When you visit Matlacha, notice how the small town is distinct from the southwest Florida mainland. Arrivals by boat or bridge are the only access options. The island stands between Cape Coral and Pine Island. Be sure to pronounce the name correctly as Mat-luh-SHAY.
Upon reaching the island, stop at Bat House Park, a small space for resting, daydreaming and fishing. Continuing on just off the main road, visit Matlacha Community Park, a great spot for a quiet picnic or book reading in the shade. Use the playground, fishing pier, boat launch, barbecue pits and restrooms.
Off the main road, walk down the short streets and notice that many residents have watery backyards. Travel along the 1-mile (1.6-kilometer) main road past shops, restaurants and galleries, each more colorful than the last. Stop at Leoma Lovegrove Gallery and Gardens to see art and brilliantly decorated tropical clothing that is popular nationwide.
Relax the way locals do and cast a line from what residents call the “fishingest bridge in the world.” Choose from numerous restaurants and cafés where, as you might expect, seafood is featured. Charter a boat for fishing in deeper waters. Stay overnight at one of the community’s inns. By morning you’ll feel indoctrinated to island life.
Matlacha’s existence came about because of the creation of the bridge connecting to the mainland. When the area was being dredged for construction of the span in the 1920s, recovered oyster shells were deposited to form the island. Fishing was the principal employer until the 1990s when fish harvesting rules changed. Residents chose not to go elsewhere and instead transformed the island to a tourist destination. Travel all the way around the island by renting a paddleboard or kayak, with manatees and dolphins keeping you company.
From Cape Coral on the mainland, drive for 20 minutes to Pine Island Road, which becomes the bridge connecting Matlacha and Pine Island. Leave your worries behind and enjoy a simple existence on the island.
