COASTE | SUMMER 2015

COASTE | ATTRACTIONS

cottages that date to 1944 and provide the apex of escape from the rat race. In fact, the Cabbage Key Inn is currently in consideration for admission on the National Registry of Historic Places. The only nod to today’s technology: basic TV in the cottages and wi-fi in the Inn.

of Florida, took a position in Orlando, moved to New York City — but eventually moved back to the area, because there are so many beautiful parts to Southwest Florida. It’s such a great lifestyle for the people who live here and vacation here. I

love meeting all the people who visit us.” And given that the Cabbage Key marina is accessible to both larger tour boats as well as private crafts, that’s a lot of people each year.

The pursuit of “Cheeseburger in Paradise” begins as you climb 15 long and wide stairs to the legendary Cabbage Key Restaurant.

More than 35 years ago, their parents — Robert and Phyllis Wells — purchased Cabbage Key in late 1976 and called it not only a career, but home. Rob and Ken were raised on

As you pilot your boat into the harbor, you’re first taken by the sheer natural beauty of this small enclave just a port turn off Channel Marker 60 — highlighted by a grand, “Olde Florida” private residence built in the 193os, rising (an amazing for Lee County) some 20-plus feet above sea level upon a 500-year-old Calusa Indian shell mound.

Cabbage Key and boated to school daily. “We were from North Carolina and my dad just fell in love with Southwest Florida,” Rob Wells recalls. “I was three years old at the time and my brother and I grew up on the island. It was just a really unique and fun way for two boys to grow up.” Wells is quick to point out that while he grew up in a unique setting, he’s ventured off the rock — only to return. “I went to school at the University

Upon approval of the Harbor Master, you’ve docked — and a moment later, the pursuit of

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