South Seas Resort won a key appellate court ruling that clears the way for new hotel and condominium development on Captiva Island. But pending litigation, potential appeals and questions over newly acquired land mean expansion plans still face significant hurdles.
South Seas Resort acquired 22 acres once protected by artist Robert Rauschenberg for $45 million, sparking debate over development, preservation and the future of the Captiva property.
After Hurricane Ian, Alejandra Bustamante turned a passion for art into a thriving mural business. Now, she’s painting a dozen retro-style murals at South Seas Resort while building her brand across Southwest Florida.
South Seas Island Resort unveiled two major additions on Captiva Island, opening the Beach House restaurant and the Captiva Landing water attraction as part of its post-Hurricane Ian recovery and long-term redevelopment.
Sanibel and Captiva Island officials are moving past post-Hurricane Ian messaging and returning to traditional tourism marketing, signaling optimism as more than 70% of island businesses have reopened since the 2022 storm.
After Hurricane Milton leveled it, Captiva’s The Mucky Duck is nearly back. The beachfront landmark aims to reopen by December ahead of its 50th anniversary.
Lee County approved denser development at South Seas Resort, overturning 50 years of zoning precedent. The decision ends public access to the resort and clears the way for 628 units up to 45 feet tall. Captiva residents plan to continue the fight in court.
The Captiva Erosion Prevention District completed its beach renourishment project on Nov. 11 under the guidance of executive director Jennifer Nelson and chairman Rene Miville. This nourishment project began on Sept. 1 and encompassed pumping 820,000 cubic yards of sand onto the 4.85 miles of Captiva shoreline. CEPD worked with marine contractors Great Lakes Dredge
