2022 SWFL Winter Spring

Come see what Thomas Edison and Henry Ford discovered!

T he Edison and Ford Winter Estates includes the winter homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, Edison’s Guest House, the Caretaker’s Houses, Museum, and Botanic Research Laboratory on more than 20 acres of botanical gardens

This National Register Historic Site, Florida Historic Landmark and Winner of the National Trust for Historic Preservation Restoration Award provides an opportunity for visitors of all ages to step back in time and experience “old Florida.” The 1929 historic landscape we ddi ngs, corpo rate fun c tio n s and m e eti ngs, ex h ibits an d educational programs.

Several tour options are available, including Guided Tours, Insidethe-Homes Tours, Automotive Tours, and Garden Tours. Selfguided Tours and maps are available in English, French, German, and Spanish, and maps are also available in Chinese.

Throughout the year, there are museum exhibit openings, a lm festival, quilt show, ar t exhibits, garden festivals, music performances and the annual Holiday Nights celebration. The items and souvenirs and the Garden Shoppe has a large selection of plants available for purchase. Visit the website for information on upcoming events and programs a.m. – p.m.

and until p.m. during Holiday Nights (separate ticket) McGregor Blvd.

• Fifth generation native operators, local USCG-licensed master captains

• Recognized by the City of Everglades for the quietest and most professional airboats

• Ticket Center with souvenir shop, vending machines and restrooms

Our fleet of five airboats and scheduled tour times fill up fast. Open 8:30 am – 4:00 pm (Closed Sunday)

Book Now!

We introduced two-way headsets and designed easy-load docks and airboats. Others imitate us but none can duplicate the experience you’ll have with us! Count on having a fun, personal and exhilarating experience with us! Online: EvergladesCity-AirboatTours.com

By Phone: 877-AAA-6400 | 239-695-2400

907 Dupont St. Everglades City | Florida 34139

Fort Myers

Fort Myers Beach

Sanibel & Captiva Islands

Estero

Eat, shop

play, BEACH...replay

FORT MYERS BEACHES

Insider tip: If you want privacy in a beautiful natural setting, walk towards the north side of Lovers Key Beach! Pack lightly because it is about a mile and a half.

Romantic sunsets, shelling adventures, water sports, wildlife encounters, and endless sun. We listed our favorites and categorized them for you. Choose your beach and have a shell of a good time.

BEST BEACHES FOR COUPLES:

LOVERS KEY STATE PARK

Away from Fort Myers Beach’s party scene, the twomile stretch of sand welcomes beachgoers looking for both quiet and active pastimes. From trails, to kayaking, to shelling, to sunbathing, it makes a great all-day beach destination.

ALISON HAGERUP BEACH PARK

Also known as Captiva Beach, Alison Hagerup has a reputation for romance and the islands’ best sunsets. You will also find restaurants and shops within walking distance. Be sure to arrive early if you can, as parking gets busy very quickly.

BEST BEACHES FOR FAMILIES:

LIGHTHOUSE BEACH PARK

Show the kids some history at the historic landmark, Sanibel Lighthouse, that lights up the eastern tip of the island. You’ll find a fishing pier on the bay side and a beach popular with windsurfers and families on the Gulf. In between lie nature trails, shelters with grills, and the lighthouse.

BOWDITCH POINT PARK

At Estero Island’s northern point on Matanzas Pass, discover an all-natural environment with easy access and a view of boat traffic in and out of the harbor. In the afternoons you might spot a pirate cruise!

BEST BEACH FOR DOGS:

DOG BEACH IN BONITA

Lee County’s only off-leash beach is a tidal flat edged with mangroves. It requires that dogs be kept under voice command and have proof of license and immunizations. Plastic bags, disposal stations, and canine showers are available.

BEST BEACH FOR SHELLING:

BOWMAN’S BEACH PARK

This long stretch of beach on Sanibel sland’s northern end is world-famous for shelling and is perfect for sand-strollers and seclusion-seekers too!

