As a desirable vacation destination, Fort Myers and its neighboring cities attract thousands of visitors annually. Much remains as it was hundreds of years ago, serene and unspoiled. Mangrove forests, saltwater wetlands, wildlife refuges, tropical gardens, nature trails, miles of winding canals and waterways, and hundreds of islands, some inhabited, some not, provide a magical retreat from the fast-paced world.

Fort Myers

Located on the southern bank of the Caloosahatchee River and known as the “City of Palms”, Fort Myers is rich in history, Civil War settlement, and Seminole Indian legacies. The wide Caloosahatchee River diagonally divides the city from Cape Coral to the west, and North Fort Myers just across the Edison Bridge.

You'll never be bored here. Cultural attractions like the Imaginarium and the Arcade Theatre mix with beach activities. The annual Edison Festival of Light unites everyone in the city for a citywide celebration. Fort Myers is also the winter home of the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins.

Cape Coral

Northwest of Fort Myers, Cape Coral was originally laid out to resemble the Venice of Italy on the Gulf of Mexico. The man-made canal systems were instrumental in its residential and commercial growth and expansion. There are many popular outdoor attractions here, such as the Sun Splash Family Waterpark. With more than 30 parks, there are also numerous boardwalks and trails for visitors to explore. The Children's Science Center and the Cape Coral Historical Society Museum provide an educational respite.

Sanibel Island

Southwest of Fort Myers is the popular island of Sanibel, 12 miles long and 5 miles wide, connected at a narrow point. With a reputation for great fishing, windsurfing, shell collecting, bird watching and other outdoor pursuits, the best way to get around the island is by bicycle. Visit the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum and the Sanibel Gallery.

Golf and tennis are available at the Dunes Golf and Tennis Club on the eastern end of the island, the Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa. The J. N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, is a must-see.

Captiva Island

Upper Captiva, at the northern end of Sanibel Island, is about 4.5 miles long and a half mile wide. It is mostly a wildlife sanctuary and the perfect place to go for seclusion and privacy. This barrier island is a great place to view dolphins, birds, and beautiful sunsets.

Fort Myers Beach

Fifteen minutes south of Fort Myers along the Gulf coast is Fort Myers Beach. A popular retreat for vacationers with many quaint restaurants like Channel Mark Restaurant and unique hotels like Pointe Estero Beach Resort, it offers charter fishing, cruises and tours to neighboring islands or all the way to Key West. Entertainment can be found at Indian Creek Plaza.