The Ultimate Guide to Picnic Island, Fort Myers: How to Get There, What to Do, and When to Visit
Plan the ultimate day trip to Picnic Island in Fort Myers with this complete guide, including how to get there, things to do, what to pack, and the best times to visit.
There is something special about finding a place that feels truly undiscovered. From Breckenridge’s alpine trails to the cozy cabins of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, and the windswept shores of Ocracoke Island, travelers seek destinations that slow the pace and reconnect them with nature.
Here in Florida, Picnic Island, a tiny slice of paradise just off Sanibel, is one of Fort Myers’ most rewarding escapes. With shallow waters lapping against quiet sands, mangroves alive with birds and crabs, and dolphins surfacing just offshore, this is where you come to unplug, explore, and experience nature at its best.
In a hurry? Here is your quick guide to this adventure:
- How to Get to Picnic Island
- Things to Do on Picnic Island
- Wildlife and Nature to Watch For
- Essential Tips and Safety
- Recommended Gear and Packing List
- Nearby Dining and Attractions
- Best Times to Visit
- Where to Stay in Fort Myers Beach
- Great Places to Stay Near Picnic Island
At Sun Palace Vacations, we offer stunning vacation homes in Fort Myers Beach. We consider ourselves Fort Myers Beach experts, and from the best shopping spots and top-notch restaurants to a comprehensive guide on fishing and hunting in the area, we’ve got you covered in our blog.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to plan a safe, memorable, and fun trip to Picnic Island.
Before We Start: Why It’s Called Picnic Island
No one knows for sure how Picnic Island got its name. There’s no official story, but once you’re there, it all makes sense. Picnic Island is the perfect place to drop anchor, spread out a blanket, and enjoy lunch with nothing but sand, sea, and sunshine for company.
1. How to get to Picnic Island
Reaching Picnic Island is part of the adventure. This quiet, infrastructure-free island can only be accessed by water. Most visitors anchor their boat just offshore and wade in, so water shoes are highly recommended.
If you do not have your own boat, there are plenty of rental options nearby. Monroe Canal Marina and Salty Sam’s Marina are local favorites, and the island is close enough to reach by kayak or jet ski from Sanibel or Pine Island.
Getting There at a Glance
- Boat, kayak, or jet ski are the only ways to reach the island
- Public ramps: Punta Rassa and Matlacha
- No docks or facilities, adding to its secluded charm
- Water shoes recommended for the wade-in landing
2. Things to do on Picnic Island
Once you arrive, the island is yours to explore. Spread out a towel and enjoy a lazy beach day, or walk the perimeter to take in the natural beauty of the mangroves and shoreline. The shallow waters are perfect for wading and spotting shells, sand dollars, and small sea creatures.
Fishing is a favorite pastime here, with anglers casting lines from the beach or boats for local species like snook, redfish, and spotted seatrout. If you are up for a unique experience, stay overnight and camp right on the sand. Campfires are allowed, making this one of the most memorable ways to enjoy the Gulf.
Why People Love It Here
- Relaxed, uncrowded beach setting
- Excellent shore fishing and shelling
- Scenic walks around the island’s perimeter
- Camping with real beach campfires under the stars
3. Wildlife and nature to watch for
Picnic Island is a haven for wildlife watchers. Visitors often spot dolphins just offshore and manatees gliding in the shallows. Birdwatchers will love the chance to see roseate spoonbills, bald eagles, herons, ospreys, pelicans, and woodpeckers. The mangrove forests are alive with crabs and other creatures, and the island’s surroundings are part of the nesting grounds for Atlantic loggerhead turtles.
Nearby, J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge offers guided kayak and boat tours, making it easy to see even more of the local ecosystem up close.
Wildlife Highlights
- Dolphins and manatees frequently spotted near the island
- Bald eagles, roseate spoonbills, pelicans, and other coastal birds
- Nesting sites for Atlantic loggerhead turtles
- Mangrove habitats alive with crabs and small sea creatures
4. Essential tips and safety
Because the island is completely undeveloped, you will need to come prepared. Pack enough water and food for your visit, and do not forget sunscreen, insect repellent, and a basic first aid kit. Checking tide charts ahead of time is important to avoid difficulty getting back, and monitoring the weather ensures a safer trip.
Letting someone know your plans before heading out is always a good idea, especially if you are camping overnight.