BEST PARTY BEACH:

LYNN HALL MEMORIAL PARK

The most happening beach around with a 560-foot fishing pier, playground, and close proximity to shops, restaurants, and water sports operators. You’ll find a younger crowd here, as well as spring break goers. Be sure to check it out at sunset, when live performers often entertain and a party scene erupts.

dinner with a side of sunset

Would you rather spend an evening indulging in delicious seafood and tropical fare, or sitting on the coast watching the sunset? Why not both? At these three Southwest Florida restaurants, you can have your sunset dinner and eat it too.

PINCHERS

Enjoy Florida seafood, in Florida style! Pinchers knows you can’t fake fresh, which is why you’ll only find the freshest catches here, straight from the water to the table! You can also enjoy 2-for-1 drinks all day everyday and locally brewed beers. Great for families, kids eat free!

FRESH CATCH BISTRO

Welcome to award-winning fine dining with beachfront views. Fresh Catch Bistro is proud to have one of the best views of the gulf at sunset on Fort Myers Beach. Enjoy dinner on the balcony overlooking miles of beachfront and delight yourself with an incredible selection of wines and cocktails paired with delicious cuisine. Our favorite for a date night!

SUNSET BEACH TROPICAL GRILLE & THE PLAYMORE TIKI BAR

With sunset in the name, you know you’re in for some stunning views from the patio of this tropical grille! Serving fresh seafood steaks and a variety of tropical dishes, we don’t think you’ll be disappointed. Along with the amazing view of the gulf they also host incredible local live music talent, for some late night entertainment! From Country to Rock & Roll, you can enjoy great music in a great setting along beautiful Fort Myers Beach. Here is where we bring friends for a good time!

LOCAL TIP

A citrus stand and family attraction rolled into one, Sun Harvest Citrus in Fort Myers offers free samples of fresh-squeezed juices and soft-serve ice cream, a window for observing the packing process, and even a playground outside!

Fort Myers - Fort Myers Beach - Sanibel & Captiva Islands - Estero

CASUAL CLOTHING

Fort Myers - Fort Myers Beach - Sanibel & Captiva Islands - Estero

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Mon-Thurs: 10am-8pm • Fri-Sat: 10am-9pm • Sun: 11am-6pm

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4125 ClevelaND ave., SUIte 1705 239.997.4997 1441 taMIaMI traIl #947 941.627.4997

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Fort Myers - Fort Myers Beach - Sanibel & Captiva Islands -

B O A T R EN T AL S

SunChaser DS20

Half Day - $169.00 Plus Tax

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Plus Fuel Used on all rentals

SunChaser DS24

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Daily - $325.00 Plus Tax

Weekly - $1399.00 Plus Tax

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26’ Double Decker Pontoon with 2 slides

Half Day - $300.00 Plus Tax

Daily - $395.00 Plus Tax

Weekly - $1799.00 Plus Tax

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22’ Center Console

Half Day - $300.00 Plus Tax

Daily - $395.00 Plus Tax

Weekly - $1799.00 Plus Tax

Plus Fuel Used on all rentals

$25 Off

POWER BOAT RENTAL

• One coupon per person.

• Not valid with any other offers.

• Must present coupon at time of rental. Expires: 06/30/22

Fort Myers - Fort Myers Beach - Sanibel & Captiva Islands - Estero

a family adventure on the water

One of the most popular ways to spend time in Southwest Florida is on the Gulf. If you haven’t experienced the waters of Sanibel and Captiva, it’s time for a day of cruising the islands and discovering our pristine shelling beaches and majestic ocean wildlife.

We love cruising with Adventures in Paradise Cruises & Tours because it’s not only fun, but also stress free! Renting a boat can be a huge responsibility for an inexperienced boater so Adventures in Paradise allows you to relax and enjoy your time on a journey guaranteed to make you fall in love with the sea. The second-generation, family-owned business takes care of everything from beach chairs to umbrellas, and it’s clear they love what they do. Regardless of the kind of adventure you are looking for, there are endless opportunities to choose from, and Adventures in Paradise Cruises & Tours will make sure you have a wonderful experience.

