Cabbage Key Florida
A 100-acre island paradise accessible only by boat, offering rustic charm, a legendary cheeseburger, and walls covered in dollar bills.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful island
Cabbage Key Florida
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful island
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 100-acre island paradise accessible only by boat, offering rustic charm, a legendary cheeseburger, and walls covered in dollar bills.
"This iconic spot is rumored to be where Jimmy Buffett wrote 'Cheeseburger in Paradise' and after tasting their famous Cabbage Key Cheeseburger, we totally get it."
🚢 Boat Access is Essential
Plan your boat trip or ferry in advance. Options include charters or public ferries from Pine Island.
💰 Leave Your Mark
Bring a dollar bill to sign and add to the walls of the restaurant – a fun tradition!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cabbage Key Inn & Restaurant
Main island hub
Iconic spot with walls covered in dollar bills and a legendary cheeseburger. Rumored Jimmy Buffett inspiration.
Dollar Bill Walls
Cabbage Key Inn & Restaurant
A unique tradition where visitors leave signed dollar bills, creating a vibrant, cash-covered interior.
Water Tower Viewpoint
Top of the water tower
Climb for panoramic views of the surrounding islands and waterways – a truly breathtaking perspective.
Nature Trails & Wildlife
Island trails
Explore walking trails through lush vegetation and keep an eye out for gopher tortoises and other local wildlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Access: Boat is Key
Embrace the Old Florida Vibe
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Boat Access is Essential
Plan your boat trip or ferry in advance. Options include charters or public ferries from Pine Island.
💰 Leave Your Mark
Bring a dollar bill to sign and add to the walls of the restaurant – a fun tradition!
🍔 Try the Famous Burger
Don't miss the Cabbage Key Cheeseburger, rumored to be Jimmy Buffett's inspiration.
🐢 Spot the Gopher Tortoises
Keep an eye out for the island's resident gopher tortoises, often named after the Ninja Turtles!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Boat Access is Essential
Plan your boat trip or ferry in advance. Options include charters or public ferries from Pine Island.
💰 Leave Your Mark
Bring a dollar bill to sign and add to the walls of the restaurant – a fun tradition!
🍔 Try the Famous Burger
Don't miss the Cabbage Key Cheeseburger, rumored to be Jimmy Buffett's inspiration.
🐢 Spot the Gopher Tortoises
Keep an eye out for the island's resident gopher tortoises, often named after the Ninja Turtles!
💧 Hydrate & Protect
Bring sunscreen and water, especially if you plan to hike the trails or spend time outdoors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cabbage Key for its unique Old Florida charm, accessible only by boat. The legendary cheeseburger and the iconic dollar-bill-covered walls of the restaurant are major highlights, offering a truly memorable dining experience. While some find the boat trip pricey, most agree the island's rustic atmosphere and natural beauty make it a worthwhile destination.
"Had a great time on the island for lunch with my mom. We will be back on our own boat next time.
We took the island girl charter out there which was nice but made the trip for lunch pretty pricey.
I had the shrimp salad sandwich which was great and mom had the shrimp plate.
She had a couple extra shrimp so we were able to feed Henry the heron the extras. Very cool.
The gopher turtles roaming around named after the ninja turtles was also a really neat thing to see.
We will be back!"
Drew Johnson
"Wonderful little island with a real touch of Florida charm. The island is beautiful with Gopher Tortoises to see. Food is terrific, with the best cheeseburger around. Be sure to hang a dollar on the wall. The best view in the area is at the top of the water tower. Cabbage Key is a must if you are in the area."
Randy Barsch
"Cabbage Key has a hill with stairs. I loved the old Florida landscaping. Hiked the 2 dirt trials and climbed the watertower. Saw a tortoise, a gator and several snakes. The restaurant bar was dark and cozy. Would love to go back, when I could stay longer."
Carrie #1
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cabbage Key is accessible only by boat, seaplane, or water taxi. You can charter a private boat, take a ferry from Pine Island (like from Pineland or Bokeelia), or arrange a water taxi service.
Yes, you can arrange boat trips to Cabbage Key from Fort Myers. Many charter services operate from the Fort Myers area, offering day trips or longer excursions. +4
While there isn't a direct public ferry from Sanibel or Captiva, you can find boat tours and private charters that depart from these islands and head to Cabbage Key.
The most common and recommended way to reach Cabbage Key from Pine Island is by taking a ferry or chartering a boat from marinas like Pineland or Bokeelia. +1
No, you cannot drive your car to Cabbage Key as it is an island accessible only by water or air. You'll need to arrange boat transportation. +2
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific entry tickets required to visit Cabbage Key itself. However, you will need to pay for your boat transportation to the island. +2
The Cabbage Key Inn & Restaurant is typically open daily for lunch and dinner. It's best to check their official website or call ahead for the most current hours, especially during off-season.
There is no admission fee to set foot on Cabbage Key. The costs are associated with getting there (boat transportation) and any food or drinks you purchase. +2
Yes, numerous boat tour operators offer trips to Cabbage Key from surrounding areas like Fort Myers, Pine Island, Captiva, and Punta Gorda.
