Tales of an Island Innkeeper

Fifty years ago, Florida hospitality rookie Tony Lapi set course on an audacious mission: to rescue Captiva Island’s cherished ’Tween Waters Inn from the brink of demolition.

Tales of an Island Innkeeper takes you behind the scenes on his winding journey—one filled with colorful characters, iconic island events, and the triumphs and tragedies that can come with the natural ebb and flow of life.

With heartfelt reflections on resilience, teamwork, and perseverance, Lapi reveals the challenges and joys of working with a dedicated team to transform a threatened island jewel into a treasure now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Lapi’s passion for storytelling infuses his tales with gentle wisdom and warm humor to remind us that life’s storms—be they catastrophic hurricanes or unexpected obstacles—can lead to brighter horizons, if only we keep moving forward.

So grab your beach chair and settle in, as if you’re watching a breathtaking sunset over the Gulf of Mexico, while a lifelong—or newfound—friend shares the kind of stories that encourage perseverance and a deep connection to the tides of life we all navigate.

Reflecting his steadfast belief in the power of community, Lapi is donating all sales proceeds to the nonprofit Captiva Island Historical Society.