SHELLING & LUNCH CRUISE

Cruise on out to a remote barrier island where you’ll find miles of uninhabited beaches and the clearest waters in Southwest Florida. You can spend time snorkeling, shelling, or relaxing with a glass of sangria in hand from the local restaurant. Be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife like dolphins, manatees, birds, and sea turtles along the way!

SEA LIFE ENCOUNTER

If you’re looking for more of an up-close encounter with sea life, this tour is for you. You’ll cruise out to an uninhabited island and dive into a hands-on experience scoop netting in the sea grass with a marine biologist. You’ll have the chance to discover incredible sea creatures like seahorses, pufferfish starfish, shrimp, and blowfish. You might even spot some dolphins along the way!

SUNSET DOLPHIN CRUISE

For those who just want to relax, end your day with the breathtaking views of a Sanibel sunset over the shimmering water. This tour cruises through a naturally enchanting habitat filled with dolphins, manatees, and wading birds. Pictures don’t do it justice, you’ll just have to come and see for yourself!

No matter how you decide to explore, we hope you find plenty of fun-filled adventures in paradise!

Everglades City

Marco Island

Naples

Bonita Springs

Immokalee

& the ever glades

Wild FOR The EVERGLADES

The Everglades, the largest subtropical wetland ecosystem in North America, is just a drive away from you. Will you get to see it? You're probably thinking... I came to Florida for the beaches, why would I go see a swamp?? Excuse me!?

The Everglades is often referred to as a “swamp”, but is actually a giant, slow-moving river. The beauty of nature lives here! The Everglades most popular attraction is the airboat ride and is also the best way to explore the glades because they’re able to zip across the thick “Rivers of Grass” and navigate places which regular boats can’t reach. Airboat rides are an attraction suitable for the whole family. Experiencing the Everglades could take half a day or a full day, depending on how much you’d like to do.

These popular airboat tour companies will take you on an adventure to explore Florida's wild side!

WOOTEN’S

One of the longest running airboat tour operators, Wooten’s started in the 1950s and offers both airboat rides and swamp buggy tours. They also have an extensive animal sanctuary that is home to a Florida panther, tigers, lions, otters and more than 100 alligators!

JUNGLE ERV’S

Ever been to a raccoon sanctuary? What about a gator slough? Jungle Erv’s tours and beautiful boardwalk trail will take you through both of these and a mangrove forest and a manatee lookout point! They also offer an exciting alligator show, and of course airboat rides!

CAPTAIN JACK’S

Captain Jack’s offers the total Everglades experience, from airboat tours through mangroves and grasslands, to big-wheeled and elevated swamp buggies, Captain Jack’s animal sanctuary, a free alligator show, and even the opportunity to hug a baby alligator! Home to rescued wildlife, the animal sanctuary houses snakes, turtles, crocodiles, alligators, river otters, and big cats.

EVERGLADES CITY AIRBOATS

Captain Doug House started this airboat business, when he retired in 2007, his family continued to run it. They kept their fleet small to be able to connect with each and every guest. We love the personal touch of Everglades City Airboats, nothing makes a tour more special than wild stories from the locals.

If you are visiting during the month of February, we also recommend checking out the Everglades Seafood Festival!

Aside from Airboats, you can also go on a kayak tour, watch an alligator show, ride a swamp buggy, eat fried frog legs (no joke!) and… well we won’t spoil it for you. Get your adventure shoes on and head out to the Everglades for a wild time.

CAPTAIN MITCH PRIVATE AIRBOAT TOURS

Travel like a pioneer with a real pioneer family! Learn about the Ecosystem, have fun exploring the hard wood tree hammocks, spot a banded water snake or a Bald Eagle flying overhead. There are many exciting things to see when you take a tour with Captain Mitch’s crew.

