Your family's favorite part of vacation is wining and dining. You often make your dinner reservations before you book your flight! To you, there's nothing better than a plate of fresh seafood with a sunset beach view. And every day holds the promise of a delicious culinary adventure.
Here's your list of foodie fun.
Settle in for sunset dining where Gulf views and coastal cuisine take center stage. At the Green Flash on Captiva Island, your family can linger over fresh seafood while the sky shifts to gold and pink.
Treat your family to Silver King’s five-course tasting experience at the Luminary Hotel in downtown Fort Myers. Each course is crafted with the freshest, locally-sourced seafood and produce.
Take a lunch cruise to the historic Cabbage Key Inn and Restaurant. You’ll have a hard time choosing between the cheeseburger (rumor has it that it inspired the song “Cheeseburger in Paradise”) and other delights, from clam chowder and fresh-caught fish to frozen key lime pie.
Get a behind-the-scenes look at Wicked Dolphin Rum Distillery, named the #1 craft rum distillery in the nation by USA Today's 10BEST readers' poll 2025. You’ll learn how this superior small-batch rum is made while enjoying decadent samples - all complimentary!
Seek out something unexpected at Liberty, where chef-driven dishes highlight creativity and bold flavor. This is the kind of hidden gem that you recommend to fellow foodies — understated on the outside, unbelievable on the plate.
Plan your visit around Sizzle Dining Month in September to enjoy specially curated and discounted prix-fixe menus from top restaurants across our islands, beaches and neighborhoods. It’s an opportunity to experience multiple elevated dining experiences in one trip - all at significant savings.
Enjoy a scenic hike at Caloosahatchee Creeks Preserve, where oak hammocks and riverfront habitats offer a breathtaking look at nature. Then head to Oxbow in downtown Fort Myers for an amazing dinner and riverside sunset view.
Climb aboard the sailing vessel Orion’s Child with Magic Wind Adventure Sailing for an unforgettable experience on the water. Spot dolphins and toast the sunset with champagne. (You can bring your own soft cooler with beverages and snacks.)
Explore the protected shoreline at Lovers Key State Park, where untouched seashells, undeveloped dunes and pristine coastal waters await. After your peaceful beach day, head to Flippers on the Bay for waterfront dining that extends the coastal experience into sunset.
See rescued wildlife, tropical birds and native species at Wonder Gardens in Bonita Springs, an Old Florida attraction set among lush botanical surroundings. Then head to nearby Harvest & Wisdom at Shangri-La Springs for a lunch filled with fresh organic vegetables picked from their garden.
Play a relaxed round at Fort Myers Country Club, a historic public course known for its wide fairways and mature palms. Then head to nearby McGregor Café for brunch. Relax under the oak tree canopy on the patio with a refreshing drink and dig into one of their divine breakfast or lunch items.
Spend the afternoon rallying on the new pickleball courts at Rutenberg Community Park. After a few spirited matches, head east to Bell Tower Shops and settle in at Tap 42 Craft Kitchen & Bar, where cold craft beers, elevated comfort food and a lively atmosphere make it easy to refuel and unwind.
Go fishing with Fort Myers Fishing Adventures then bring your fresh catch to Snug Harbor and let their chefs prepare it for you.
Rent e-bikes from Pedego Electric Bikes Cape Coral and cruise Cape Coral’s canal paths toward Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve for a nature walk. Then pedal to Rumrunners for a waterfront dinner and craft cocktails as the sun dips behind the marina.
Rent a boat from Monroe Canal Marina and Boat Rentals and head to the remote island of Cayo Costa. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy collecting seashells, snorkeling, wandering on nature trails and spotting wildlife. On the way back, dock and dine at The Waterfront Restaurant & Marina.
Learn about the island's protected estuaries from naturalist guides on a cruise with Tarpon Bay Explorers, spotting dolphins, wading birds and marine life along the way. Then enjoy dinner at Thistle Lodge Restaurant, where Gulf views and fresh seafood reflect the very waters you’ve just explored.
Kayak calm mangrove trails filled with herons, egrets and other marine life with Tarpon Bay Explorers (within J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge). Then dine at Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille, named after the beloved literary character from author Randy Wayne White’s novels.
Rent a paddleboard from Holiday Water Sports at DiamondHead Beach Resort and explore the shoreline of Fort Myers Beach, then head to Fresh Catch Bistro for refined coastal cuisine and Gulf views.
Visit a local farmers’ market where everyone can find something to savor. Sample fresh-made dips and spreads, indulge in fresh-baked pastries and cookies, or try a local specialty dish. Staying in a place with a kitchen? Gather amazing ingredients for a meal the whole family will enjoy.
Bring everyone together at Rooftop at Riverside, where a rotating lineup of food trucks makes it easy for every member of your group to find something they love. Order craft cocktails, gather bites from different vendors, and settle in on the rooftop deck as the sky shifts toward sunset.
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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