Smart Planning Tips
- Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and bug spray
- Check tides and weather before leaving
- Tell someone your travel plans
- Pack out all trash to leave the island pristine
5. Recommended gear and packing list
Bringing the right gear will make your visit much more enjoyable. Snorkeling gear is perfect for exploring shallow waters, and binoculars are great for spotting birds or distant wildlife. Portable chairs or hammocks can turn a beach visit into a relaxing retreat.
If you are fishing, bring appropriate rods, bait, and tackle. Overnight campers should pack tents, sleeping bags, and fire-starting supplies.
What to Pack
- Snorkeling gear and waterproof bags
- Binoculars for birdwatching
- Fishing rods, bait, and tackle
- Camping gear and fire-starting supplies
- Hammocks or chairs for a comfortable beach day
6. Nearby dining and attractions
Picnic Island is all about getting back to nature, but nearby you will find plenty of dining and entertainment options once you are back on dry land.
Sanibel Island has great seafood restaurants and casual cafes for a post-adventure meal. You can also visit the interpretive center and nature trails at J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge or head to the art galleries and colorful shops in Matlacha for a fun mix of local culture.
Good Stops Nearby
- Fresh seafood restaurants on Sanibel Island
- Guided tours and exhibits at J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge
- Matlacha’s vibrant art galleries and shops
7. Best times to visit
Picnic Island is inviting year-round thanks to Fort Myers’ mild winter temperatures, but some times are extra special. Early mornings and late afternoons are best for spotting wildlife and enjoying cooler temperatures. Fall is a prime fishing season, with redfish and other species schooling in the area.
Visiting outside peak tourist holidays and weekends offers a more peaceful experience and more room to explore.
When to Go
- Early mornings and late afternoons for wildlife sightings
- Fall is peak fishing season
- Avoid major holidays for the quietest visit
8. Where to stay in Fort Myers Beach
Turn your Picnic Island day trip into a full coastal escape with a stay at one of our Sun Palace Vacations rentals.
Choose from beachfront cottages, bay-view homes, or luxury condos, all with thoughtful amenities to make your stay seamless. Whether you want to be steps from the sand or tucked away in a quiet corner, there is a home that suits your style.
Stay Your Way
- Beachfront homes, bay-view retreats, and cozy condos
- Fully equipped kitchens and spacious layouts
- Ideal for families, couples, or multi-generational trips
9. Great Places to Stay Near Picnic Island
Before you pack the cooler and head for the boat ramp, make sure you have the perfect home base for your Fort Myers getaway. Our vacation rental homes put you close to the action, so you can reach Picnic Island early, enjoy a full day of beachcombing and fishing, and come back to a comfortable space that feels like home. Here are three inviting vacation rental homes that make it easy to enjoy both the island and everything Fort Myers Beach has to offer.ing vacation rentals that make it easy to enjoy both the island and everything Fort Myers Beach has to offer.
Anchors Away
3 bedrooms · 2 bathrooms · Sleeps 8
This charming, newly renovated ranch-style home sits just blocks from the Skybridge. It features a modern kitchen with granite counters, stainless appliances, and a cozy den perfect for late-night movies. With a spacious fenced double lot and private yard, it’s ideal for families seeking comfort and convenience.
- Private heated pool
- Pet-friendly with fenced yard
- Close to shops, ice cream, and the beach
- Open-plan living and modern kitchen
Betty’s Beach House
3 bedrooms · 2 bathrooms · Sleeps 8
This bright and welcoming home is perfect for family getaways. The fully equipped kitchen makes meal prep a breeze, while the private pool and outdoor space invite everyone to relax. With room for eight and cozy bedroom configuration, it’s a great base for sun, swims, and memories.
- Private pool with patio space
- Chef-ready kitchen
- Easy walk to Delmar Avenue beach access
- Quiet, family-friendly environment
Bayview Sunset Getaway
4 bedrooms · 3 bathrooms · Sleeps 12
Wake up to sweeping bay views in this spacious getaway. With multiple levels, ample living space and a fully equipped kitchen, it’s great for large groups or multi-family stays. Outdoor areas and a pool add to the fun, and the location makes beach days and island exploring effortless.
- Outdoor pool and terrace
- Pet friendly (restrictions and fee apply)
- Short drive to Lover’s Key and Times Square
- Multiple bedrooms across three levels
Wondering Where to Stay in Fort Myers Beach?
To experience the highest quality in amenities, decor, and cleanliness, book your stay with Sun Palace Vacations. We guarantee you’ll have the most authentic, enjoyable, and relaxing time ever.