Bonita Springs - Everglades City - Marco Island - Naples

Eat, PLAY, SHOP, BEACH... DON'T STOP!

NAPLES BEACHES

In and around NAPLES, the water is where it’s at. Whether at the beach or in a boat, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the area’s waterfronts and wetlands. Some of the best local beach experiences are accessible only by boat. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, action, or the truest getaway, you can take your pick from these Naples favorites.

BEST BEACHES FOR NATURE LOVERS:

BAREFOOT BEACH PRESERVE

A natural gem, hidden from the beaten beach path, Barefoot Beach Preserve is full of butterflies and gopher tortoises to spot in the native garden. Explore the walking trails, nature exhibits, or bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in the gardens.

DELNOR-WIGGINS PASS STATE PARK

Anglers, nature-lovers, shellers, picnickers and paddlers find an ideal retreat at this popular beach at the north end of Vanderbilt Beach. Rent a paddle craft or climb the observation tower that overlooks the pass and the Gulf of Mexico.

BONITA BEACH PARK

For active beachgoers, this lively park at the southernmost end of the island conveniently lies near water sports rentals and a fun beach restaurant and bar. Bring along some friends for a pickup volleyball game on the sand courts.

BEST BEACH FOR ACTIVE PEOPLE: BEST BEACH FOR FAMILIES:

LOWDERMILK PARK

Perfect for family beach outings, it stretches midtown, encompassing playgrounds, a duck pond, volleyball courts and a food concession. Two gazebos are available to rent, and yoga classes happen on Saturdays.

BEST BEACH FOR BOATERS:

KEEWAYDIN ISLAND

To combine beaching and boating, rent a boat or charter and head to an offshore beach like Keewaydin Island! A short ride from Naples’ marinas, it jams on the weekends and other in-season times with boaters who pull up to sun, pick up shells, swim, and picnic. At busy times, food concession boats accommodate the beach crowd.

LOCAL TIP:

FOR A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE, WATCH THE SUNSET FROM THE WATER! HOP ON ONE OF THE SUNSET CRUIES DEPARTING FROM TIN CITY OR the naples city dock. (see our coupons on page 31 for special offers)

Bonita Springs - Everglades City - Marco Island - Naples

This awesome weather is perfect for driving around in one of these retro buggies. They are rented out by the day or by the week and can be dropped off to your location. Not only a fun way to get around but totally a photo opp!

Our favorite places to take the buggies are Fort Myers Beach all the way down to Bonita Springs and the Sanibel Causeway at sunset–but you can take them anywhere, they are street legal and fit up to 4 people.

Cape Coral

Pine Island

Port Charlotte

Punta Gorda

North Fort Myers

Cape Coral - Pine Island - Port Charlotte - Punta Gorda

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!

an adventure on the peace river

The majestic Peace River separates Port Charlotte and Punta Gorda and offers amazing scenery with hundreds of plant and animal species to discover. Spend a day on the river with Peace River Charters in an airboat, a canoe, or on horseback, and then head over to one of the neighboring cities to continue the adventure!

AIRBOAT TOURS

Peace River Charters’ airboat tour gives you the opportunity to speed down over 20 miles of river, taking in the wildlife, reptiles and incredible scenery. This family oriented adventure is fun, exciting, and educational.

SWAMP BUGGY RIDES

You can also explore the Peace River scenery from a 12-foot vantage point. Swamp buggies’ huge tires and elevated platforms allow them to weave and wind through heavy mud, uneven terrain, thick brush, and shallow water passages, so you'll get to see and experience it all! If it sounds a bit extreme, it is! But the swamp buggies are safe and comfortable, and an experienced guide will be there at every turn.

CANOE RENTALS & EXCURSIONS

One of the Peace River’s most popular activities is canoeing. Peace River Charters offers 8-mile (half day) excursions. Enjoy a fast-paced airboat ride up the river and then paddle back downstream with the relaxed current. If you’re feeling more ambitious, canoe rentals are also available without airboat transport.

