2024 SWFL Summer/Fall

FAMILY FUN, FOOD & SOUVENIRS IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Experience rich traditions and sweet surprises on your next visit to Fort Myers, FL!

Taste all kinds of delights the farm has to offer! From our tasty ice cream, shakes, and slushes to our authentically Floridian gifts, you’ll be sure to find your own slice of Florida Fun at

Offering farm fresh treats for over 30 years, Sun Harvest Citrus is one of the best places to visit in Fort Myers. Come sample our fresh picked citrus and watch our juice being squeezed onsite.

Tour the mangrove jungle with the pioneers!

Family run family fun!

2-WAY HEADSETS!

Interact with the captain and fellow riders!

Travel like a pioneer with a real pioneer family at CAPTAIN MITCH’S AIRBOAT TOURS! With over 35 years in the business, Captain Mitch’s Everglades Private Airboat Tours is the oldest operating airboat tour family in the Everglades.

Skim over the water through thousands of acres of privately owned swampland and see the Everglades as they were meant to be seen. Learn about the ecosystem, while we explore the hardwood tree hammocks. Watch for gators, birds and fish.

Keep your eyes open for banded water snakes or bald eagles flying overhead. There are so many exciting things to see when you take a tour with Captain Mitch and his knowledgeable crew. They are the only tour with the redneck stamp of approval!

From the picturesque and historically rich downtown of Fort Myers to its verdant parks and green spaces, you’ll discover a myriad of places and perspectives to explore and relish. Within downtown Fort Myers, the historic river district serves as a captivating time capsule showcasing early 20th-century architecture. Here, you’ll find historic edifices housing an array of shops, art galleries and renowned dining establishments. The neighborhood also plays host to a constellation of cultural institutions. Keep an eye out for monthly street festivals celebrating art and music, rooftop bars, craft breweries and a scenic riverside amphitheater.

Fort Myers Fort Myers

The historic district of Downtown Fort Myers is a charming and lively town, radiating undeniable appeal. Here, you’ll find an array of distinctive, locally owned shops and restaurants offering a delightful variety of culinary delights. The streets pulse with a trendy and welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a satisfying experience for every visitor. Downtown has monthly Art and Music Walks that showcase talented local artists and musicians from various genres.

Venturing beyond its historic core, Fort Myers offers an array of beautiful parks where wildlife thrives. These serene oases provide an ideal escape from the rigors of daily life, offering opportunities for hiking, cycling and paddling along scenic trails and waterways. Witness a diverse array of bird species at the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve and the San Carlos Bay Bunche Beach Preserve. A visit to Manatee Park allows you to interact with the gentle giants of the sea, beloved by both residents and visitors. Explore rescued animals and avian creatures while delving into natural history at Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium. For a family-friendly experience, head to Lakes Park, where children can enjoy train rides, and visitors of all ages can relish in the park’s trails, gardens, playgrounds and options for bike and boat rentals.

Whether your an avid golfer, a pickleball enthusiast, or simply yearn for outdoor activities, Fort Myers offers a multitude of options to savor the great outdoors.

Photo Credit: River District Alliance

Photo Credit: Fort Myers - Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods

The Wonder Gardens 27180 Old 41

Essence of a florida beach town Fort Myers Beach Fort Myers Beach

Fort Myers Beach epitomizes the essence of a Florida beach town. In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian in 2022, the community has been actively engaged in rebuilding efforts. While numerous businesses are in the process of reconstruction, many establishments are eager and prepared to extend a warm welcome to visitors once again.

Ready for a beach day? Step onto the sugary sands, sit back and relax, witness stunning sunrises and sunsets at these three gorgeous locations:

Situated at the northern edge of Fort Myers Beach, you’ll find Bowditch Point Park, a 17-acre beach park that offers access to both the Gulf and the back bay. This picturesque park features hiking trails, picnic areas and a free public boat dock. Parking is $2/per hour.

Nestled in the heart of downtown, just north of the foot of Matanzas Pass Bridge is Lynn Hall Memorial Park. This park has easy beach access. Parking is $2/per hour.

