Go Island Hopping with a Private Captain

For a more intimate and totally customized cruise, let Captain Brian (above) do the driving as you kick back and bask in the sunshine and beautiful views. Remote islands, gentle waves, dolphins in the wild, magical sunsets and more await to soothe your soul. For larger groups, choose from a variety of charters and cruises.

Wander in Quiet Nature

Immerse yourself in the serenity of Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve (above) and enjoy a breathtaking view of nature and wildlife. This and dozens of other parks and preserves offer miles of hiking, biking and bird-watching trails throughout the Fort Myers area.

Enjoy a Sunset Picnic on the Beach

It’s amazing how our warm sunshine, soft sands and calm Gulf waters help you relax and recharge. With 100 coastal islands and 50 miles of beaches, it's easy to find your own secluded stretch of sun, sand and serenity. Spectacular sunsets are icing on the cake. (And we recommend the orange crunch cake from The Bubble Room for your picnic.)

Decompress with a Spa Day

How about the Island Sleep Massage at Margaritaville's St. Somewhere Spa (above)? It's designed to help you recover in a short period of time with a luxurious lavender body oil and a massage that will soothe your nervous system, boost lymphatic detoxification and nourish your skin. Shop more spas at area resorts here. 

Wine and Dine with Peaceful Waterfront Views

Discover a more laid-back and less crowded dining scene in our islands, beaches and neighborhoods. From Beacon Social Drinkery (above) in downtown Fort Myers' Historic River District to beachside cafes, you'll enjoy amazing views, fresh seafood, frosty tropical drinks, live music and soft breezes - not to mention magical sunsets. Explore more waterfront dining here. 

Take a Bike Ride through J. N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge

Stop by Tarpon Bay Explorers to rent a bike (Tues.-Sat.) then hit the Wildlife Drive at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, home to hundreds of species of birds, including the vibrant Roseate Spoonbill (above). Meander through the natural beauty at your own pace and don't miss a stop at the Observation Tower. You can also take the narrated tram tour if you don't feel like exercising. 

Unwind with Yoga in Serene Settings

From Fort Myers Beach to the rooftop sculpture garden at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, there are plenty of yoga sessions offered in the Fort Myers area. Learn more about the different yoga offerings as well as other ways to find mindfulness in the beauty of nature.

Nap on a Secluded Beach

There's nothing like gentle waves lapping the shore, warm sunshine and a fresh sea breeze to help you drift off for a well-deserved nap. Find your sanctuary at one of our pristine beach parks, from Lover's Key State Park to Cayo Costa State Park.

Tee Off in Breathtaking Nature and Leave Stress Behind 

Enjoy the wide-open greens and majestic fairways of our area golf courses. Reset your brain by focusing on the game, walk the course to release mood-enhancing endorphins and share the fun with family and friends. 

Stay at a Resort for Everything You Need within Steps

Exceptional amenities await at area resorts, from poolside cabanas and private beaches to lavish spas, superb dining, watersport rentals and more. They take care of everything so all you have to do is relax.

Collect Shells on Sanibel Island

Known as the "Seashell Capital of the World," Sanibel Island offers more than 400 kinds of seashells. Its unique east-west orientation brings thousands of seashells to its unspoiled shoreline. This and its natural beauty has made it a readers' favorite of Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler magazines, making both lists in 2025.

Drop a Line Along the Shore

Beach fishing is super relaxing, but you can also fish from area piers and docks, or take a fishing charter to try your luck offshore or inshore along the mangrove shorelines and open flats.

Explore Cabbage Key with Captiva Cruises

Cruise to Cabbage Key and enjoy lunch at Cabbage Key Restaurant, named No. 5 Best Hidden Gem on 2025's TripAdvisor's Travelers' Choice Awards. It sits atop a 38-foot Indian shell mound, offering panoramic views of Pine Island Sound. Previous visitors have taped thousands of one-dollar bills to every surface. Ask your server for a black marker and tape to add yours to the collection. 

Enjoy a Relaxing Paddle Along the Great Calusa Blueway

This 200-mile aquatic trail winds through the area's coastal waters and inland tributaries, transporting you to a new state of mind where peace prevails and you feel a deep connection to nature. Find everything you need to explore the Blueway, from where to rent kayaks and canoes to trail maps and other resources.