HORSEBACK RIDES

Horseback trail rides are another great way to explore the river for riders of all ages and experience levels. Embark on a wilderness trail alongside the water and explore the Florida cypress hammocks on horseback! You will be accompanied by a Florida native guide who will provide your group with a personalized experience.

Photo Credit: Peace River Charters

Photo Credit: Peace River Charters

Cape Coral - Pine Island - Port Charlotte - Punta Gorda

instagram trail

Grab your iPhone and follow this tour to snap some of the best pics in the most-loved, iconic sights in the Fort Myers area. You’re sure to be the envy of all your friends and followers.

J. N. “DING” DARLING NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

Head first to Sanibel Island for the most stunning nature shots. Plan your visit to “Ding” Darling at low tide, when the birds gather in the wetlands and mangroves to feed. Travel along Wildlife Drive and keep an eye peeled for big pink roseate spoonbills, the darlings of “Ding.”

Book a sunset kayak tour or boat cruise and catch pelicans, egrets ibises, and myriad other species as they flock into rookery islands at the refuge’s Tarpon Bay to roost for the night. @dingdarlingwildlifesociety

FORT MYERS BEACH TIMES SQUARE

A fun place to stroll at any time of day. Enjoy people watching, restaurants ice cream, shops, the pier and of course take some photos by the iconic blue clock.

MANATEE PARK

Winter is the best time to find “gentle giants” in the waterways around this park in East Fort Myers. The mammoth, prehistoric manatees (aka sea cows) are the rock stars of local marine wildlife. You can’t help but love their gunny sack physique and piggy face. Book a kayak tour to get a closer look and get a selfie with the manatee statue at the entrance.

LIGHTHOUSE BEACH PARK

While you’re on Sanibel island, head to this beach for shots of the historic structure. Go ahead, do that thing where it looks like you’re holding the lighthouse in your palm.

EDISON & FORD WINTER ESTATES

Next stop: downtown Fort Myers’ Historic River District. Its big-name attraction will keep your posts diverse with turn-of-the-century architecture, river views, and lush tropical gardens. Be sure to get a selfie with the Thomas A. Edison statue under the gargantuan banyan tree. @edisonfordfl

SIDNEY & BERNE DAVIS ART CENTER

Located in downtown Fort Myers, the best time to go snap a pic here is when it’s dark. They have large, lit up cylinders with carved letters where the light comes through. Visit the Art Center’s website to find out what the story behind these cool pieces is. @sbdac

ROOFTOP BARS

Fort Myers has a storied nightlife scene, and there’s no better place to get downtown overview shots than its three rooftop bars: The Bea con at Luminary Hotel, The Skybar at The Firestone restaurant, and the Rooftop Bar at The Banyan Hotel.

Take the time to take pictures, those pictures will remind you of the great memories you created here in SWFL.

Cape Coral

Pine Island - Port Charlotte - Punta Gorda

pine island:

PINE ISLAND is rightfully nicknamed “Florida’s Creative Coast” for its colorful selection of art galleries, restaurants serving fresh seafood, and local “characters.” Secluded Pine Island has a quirky, laidback small-town feel set in a lush, natural environment. Surrounded by mangroves, it’s home to three natural preserves; a collection of talented artists acres of palms, tropical plants and fruit groves; waterways offering excellent fishing, boating and paddling along with birdwatching; nature trails; an ancient Indian shell mound and bounty of specialty shops and fine art galleries.

Pine Island is void of high-rises and traffic lights. It’s Southwest Florida’s largest island at 17 miles long and 2 miles wide and is made up of five distinct communities, Bokeelia, Matlacha Pine Island Center, Pineland and St. James City. The island is only about a 30-minute drive from Fort Myers and about 15 minutes from Cape Coral.

More Than A Marina