Located south of Fort Myers Beach is Lovers Key State Park, open for limited day-use activities. Tram services are running from 8AM - Sunset providing transportation to within 800 ft of the beach. Paddling equipment, beach chairs and umbrellas are available to rent through the concession. The gift shop offers cold water, beverages and select merchandise. The Discovery Center is welcoming visitors Wednesday - Friday 10AM - 1PM. Parking is $8/vehicle/day.

a lover of history? Check out Mound House, a museum housed in the island’s oldest standing structure - a 1920s era home that sits atop a 2,000 year old Calusa Indian shell mound. Though most folks come by car, you can arrive at this lovely bayside location by water via boat. Paddle sport enthusiasts can enjoy the free kayak launch to explore the Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail.

Celebrate the nautical lifestyle by exploring the waterfront to find everything from cruises to dolphin tours. The historic shrimping fleet on Fort Myers Beach is once again cruising local waters to supply restaurants with the area’s signature pink Gulf Shrimp.

While many hotels and home rentals on Fort Myers Beach will need more time to rebuild some are open and ready to welcome you.

CASUAL CLOTHING

• Salads

• Steamers

• Shrimp

• Sandwiches

• Homemade Soups

• Soups & Sandwiches

• Combo Platters

• Seafood Platers

• We Ship Seafood

“The Buccaneer Coast?” “The Buccaneer Coast?” Sanibel & Captiva Islands Sanibel & Captiva Islands

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Legend has it that the barrier islands soon became a haven for infamous pirates. “The Buccaneer Coast” attracted the notorious Jose Gaspar to the region in the early 1800s. It is rumored that he buried his stolen treasure on Sanibel and then built a prison on “Isle de los Captivas,” or Captiva Island, where he kept female prisoners captive for ransom. In 1821, Gaspar was captured by the U.S. Navy, but rather than face imprisonment, he wrapped himself in chains and jumped overboard from his ship.

TURTLE TIME!

FROM MARCH TO OCTOBER, SEA TURTLES will shuffle ashore local beaches to dig nests and lay eggs. two months later, the eggs hatch and baby turtles will make their way back to the sea!

How can you help the process?

- Keep lights off at night

- Avoid flashlights/camera flashes

- beach goers fill in holes, level the sand, pick up any and all obstructions (furniture, toys, garbage, etc.)

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Sanibel & Captiva Islands

Shell seekers’ & Beach Lovers’ paradise

With their lovely shell-strewn beaches, Sanibel & Captiva Islands are nature retreats for beach lovers and outdoor adventures. Check out the free Wonder Map app to find out what activities and businesses are open as the destination comes back after Hurricane Ian.

Shell-seekers and beach lovers will be thrilled to know that many of the islands’ famous beaches are open, see our list below. Sanibel offers miles of shared-use paths that can help you explore the island by bike or on foot, or explore the sparkling waters and spot wildlife on a lunch or sunset cruise.

When hunger strikes there are over a handful of restaurants open for business and ready to welcome hungry visitors.

6491-6499 Sanibel Captiva Rd. Sanibel

Parking $5/hour.

This secluded and adaptable haven caters to shell collectors, anglers and water sports aficionados, making it a true paradise for all. Enjoy the unique advantage of having access to both the bay and the Gulf, where you’ll come face to face with abundant wildlife, relish exhilarating water sports, and discover an assortment of seashells. Venture to Blind Pass and create lasting memories at this remarkable destination.

- Photo credit Visit Fort Myers

1700 Bowman’s Beach Rd. Sanibel

Parking $5/hour.

Embark on a journey to Bowman’s Beach, the beloved and scenic destination on Sanibel Island. Delight in exceptional shelling opportunities, convenient amenities and a quick five minute hike from the parking lot. Stroll for miles along the unspoiled white sandy shores adorned with seashells. Soak in the pristine natural beauty and the limited development that defines Bowman’s Beach.

