Fort Myers & Sanibel Beaches and Islands

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Trip code: 16028

The Beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel in South West Florida are made up of over 100 barrier islands strung along the Gulf of Mexico including Captiva, Cape Coral, and Bonita Springs. The area is renowned for its laid-back, barefoot holiday destinations each offering visitors a different experience, but drawn together by nature and the water.

Whether you are an early bird or a night owl, experiencing the sun rise and fall against the azure waters of the Gulf of Mexico is a truly spectacular event. The sky above transforms into a performance of soft light that melts into the horizon. Fort Myers Beach entertains the morning sun quite majestically while Captiva is renowned for its sunsets which change with a blink of an eye. 

Become one with Nature at the J.N. ‘Ding’ Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Lose yourself in the largest undeveloped mangrove ecosystem in the USA with miles of primordial wetlands. Watch flocks of birds migrate across land and sea and see alligators and manatees in their natural habitat as you head along the driveable ‘safari’ trail. Grab a pair of binoculars from the visitor center to help you spy on some of the 220 migratory species of bird that are protected in this pristine habitat.

All along the coast, Anhigas dive, pelicans flap, herons pose, alligators cut through the water and manatees roll like giant grey jelly beans… animal lovers will find a lot here to enjoy. Watch dolphins when you hop on a seagoing charter with outfits like Tarpon Bay Explorers, or go to Sanibel Island and visit education centers like the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife. The clinic serves as an animal hospital for birds, otters, sea turtles, and even deer.

With over 100 barrier islands to explore, the best way is to jump on a boat, whether paddle powered or escorted by a trusty captain, by getting on the water you will really experience The Beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel. Many of the islands are uninhabited mangrove clusters, whilst others take visitors’ breath away with their beautiful beaches, historic homes, and wonderful restaurants. Places like Cabbage Key and laid back Gasparilla are well worth visiting.

 

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Unmissable Experiences

Fort Myers

Fort Myers is a bustling metropolis with ecological, historical and cultural attractions, as well as shopping across the spectrum – high-end outlets, antiques, boutiques, and outdoor malls. Dining and nightlife entertain when the sun goes down, with almost nightly spectacular “shows" as it sinks over the Caloosahatchee River.

Fort Myers is the perfect place to soak up some history – take a historic downtown walking tour with the Southwest Florida Museum of History, or take advantage of the ample opportunities for antique hunting. You could also take the kids to the Imaginarium Hands-On Museum & Aquarium for an afternoon of hands-on learning and exploration. Budding historians, scientists, and inventors will want to take a narrated tour of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, just south of downtown - children of all ages will enjoy the indoor/outdoor celebration of the prolific inventors’ and industrialists’ lives.

Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island, a barrier island stretching for 12 miles off the coast of Fort Myers, offers some the best beaches in the USA, left undisturbed by islanders who want to preserve the natural beauty of the region. There is an abundance of natural wonders on Sanibel including the largest Mangrove ecosystem in the USA which gives a home to an array of species such as Florida’s state bird the Roseate Spoonbill, manatees, dolphins, alligators, sea otters, pelicans and more. The J.N. ‘Ding’ Darling National Wildlife Refuge is free to visit by car, cycle, foot or kayak, or for a nominal fee you can take a guided trolley tour and spot the wildlife for yourself.

The geography of the island is also unique, with the tides of the Gulf of Mexico washing up hundreds of shells each day. Shelling is a popular pastime and those who partake in gathering these beautiful shells develop what is fondly known as the ‘Sanibel Stoop’. You can walk for miles discovering different shells at every turn. Of course, the best way to discover Sanibel is by bike – there are 25 miles of cycle paths designed to make it safe and easy to get around.

Captiva Island

Located near Fort Myers off Florida’s Gulf Coast, you will be captivated by beautiful, alluring Captiva Island with its white sandy beaches. There are so many activities to choose from, fishing, golf, boating, kayaking, canoeing, tennis, swimming or bike riding. Go boating down the waterways and view a variety of wildlife such as dolphins, blue herons, raccoons and many different species of colorful birds. Don't forget to go 'shelling' a local activity collecting the prettiest pastel colored seashells.

Captiva Islands shops are clustered at the north end of Captiva Drive and on Andy Rosse Lane. Strolling along the village paths from shop to shop, you will find antiques, casual fashions, pottery, and many unique gifts for that special someone. Your visit to Sanibel Island or Captiva Island is not complete without sampling some of the local fare and succulent fresh seafood. You will also find a wide selection of ethnic foods in the area.

Cape Coral

Cape Coral is the largest city between Tampa and Miami on the Gulf of Mexico. It is connected to Fort Myers by two bridges. Renowned Gulf Coast beaches, verdant golf courses, and family attractions make it a great holiday destination. Over 400 miles of canals make this city a boater's and fisherman's paradise. Many canals lead to the Gulf of Mexico, others to lakes and favorite fishing spots. It is the perfect destination for any outdoor enthusiast, and from hiking one of the many trails at the Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park to fishing at the Cape Coral Yacht Club there are activities for just about everyone. Coral Oaks Golf Course is a great place to work on your game, and if history is your thing or you just love beautiful flowers, don't forget to check out the Cape Coral Historical Society Museum to see some interesting relics and their prized rose garden.

Bonita Springs

Located on the Gulf of Mexico between Fort Myers and Naples, Bonita Springs has a tropical climate, with southern charm, rivers, bays and finger canals. Relax on the sunkissed pristine beaches or have fun with the water sports readily available. Enjoy fishing and boating on the backwaters. Improve your handicap at one of the beautifully designed golf courses or pamper yourself at one of the many spas. Take a sunset cruise on a catamaran and watch the dolphins play.

Visit the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary Boardwalk or hike through Koreshan State Park and experience the Western Everglades. Restaurants in the area offer diversified cuisine. Many spotlight Florida's freshest, finest seafood "straight from the docks" - jumbo shrimp, sweet scallops, succulent crabs and, of course, great grouper.

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Trip code: 16028
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