Explore
Southwest florida

Discover the best of Florida’s Gulf Coast — endless sunshine, pristine beaches, vibrant wildlife, and charming coastal towns await just beyond your doorstep.

Southwest Florida is more than a vacation destination; it’s a place where days slow down, the water sparkles under brilliant skies, and every moment invites you to enjoy life a little more. From the white-sand beaches of Sanibel and Captiva to the lively marina scene in Cape Coral and Fort Myers, there’s something for everyone.

Beaches and Outdoor Activities

Iconic Beaches

  • Sanibel & Captiva Islands — Famous for their world-class shelling, clear turquoise water, and laid-back island vibe. Stroll Lighthouse Beach, bike along scenic paths, or watch breathtaking sunsets at Captiva’s Turner Beach.

  • Fort Myers Beach — A lively seven-mile stretch ideal for families and beachgoers who enjoy a vibrant atmosphere, beach bars, and watersports.

  • Lovers Key State Park — A peaceful barrier island with pristine sands, kayaking through mangroves, and excellent chances to spot dolphins and manatees.

  • Naples Beach & Pier — Elegant and serene with powdery sand, boutique shops nearby, and unforgettable sunsets from the historic pier.

Water Adventures

  • Boating & Sailing — Cruise along Cape Coral’s 400 miles of canals or head out into the Gulf for island hopping, dolphin watching, and hidden beaches. Many homes feature private docks for easy access.

  • Fishing — From inshore flats to deep-sea adventures, Southwest Florida is a world-class fishing destination. Catch snook, tarpon, grouper, and more.

  • Kayaking & Paddleboarding — Glide through mangrove tunnels at places like Bunche Beach Preserve or Tarpon Bay and enjoy tranquil wildlife encounters.

  • Shelling Cruises & Eco Tours — Join a boat tour to secluded islands for incredible shell collecting and nature spotting.

Land Activities & Nature Trails

  • Biking — Sanibel’s 25+ miles of paved bike paths make exploring the island easy and safe for all ages.

  • Golfing — Tee off at one of the region’s many championship courses with stunning Gulf views and lush tropical landscaping.

  • Wildlife Parks — Visit J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, home to birds, manatees, and turtles.

  • Hiking — Explore boardwalk trails and nature preserves such as Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve in Fort Myers.

Local Attractions

Cape Coral Highlights

  • Cape Coral Yacht Club & Beach — A beloved community spot with sandy shores, a fishing pier, playground, and waterfront dining.

  • Tarpon Point Marina — Upscale marina with boutique shopping, elegant restaurants, and boat rentals for exploring the Gulf.

  • Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve — Serene boardwalks and kayak trails through mangroves and wildlife habitats.

  • Rotary Park Environmental Center — Butterfly garden, nature trails, and birdwatching — great for families and nature lovers.

  • Sun Splash Family Waterpark — Fun slides, lazy river, and splash zones for kids and adults.

Fort Myers Favorites

  • Historic Downtown Fort Myers (River District) — Charming streets with art galleries, boutique shops, restaurants, and lively nightlife.

  • Edison & Ford Winter Estates — Explore the beautifully preserved homes, gardens, and inventions of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.

  • IMAG History & Science Center — Hands-on exhibits, aquariums, and 3D theater — perfect for kids and curious adults.

  • Lakes Park — A family-friendly oasis with walking trails, bike rentals, fishing spots, playgrounds, and paddleboats.

  • JetBlue Park at Fenway South — Catch a Red Sox spring training game in a replica of Fenway Park.

Nearby Island Adventures

  • Sanibel & Captiva Islands — Iconic for seashell collecting, bike paths, and tranquil beaches.

  • Matlacha — A colorful fishing village with art galleries, seafood shacks, and kayak-friendly waters.

  • Cayo Costa State Park — Secluded island accessible by boat or ferry, ideal for beachcombing and wildlife spotting.

  • Boca Grande — Charming Old Florida town known for tarpon fishing, beautiful beaches, and historic Gasparilla Inn.

Nature & Outdoor Fun

  • Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve — Boardwalk trails through wetlands with incredible wildlife viewing.

  • Manatee Park — Seasonal manatee viewing (especially in winter) from safe boardwalks.

  • Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail — 190 miles of marked kayak and canoe routes through mangroves, bays, and backwaters.

  • Golf Courses — Championship-level greens throughout Cape Coral, Fort Myers, and Naples.

Dining & Entertainment

  • Waterfront Restaurants — Dine on fresh seafood and tropical cocktails at favorites like Rumrunners, The Boathouse, and The Blue Dog Bar & Grill.

  • Local Breweries & Distilleries — Check out Fort Myers Brewing Company or Wicked Dolphin Rum Distillery for craft drinks and tours.

  • Seasonal Events & Festivals — From art fairs and music festivals to farmers’ markets and boat parades, there’s always something happening.

Waterfront Dining & Fresh Seafood

  • The Boathouse Tiki Bar & Grill (Cape Coral) — A local favorite with island vibes, live music, and fresh catches served right on the water.

  • Rumrunners (Cape Coral) — Upscale yet relaxed, offering fresh seafood, prime steaks, and cocktails at Tarpon Point Marina.

  • The Blue Dog Bar & Grill (Matlacha) — Famous for its fresh fish tacos, crab cakes, and colorful Old Florida charm.

  • Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille (Fort Myers & Sanibel) — Caribbean-inspired flavors, signature mojitos, and a lively dockside atmosphere.

Upscale & Romantic Spots

  • Point 57 Kitchen & Cocktails (Cape Coral) — Modern American cuisine with creative cocktails and an elegant, intimate feel.

  • The Veranda (Downtown Fort Myers) — Southern-inspired fine dining in a historic home with romantic courtyards.

  • Oxbow Bar & Grill (Fort Myers River District) — Contemporary waterfront dining with craft cocktails and panoramic river views.

Casual & Family-Friendly Favorites

  • Ford’s Garage (Cape Coral & Fort Myers) — Retro car-themed burger bar serving gourmet burgers, craft beers, and fun vibes.

  • Pinchers (Fort Myers Beach & surrounding) — Casual seafood with fresh crab, shrimp, and cold drinks — a Southwest Florida classic.

  • First Round Draft (Cape Coral) — Great for sports lovers with hearty American fare and plenty of TVs to catch the game.

International Flavors

  • Masala Mantra (Cape Coral) — Authentic Indian cuisine with rich curries and flavorful tandoori dishes.

  • Lobster Lady Seafood Market & Bistro (Cape Coral) — Fresh lobster, sushi, and globally inspired seafood creations.

  • Cristof’s on McGregor (Fort Myers) — European-inspired menu with fresh pasta and seasonal specialties in a charming cottage setting.

Cafés & Sweet Spots

  • Perk & Brew (Cape Coral) — Cozy coffeehouse perfect for breakfast, baked goods, and small bites.

  • Norman Love Confections (Fort Myers) — World-renowned artisanal chocolates and desserts.

  • Gelato Love (Fort Myers) — Handcrafted Italian gelato with tropical and classic flavors.

Dining and
Nightlife

Discover the Magic of Southwest Florida

Sunshine, beaches, boating, fresh seafood, and endless adventures — Southwest Florida has it all.
From shelling on Sanibel Island and exploring the canals of Cape Coral to dining on fresh Gulf seafood and discovering vibrant downtown Fort Myers, every day here feels like paradise. Relax by a private pool, sail into the sunset, or enjoy nature trails and local culture just minutes from your vacation home.

Make your next getaway unforgettable — choose the perfect home and experience Southwest Florida your way.

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