Picture pristine barrier islands and lush mangrove forests, and add boutique shopping and waterfront dining to this sun vacay menu. What do you get? Fort Myers. Positioned on the Gulf of Mexico, this easygoing destination is easily accessible from Canada with daily non-stop service from Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa to Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW).

Canadian visitors will find so many exciting ways to fill their vacations. 

DINING

Foodies can indulge in fresh seafood while savouring perfect sunsets over the Gulf in Cape Coral. A laid-back meal of oysters on the half-shell or peel-and-eat shrimp can be enjoyed at RumRunners or The Nauti Mermaid Dockside Bar & Grill. If seafood doesn’t win you over, the wide variety of beverage options might. Wicked Dolphin Distillery takes visitors behind the scenes of award-winning, small-batch rum and vodka, and Big Storm Brewing Co. offers over 20 beer varieties made from locally sourced ingredients. Let loose for the evening at one of the bars along 47th Terrace and enjoy live music, yard games and even line dancing.

ISLAND HOPS

You’ll want to spend at least one day visiting secluded islands, many of which are only accessible by boat. Take one of several charters leaving from Sanibel and Captiva islands, book a private tour or rent a boat. As you explore Pine Island Sound, you may spot a group of playful dolphins or a friendly manatee. Visit the famous Cabbage Key Inn for lunch, book a fishing charter or stroll the botanical garden trail on picturesque Useppa. Each island has a distinct personality ready to be discovered.

NATURE

Nature enthusiasts of all ages can gain enriching insights at J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge by observing birdlife and native flora. Visit Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve to walk the 1.6-kilometre boardwalk through intermingled wetland and upland ecosystems. Watch for turtles, otters and wading birds.

HERITAGE

Did you know that Fort Myers has several landmarks of historical significance? Walk the Calusa Heritage Trail at the Randell Research Center to see the shell mounds built by the area’s oldest-known settlers. Koreshan State Park was the home of a 19th-century religious settlement, and the community structures are still standing today. Don’t forget to visit the winter estates of two of America’s most prominent inventors, Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. The Edison and Ford Winter Estates include botanical gardens, a museum and a research laboratory. 

Let the Fort Myers area transport you to another time.

TRAVEL PLANNER

Visit a place where you can create #MyFortMyers moments naturally. Start planning at VisitFortMyers.com