BLIND PASS BEACH PARK

BOWMAN’S BEACH PARK

LIGHTHOUSE BEACH PARK

One Periwinkle Way Sanibel

Parking $5/hour.

At Sanibel Island’s southern tip, discover the 1884 historic lighthouse and stunning beach. Enjoy picturesque Gulf views while strolling along the shore, collecting scattered shells. Engage in activities like fishing, shelling, wading and kayaking. However, due to strong currents near the island’s end, swimming is not recommended. For a safer experience, venture further down the beach.

- Photo credit Visit Fort Myers

14790 Captiva Dr. Captiva Island

Parking $15/hour, $25/2 hours; $40 all day (dawn to dusk).

Celebrated for its vast sandy expenses and often referred to as “one of the most romantic beaches.” While it may not offer extensive amenities, its unspoiled natural beauty is beyond compare. Gazing westward, this beach provides an ideal perch to witness awe-inspiring sunsets. Keep an eye out for dolphins, adding to the allure of this remarkable destination.

TARPON BEACH

111 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel

Parking $5/hour.

Discover the all-encompassing appeal of Tarpon Bay Beach where you can seamlessly enjoy shelling, swimming, fishing, relaxation, kayaking and paddleboarding. Surround yourself with the wonders of nature through the nearby nature trails, enhancing the charm of this beach destination. Tarpon Bay Beach invites you to savor the finest that Sanibel Island has to offer.

17200 Captiva Dr. Sanibel

Parking $5/hour.

Situated on the northern side of Blind Pass bridge, this particular expanse of shoreline marks the initial beach you encounter when entering Captiva Island. Renowned for its exceptional shelling opportunities, it’s a cherished location for anglers as well. If you continue your leisurely stroll along the beach, away from the influence of Pass currents, you’ll discover a more serene stretch with tranquil waters.

GULFSIDE CITY BEACH PARK

2001 Algiers Lane, Sanibel Parking $5/hour.

Unearth the splendor of Gulfside City Beach Park also known as Algiers Beach, a tranquil expanse on Sanibel Island designed for pure relaxation. Take your time walking along the loop trail and savor all nature offers. This beach serves as a perfect setting for picnics and leisurely repose. Accessing this exceptional destination is made effortless by the convenient boardwalks.

Here are some rules to maintain the pristine condition of our beaches:

• Pets on Sanibel Island beaches must be leashed and cleaned up after.

• Pets are not allowed on Captiva beaches.

• Alcoholic beverages are prohibited from November - May.

• Open fires and collecting live shells are not permitted.

All public beach accesses have basic restrooms, some with picnic tables and showers, and all provide free handicap parking. Parking at Sanibel Island public beaches and Captiva Island public beaches costs $5.00 an hour, payable by cash or credit card. Parking tickets are not interchangeable between Sanibel and Captiva.

Sanibel Island beaches offer opportunities for relaxing activities such as shelling, fishing, and birdwatching. They also provide a picturesque backdrop for weddings and other special events. Visit the marinas to admire the array of boats docked there. Choose from a variety of hotels or resorts on either Captiva or Sanibel Island to make the most of your time soaking up the sun on these renowned beaches.

ALISON HAGERUP BEACH PARK (Captiva)

TURNER BEACH (Captiva)

Where Beaches & Nature Thrive Bonita Springs Bonita Springs

Nestled between Fort Myers and Naples, Bonita Springs is a welcoming beach community and is home to some of the best beaches in the area.

The pristine beaches of Dog Beach Park, Bonita Beach Park, Barefoot Beach Preserve and Little Hickory Island Park offer numerous outdoor activities.

BONITA BEACH PARK

27954 Hickory Blvd. Bonita Springs

Annual Parking Sticker is NOT accepted. On Little Hickory Island, between Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Springs, this attractive beachfront park is great for swimming and offers sheltered picnic areas as well as sand volleyball.

