Explore Matlacha: A Hidden Gem on the Intercoastal Waterway

The colorful town is reminiscent of old Florida

Nestled between Cape Coral and Pine Island, Matlacha, Florida, is a vibrant, quirky waterfront village that perfectly captures the laid-back spirit of Southwest Florida. Whether you're cruising the Intercoastal Waterway with Gulf Boat Charters or exploring by land, this colorful town is a must-visit destination for foodies, nature lovers, and anyone who appreciates Old Florida charm. Still recovering from a direct hit by hurricane Ian in 2022, the tough and tenacious people of Matlacha are rebuilding while being careful to keep the town's unique flavor.

A Slice of Old Florida Charm

Matlacha (pronounced MAT-la-shay) is more than just a stop along your boating route—it’s a full-on experience. With its brightly painted cottages, art galleries, and locally owned shops, the town feels like stepping into a tropical dream. As part of the Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve, the area is rich in natural beauty, from mangrove tunnels and calm backwaters to an abundance of wildlife like dolphins, manatees, and ospreys.

Best Dockside Restaurants in Matlacha

One of the best ways to enjoy Matlacha is by arriving by boat and docking for a waterfront meal. Here are a few top picks for dockside dining:

Blue Dog Bar & Grill

This local favorite offers fresh, locally sourced seafood with unbeatable views of the water. Dock your boat right outside and enjoy dishes like blackened grouper tacos, peel-and-eat shrimp, and their signature crab cakes.

Miceli’s Restaurant

Known for its live music and casual island vibes, Miceli’s is a hotspot for both locals and visitors. Arrive by boat, tie up at their convenient dock, and enjoy hearty Italian meals, stone crab (in season), or wood-fired pizza with a cold drink in hand.

Yucatan Waterfront Restaurant

Recently reopened after an extensive renovation following Hurricane Ian, Yucatan Waterfront Restaurant is back and better than ever. With a refreshed interior, updated menu, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere, it’s quickly becoming a favorite stop on the Intercoastal Waterway. One of the standout features? Swings at the bar—offering a fun, laid-back way to enjoy a drink while soaking in waterfront views. Dock access makes it a perfect stop during your Matlacha boating adventure.

Boating and Water Activities Near Matlacha

Whether you're chartering a boat with us for a day of fishing, shelling, or cruising the Intercoastal Waterway, the waters around Matlacha offer something for everyone.

• Fishing: The surrounding estuaries and backwaters are teeming with snook, redfish, sea trout, and tarpon. Bring your rod or let us guide you to the best local spots.

• Island Hopping: From Matlacha, it's a short ride to Cayo Costa, North Captiva, or Useppa Island—perfect for swimming, shelling, and a beach day off the beaten path.

• Wildlife Watching: Dolphins and manatees are frequently spotted in these waters. Don’t forget your camera—Matlacha is part of the Great Calusa Blueway paddling trail and a prime location for birding and nature photography.

  
  

Why Visit Matlacha with Gulf Boat Charters?

At Gulf Boat Charters, we make it easy to explore this unforgettable corner of Florida’s Gulf Coast. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing cruise through the mangroves, a fishing expedition, or a waterfront dining experience, our charters give you front-row access to everything Matlacha has to offer.

Plan Your Matlacha Boat Adventure

If you’re searching for boat charters near Matlacha, Matlacha dockside restaurants, or the best Intercoastal Waterway experiences in Southwest Florida, Gulf Boat Charters is your go-to source. Book your custom charter today and experience the magic of Matlacha by water—where every dock tells a story and every sunset feels like home.

Book Your Charter