Florida’s
Lee County has so many islands that it’s hard to know which one is best for the
type of getaway you’re hoping for. Are
you looking for romance, independence, family fun, isolation, or escape? A
daytrip, vacation, or long-term stay?
 |
| Searching for shells on Sanibel Island |
Here are some descriptions of
beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel, along Florida's warmer Gulf Coast, that will help you decide where to find your
fantasy, or visit www.FortMyers-Sanibel.com
.
Roughing it: Are you invigorated by the scent of campfires and
the embrace of a sleeping bag? Head to Cayo Costa, all-natural and
untethered to the mainland. Marinas on Pine Island and Captiva Island can
provide water taxi service. Call far enough in advance and you may be able to
reserve a cabin, which isn’t all that much more luxurious than tenting– meaning
both options are primitive. You’ll have to pack everything you need in and out.
Restrooms and cold showers are the only conveniences provided by the state
park.
 |
| Kayak at Captiva |
Living in the lap of
luxury: Captiva Island has
some of the plushest accommodations the other side of the Intracoastal
Waterway, so if you’re looking to do nothing but laze on the beach, maybe play a
round of golf or go yachting, reserve your room and luxuriate. Don’t forget to
schedule a massage while you’re at it.
 |
| Or just relax and enjoy the ambience |
Going rural: Fruit and tree farms, no stop lights, miles of
countryside, even a cattle farm – Pine Island feels like you’ve traveled
inland rather than out-island. Long and roomy, its lack of natural beaches
means less traffic (aside from sometimes bustling Matlacha) and more affordable
dining and lodging.
Bare footing: If your idea of a getaway involves going shoeless
the entire time, Fort Myers Beach has the perfect dress code for you.
Okay, you may have to slip on some flip-flops from time to time, but the fine
white sand and casual attitude give you permission to dig your toes in the sand
and make a barefoot fashion statement.
 |
| Beaches are for romance, too. |
Shopping, sipping,
supping: Historic charm, cute
shops and great restaurants is the formula that draws travelers off the main
roads to Gasparilla Island, home of the sophisticated little beach town
of Boca Grande. Browse shops, have lunch, and buy ice cream in historic venues
such as a railroad depot and movie theater. Rub elbows with the locals at a
beach bar, then, spend the night in the grande dame Gasparilla Inn, circa 1913.
 |
| Bike paths let you explore the beaches. |
Family biking: Sanibel Island has added another 2.4-mile
segment to its shared use path, bringing the total to more than 25 miles. Most
of the path is separated from the roadway by vegetation, making it a safe trail
for families to pedal along. It runs the length of the island – from beaches
and nature attractions to shops and restaurants. The newest segment links two
city parks away from all vehicular traffic.
Information courtesy of Tamara
Pigott, Lee County VCB.
Photos by Larry and Beverly Burmeier
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment