A lovely, romantic vacation for two doesn’t have to mean spending a ton of money on an out of the country trip or a cruise. If you’re planning a long trip, or even if you can only get away for a weekend, a drive or quick flight down to Captiva Island, Florida can be the perfect setting for an ideal mini vacation, wedding destination, or honeymoon.

Captiva’s beauty and opulence has attracted many celebrities to buy vacation homes or settle here. It’s a barrier island that is about an hour’s drive from the coast, making it just far enough away to feel like a secluded subtropical paradise.

Make your reservations in advance. Many resorts offer special packages, especially for honeymooners and wedding parties. The best time of year to visit if you want to really feel secluded and low key is fall. The most majestic of the resorts on Captiva is the South Seas Island Resort. It is one of the oldest places on the island, but has been newly renovated and includes villas and luxury cottages. Even during the crowded seasons, renting one of these will make you feel like you’re in your own little world.

Take a stroll during a gorgeous sunset and participate in one of the area’s most popular activities: shelling. There is an abundance of seashells in the Captiva and Sanibel Island areas. Other activities include kayaking, sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and guided tours. You can explore the island and even take a day trip over to Sanibel Island to visit the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Reserve.

Take a walk on the beach in the morning if you prefer the sunrise to the sunset. The beauty of staying on a small island is that you have access to both, depending on which side of the island you are on.

There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and art galleries to choose from. You also have the option of touring “Millionaire’s Row,” which is where many affluent people and celebrities own homes.

You even have the option of chartering a yacht, like the Adventure, for a couple of hours, a full day, or just a sunset cruise. If you want to experience a sunset dinner, make a reservation at the Mucky Duck, which is known for its view of the sunset over the Gulf.

No matter the length of your stay, visiting Captiva Island is sure to provide you with lovely memories of your romantic getaway for years to come.

SanibelCaptiva.com provides information on everything dealing with Sanibel and the Captiva Islands. At SanibelCaptiva.com you will find information on Sanibel Island real estate, Sanibel Island hotels and more.