Author: LeAneSUAREZGroup

Captiva Island, FL – One of Southwest Florida’s most beloved and whimsical landmarks, The Bubble Room, is officially on track to reopen this May!

Known for its nostalgic decor, vibrant ambiance, and towering homemade cakes, The Bubble Room has been a staple on Captiva for decades. Following the devastation of Hurricane Ian, the restaurant faced months of repair and restoration—but its spirit never dimmed.

A Community Favorite Making a Comeback

Earlier this year, the restaurant shared its excitement after power was restored to the building—an important milestone after months in the dark. While the team initially aimed to reopen between early March and late April, they’ve now confirmed a May reopening, citing strong community support and steady progress.

In a recent Facebook update, The Bubble Room thanked its loyal fans and shared a cheerful milestone:
“All 150 chairs and booths have officially made their way back indoors!”

This signals that the final stages of interior restoration are nearly complete.

A Glimpse at What’s to Come

Guests can expect all the classic charm The Bubble Room is famous for—holiday lights strung year-round, vintage toys and train tracks overhead, and of course, the famously decadent Orange Crunch Cake.

The return of The Bubble Room is not just about great food—it’s a symbol of resilience for Captiva Island, still rebuilding after the storm.

Planning Your Visit?

Make sure to follow The Bubble Room’s official Facebook page for exact reopening dates, sneak peeks inside the renovated space, and announcements about reservations and hours of operation.

✨ Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, get ready to experience the magic of The Bubble Room once again—coming this May to Captiva Island!

Spring has sprung in Southwest Florida, and that means sunshine, sea breezes—and Easter celebrations are in full bloom! Whether you’re a local or visiting for the holiday weekend, SWFL is packed with family-friendly Easter events, egg hunts, festive brunches, and even beachside sunrise services. Here’s your complete guide to the best Easter happenings across Fort Myers, Naples, Cape Coral, Sanibel, and beyond.

Family-Friendly Easter Egg Hunts

Easter Eggstravaganza at Lakes Regional Park – Fort Myers

Saturday, April 19 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Bring the kids for an unforgettable morning of egg hunts, face painting, bounce houses, and food trucks. Enjoy scenic trails and the mini train after the event!
Age-specific egg hunts available
️ Free entry – $5 parking fee

Naples Zoo Easter Bunny Bonanza – Naples

Friday–Sunday, April 18–20 | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
The Easter Bunny hops into Naples Zoo! Enjoy egg-themed games, animal encounters, and photos with the bunny surrounded by wildlife.
Included with general admission
Bunny photo ops for all ages

Sanibel Easter Egg Hunt & Spring Festival – Sanibel Community Park

Saturday, April 19 | 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Hosted by the Sanibel Recreation Center, this charming island event features traditional egg hunts, arts & crafts, and an island-style petting zoo.
Local vendors, raffles & music
Perfect for families staying on the islands

Cape Coral Yacht Club Easter Egg Hunt

Saturday, April 19 | 10:00 AM
Kids 10 and under are welcome to participate in this fast-paced hunt. Arrive early—it goes quick!
Waterfront views and plenty of space to play
Prizes and treats for every participant

Easter Brunches Worth Booking

The Veranda – Downtown Fort Myers

Enjoy southern charm and a classic Easter menu in a historic 1902 home. Think honey-glazed ham, quiche, and mimosas under a canopy of tropical gardens.
Reservations recommended

Baleen at LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort – Naples

An upscale beachfront brunch featuring seafood towers, omelet stations, and ocean views.
Perfect for a luxury Easter experience

Lighthouse Waterfront Restaurant – Fort Myers Beach

Laid-back vibes with panoramic bay views. Brunch includes prime rib carving, waffles, fresh pastries, and Easter cocktails.
Live music + great photo spots

✝️ Sunrise & Special Easter Services

Easter Sunrise Service on Fort Myers Beach

Sunday, April 20 | 6:30 AM
Hosted near the pier, this beautiful tradition brings locals and visitors together for a non-denominational beachfront service.
Bring a chair or towel
Live worship music as the sun rises

Easter Service at Riverside Church – Cape Coral

Sunday, April 20 | 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM
A welcoming, family-friendly church offering powerful messages and an Easter celebration for kids.
Indoor & outdoor seating available

Hop Into Spring in SWFL!

From Sanibel’s sandy shores to Naples’ elegant dining, Easter in Southwest Florida offers something for everyone. Whether you’re hunting eggs with the kids, enjoying a beachside brunch, or watching the sunrise over the Gulf, you’re sure to make unforgettable memories this Easter season.

