Ep. 185, Ashley Explores ⛵️ Matlacha, Florida 🏝 Day Trippin' 🎶

Tying off at Old Fish House Marina in Matlacha, Florida, Mike and Ashley of Barefoot Sailing Adventures stepped ashore on a windy Friday evening to seek refuge from rough coastal chop. After securing the boat to land, the crew set out on foot along the waterfront to find dinner and tour the island community.

With the boat safely moored, relief set in quickly. Mike pointed out the contrast between staying out in open water and tying up along the docks, noting, “isn’t it amazing to have our boat tied to land and not be out there in this windy mess.”

Dining at The Blue Dog

They walked down the street toward The Blue Dog, a well-known local establishment on the island. After crossing the street in evening traffic, they secured seats on the busy back patio overlooking the shallow tidal waterway behind the building.

The kitchen served their meal promptly. Ashley chose the Savannah chicken, while Mike ordered a plate of scallops pasta served with bread. Dining ashore offered a welcome break from galley cooking and provided a calm setting while the gusty coastal breeze continued outside.

Touring the Leoma Lovegrove Art Garden

Leaving through the rear exit of the restaurant, the couple continued their walk through town to explore the colorful roadside buildings. They turned down a pathway leading to the outdoor gallery space of local artist Leoma Lovegrove.

The open garden display featured vibrant colors and eclectic installations across the property. Walking through the gates, the crew surveyed an outdoor yard arranged with painted structures, a decorated Love Bus, and a Beetles stage tribute. The display surprised Ashley with its whimsical atmosphere, feeling completely distinct from typical waterfront marinas along the Gulf Coast.

Walking Toward Pine Island and The Yucatan

Continuing down the corridor, Mike and Ashley headed down the primary roadway leading out toward Pine Island. The route carried heavy vehicle traffic, serving as the sole overland connection between the neighboring islands.

The walk brought them to The Yucatan, an open-air venue decorated with island themes. The couple stopped to look over the bustling interior, taking in the high ceilings, open dining space, and casual island crowd before turning back toward their slip.

Cold Night Showers and Morning Calm

By nightfall, the crew navigated the unlit streets back to Old Fish House Marina. After days aboard, a hot shower was an immediate priority, though the facility presented an unexpected complication: the hot water heaters were operational only inside the men’s restroom. Rather than forgo warm water, Ashley ventured into the men’s washroom to shower.

The interior resembled an unadorned institutional stall, prompting Ashley to remark, “I feel like I’m in a scary movie bathroom.” Even with the bare setting, Mike pointed out the practical utility of the stop, observing that “when it’s cold and windy and you don’t want to have a cold shower on the back of a boat this is nice.”

Overnight, the coastal gusts subsided across the basin. The following morning brought stillness to the anchorage. Reflecting on the restful night, Ashley remarked, “I sleep better on the boat than I do anywhere else.” With morning coffee underway, the crew prepared for a morning walk to a neighborhood breakfast spot and an outdoor workout before resuming their coastal voyage.

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