BAREFOOT BEACH PRESERVE

505 Barefoot Beach Blvd, Bonita Springs

In 2022 Hurricane Ian caused significant damage to the Preserve and it is open with limited parking. Parking lots 2 and 3 are available. Parking lot 1 is CLOSED. There are four portable restrooms and one wash station available. Collier County Park Rangers are on site to monitor parking availability and provide directions where you can access the beach. Call (239) 252-4000 for more information.

LITTLE HICKORY ISLAND PARK

Parking $2/hour

26082 Hickory Blvd. Bonita Springs

Annual Parking Sticker is accepted.

Also known as access #10, this small, secluded park is just minutes away from Bonita Beach.

DOG BEACH PARK

14436 Bonita Beach CSWY, Bonita Springs

Free Parking

Located south of Lovers Key State Park on Little Hickory Island, this park allows dogs to run off-leash. Because this area is a tidal flat, during mid to high tides the beach can only be accessed by wading through the water. Dog showers are available. Please clean up after your pet. Photo

southwest Florida’s Crown Jewel Naples Naples

Naples, nestled on the Gulf of Mexico, offers a luxurious blend of nature and amenities. Renowned for its sunsets, white sand beaches, and golf courses, the city boasts waterfront estates and condos. It captivates with shopping, dining, and golfing, exuding sophisticated charm. Proximity to islands and the Everglades allows diverse exploration. Despite Hurricane Ian’s impact, the iconic Naples Pier remains. Miles of beaches

explore these naples beaches

like Clam Pass Park and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park offer tranquil retreats. Downtown Naples features world-class dining and shopping. A beach lined with coconut palms hosts grand mansions. Pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods like Old Naples Downtown District beckon exploration, offering art, dining and unforgettable sunsets.

LOWDERMILK PARK - As one of Naples’ premier beachfront parks, offers a range of amenities such as parking spaces, volleyball courts, a children’s playground, picnic tables, benches, restrooms and shower facilities as well as two gazebos available to rent and ADA beach access mats.

CLAM PASS PARK - Picturesque beach access point in the North Naples area, perfect for family outings, fishing or paddling in the serene waters. With 35 acres of coastal habitat, the park preserves this environment through a ¾-mile boardwalk that winds through a mangrove forest, leading visitors to the sandy beach.

VANDERBILT BEACH - This beach park stands out as a well-loved beach, located in North Naples. Visitors can engage in a variety of activities such as bird watching, shelling and stand-up paddleboarding on this attractive white-sand beach.

DELNOR-WIGGINS PASS STATE PARK - Anglers, nature enthusiasts, shell collectors, picnickers and paddlers discover an ideal haven at this well-frequented beach on the northern tip of Vanderbilt Beach. Note: Beach access is open and the boat ramp is in operation. Some sections may be restricted, please adhere to the posted signs and avoid closed areas.

a nature lover’s paradise

Spanned by nearly 100 miles of islands, bays and estuaries that will forever remain untouched, Marco Island stands as the largest gem in Southwest Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands. It is encircled by the Gulf of Mexico on one side and embraced by pristine mangrove estuaries on the other. Immediately south of Marco Island lies the Ten Thousand Island National Wildlife Refuge and the Gulf Coast segment of Everglades National Park. This immaculate saltwater wilderness extends all the way to the southernmost tip of mainland Florida and is renowned as a prime destination for anglers from the country and around the world in pursuit of prized Florida gamefish.

A true paradise for nature lovers, Marco Island has pure, white sand beaches and an aura of unassuming luxury. Explore unspoiled natural enclaves where you’ll unearth your personal sanctuary amid immaculate waterways and

Marco Island Marco Island

mangrove forests. Stroll along the coastline at Tigertail Beach park, where a tranquil lagoon beckons to wading birds. Choose a kayak or a motor-powered boat rental and enjoy the boundless natural splendor. For visitors, there’s a treasure trove of experiences to relish from the beaches to an array of aquatic adventures, encompassing backcountry and offshore fishing, boating and paddling.

