Rum Bay Restaurant, Palm Island, Cape Haze - Orlando / Florida Guide
Florida Guide > Dining
If you are staying in Rotonda West or find yourself on the west coast of Florida, South of Venice it is worth continuing south past Englewood on the CR775 and visiting Rum Bay Restaurant. It is one of the restaurants our visitors of all ages love to visit for casual tropical-island style dining. Palm Island is only accessible by boat or ferry. The car ferry costs $55 but the nicest way is to go by the restaurant’s Water Taxi which costs $6 return per person. The boat is bookable with your table through the restaurant (941-697-0566) The restaurant is open for lunch or dinner.
The dock for the Water Taxi is at the rear of Leverock’s restaurant. During your 15 minute trip to the island the Water Taxi captain will often go out of his way to give you ample photo opportunities. In the past we have seen an Eagle and nest, watched osprey diving for fish and feeding their young and even a manatee in the mangroves which grow round the island. Last time we visited Rum Bay we were able to get within feet of an Osprey nest, on one of the water markers, where the bird was feeding it’s young. At sunset dolphins will often swim with the boat but last time we also saw a mother and baby at midday. The captain stopped to allow us all to take photographs. If the water is not too busy the captain will also allow children to steer the boat – much to the delight of our 5 year old granddaughter. On arrival at Palm island there is an elevated boardwalk leading through the Mangroves to the restaurant.
Once seated at your table why not try one of their cocktails such as Shark’s Tooth or Hurricane while you look at the extensive menu?
The selection contains Burgers, Pizzas, Pasta through to meat and fresh fish. Something for all members of the family. Their famous ribs with Swamp Sauce and steak are excellent but we usually go for the fish menu which includes fish tacos, tuna, Mahi Mahi, Grouper and Red Snapper. Most mains are also served with a baked (jacket) potato and seasonal vegetables.
There are desserts, which look great, but we have never managed to leave room for any! Once you are ready to return to the mainland, tell your waiter, who will order the water taxi to come and collect you. It normally runs every half hour but at quieter times will not return to the island unless there are passengers waiting. While waiting for the boat you may like the opportunity to browse in the shop next door for souvenirs.
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