Our Backyard Island Oasis

Thursday, September 23, 2010

By Timothy Jacobs.

North Captiva Island Resort was the perfect way to spend our Sunday during the Labor Day Weekend. We were so excited to get our day started; we chose the first water taxi ride to the island. An 8:00 a.m. departure time, meant for an early morning, but it was worth every minute. The water in Pine Island Sound was as smooth as glass on our 30 minute boat ride to paradise and we enjoyed watching the birds frolicking and the mullet jumping in the water.

An early morning stroll down the beach was the first item on our agenda. Flip flops in hand; we walked down the beach, enjoying the sound of crashing waves on the shoreline. Seeing that it was early morning (by island time), and high tide, we had the entire beach to ourselves, save one gentleman walking his dog. We found a variety of attractive sea shells along the water’s edge and a protected turtle’s nest near the tall sea grass.

Along the water’s edge sandpipers were scurrying about searching for food; their footprints erased, as the waves washed up on the shore. As one large wave roared up onto the sand, off they flew toward the morning clouds. Just as the heat began to overtake the morning breeze, a light rain came down to cool us off as we ended our walk on the beach. Followed by the rain was a pleasant breeze rolling off the gulf.

Next was a refreshing dip in the pool; the perfect way to cool off. We lay in the sun for a while, listened to some nice music, and then it was Mangos for lunch….delicious! Crab cakes to die for! Of course, all the food was delicious, but the crab cakes…you have to get the crab cakes. Refreshments were in order….we had banana daiquiris, mango slushies, and even a bartender special - pina colodas with a shot of kalauaha! This was the perfect way to cool off at the poolside bar. 

After lunch it was time for a bike ride around the island. We pedaled along the beach and through the many cart paths around the resort. This gave us a chance to appreciate the luxurious homes spread out all over the island. We meandered around the island….so quiet and peaceful. The only sounds to be heard were birds and the water crashing on the shore. 

In the afternoon the pool was surrounded with couples and families. Children of all ages playing “Marco/Polo,” yet, instead they were shouting “Macaroni/Cheese.” We were catching the rays and talking about how nice it would be to spend a weekend out on the island. Seeing the sunset while sitting on the beach would be awesome.   

We were impressed with the service of the resort staff. It almost felt as if we were on a small island, owned by a cruise line. The resort staff was there to help with whatever we may need. Everything from bicycles to kayaks was readily available for us to use.