Glorious sun, beautiful beaches, golf courses galore, and manatees—just a starter list for enjoying yourself in Fort Myers, the City of Palms.
Sanibel and Captiva are two islands off the coast of Fort Myers, connected to the mainland by a three-mile toll road (you’ll need a car). Sanibel has smooth beaches on its Gulf side and shallow bays, creeks, and the J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on the east side. The refuge covers 6,000 acres and is home to many animal species. It is famous for its spectacular migratory bird populations. Sanibel also has fine fishing.
The Captiva Island beaches at Fort Myers have been called the most romantic in the country. Captiva Island has only the sandy beaches, shells, calm waters, and warm air. It’s the perfect place to do nothing, although sunning, walking, and fishing are also possibilities.
For something more laid back and with more moderate prices, try Fort Myers Beach. A seven-mile, white, sandy beach, it is considered one of the best family-friendly beaches in the southeast United States. Most of the action is at “Times Square,” but the rest of the island is more sedate and relaxed.