Boating around Fort Myers, Sanibel and Cape Coral

Some of the most beautiful beaches and best fishing in the world are found right here in Florida. And, if you’re searching for an area that has a wide array of activities for the whole family, look no further than Lee County, located on the Gulf of Mexico in southwest Florida. Home to such lush tropical destinations as Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Sanibel and Captiva Islands, Lee County is sure to please even the pickiest of your group.

If you’re looking to boat, Fort Myers is the perfect tropical getaway. Home to both the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, Fort Myers is a popular place for tourists, boasting beaches, fishing, golfing and shopping. And, Fort Myers also hosts an annual boat show each November if you’re in the market for a new ride.
When you boat Fort Myers, be sure to head across the bay to neighboring Sanibel and Captiva Islands. With an itinerary sure to please the whole family, Sanibel and Captiva offer beaches, boating, fishing, snorkeling and scuba diving, water sports, and of course, shelling. Some of the world’s most beautiful shells are found right on Sanibel and Captiva, such as conchs, whelks, scallops and clam shells often discovered perfectly intact. Shelling is best done at a low tide and the following beaches are great locations:

• Causeway Beaches, Sanibel Island
• Lighthouse Beach & Fishing Pier, Sanibel Island
• Gulfside City Park, Sanibel Island
• Tarpon Bay Beach, Sanibel Island
• Bowman's Beach, Sanibel Island
• Turner Beach, Captiva Island
• Captiva Beach, Captiva Island

You can also boat Sanibel and visit the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, located in northern Sanibel, and home to thousands of egrets, heron, ibis, spoonbills and woodstorks. A favorite among birdwatchers, the best months to visit for birding are December through March. And, it's always best to coordinate a visit around a low tide when birds are feeding on exposed mud flats.

If you’re looking for a locale that has both freshwater and saltwater fishing, Cape Coral is the place to go. With a number of parks to choose from, Cape Coral has a variety of charter and ecotours for a fun-filled family adventure. Be sure to check out:

• Bernice Braden Park
• Four Freedoms Park
• Four Mile Cove Eco Preserve
• Glover Bight at Rotary Park
• Horton Park & Boat Ramp
• Jaycee Park
• Lake Kennedy Park
• Seahawk Park
• Sirenia Vista
• Yacht Club Community Park