Best Historic Stays: Cabbage Key Inn & Restaurant near Fort Myers
South of beautiful Boca Grande and north of Sanibel and Captiva, is Cabbage Key, a hidden slice of Old Florida that has been delighting guests for decades. While boaters frequent this 100-acre island, many travelers have yet to discover it. I’ll show you why a stop here feels like a step back in time.
History of Cabbage Key
Cabbage Key’s history stretches back to 10,000 B.C. In fact, geologists say the island has not completely flooded since the Ice Age.
The Calusa, an indigenous Southwest Florida tribe until the 1700s, created a large shell midden on Cabbage Key. Then, in the 1930s, famed mystery writer Mary Roberts Rinehart and her family built their winter estate atop the shell mound, which is more than 30 feet above sea level.
Today, the Rinehart winter estate is the historic Cabbage Key Inn & Restaurant and is one of Florida’s most unique lodging experiences. In the six inn rooms connected to the restaurant, you’ll find original hardwood floors, air conditioning, TVs, and private baths. Wi-Fi is available in the inn and restaurant, but not elsewhere on the island.
For a more secluded retreat, check out the island’s six charming cottages. I stayed in the Cabbage Patch Cottage, a cozy two-bedroom, two-bathroom retreat with rustic cedar walls and a private dock.
Dining on Cabbage Key
One of the most popular reasons to visit Cabbage Key is its legendary restaurant and Dollar Bill Bar. Over the years, the restaurant has welcomed its fair share of notable guests, including Jimmy Buffett.
A visit isn’t complete without ordering the famous Cabbage Key Burger and pairing it with the island’s signature cocktail, the Cabbage Creeper, which is a tropical drink that has a sneaky way of catching up to you!
And, take part in one of Cabbage Key’s most well-known traditions at the Dollar Bill Bar: taping a dollar bill with your name onto the restaurant’s walls or ceiling. This practice started decades ago by fishermen and continues today. All of the dollar bills that fall to the floor over time are donated to local charities.
Exploring Cabbage Key
For a breathtaking view of Cabbage Key and Pine Island Sound, climb to the top of the island’s historic water tower. And, explore the short yet scenic trails through the island and along the water.
There’s no shortage of shopping on Cabbage Key. You can purchase souvenirs at the gift shop by the dock and browse fashionable clothes at Cabbage Key Outfitters, which also houses the Cabbage Key Creamery.
Getting to Cabbage Key
The island is accessible only by boat, but that’s part of its magic. If you don’t have your own, water taxis and private charters can bring you directly to Cabbage Key from nearby marinas. For booking and more information, click here or call 239-283-2278.
Reservations for cottages and rooms at the inn cannot be made online. You must call for availability. Add it to the list of the old-school charm you’ll find here!
Trust me, this spot is worth the effort. Enjoy!