A beloved Captiva landmark is back in action — Jensen’s Twin Palm Resort and Marina has officially reopened, welcoming guests with its signature coastal charm and island hospitality.

“The moment you’ve been waiting for is here,” the resort shared in a joyful announcement on social media.

Cozy Cottages with a Coastal Touch

The resort’s newly refreshed cottages are now available for booking, each beautifully decorated in bright nautical and seashell themes. Guests can choose from six unique styles, all designed to offer a breezy, relaxing island escape.

️ The Ship Store Is Open

Locals and visitors alike can swing by the all-new Ship Store, now open to the public. It’s the perfect spot to pick up Jensen’s-branded t-shirts, totes, and one-of-a-kind souvenirs to remember your stay on Captiva.

“Grab all your new T’s, totes and souvenirs,” Jensen’s posted.

Ready for Adventure? Boat Rentals & More

For those looking to explore the surrounding waters, Jensen’s offers boat rentals by the half day, full day, or multi-day. Whether you’re in the mood for fishing, shelling, or island hopping, it’s easy to plan your perfect outing with online booking now available.

The marina’s fuel dock is also open, making it convenient for boaters to fuel up and get back out on the water.

“Get ready for your unforgettable adventure on the water,” they shared.

Plan Your Visit

Jensen’s Twin Palm Resort and Marina
15107 Captiva Drive, Captiva, FL
Call: 239-356-8860
Visit: jensensmarina.com

Whether you’re staying for a weekend getaway or dropping by the store or dock, Jensen’s is ready to welcome you back to the heart of Captiva.

After months of restoration and resilience, Captiva Chapel by the Sea has officially reopened its historic doors for Sunday worship. Like many cherished structures across Southwest Florida’s barrier islands, the 120-year-old chapel endured severe damage during recent hurricanes, most recently Hurricane Milton, which dislodged the chapel from its foundation in October.

With guidance from Rev. Dr. Doug Dortch and the chapel board, contractors were brought in to lift, level, and stabilize the beloved structure. Power has also been restored, and on March 30, the chapel welcomed worshippers back indoors for its first regular Sunday service of the season.

Limited Indoor Seating, Expanded Outdoor & Online Access

With only 90 seats available inside, some attendees from the usual 200+ Sunday congregation will continue enjoying services from the outdoor seating area, which has served as the primary worship space since November.

The chapel also noted continued growth in its “online congregation”, and it is working closely with Bright Ideas Media to ensure Facebook Live broadcasts remain accessible for remote worshippers.

Looking Ahead to Easter Sunday

The chapel expects to welcome nearly 1,000 attendees for its Easter Sunday service on April 20—a longstanding tradition for many island residents and visitors. Worshippers are encouraged to arrive early and plan ahead for limited parking.

Post-Storm Recovery Campaign Exceeds $500,000

In a February update, chapel leaders shared encouraging news about its post-hurricane recovery campaign. While generous donations have flowed in since the storm, recent months saw extraordinary contributions—including two major gifts and a successful $80,000 challenge grant, which was met in just two weeks.

The campaign was launched with a significant donation from Bank of the Islands founders, Robbie and Geoff Roepstorff, followed by another from The Pine Rock Foundation, a philanthropic partner in community restoration.

“The chapel board is in awe of our congregation’s kindness and caring in our time of need,” officials shared.

To learn more about services, donations, or live broadcasts, visit captivachapel.com or follow Captiva Chapel by the Sea on Facebook.

Address: 11580 Chapin Lane, Captiva, FL

The Protect Captiva coalition — a group committed to preserving Captiva Island’s long-standing building height and density limits — has released an update on its ongoing legal efforts to oppose the South Seas Island Resort’s rezoning application.

Rebuttals and Legal Proceedings

Following several days of public testimony, the coalition reported that on April 8, South Seas would present its rebuttal to extensive opposition statements and evidence submitted during the initial hearing phases. The Lee County government, which supports the resort’s application, is expected to follow with its own rebuttal.

“Captiva and Sanibel witnesses demonstrated that the increase in density from 272 to 628 units on the applicant’s property — increasing the total number of units on the resort from 912 to 1,268 — along with increased building heights, would violate the building limits of the Lee Plan,” Protect Captiva shared on April 4.

Concerns raised by the coalition and other stakeholders include:

• Severe traffic congestion

• Threats to public safety during hurricane evacuations and medical emergencies

• Potential long-term environmental damage

Hearing Examiner Questions and Timeline

At the end of public testimony on March 21, the Hearing Examiner stated that she would submit written questions to South Seas and Lee County. These were expected to be answered by April 8.

