Things to do in the Fort Myers - Sanibel area

The Fort Myers - Sanibel area is on the Gulf of Mexico and has more than 50 miles of white sand beaches. At the north end of Estero Island, Fort Myers Beach has beach bars, restaurants and water sports. The rest of Estero Island has miles of quiet sandy beaches with safe swimming. The warm sub-tropical climate provides all year round sunshine and average winter temperatures in the mid 70's.

The area has nearly 50 public and semi private golf courses with some only a matter of minutes away. There are also opportunities for fishing, sightseeing cruises and boat rentals.

Naturalists will enjoy visiting the local eco parks and nature reserves, and the Everglades are only a short drive away. See manatees in the wild - the river in Ft. Myers is the winter home of hundreds of these endangered animals. The area provides many opportunities for photographing birds and animals in their natural environment.

On Sanibel Island the 'Ding' Darling National Wildlife Refuge offers, walks, canoe trails and a five-mile scenic drive through authentic Florida wetlands.

The winter homes of two remarkable inventors are on the Fort Myers' riverfront. You can tour Thomas Edison's home, botanical gardens, laboratory and museum and the home of his friend and neighbour Henry Ford.

Enjoy the shopping experience of The Edison Mall, the largest mall in Southwest Florida, with more than 150 shops and restaurants; Bell Tower Shops for elegant shopping, dining and a movie; Tanger Factory Stores for the upscale bargain hunter; and the Miromar Outlets, featuring designer and brand-name specialty shops.