Out of all the islands off the coast of Florida, Captiva Island has one of the most fascinating histories. Located in Lee County, just off the western coast of the state, Captiva Island is situated in the Gulf of Mexico. Until 1926, it was actually a part of Sanibel Island, which is located slightly to the southeast. However, in that year, the storm surge of a hurricane severed Captiva Island from Sanibel by creating Blind Pass, a new sea channel between them.
Blind Pass soon filled in with sediment, but was opened up again in 2009 when island residents had it dredged that summer. There are actually many islands in the local region, with Captiva Island serving as a barrier to Pine Island.
Getting to Captiva Island by car requires motorists to take the Sanibel Causeway, which crosses this part of the Gulf of Mexico. Half of the island is held in private ownership, with vacation homes on Captiva Island scattered in several neighborhoods. There is a "Millionaire's Row" district that features luxury homes, and notable vacationers who have enjoyed time here include Theodore President Roosevelt, who appreciated the fine fishing available off the coast.
In 2010, the Wall Street Journal declared that Sanibel and Captiva Islands were among the Ten Best Places for Second Homes. This designation is largely due to the beautiful beaches, excellent water sports and fishing opportunities, and the year-round pleasant weather that offers warm temperatures even during the depths of winter.