To view the Hearing Examiner’s questions, visit the provided link in the full coalition update.

The coalition noted that after rebuttals are completed, the Hearing Examiner will likely take two to three months to issue a recommended decision to the Lee County Board of Commissioners, who will then decide to approve, reject, or modify that recommendation at a public hearing.

“Public opposition will not be heard again until the matter reaches the board of county commissioners, likely in the summer or fall,” Protect Captiva added. “We’ll continue to provide updates on hearing dates and ways to stay involved.”

Summary of Community Opposition

On March 24, Protect Captiva also shared a detailed account of public testimony presented from Feb. 20 through March 21. Witnesses included:

• The Captiva Civic Association (CCA) attorney and expert witnesses

• South Seas property owners opposing the rezoning

• Captiva Community Panel

• Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF)

• Officials from the City of Sanibel, including Mayor Richard Johnson, City Manager Dana Souza, Deputy Police Chief Anthony Thompson, and City Attorney John Agnew

• Dozens of concerned residents and environmental advocates

These participants voiced strong objections to the proposed density and height increases, citing both legal and environmental grounds.

A formal legal analysis summarizing the community’s opposition was submitted by the CCA’s attorney to the Hearing Examiner. You can view the document via the link titled CCA Legal Analysis.

To watch recordings of the hearings, visit YouTube @LeeCountyFLBOCC.

For further information, please contact:
Staff Reporter – trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

Golfers, grab your clubs! The Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club is set to host its annual Doc Ford’s Invitational 2025 “King of the Rock” Tournament on Friday, April 19, at The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club on Sanibel. The popular two-person scramble format promises a competitive day on the green — all in support of local students.

️‍♂️ About the Tournament

Date: Friday, April 19, 2025
Location: The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club, 949 Sand Castle Road, Sanibel
Check-in: 7:30 a.m.
Shotgun Start: 9:00 a.m.
Format: 18-hole, two-person scramble
Entry Fee: $150 per player
Deadline to Register: April 12
Register Here: sancapkiwanis.org

This event is one of the Kiwanis Club’s major annual fundraisers, with 100% of proceeds going to the Kiwanis Foundation Scholarship Fund—benefiting students with ties to Sanibel and Captiva.

“We’re raising scholarship money for island-related kids,” said Board Member Eric Pfeifer, who is also co-chairing the tournament. “It’s a fun, competitive event that directly supports our youth.”

Tournament Highlights

• Men’s and Women’s Flights

• No Mulligans or Freebies – verified handicaps required

• Prizes & Trophies awarded to top finishers in each flight

• Post-tournament lunch provided by The Dunes Clubhouse

• Pre-event Calcutta Night on April 18 at 6 p.m. with appetizers (drinks available for purchase)

Presented by Doc Ford’s

Doc Ford’s returns as presenting sponsor, with strong support from local businesses including:

Platinum/Gold Sponsor: Cielo
Gold Sponsors: Artistic Interiors, Bank of the Islands, Pfeifer Realty Group
Silver Sponsors: American Gallery Homes, Heidrick & Company Insurance, Mold Busters, Sanibel Captiva Community Bank, and more
Bronze Sponsors: Chase Bank, John Grey Painting, Simmons and Cook, and others

✅ IF YOU GO

What: Doc Ford’s Invitational 2025 “King of the Rock”
When: Friday, April 19 – Shotgun start at 9 a.m.
Where: The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club, Sanibel
Cost: $150 per player
Register: sancapkiwanis.org or in person at The Dunes Golf Shop
Questions? Contact Eric Pfeifer at 239-472-0004 / Eric@PfeiferRealtyGroup.com
or Chris Pais at 239-472-3355 / cpais@theinnsofsanibel.com

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just in it for the fun, this tournament is your chance to swing for a great cause. Sign up today and help make a difference in the lives of local students!

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) has officially kicked off restoration efforts at the McGregor Preserve in Fort Myers, taking the first steps toward reviving a vital coastal habitat severely impacted by recent hurricanes.

SCCF leaders recently met with representatives from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to review and align plans for restoring the tidal landscape. The area, which suffered significant damage from Hurricanes Ian, Helene, and Milton, experienced extreme saltwater inundation and destruction of its native vegetation.

Restoring Vital Coastal Ecosystems

Following the removal of storm debris, SCCF plans to reintroduce native vegetation, including red, white, and black mangroves, along with a variety of salt marsh species. These plantings are crucial to restoring the ecological balance and rebuilding the mangrove forest, which serves as an important buffer against storm surge and a nursery habitat for marine life.