Marco Island Beaches

KEEWAYDIN ISLAND

This barrier island is positioned between Naples and Marco Island. Accessible only by boat, this beach island holds the distinction of being the only pet-friendly beach in the Naples/Marco Island area. The Hemingway Water Shuttle operates seven times a day, facilitating drop-off and pick-up trips to the Keewaydin Beach.

TIGERTAIL BEACH PARK

At 32 acres, this barrier island stands as a crucial habitat for wintering and nesting shore birds. A Tidal Lagoon separates the park from Big Marco Pass Critical Wildlife which is a haven for wildlife that includes horseshoe crabs, needlefish, Florida fighting conchs and more. Visitors can choose to wade through the lagoon or take a stroll around the south side of the lagoon to the 3 miles of soft white sandy beach.

subtropical sanctuary

Florida’s Everglades Florida’s Everglades

Southern to the cities of Naples and Marco Island, Everglades National Park stands as the sole subtropical sanctuary in North America. It forms an integral part of the United States’ largest wetlands ecosystem and proudly claims its place among the 24 World Heritage Sites in the country. Nestled within Everglades City, the Gulf Coast Visitor Center serves as one of the park’s primary entrances, and this charming Old Floridastyle town rests on the wilderness’ very cusp.

In the expansive landscape of this coast, encompassing Collier County, more than 80 percent of the region is devoted to parks and nature preserves. A significant portion of this territory is enveloped by the Everglades ecosystem, which is home to a multitude of fascinating inhabitants. Among them are hundreds of species of vibrant birds, both fresh and saltwater fish, alligators, bobcats, Florida black bears and endangered Florida panthers.

Often mistaken for just a ‘swamp,’ the Everglades reveals itself as a vast, winding river of beauty. The iconic airboat ride becomes the perfect way to navigate the dense expanse known as the “Rivers of Grass” and reach otherwise inaccessible areas. Ideal for the whole family, these airboat rides promise an unforgettable adventure. Choose from any of the airboat tour companies, or a boat tour with Everglades National Park Adventures.

& NATURE PARK

Shelly says

Crave adventure and comfort food? Adore bargains and cute critters? How about catching a show? The Shell Factory & Nature Park is the place for you! We have tons of fun happening every day of the week all year long. You’re gonna love it as much as I do!

Check out our Facebook page and website for upcoming events and info! 16554 N. Cleveland Ave. (US 41) N. Fort Myers, FL 33903 (239) 995-2141 • shellfactory.com

Sloths/Gators

a coastal gem

Cape Coral Cape Coral

Cape Coral, distinguished by its network of over 400 miles of canals, has established itself as a prime boating destination and a sought after locale for vacation home rentals.

This coastal gem, surrounded by water, embodies a charming and inviting community that caters to nature enthusiasts, families and couples alike. The warm and lively atmosphere plays host to an array of events, ranging from family-friendly outdoor movie nights in the park to bustling farmers markets and special holiday festivities.

The city boasts five marinas, some of which offer fishing and yacht charters or boat, kayak and paddle boat rentals.

While Cape Coral may be intricately woven around its waterways, it offers over 1,500 acres of pristine parks, featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, tennis facilities and waterfront parks equipped with boat ramps, kayak launches and swimming opportunities. At Rotary Park, nature enthusiasts can take a leisurely stroll along a nearly mile-long footpath, which is a segment of the great Florida Birding Trail, that

offers birdwatchers a chance to spot a variety of avian species in the serene uplands and salt marshes.

Set aside a few hours to experience the Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve, where you can saunter along a picturesque boardwalk flanked by the mangroves that line the scenic Caloosahatchee River. Wildlife encounters are not confined to wilderness areas alone - within Cape Coral’s neighborhoods and community parks, you may see small burrowing owls emerging from their underground dwellings. In fact, the city is home to a population of over 1,000 nesting pairs of this rare species. Every February, the Burrowing Owl Festival offers guided tours of their burrows, activities for children and informative sessions about these unique birds and other species in Southwest Florida.

When hunger strikes, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the waterfront restaurants that offer mesmerizing vistas that rival the delectable cuisine and craft beverages on their menus. Venture to the South Cape district in downtown to the array of restaurants dishing up wide varieties of fare.

