 in St. James City, www.pine-island.com.
For the ultimate island getaway, escape to North Captiva. You'll find no cars, no pressure, and lots of peace. For home rentals, contact North Captiva Island Club Resort, PO Box 1000, Pineland, FL 33945, tel. 239-395-1001 or 800-576-7343, www.northcaptiva.com. Rates start at $189 a night for a one-bedroom suite and range on up to six-bedroom homes. Rental rates include use of a golf cart, kayaks, bikes, beach chairs, and umbrellas. Bring groceries and supplies with you, or order them ahead when you reserve. Tennis courts, a fitness center, a pool, a playground, and children's activities are provided. Water-sports rentals are available.
Camping
Fort Myers-Pine Island KOA in St. James City at 5120 Stringfellow Rd., tel. 800-562-8505 or 239-283-2415, www.pineislandkoa.com, accommodates tent and RV campers and cabin lodgers. Rates for tent and RV sites change according to season; call or visit the website for current prices. The campground has three on-premises fishing lakes, a tennis court, shuffleboard, a pool and spa, horseshoes, laundry, activities, and its own tour bus to take you to local attractions.
At Cayo Costa State Park, you can reserve a rustic cabin ($30/night) or set up a tent on the Gulf ($18/night). In season, cabins are reserved a year in advance. Tent sites are less in demand. To reserve a cabin, call tel. 800-326-3521, or visit www.reserveamerica.com (search by park name). Boaters can anchor bayside in a safe harbor.
