Fort Myers & Sanibel Beaches And Islands

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO

Sunrise or Sunset – a picture postcard

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. Why not choose our Dolphin and Shelling Sunset Cruise from the itinerary’s below.

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.

Step back in time at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates

As well as learning about Edison and Ford’s lives and inventions, visitors can go back further and learn about the Koreshan settlers, Florida pioneers and the areas original inhabitants, the Calusa Indians. If you are interested in the history of Fort Myers we have the perfect tour for you see the Historic Walking tour below.

Island hopping, Florida Style

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.

Sanibel Sea School

Living with nature is the lifeblood of The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel and every effort is made to ensure the beaches and wildlife is protected for everyone to enjoy. Sea Schools are fun ways for kids to learn about nature and the waters of Sanibel and Captiva. Kids get to spot dolphins, search for crabs, discover beautiful shells and learn about the abundant wading birds that live off the islands. A variety of fun and educational courses are available.

Shopping

A fantastic holiday favourite in the USA, and something that The Beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel excel at.  Miromar Outlets in Estero has over 140 top designer stores offering discounts of up to 70%. Grab a coffee or lunch as you will be sure to spend the day on those bargains! On your way to or from Sanibel? Tanger Outlets is perfect for a pre or post shopping experience. And if you are in the Bonita Springs area Coconut Point Mall offers a nice selection of high-end brands in a very walkable, outdoor space.

Watchable Wildlife

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. Get up close and personal on our Dolphin and Wildlife Cruise.

Paddle the Same Trails… as the Calusa Indians

Head out on one of the largest, best-executed blueways in the country – a network of water trails. Get geared up with one of the local outfitters at Estero River Outfitters and hit the teal spiderweb that is the Great Calusa Blueway, which provides access to 190 miles of pristine, water-bound goodness.

Get your fish on

From March through June, anglers from all over the world come here for Megalops – the tarpon, one of the world’s great game fishes. You can catch some yourself at Boca Grande Pass, on the south edge of Boca Grande, known as the ‘Tarpon Fishing Capital of the World’. We have two fantastic fishing trips to choose from the Lake Okeechobee Fishing Trip and the Cape Coral Inshore Fishing Trip.

Watch the world go past

Head to Times Square and San Carlos Boulevard on Fort Myers Beach to watch the world go by. Street cafés and restaurants offer live music and beach stores sell all you need for the kids to look the part on the beach.