Towering palms, warm gulf breezes, and 82 degree temps greeted me as I arrived in Fort Myers. Anticipating a great vacation on the beach, I also discovered an idyllic paradise on land and sea, blessed by Mother Nature. Come along on my adventure as I explored this vibrant city as well as Sanibel and Captiva Islands.
A Waterfront Escape at The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village
The moment I walked into the Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village, I felt the stress melting away. The resort creates a sublime feeling of calm, like an oasis in time. My condo-style accommodations were spectacular with floor-to-ceiling windows, a well-stocked kitchen, and double vanities. I could enjoy my morning coffee on the full-length balcony with a front row seat to the winding Caloosahatchee River.
Dining at their signature restaurant, Marker 92 Waterfront Bar & Bistro, was a divine experience. Serving fresh seafood with a side of panoramic views, menu highlights included a perfectly grilled Florida grouper, citrus-glazed shrimp, and prime steaks. The Korean BBQ ribs and Salmon Bites were out of this world.
The Westin also offers a fitness studio, multiple swimming pools, and the Esterra Spa & Salon for rejuvenating treatments. The resort was the perfect base from which to explore.
Downtown Fort Myers is a Lively Promenade
Brimming with history, charm, and the vibrant energy of Old Florida, downtown Fort Myers is a bustling metropolis. Stroll along the main streets and explore the eclectic mix of boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. A must-visit is the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, the winter home of two brilliant American inventors. If you’re visiting on the first Friday of the month, don’t miss Art Walk, where the streets come alive with music, performances, and colorful exhibits.
Bruno’s of Brooklyn – An Authentic Taste of Italy
You’ll think you’re eating at your favorite Italian restaurant in New York! Bruno’s is a culinary experience that transports you to the heart of Sicily with a touch of Brooklyn flair. Chef Calcedonio Bruno uses only fresh, high-quality ingredients that honor generations of Italian tradition. If you’re lucky, Chef Cal and his wife Genevieve will mosey on over to tell you about the dishes you’re enjoying.
Whether you’re fork-rolling handmade pasta (yum), savoring the rich flavors of veal cutlet parmigiana, or devouring chicken marsala, every bite showcases Cal’s passion for his cuisine. Sweets lovers will go crazy for the Venetian Dessert Room upstairs to finish off your meal.
Island Hopping on Sanibel and Captiva Islands
Located off Florida’s Gulf Coast, Sanibel and its sister island, Captiva are a short drive from Fort Myers, but you’ll feel like you’re worlds away as the pace slows. There’s something about that first glimpse of turquoise water, seashell-covered beaches, and swaying palms that whispers, “You’re on island time now.” Known for their laid-back charm and natural beauty, these barrier islands are a haven for nature lovers. Did you know Sanibel Island is the seashell capital of the world? Along 15 miles of sandy beach, you’ll find pristine samples of more than 250 kinds of perfect shells. Bring your buckets and scoop up your treasures.
Sail Away on Captiva Island
Learn how to navigate a sailboat with Offshore Sailing School where you can go from zero experience to a certified captain in a week! We pulled the masts, steered the boat, mastered the lingo, and performed hands-on tasks as we learned to sail with the wind.
Celebrate the Day at Margaritaville Beach Resort
It’s always a party at the Fins Up! beachfront oasis of Margaritaville in Fort Myers Beach, where you can book a stay or get a day pass. Enjoy their signature tropical frozen cocktails while you relax in a cabana, dine on island-inspired cuisine at the Lah De Dah Beach Bar, and listen to live music.
Get Out on the Water with Captain Brian
We took a private eco-tour aboard a 25-foot power boat from Captiva Island, skippered by Florida Master Naturalist Brian Holaway, (Captain Brian on the Water) who pointed out herons and dolphins as we skimmed Pine Island Sound and Cayo Costa. We stopped for lunch at Cabbage Key Inn & Restaurant, only accessible by boat. Housed in the historic Old House, this open-air restaurant serves an eclectic menu of fresh seafood, salads, and burgers. I dined on a Mahi-Mahi topped salad that was fresh and delicious. Save room for their frozen Key Lime pie – delectable.
On our way back, we docked at their sister property, Tarpon Lodge, filled with “Old Florida Charm” that offers accommodations as well as the Sportsman Inn and Restaurant.
Relax at Sundial Beach Resort
Recently renovated and now open, this premier beachfront destination is a great place to chill or enjoy a day pass with private cabanas, kayaks, bikes, and other fun-in-the-sun equipment. Swim in the pool or head out to the beach. Why not do both?
Kayaking the Intercoastal Waterways
Sunset is the perfect time to catch the changing hues of the skies. We kayaked with Cape Coral Kayaks through the luscious mangroves, spotting herons and manatees, as a quiet kind of magic filled the air and the sun began to set. Choose from guided sunrise or sunset tours, mangrove and dolphin tours.
As I packed up my beach bag with a perfect shell tucked inside, I knew this wasn’t goodbye. Like so many others before me, I had fallen under the spell of these enchanted islands. I’ll be back.
More information about Fort Myers and its beaches.
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