Waterfront, Historic Fishing Cottage- Matlacha, FL

*** New for 2022 *** Welcome to Ashley & Tom’s Fishing Cottage in the quaint, yet vibrant village of Matlacha, Florida! Matlacha (mat-la-SHAY) stands out among the many charming seaside towns in southwest Florida as the “free spirited” one! The colorful and casual local vibe can be felt from the minute you arrive on the island. Walk, drive or boat to the many unique bars & restaurants, ice cream shops, gift shops & boutiques, community park, art galleries, fish markets or fishing hot spots that Matlacha has to offer! We invite you to stay with us and step back in to simpler times in one of the island’s original 1940’s fishing cottages. Our waterfront cottage is perfect for a couples getaway, an escape with the family or any art, fishing or nature lover! This historic fishing home has been well preserved, yet is fully equipped with all of the modern amenities you may need to enjoy your time away! Our home is nestled just yards away from the Matlacha Pass National Wildlife Refuge, which delivers some of the best nature has to offer, right outside your back door! Bird watch or admire the spectacular sunrises with your morning cup of coffee from the covered deck. Or enjoy a evening glass of wine from the dock, while the dolphins and manatees blissfully play. Take out our 2-person kayak to fish or explore the nearby mangroves and paddling trails. The location of our home provides you with easy access to the best Islands in Southwest Florida! With a short drive, explore Pine Island (Bokeelia and St. James City), Cape Coral, Fort Meyers, Sanibel and Captiva. While visiting Pine Island, rent bicycles and enjoy the 16 mile path across the island. Or take a ferry (out of Bokeelia - just 10 minutes away) to Boca Grande, Cayo Costa State Park (to sun at the beach, shell, hike, bike, swim, snorkel & more). Or head out to Cabbage Key for lunch, the famous inspiration for Jimmy Buffet’s “Cheeseburger in Paradise.” Or grab a water taxi and head to Captiva, North Captiva or Useppa Island and watch for dolphins, manatees and beautiful birds along the way. Some additional things to note: - Brand new, 2 person pelican kayak and 2 paddles are included in rental at no additional charge (saving you $75 / day on renting one). - You may rent your own jet ski or boat and dock it at this property during your stay at no additional charge. - We are happy to leave 2 fishing poles out for use (upon request). - Pets require pre-approval and are subject to an additional fee. - No more than 6 guests and 2 vehicles allowed. - Parties are not permitted. - Please be respectful of the neighbors. - Smoking is allowed outside only. - Check in is 3:00pm - Check out is 10:00am - A passcode for the lockbox will be sent to you the day of your stay prior to arrival. - House is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized in between rentals. Amenities: - Bedroom 1: Queen size bed “Purple Room” - Bedroom 2: 2 sets of bunk beds (total of 4 Twin size beds) “Yellow Room” - Additional futon couch / bed is located in the “Grey Room” - Keurig coffee machine - Electric stove / oven - Microwave - Refrigerator - Mini Refrigerator - Utensils - Toaster - Pots & Pans - Silverware - Plates - Cups - Wine Glasses - Drinking Glasses - Coffee mugs - Dish Towels - Paper Towels - Toilet Paper - Bath Towels - Hand Towels - Wash Cloths - Washer & Dryer - Iron & Ironing Board - USB Charger - Roku TV’s (3 Total) - Outdoor BBQ Gas Grill with Griddle - WiFi No dishwasher (Dishes must be hand washed)