2021 Map of Captiva

About this map

Captiva Island and its surrounding keys form a complex barrier system between the Gulf of Mexico and Pine Island Sound in this recent survey. The map details a fragile coastal geography defined by dynamic water gaps like Captiva Pass and Redfish Pass, which isolate North Captiva Island from the mainland-connected portions of the coast. On the northern reaches, the private Salty Approach Airport and Safety Harbor suggest a remote, water-access-dependent settlement pattern. Farther south, the cultural history of the barrier island is anchored by Captiva's Historic Cem near the main Captiva settlement. The environment is heavily influenced by the Intracoastal Waterway and recreational routes like the Florida Circumnavigational Paddling Trail, highlighting the area's role as both a navigable transit corridor and a protected habitat for locations like Big Bird Rookery.