Charlotte Harbor Region water-centric haven

Charlotte Harbor Region

Nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, the Charlotte Harbor region boasts an abundance of waterfront landscapes. This area encompasses the second largest estuary in Florida, a water-centric haven that remains a hidden gem, shielded from the hustle and bustle of the mainstream.

Apart from the splendid harbor, the region is graced with an array of rivers and coastal wonders that offer seclusion and an abundance of old Florida charm. The Gulf islands here are tucked away from the well-traveled routes, preserving their unique character and tranquility.

Punta Gorda, one of the oldest and foremost fishing communities in the Charlotte Harbor area, originated as a deepwater seaport and railway resort town in the 1880s. Situated at the mouth of the Peace River, its historic mansions, reminiscent of an era of opulence, grace the waterfront, providing a picturesque backdrop to lovely Gilchrist Park. This park now serves as a gathering place for strollers, cyclists and the occasional musical jam session.

To further celebrate the town’s rich heritage, more than 20 murals adorn the sides of downtown buildings, each telling a unique story. One mural pays tribute to old Hotel Charlotte Harbor and its distinguished guests that includes Thomas Edison, Andrew Mellen and W.K. Vanderbilt. The renovated

downtown streets also feature a collection of intriguing sculptures, creating an engaging atmosphere. Here, you’ll find delightful new shops and restaurants in historic structures, ranging from brick edifices to charmingly painted bungalows. Fishermen’s Village is another shopping destination that occupies a former crab-packing plant along the water.

Not far away, history traces back even further to Ponce de Leon, who is believed to have met his fate, by a fatal arrow blow, at a waterfront spot now occupied by the City of Punta Gorda’s Ponce de Leon Park and the Peace River Wildlife Center, a facility dedicated to rehabilitating injured, sick and orphaned animals. In the eastern outskirts of Punta Gorda, former cattle ranches have been transformed into wilderness eco-adventure and recreational areas for outdoor enthusiasts.

On the opposite bank of Peace River, the tranquil town of Charlotte Harbor faces Punta Gorda and offers charming motels, a fishing pier park and the Charlotte County Historic Center.

Adjacent to the quaint historic village, Port Charlotte stands as the most modern of the area’s cities, having been the last to be established. As a family-oriented community, its one beach park borders Charlotte Harbor providing a range of recreational activities including a fishing pier and swimming pools.

Matlacha & Pine Island Matlacha & Pine Island

Before heading to Pine Island, take the time to explore the quaint town of Matlacha, a beloved community that faced significant challenges due to Hurricane Ian. Despite the adversity, the spirit of “Pine Island Strong” is evident every day, showcasing the resilience of its residents. Matlacha has bounced back, with businesses reopening their doors to visitors. You can now savor a meal at a few establishments before trying your luck on the renowned “World’s Fishingest Bridge.”

Pine Island is a natural masterpiece blending scenic beauty with artistic communities. Spanning 18 miles by 2 miles, it’s a serene haven just 15 minutes from Cape Coral and 30 minutes from Fort Myers. The island offers tranquil landscapes, featuring mangroves, aquatic preserves, and lush groves, preserving its natural charm. Pine Island Sound, the crown jewel, lures fishing enthusiasts and delights birdwatchers. Hiking trails, waterways, and ancient shell mounds beckon exploration. Evolving into a vibrant creative hub, Pine Island attracts artists and boasts fine art galleries. Culinary delights, especially fresh seafood, enhance the island experience. Explore Pine Island’s hidden treasures, local businesses and unique offerings, letting its spirit captivate you in a journey of natural beauty, artistic inspiration and warm hospitality.

Bokeelia, located at the island’s end, is a true boating paradise, featuring picturesque canals, marinas and breathtaking waterfront views.

shop at MATLACHA the gateway to PINE ISLAND

EVERGLADES AIRBOAT TOURS

Grassland Airboat Tour (30 min.)

Extended Airboat Tour (50 min.)