Fort Myers Beach is an excellent home base for exploring Southwest Florida. Within an hour or two, you can visit barrier islands, state parks, historic districts, and waterfront communities that each offer something unique. From relaxing on quiet beaches to browsing local shops, there are plenty of ways to spend a day away from the sand before returning to your accommodations.
Guests staying in our Fort Myers Beach vacation rentals have easy access to many of the region’s top attractions.
Sanibel Island
Just across the causeway from Fort Myers, Sanibel Island is one of the area’s most popular day trip destinations. Known for its natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere, the island offers miles of shoreline, scenic bike paths, wildlife viewing, and charming local businesses.
In addition to its beaches, visitors can explore J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, where driving trails, kayaking, and birdwatching provide a different way to experience the island.
Beaches and Shelling
Sanibel is famous for its beaches and exceptional shell collecting. Bowman’s Beach, Lighthouse Beach Park, and Gulfside City Park are all excellent places to search for colorful shells along the shoreline. If you’ve already enjoyed shelling in Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel offers another opportunity to add unique finds to your collection while taking in beautiful Gulf views.
Captiva Island
Continue past Sanibel, and you’ll arrive on Captiva Island. This small island is known for its colorful shops, beautiful beaches, and slower pace. It’s a great destination for travelers looking to spend a relaxing afternoon walking through the village or enjoying time on the water.
Captiva also offers opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing charters, and sunset cruises.
Waterfront Dining and Shopping
Captiva has several popular restaurants and local shops worth visiting during your day trip.
Some favorites include:
- The Mucky Duck – A longtime beachfront restaurant known for seafood and sunset views.
- RC Otter’s Island Eats – A casual spot serving breakfast, seafood, and American favorites.
- The Bubble Room – One of Captiva’s most recognizable restaurants, famous for its colorful décor and desserts.
- Jungle Drums Gallery – A local art gallery featuring paintings, sculptures, and handcrafted gifts.
Lovers Key State Park
Located just south of Fort Myers Beach, Lovers Key State Park offers a peaceful escape filled with outdoor recreation. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, kayaking through mangrove waterways, wildlife viewing, and swimming along the park’s uncrowded beaches.
Keep an eye out for dolphins, manatees, osprey, and bald eagles during your visit. Bringing a picnic makes it easy to spend several hours exploring everything the park has to offer.
Cayo Costa State Park
For a more adventurous day trip, head to Cayo Costa State Park. Accessible only by private boat, ferry, or kayak, this undeveloped barrier island provides a true escape from busy tourist areas.
Visitors can spend the day swimming, shelling, fishing, hiking, or relaxing on nearly nine miles of natural beaches. Since services are limited, bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and everything you’ll need for the day.
Plan Your Visit
No matter where your trip takes you, make Fort Myers Beach your home base! Browse our entire selection of Fort Myers Beach rentals to discover your ideal accommodations.
Downtown Fort Myers
Downtown Fort Myers offers a completely different experience from the beaches. The historic River District features brick streets, public art, museums, galleries, restaurants, and locally owned boutiques. It’s an excellent option if you’re looking for indoor attractions or a break from the beach during your vacation.
River District Attractions
Some of the River District’s most popular attractions include:
- The Edison and Ford Winter Estates, where visitors can tour historic homes, gardens, and museums.
- Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, which hosts art exhibits, concerts, and community events.
- Florida Repertory Theatre, offering live performances throughout the year.
- Luminary Hotel & Co., featuring rooftop dining with views of the Caloosahatchee River.
After exploring downtown, you’ll discover even more things to do in Fort Myers Beach during the rest of your stay.
Final Thoughts
The best day trips from Fort Myers Beach offer something for every type of traveler. Sanibel and Captiva provide beautiful beaches and island charm, Lovers Key and Cayo Costa showcase Southwest Florida’s natural landscapes, and Downtown Fort Myers delivers history, shopping, and entertainment.
No matter which destination you choose, you’ll enjoy returning to comfortable rentals in Fort Myers Beach after a full day of exploring. Each location is close enough for an easy day trip while offering a unique experience beyond the beach.
Book Your Fort Myers Beach Vacation Rental with Kathy Nesbit Vacations
Kathy Nesbit Vacations offers a variety of vacation homes and condos, making exploring Southwest Florida simple. Stay close to the beach while remaining within easy driving distance of Sanibel Island, Captiva, Downtown Fort Myers, and several state parks.
Browse our available rentals today and start planning a vacation filled with unforgettable day trips, beautiful beaches, and memorable coastal adventures.
