If your family isn't up for a drive to the beach, head over to Cape Coral's Yacht Club for a dip in the water. Located on the Caloosahatchee River, the park encompasses a wide range of facilities including the public beach, fishing pier and community pool. After you've spent some time at the beach, head over to the free racquetball courts, shuffleboard courts, horseshoe pits, fishing pier and public boat ramp.
Alison Hagerup Beach Park AKA Captiva Beach is a wide, sandy stretch of beach located at the northern tip of Captiva Island. Captiva Beach is located within easy walking distance to several Captiva Island casual restaurants and cafes. Travelocity rated Captiva Beach “The Most Romantic Beach in Florida.” Keep in mind that parking is limited here.
Give your pet an off-the-leash run at the only county-owned beach where pets are allowed. Dog Beach is a coastal tideland; therefore, the size of the beach varies on the water level and tide. Disposal stations and dog shower stations are available, and owners are required to clean up after their pets. There is a maximum of two dogs per person allowed. No restrooms but there is a portable toilet. Parking is available at no charge.
Bowditch Point Park beach is open year-round from sunrise to a half hour past sunset. The beach is accessible for individuals with disabilities and dogs are allowed on the beach but must be leashed. There are 10 acres of preserve/restorative area with walking trails, butterfly gardens, and benches for taking in the beauty and serenity of the area. Other amenities include BBQ grills, shaded picnic areas, day boat dock, concessions offering food and beverages, restrooms, and changing facilities. Take the walking trail through the preserve area for impressive panoramic views of Estero Bay!
Bowman’s Beach is made up of several miles of secluded white sandy beach with plenty of room to play, relax, or gather shells. U.S. News Travel Recognizes Bowman’s Beach in the Top 10 Best Beaches in the World and was recognized by Travelocity as one of the Top 25 Beaches in the United States! This Sanibel Island beach is a bit of a hike (about 10 minutes) from the parking lot and there are no concessions. Bowman's Beach amenities include bike rack, shaded playground, BBQ grills, picnic tables, outdoor showers, and restroom facilities. Leashed pets are welcome on Sanibel Island’s beaches.
Although Captiva Beach is a little further away from Cape Coral, it's the perfect spot for a secluded, romantic evening. With clear blue water and tons of shells, Captiva Beach is the last possible bit of public beach on Captiva. You can walk for miles on the sandy shores, and the beach is widely known as one of the most romantic beaches due to its beautiful sunsets. This is one of the few beaches along Southwest Florida's coast that actually has a drop off as you wade into the water.
Cayo Costa consists of acres of pine forests, oak-palm hammocks, mangrove swamps, nature trails, and shady picnic areas. In addition, once you arrive at Cayo Costa State Park you’ll be rewarded with 9 miles of beautiful beaches. Bring a picnic lunch and something to drink as there are no concessions available. Tent camping and primitive cabins are available for those wishing an extended stay (reservations are required).
Located about 20 minutes from Cape Coral, Lynn Hall Memorial Park is located in the hub of activity for Fort Myers Beach. Lynn Hall Memorial Park is a popular family destination and is home to one of the area's best-known attractions: Fort Myers Beach pier. The beach is located next to "Times Square," an area full of restaurants and shops. If you're looking for a fun, activity-filled day at the beach, Lynn Hall is the perfect place.
If you're looking for a secluded beach adventure, Lovers Key is the perfect spot. It's a favorite by the locals, and for years, it was only accessible by boat. Today, you can access the beach by boardwalk or tram, and the beach is a popular spot for shelling, swimming, picnics and sunbathing. The waters are a haven for wildlife including manatees, dolphins, marsh rabbits and bald eagles. Lovers Key also offers kayak tours as well as bicycle, canoe and kayak rentals.
Located on the eastern tip of Sanibel, Lighthouse Beach Park is almost always breezy. The beach is home to the most photographed site on Sanibel Island: the Sanibel Lighthouse. Although visitors are unable to go inside, you can read about the 120-year-old structure on the beaches. The current can be strong, but it makes for great shelling opportunities as all kinds of treasures are washed up on shore. If you want to do something other than stay on the beach, you can explore the wetlands around the lighthouse using the designated nature trails and boardwalks.
