Your family’s idea of fun is following curiosity wherever it leads, from scenic trails and sparkling waterways to historic sites and hands-on learning experiences. For you, the best vacations are filled with discovery, wonder and those “wow, I didn’t know that” moments.
Here’s your list of curiosity-filled family fun.
Use GPS clues to uncover hidden caches at Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, where shaded boardwalk trails wind through wetlands and cypress forests. You’ll also see lots of wildlife at this pristine reserve.
The award-winning Sanibel Sea School transforms the shoreline into a fascinating living classroom and teaches important conservation lessons.
Enjoy workshops at Alliance for the Arts offering everything from drawing and painting to Thai cooking and playing the ukulele.
On this walking tour with True Tours, you'll hear ghost tales and learn about local legends from Fort Myers’ historic River District.
Plan an unforgettable family outing with a look at Southwest Florida’s deep history at Mound House, built atop a 2,000-year-old Calusa shell mound. Guided tours and kayak experiences reveal the archaeological and ecological significance of this remarkable coastal site.
Tour Edison and Ford Winter Estates, stroll through lush historic gardens and step inside Edison’s remarkable laboratory complex. You’ll get a deeper look at the inventions, friendships and curiosity that helped transform the modern world.
Visit the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum to learn about the island’s fascinating history. They also offer the chance to climb to the top of the lighthouse – check their website for dates and times. Enjoy the beach and have lunch at Key Lime Bistro & Loose Caboose Ice Cream Shop.
Step into Southwest Florida’s wild side on a hike through CREW Flint Pen Strand in Bonita Springs. Cypress domes and pine flatwoods create a living wildlife corridor. Scan the canopy for hawks, listen for woodpeckers, and watch for tracks along the trail.
Rent a paddleboard or take a tour with Estero River Outfitters to explore the winding Estero River, where mangrove tunnels and tidal creeks reveal Southwest Florida’s rich coastal ecosystems. Watch for herons, turtles and fish darting below your kayak.
Head to Bowman’s Beach on Sanibel to explore one of the island’s richest shoreline habitats. Watch the pelicans glide through the air and dive for their lunch and spot dolphins playing beyond the waves.
Explore native wildlife up close at Wonder Gardens, a historic Old Florida attraction. Walk shaded paths beneath towering banyans, observe flamingos and alligators, and gain a deeper understanding of Florida’s conservation story.
Stay at South Seas on Captiva Island to experience golf with a coastal twist. The resort is home to The Clutch, a redesigned nine-hole short course by Chip Powell ranked among the top five short courses in the world. And you’ll enjoy majestic Gulf views from every hole.
At DNA Pickleball in Fort Myers, three indoor courts await for open play, skill-level events, academies and clinics. Whether you’re dropping in for a casual match or signing up for a lesson to sharpen your technique, the indoor setting makes it easy to play year-round.
Head offshore with Sea Trek Fishing Charters for a deep-sea fishing adventure. With guidance from seasoned captains, your family can try your luck catching snapper, grouper and other Gulf species.
Pedal into discovery at Lakes Regional Park. Follow shaded lake loops to fragrant gardens, butterfly habitats and scenic boardwalk overlooks. Along the way, interactive ecosystem signage turns the ride into a hands-on exploration of native plants, wetlands and wildlife.
Rent a boat from Port Sanibel Marina to explore Cayo Costa, a remote island accessible only by boat. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy pristine beaches perfect for collecting seashells, snorkeling, wandering on nature trails and spotting wildlife.
Climb aboard the sailing vessel Orion’s Child with Magic Wind Adventure Sailing for an unforgettable experience on the water. With space for up to six guests, this private charter offers an intimate setting where your family can fully relax, connect and share the magic of sailing together.
Rent a kayak from Tarpon Bay Explorers inside J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel to explore protected mangrove waterways. You’ll see a wealth of wildlife, from wading birds and fish to occasional dolphins.
Rent a paddleboard from Bonita Jet Ski & Parasail and explore the calm back-bay waters near Big Hickory Pass, where dolphins, manatees and coastal birds are often spotted.
Visit during the 10-day Island Hopper Songwriter Fest in September, featuring 60+ free performances from the nation’s best BMI songwriters. It’s the perfect time to visit on a budget - the majority of the performances are free and you can take advantage of special hotel deals.
Enjoy a one-of-kind tour at ECHO Global Farm to learn about sustainable farming practices and how they’re making a positive impact in countries around the world.
Treat your fur baby to the best dog beach on the planet: Dog Beach Park. At this secluded tropical oasis in Bonita Springs, dogs run leash-free and play in the shallow waters. Then head to Doc’s Beach House and dine with your toes - and paws - in the sand and stunning views of the Gulf.
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