Every Michigander knows there is nothing better than escaping to warmer weather during the long and cold winter months, and the best of the best vacation spots always seem to be in Florida.
However, it can be tough to figure out where exactly to visit in the Sunshine State.
Do you go to theme parks? Beaches? Explore the Keys? Take in the wildlife? There are just so many different options!
Well, what if you could get all of the best aspects of Florida in one fantastic location? That would be pretty ideal, and luckily for you, it exists. It’s Fort Myers, located on Florida’s west coast.
Fort Myers local Miriam Dotson gave us an insight in what makes her area of Southwest Florida such a special place to visit.
With endless islands, beautiful beaches and friendly neighborhoods, Fort Myers is the perfect escape for any snow bird looking to warm up from the cold.
Beaches
One of the main reasons anyone goes to Florida is to spend some time on the beach. How could you not? Luckily, the greater Fort Myers area has more than 50 miles of beaches at your disposal, and they’re packed with an endless amount of things to do.
Fort Myers is located in Southwest Florida on the Gulf of Mexico, so there are always pretty good odds that you’re going to have absolutely gorgeous weather when you’re visiting.
If you’re looking for the authentic Florida beach experience, then you have to spend a day on Fort Myers Beach. There is no better place to walk the pier, swim in the waves and soak up the sun. Plus, the number of waterfront restaurants and bars are endless. You could make a full day on Fort Myers Beach alone.
If you’re looking for a more secluded beach where you can collect seashells and enjoy some privacy, the Fort Myers area has those, too. Turner Beach, Boca Grande Beach and Bowman’s Beach all offer white sand and stunning sunsets. Pro tip: If you want to go hunting for seashells, go out early in the morning.
Islands
Did you know that the Fort Myers area has more than 100 islands to explore? Whether you have a boat or you’re paddle-boarding, the islands around Fort Myers are truly something incredible to explore.
There are nearby islands too, like Sanibel Island and Boca Grande. The islands have wonderful restaurants, shopping and golf, said Dotson.
Pine Island has a wonderful art district called Matlacha, filled with colorful and vibrant art galleries and delicious ice cream shops. Sanibel Island has a gorgeous beach and lots of shopping that will itch that shopaholic scratch.
There are even island cruises you can go on, to places like Cayo Costa State Park and Useppa Island. The views are incredible and the experience is so memorable. Seeing the islands around Fort Myers should be on everyone’s bucket list. Rent a boat, Jet Ski or paddle-board, and get cruising on the water.
The Great Outdoors
Let’s be honest, the main reason you’re traveling to Florida is take in all the outdoor time you can. Luckily, there are tons of things to do around Fort Myers that will let you see everything the area has to offer.
If you want to see wildlife, then you’ve come to the right place. While you’re island hopping on a boat cruise, you’re sure to see some dolphins that will jump out of the water to say hello. It’s such a thrill -- and they’re so cute!
If you want a bit of exercise and still want to see some wildlife, take a hike at one of the many trails around Fort Myers, like Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve in Cape Coral or the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island.
Fort Myers and its surrounding areas are home to more than 245 species of birds, manatees, dolphins and loggerhead sea turtles, so you will definitely find some wildlife while you’re exploring what Fort Myers has to offer.
So, what are you waiting for? Flying to Fort Myers is easy at Southwest Florida International Airport, and once you’ve arrived, you’re immediately in paradise. The islands, beaches and neighborhoods are waiting for you.