SCCF is collaborating closely with DEP scientists to identify the most effective restoration methods, guided by the latest research on post-storm mangrove recovery. This partnership aims to ensure the return of a resilient, thriving tidal habitat that can withstand future environmental challenges.

Volunteer Opportunities Ahead

Once debris clearing is completed and site conditions are favorable, Coastal Watch, SCCF’s community engagement arm, will announce volunteer planting opportunities for those interested in contributing to the restoration effort.

This project not only represents a significant step toward environmental recovery but also highlights the power of collaboration between conservation organizations, state agencies, and the community.

For updates on the McGregor Preserve restoration and future volunteer events, visit sccf.org.

Nature lovers, rejoice! The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) has announced the reopening of a scenic half-mile loop trail behind its headquarters on Sanibel-Captiva Road. Formerly known as the Sanibel Slough Trails, the newly renamed William and Ruth Brooks Nature Trail honors the generous donors whose contribution helped bring this beloved space back to life.

Thanks to a donation from William and Ruth Brooks, SCCF was able to accelerate post-hurricane recovery efforts, hiring contractors to remove debris, clear fallen trees, and safely restore parts of the trail system following recent storm damage.

What to Expect on the Trail

The newly opened loop begins at a clearly marked trailhead located in the SCCF parking lot, just to the right of the main headquarters building. The trail winds through areas that were once part of a vibrant freshwater wetland ecosystem, now slowly recovering from multiple hurricanes and storm surges over the past several years.

Visitors can also enjoy a peaceful walk along a stretch of the Sanibel Slough, offering a glimpse into the island’s unique and resilient natural landscape. Along the way, keep your eyes open for native wildlife—from turtles and tortoises to butterflies, birds, and the occasional curious mammal.

Tip: Bring your camera or binoculars! The trail offers plenty of photo-worthy moments and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Trail Expansion Coming Soon

The currently open half-mile loop is just the beginning. The full four-mile trail system will be reopened in phases as restoration continues. SCCF remains committed to preserving and sharing the ecological wonders of Sanibel with the public, while ensuring the trail remains safe and sustainable.

Whether you’re a long-time island resident or a first-time visitor, the William and Ruth Brooks Nature Trail offers a peaceful retreat into the wild heart of Sanibel.

To learn more about SCCF’s conservation efforts and trail updates, visit sccf.org.

In just a few short weeks, the shores of Sanibel and Captiva will once again welcome a remarkable natural event — the return of nesting sea turtles. From May through October, Florida’s sea turtle nesting season brings hundreds of these ancient mariners back to our local beaches, continuing a cycle that has endured for millions of years.

A Long-Distance Journey of Survival

Sanibel and Captiva are part of a crucial nesting corridor for loggerheads, green turtles, and on rare occasions, Kemp’s ridleys and leatherbacks. These female sea turtles embark on extraordinary migrations, traveling hundreds to thousands of miles from their oceanic foraging grounds to return to the very beaches where they were born.

These migrations are among the longest in the animal kingdom. Some turtles feeding in the Gulf of Mexico’s West Florida Shelf might travel relatively short distances, while others make their way from as far as the Florida Keys, Bahamas, or even Cuba.

How Do They Find Their Way Back?

The answer lies in an extraordinary natural phenomenon: imprinting. As hatchlings, sea turtles imprint on the unique magnetic signature of their birth beach. Decades later, they use the Earth’s magnetic field like a built-in GPS to navigate back. Scientists also believe that olfactory cues, visual landmarks, and environmental memory may further guide these turtles to the exact stretch of sand where their lives began.

Nesting: A Physically Demanding Process

Sea turtles are known as capital breeders, relying on stored energy from months (sometimes years) of feeding to fuel their migration and egg-laying. Once they arrive, females will create four to six nests during the season, each containing dozens of eggs. After completing this exhausting process, they make the long swim back to their foraging grounds to rest and replenish — a recovery period that can last two to three years before they nest again.

Why Local Conservation Matters

Understanding this epic journey underscores just how vital it is to protect both nesting and foraging habitats. As Southwest Florida residents and visitors, we can all play a role:

• ️ Reduce beachfront lighting to prevent disorienting hatchlings

• ️ Keep beaches clean and free of obstacles like furniture and trash

• Preserve natural dunes and vegetation that support nesting

• Avoid disturbing nesting turtles or marked nests

Every small effort adds up to help ensure these awe-inspiring creatures can continue their great migrations for generations to come.

To learn how you can get involved or support sea turtle conservation, visit: sancaplifesavers.org/sea-turtles