Boasting white sand beaches, wildlife refuges and world-class museums, Southwest Florida offers nature enthusiasts a chance to explore some of the state’s most beautiful natural wonders. It’s an area that offers a wide variety of attractions, where you can dig your toes in the sand in the morning, then spend your afternoon exploring a museum full of clown memorabilia or admiring colorful garden displays. From family-friendly water parks to picturesque state parks, here are some of the best things to do in Southwest Florida.
Dig Your Toes in the Sand at Siesta Key Beach
Siesta Key is one of the most prestigious beaches in the state, consistently awarded the top spot for the most beautiful beaches in the country. The sand feels like powdered sugar and is made of 99% pure crushed quartz, while the beaches clear turquoise waters make it obvious why it is a popular spot for enjoying water sports and a day of fun in the sun.
Look for Seashells at Bowman's Beach in Sanibel
Isolated and picturesque, Bowman’s Beach is a popular spot for those looking for seashells in Sanibel. People come from all over the world to scour the beach for its unique collection seashells, and its pristine stretch of sand is also popular for windsurfing and sailing. You can often spot turtles roaming the area, and is a quiet place to catch tranquil sunset views.
Explore the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge on Marco Island
Marco Island is a sun-drenched jewel nestled on the Gulf of Mexico, the largest barrier island within Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands area. You’ll find miles of palm-tree lined landscapes and turquoise waters perfect for outdoor adventures, while the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge is a place to see mangrove-lined estuaries and sea otters.
Look for Shark Teeth on Venice Beach
If you’re looking for a unique souvenir to take home, head to Venice Beach. Known as the “Shark Tooth Capital of the World,” you can spend a sunny afternoon beachcombing for prehistoric shark teeth. Sift through the sands at Caspersen Park Beach for treasures, then lounge on the white sand beaches or go fishing along the Venice Pier.
Go Birdwatching at J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge
Birdwatchers will want to explore J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island, as its 6,300 acres of natural landscapes are home to a variety of birds, from herons and cuckoos to ospreys. You can enjoy quiet natural landscapes by hiking or biking through the trails, or you can take a scenic ride along Wildlife Drive.
Cool Off at Sun Splash Family Waterpark in Cape Coral
Escape the Florida heat with a trip to Sun Splash Family Waterpark in Cape Coral, a 14-acre park where you can float down the lazy river. One of the best water parks in Florida, little ones can enjoy the Tot Spot with interactive water toys, while adults can soar through the 30-foot darkened tunnel at Cape Fear and go down the five-story Power Surge slide.
Meet the Animals at Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota
Take the entire family to Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, as the 135,000-gallon shark habitat and touch tanks are sure to fascinate visitors of all ages. The museum features displays to observe jellyfish, manatees, rays and sea turtles and offers a chance to see scientific research in viewable working laboratories.
Admire the Flower Displays at Naples Botanical Garden
One of the most stunning gardens found in Florida, the Naples Botanical Garden is an overload for the senses. Explore the lush vegetation and floral scents at this 170-acre landscape that includes a LaGrippe Orchid Garden, Kapnick Brazilian Garden and Smith Children’s Garden. There’s even a 90-acre nature sanctuary that features eagles, otters and gopher tortoises.
Visit the Historic Edison & Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers
The Edison & Ford Winter Estates is the perfect place to learn more about Florida’s history, as it is a designated Florida Historic Landmark and one of the most visited historic home sites in America. Tour the 20 acres of historic buildings, gardens and on-site museum to see inventions, artifacts and special exhibits that date back to 1929. Don’t miss seeing the laboratory, where Edison and Ford worked side by side.
Go On the Babcock Ranch Eco-Tour in Punta Gorda
Take a swamp buggy-style adventure through the natural heart of Florida on a Babcock Ranch Eco-Tour, where you’ll traverse through piney flatwoods, oak hammocks, a freshwater marsh and a cypress swamp in a converted school bus. Admire local wildlife along the way, from wild turkey, alligators and white-tailed deer to panthers, softshell turtles and cracker cattle.
Take an Airboat Ride in the Everglades
A quintessential Florida experience, head to the Everglades to go on an airboat ride excursion. Take a trip to this natural wonder and observe the preservation of the area’s natural ecosystem, where thrilling airboat rides whisk visitors through the swampy grasslands to watch as alligators pop up to the surface, or climb atop the 65-foot observation tower at Shark Valley.
See Clown Memorabilia at The Ringling in Sarasota
One of the most unique museums in Florida, head to The Ringling in Sarasota to see John and Mable Ringling’s former winter mansion. You’ll have the chance to browse the collection of clown memorabilia, squeeze into a clown car, and try your hand at walking the tightrope. There’s also a fine art museum and picturesque garden area to explore.
Soak Up the Sunshine at Cayo Costa State Park
A slice of tropical paradise, Cayo Costa State Park offers nine miles of unspoiled white sand beach and is considered a hidden gem beach in Florida. Piled with colorful seashells, this barrier island retains its natural wilderness landscapes and sense of remoteness, boasting scenic nature trails and plenty of opportunities to go fishing, set up a picnic, and spot manatees, dolphins and osprey.
*Due to Hurricane Ian, the park is currently closed.
Spot Wildlife in Lovers Key State Park
Lovers Key State Park is nestled near Fort Myers Beach and is a popular place to spot wildlife such as manatees, gopher tortoises, bald eagles and bottlenose dolphins. This 1,600-acre park is made up of four barrier islands, where you’ll find unspoiled beaches perfect for swimming and shelling, while those looking for an adventure can go kayaking and paddleboarding.
*Due to Hurricane Ian, the park is currently closed.
