Visit Matlacha
World Class Fishing Opportunities!
Whether you want to fish from land, a power boat, a sailboat, kayak, jet ski, or book a professional charter, there's no fishing experience quite like what you find in and around the waters of Matlacha, Pine Island, and the Gulf. Our visitors enjoy catching everything from record-breaking Snook to Tarpon, Redfish, Snapper, Sheepshead, Bluefish, Flounder, Mackerel, and a myriad of lesser species. Plus, don't forget to stop by Barnhill Seafood Matlacha for some of the freshest Matlacha seafood. Not to mention the massive schools of bait fish waiting to lure in the catch! If you're wondering what to do in Matlacha, FL, fishing here is a must.
Endless Kayaking
Follow the Blue Trail or venture out on your own path - the kayaking in Matlacha is truly magnificent. The possibilities for wildlife viewing are plentiful; from dolphins to manatees, osprey, eagles, fish, and alligators, it's a nature lover's dream! While you're in the area, don't forget to check out Barnhill Seafood Matlacha for some delicious Matlacha seafood after your kayaking adventure. For your kayak rentals, visit Matlacha Outfitters and discover what to do in Matlacha, FL.
Eclectic Shopping
Got funk? We do! Whether you're searching for the perfect shirt to commemorate your visit to Matlacha, a special piece of unique jewelry, or browsing world-famous art pieces, or even looking for some bait to catch the big one, Matlacha has something for everyone. Don't forget to check out Barnhill Seafood Matlacha for the freshest Matlacha seafood while exploring what to do in Matlacha, FL!
The Gateway to Pine Island
Matlacha is the gateway to Pine Island and everything that Old Florida has to offer. From hiking preserves and bait & tackle shops to fresh seafood shops like Barnhill Seafood Matlacha, charter fishing adventures, boat rentals, mango farms, palm farms, and a bike path that covers the full island—there is always something enticing to do in Matlacha, FL. If you've been yearning for the charm of Old Florida, you've found it! Don’t forget to take advantage of Bikeworks in Bokeelia for rental bikes while exploring all that Matlacha seafood and activities have to offer.
Eating on the Island
If you're hungry, you're sure to find something delicious while walking around Matlacha. From enjoying Italian cuisine at Miceli's on the water with live music, to savoring fresh caught local seafood at The Blue Dog, soaking in the views at Yucatan, indulging in smokey BBQ at Solomans, or having a delightful breakfast or lunch at the Perfect Cup, Matlacha has it all. Don't forget to finish your day with quality ice cream and homemade chocolate at CW Fudge. Whether you’re looking for barnhill seafood Matlacha or wondering what to do in Matlacha FL, we’ve got your food and drinks covered!
Accommodations on the Island
Although we don't have big chain hotels and high rises, we think you'll find yourself right at home staying at one of the myriad of VRBO properties, the Matlacha Tiny Village, the Angler's Inn, Sugar Sand Beach RV Resort, or the Matlacha Cottages. Each has its own unique character and amenities, great views, and all are within easy walking or biking distance to everything downtown Matlacha has to offer, including local favorites like Barnhill Seafood Matlacha. If you're wondering what to do in Matlacha FL, you'll be delighted by the vibrant atmosphere and delicious Matlacha seafood options!
The Story of Matlacha
The Cutest Artsiest Fishingest Town in Florida
When commercial fishing took a turn for the worse in the 1990s, the residents of Matlacha decided to carve out their own unique destiny. With brushes and buckets of paint in hand, they literally painted the town in vibrant tropical colors.
It could have been a disaster, but the residents’ initiative to reinvent Matlacha has led to its reputation as a funky arts community that still embraces its roots in fishing and Matlacha seafood.
You won’t find upscale accommodations, high-rise condos, or fast food restaurants here. Even laid-back Sanibel and Captiva aren’t nearly as funky as Matlacha. In this colorful town, it's bright hues rather than soft pastels that define the landscape, where someone else’s junk transforms into sculpture and art.
With every visit, it seems there’s a new gallery, making the place cooler than before. Where else do telephone poles become works of art?
Just off the coast of Cape Coral, Matlacha Island is a charming spit of land located between north Cape Coral and the center of Pine Island. It’s the perfect small town in Florida where you can relax for the day in a truly unique atmosphere. Think 'Florida Fish Camp meets Andy Warhol in Key West,' and you’ll understand the vibe. If you're looking for what to do in Matlacha, don’t forget to check out Barnhill Seafood Matlacha for a taste of the local seafood.