The nature trails on Cabbage Key are free to access as part of the island's natural landscape.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy lunch at the famous restaurant, add your dollar bill to the walls, climb the water tower for views, hike nature trails, spot wildlife like gopher tortoises, and simply relax in the Old Florida atmosphere. +4
Yes, Cabbage Key offers a unique experience for families with its relaxed vibe, wildlife spotting opportunities, and the fun tradition of adding dollar bills. It's a great day trip destination.
Visitors often spot gopher tortoises (sometimes named after Ninja Turtles), dolphins, manatees, and various bird species. +2
Yes, Cabbage Key has walking trails that allow you to explore the island's natural beauty and undeveloped areas.
Cell service can be spotty on Cabbage Key due to its remote island location. Wi-Fi availability may be limited, primarily at the Inn and Restaurant.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Cabbage Key is most famous for its cheeseburger, often called the 'Cabbage Key Cheeseburger,' and its Creeper cocktail. The restaurant also serves seafood and other American fare.
Many visitors rave about the Cabbage Key Cheeseburger, with some suggesting it was the inspiration for Jimmy Buffett's 'Cheeseburger in Paradise.' It's a must-try for many.
The Creeper is a signature cocktail at Cabbage Key, often described as a potent and refreshing drink that complements the island vibe.
The primary dining experience is at the Cabbage Key Inn & Restaurant. While there might be limited options for snacks, the main restaurant is the focal point for food. +1
While you can bring snacks, Cabbage Key is primarily a destination to dine at the restaurant. Bringing a full picnic might not align with the typical visitor experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The dollar-bill-covered walls of the restaurant, the panoramic views from the water tower, the rustic charm of the inn, and the natural island scenery with potential wildlife sightings are all great photo opportunities. +1
Yes, Cabbage Key offers stunning aerial views, making it a popular spot for drone photography, showcasing the island's undeveloped beauty and surrounding waters.
Mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for capturing the island's natural beauty. Sunset can also provide beautiful golden hour shots.
You can generally take photos inside the public areas of the Cabbage Key Inn & Restaurant, especially of the famous dollar bill walls. Be respectful of other diners and guests.
There are no specific restrictions on general photography for personal use. However, commercial photography or filming may require prior permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+2 Once on the island, kids will be fascinated by the gopher tortoises, some even named after the Ninja Turtles, and the sheer novelty of the dollar-bill-covered restaurant walls. Tips for families:
* Book a boat trip that allows for ample time on the island.
* Pack snacks and drinks, though enjoying lunch at the restaurant is part of the experience.
* Encourage kids to participate in the dollar bill tradition.
* Keep an eye out for wildlife on the trails.
+1🚤 Boaters & Water Enthusiasts
+3 Many boaters use Cabbage Key as a waypoint on longer excursions through the Gulf Coast waterways, enjoying the camaraderie and the unique island vibe. The surrounding waters are also excellent for fishing and exploring.Boater highlights:
* Dockage available at the marina.
* Perfect stop for lunch or a drink.
* Opportunity for dolphin and manatee sightings during the journey.
+2🚶♀️ Nature Lovers & Hikers
Nature lover tips:
* Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the trails.
* Bring insect repellent and sunscreen.
* Respect the natural habitat and wildlife.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Old Florida Charm
+3 This preserved atmosphere is a major draw for those seeking an escape from modern life. The historic inn, originally built in the 1930s, adds to this nostalgic feel, making it a destination that truly transports you.The island's accessibility, solely by boat, seaplane, or water taxi, further enhances its secluded and untouched character.
+1 This limited access ensures that Cabbage Key remains a tranquil haven, preserving its natural beauty and relaxed pace. It’s a place where you can disconnect and immerse yourself in the serene environment, a stark contrast to the bustling mainland.Visitors often describe the experience as stepping back in time, with the island's natural surroundings and laid-back ambiance contributing to its unique appeal. Whether you're enjoying a meal, exploring the trails, or simply soaking in the views, the Old Florida charm of Cabbage Key is palpable and unforgettable.
The Legendary Cabbage Key Cheeseburger & Dollar Bills
+2 The burger is consistently praised for its delicious taste and satisfying nature, making it a culinary highlight of any visit.Complementing the famous burger is the restaurant's distinctive decor: walls covered in thousands of signed dollar bills.
This tradition, started decades ago, creates a vibrant and eclectic atmosphere. Visitors are encouraged to add their own signed dollar bill to the collection, becoming a part of the island's ongoing story. It’s a visual spectacle that adds a fun, interactive element to the dining experience.Beyond the burger and dollar bills, the restaurant also offers other island favorites, including seafood dishes and the signature 'Creeper' cocktail.
Navigating to Cabbage Key: Your Transportation Guide
+2For those looking for a more economical option, ferries and water taxis operate from Pine Island, particularly from marinas in Pineland and Bokeelia.
Consider the type of experience you desire when choosing your transport. A private charter offers flexibility and comfort, while a ferry provides a more structured and often budget-friendly option. Regardless of your choice, the journey to Cabbage Key is an integral part of the island's charm, setting the stage for the tranquil escape that awaits.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit