South Gulf Coast

Destination information

One common thread that runs through all South Gulf Coast beaches is their boundless beauty. From Fort Myers to Naples, natural wonders remain untouched and, although visitors flock here year after year, it’s always possible to find your very own slice of heaven! In Naples, Clam Pass County Park is perfect for seclusion seekers. If hiking appeals, head to Wiggins Pass State Park with its nature trails and observation tower. Naples is also home to the Caribbean Gardens, the oldest on the continent and packed to bursting with exotic flowers and animals. Just offshore is Marco Island, where relaxing on sun-washed beaches is the order of the day. During more active moments, shell-collecting is popular as is getting close to wildlife at one of several superb reserves. North of Naples is Bonita Springs, a small resort that’s big on charm with some of the best beaches along the Gulf of Mexico. There’s also extensive freshwater lakes and streams, so hire a boat and set sail. Golf courses and extensive shopping will please landlubbers as will a diverse selection of restaurants, most of which serve seafood fresh from the dock, including sweet scallops, jumbo shrimp and, of course, grouper! Further on up the coast is Fort Myers and Sanibel Island, with over 50 miles of shoreline to explore. Windsurfing, deep sea fishing, shelling cruises and island hopping are just some of the treats on offer. There’s also prehistoric Calusa Indian mounds to marvel at, the fascinating Williams Academy Black History Museum and Sanibel Historic Village, dedicated to early settlers of the island and offering an intriguing insight into their way of life. Captiva Island is little sister to Sanibel and easily reached via a small bridge that crosses at Turner’s Beach. Comb magnificent white sands for ‘treasures from the sea’, snorkel amidst colourful barrier reefs or hire a bike and cycle your way round. Alternatively, you could just grab yourself an ocean view seat in one of the island’s many restaurants and feast on gourmet food as the sun sets in the distance.