This Lesser-Known Island In Florida Feels Like A Caribbean Getaway

Travelers from the U.S. looking for a tropical escape over the summer are blessed with an array of options. The paradise beaches of Mexico and the gorgeous islands of the Caribbean are just a short flight away, and you can even find getaways that don't require you to leave the United States. For example, Puerto Rico, the Caribbean "island of enchantment," boasts beautiful architecture and a rich culture, while Hawaii's volcanic landscapes are majestic, and the islands boast some of the best surfing breaks in the world. But for travelers who don't want to leave the Lower 48, Florida is the ideal domestic tropical vacation destination. 

From Tampa Bay to Miami Beach, there are stunning spots all over the Sunshine State, but for crowd-free Caribbean vibes, the lesser-known island of Keewaydin is hard to beat. Keewaydin Island is a secluded barrier island on the southwest coast of Florida, just 15 minutes from Naples. It has no roads or cars and is only accessible by boat, with water shuttles operating from Marco Island and Naples Bay. The nearest international airport is Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers, about 35 miles away by car, and reachable in under an hour.

Keewaydin is one of the islands in Florida that rival the Caribbean and is essentially just 8 miles of pristine beach hidden away from the mainland and preserved thanks to its relative inaccessibility. Almost 80% of the island is undeveloped, and there are no hotels or resorts, just a smattering of private homes. It is the perfect spot to disconnect and enjoy the peace and serenity of nature, and an amazing destination for a beach getaway that feels just like the Caribbean.

The beaches are the main attraction on Keewaydin Island — long, empty stretches of white sand covered in an abundance of shells and dotted with driftwood. There's not a lot of shade and almost no amenities, so come prepared for the day with beach towels, umbrellas, and plenty of sunscreen and water. There are a few boats that visit the island to offer food concessions, but it is wise to bring everything you might need.

Although you can take the water shuttle, renting a boat for the day allows you to get the most out of a trip to Keewaydin Island. This gives you a little more freedom and lets you explore the whole of the island. It also means you can move on if the most accessible beaches start to fill up with day trippers.

While the main attraction of Keewaydin Island is the chance to get away from it all and relax on untouched beaches, it is also an excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts looking to find interesting creatures. The island is a haven filled with interesting fauna and an important conservation area.

A wildlife viewing day out on Keewaydin Island begins before you even reach the island, as dolphins tend to gather around the boats on the way over, jumping and playing in the spray, curious about the humans on board. On the island itself, you might see wild boar or bobcats, while the calm, shallow waters around the island are home to sea turtles and manatees. Keewaydin Island is also a great spot for birdwatchers, with an array of native Florida and migrating shorebirds, as well as ospreys and herons. Finally, Rookery Bay, on the east side of the island, is one of the last remaining mangrove estuaries in North America, and well worth a visit.