These 8 Florida Islands Feel Remote—but You Can Drive Right To Them

Florida’s coastline holds a special secret: islands that feel like tropical escapes yet remain connected to the mainland by bridges and causeways. You don’t need a boat or ferry to reach these hidden gems—just hop in your car and enjoy the scenic drive.

These destinations offer the perfect blend of convenience and island atmosphere, making them ideal for quick getaways or extended vacations.

1. Amelia Island

Tucked away in Florida’s northeastern corner, this barrier island rewards visitors with thirteen miles of pristine coastline that rarely feels crowded. Maritime forests create shaded trails perfect for afternoon exploration, while historic Fernandina Beach downtown transports you back in time with Victorian-era architecture.

The island’s beaches offer something different from typical Florida shores. Soft sand stretches endlessly, and the Atlantic waters stay refreshingly cool even in summer months. Local shops and restaurants line Centre Street, where you can browse antique stores or grab fresh seafood.

Despite its peaceful atmosphere, getting here couldn’t be easier—just cross the bridge from the mainland and you’ve arrived at your island retreat.

2. Sanibel Island

Shell collectors consider this Gulf Coast paradise their ultimate destination, and for good reason. The island’s unique east-west orientation causes shells to wash ashore in remarkable quantities, creating natural treasures for beachcombers. Wildlife refuges cover much of the land, ensuring that nature takes priority over development.

J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge protects over 6,400 acres of mangrove forests and wetlands. Birds flock here by the thousands during migration season, making it a photographer’s dream location.

The causeway connecting Sanibel to Fort Myers feels like a transition into another world. Buildings stay low and unobtrusive, respecting the island’s natural beauty rather than competing with it. Local ordinances keep commercial development minimal, preserving that secluded island feeling despite easy road access.

3. Captiva Island

Beyond Sanibel’s northern bridge lies an even more secluded treasure that truly embodies the end-of-the-road spirit. Smaller and quieter than its neighbor, this area delivers spectacular sunsets that paint the Gulf waters in brilliant oranges and pinks each evening.

Boutique shops and casual restaurants cluster in small villages, maintaining a low-key atmosphere that feels authentically Old Florida. Captiva’s beaches tend toward powdery white sand and calm, swimmable waters perfect for families. The South Seas Island Resort occupies much of the northern end, but public beach access remains available throughout.

4. Marco Island

Southwest Florida’s largest barrier island successfully balances resort amenities with genuine island tranquility. High-rise condominiums line portions of the beachfront, yet peaceful stretches remain surprisingly easy to find, especially near the northern beaches. Tigertail Beach stands out as the island’s most naturally preserved area.

A tidal lagoon creates protected swimming areas perfect for young children, while the beach itself curves around, providing both Gulf views and sheltered waters. Shorebirds wade through the shallows hunting for fish, and dolphins frequently cruise past just beyond the sandbar.

Despite its development, Marco maintains the slower island pace that makes visitors forget about mainland stress.

5. Anna Maria Island

Pastel cottages and mom-and-pop motels line the streets of this throwback treasure, where modern development has been largely kept at bay. The island’s three communities—Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach—each maintain distinct personalities while sharing that classic Old Florida vibe.

White sand beaches stretch along the Gulf side, while the bay side offers calmer waters and spectacular sunset views. Historic Bridge Street Pier extends into the Gulf, providing fishing opportunities and dolphin-watching spots without needing a boat. Local ordinances restrict building heights and chain restaurants, preserving the island’s authentic character.

6. Gasparilla Island

Boca Grande occupies the southern tip of this refined island destination, where old-money elegance meets laid-back beach culture. Cars take a backseat here—bicycles rule the roads, and locals prefer pedaling to driving whenever possible. The historic Boca Grande Lighthouse stands guard at the island’s southern point, now housing a museum that tells stories of the area’s fishing heritage.

Tarpon fishing made this island famous decades ago, and anglers still flock here during migration season. Crystal-clear Gulf waters lap against uncrowded beaches, while the downtown area maintains a village atmosphere with boutique shops and white-tablecloth restaurants.

Gasparilla Island State Park protects much of the southern end, ensuring public beach access and nature preservation.

7. Longboat Key

Stretching twelve miles between Sarasota and Bradenton Beaches, this slender barrier island delivers upscale tranquility without pretension. The Gulf Drive scenic route runs the island’s length, offering continuous water views and beach access points. Unlike some Florida islands where development feels overwhelming, Longboat Key maintains generous spacing between properties.

Beaches remain surprisingly uncrowded even during peak season, and the lack of high-density tourism keeps the atmosphere peaceful. Golf courses and tennis clubs attract active visitors, while the beaches themselves provide perfect spots for shelling and sunset watching. Several excellent restaurants dot the island, ranging from casual beachside grills to fine dining establishments.

Two bridges provide mainland access—one from Bradenton Beach and another from St. Armands Circle in Sarasota, making this peaceful retreat easy to reach.

8. Key Largo

Mile Marker 106 marks your arrival at the first and largest island in the Florida Keys chain, where the Overseas Highway begins its island-hopping journey. Driving here feels like entering a different world—palm trees replace pines, and the water shifts from green to brilliant turquoise. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park protects America’s only living coral reef, offering snorkeling and diving adventures just offshore.

Glass-bottom boats provide reef views for those preferring to stay dry. The island stretches thirty miles long but rarely more than two miles wide, keeping you constantly aware of the surrounding waters.

Despite easy highway access from Miami, Key Largo maintains that authentic Keys atmosphere—casual, tropical, and wonderfully removed from mainland hustle. The drive down becomes part of the experience, with ocean views appearing on both sides as you head south.