Measured by latitude, you’ll find about 40 miles between Captiva and Marco Islands, with Sanibel Island just south of Captiva. For those who prefer dry land, driving from Sanibel/Captiva to Marco Island is roughly 65 miles.
While the three couldn’t be more different, Sanibel/Captiva and Marco Island share deep historical roots through the Calusa, which dominated Southwest Florida’s barrier islands. And even some more modern parallels.
The Calusa Kingdom
These islands all served as major territories and village sites for the Calusa people, who lived on and around Sanibel Island for thousands of years. They built elaborate shell mounds, dug canal systems, crafted tools and produced artwork.
The Calusa were also the original native people of Marco Island, building an advanced coastal society over 4,000 years.
Spanish exploration
Juan Ponce de León became the first European known to reach Florida in 1513, landing (it’s said) near Caxambas Pass on the southern end of Marco Island. Later Spanish navigators named it La Isla de San Marcos after Saint Mark…