Page 12 - DreamScapes Magazine | Winter/Spring 2022

FORT MYERS
Throughout the islands, beaches and neighbourhoods
BY BRYEN DUNN
W ith hundreds of kilometres of bike routes, an easily navi- gable network of canals and rivers, and an abundance of arts, attrac- tions, and activities, the 11 distinct areas of southwest Florida’s Fort Myers region make it the prized getaway for seeking sun and solitude. Sure, there are the beautiful beaches of Captiva and Sanibel Islands, but if you’re looking for that true authentic “Old Florida” vibe, it’s the smaller locales that
offer an off-the-beaten path experience.
ARTSY ISLAND VIBES
PHOTO: BRIAN TIETZ
The relaxed atmosphere and picturesque
there is no shortage of adventure. Explore
boasting the world’s largest collection of shells surroundings are what attract artists to
historic lighthouses, experience quiet
and coral.
Pine Island and Matlacha (pronounced
beaches, and kayak around the over 100
MATT-LA-SHAY). A throwback in time to
islets by Boca Grande & Outer Islands. Not
WATER AND WILDLIFE VIBES
when things moved slower, the 27-km-long
to be missed are North Captiva for shelling,
The Fort Myers region is the perfect spot for enclave is home to an eclectic mix of fishing
and Cayo Costa for wildlife.
horseback riding and fishing boat charters, enthusiasts and artists. Visitors have plenty
and for the paddle lovers, it’s kayaking the of opportunities to peruse local shops, gal-
HIGHLIGHT: Families should definitely stop
Great Calusa Blueway for manatee and dol- leries and markets. The island has several
by Sun Splash Family Water Park, Mike Green-
phin encounters. You can kick it up a notch communities, including St. James City,
well’s Family Fun Park, or Four Mile Cove
on a swamp buggy ride as you ride through Bokeelia, Pineland, and the artist haven of
Ecological Preserve.
four ecosystems with Babcock Wilderness Matlacha, which is actually a tiny island.
Adventures for your chance to spot alliga- HISTORY AND HEALTHY VIBES
tors and panthers.
HIGHLIGHT: Part of the Great Calusa
The former plantation of Bonita Springs and Blueway paddling trail, Matlacha Pass adds
Estero now includes attractions such as appeal for the more adventurous types.
Wonder Gardens, Bonita Beach Park, and
HIGHLIGHT: For a completely unique local experience, check out the Murder Mystery Dinner Train. The scenic 3.5-hour journey includes dinner and a live-action murder mystery show. DS
TRAVEL PLANNER
For more travel information on the
FAMILY FUN VIBES
A boater’s paradise, Cape Coral makes an enjoyable excursion via the Caloosahatchee River and its network of canals. Another
the Koreshan State Historic Site, often referred to as “New Jerusalem.” More history can be explored at Mound Key, a ceremonial centre of the Calusa Indigenous commu- nity. Make sure to visit Dolly’s Produce
great way to explore this relatively flat area
Patch and Eatery, renowned for homemade is on two wheels via dedicated bike routes.
pies, or Shangri-La Springs, a spa oasis for Other family outdoor activities could
natural rejuvenation.
include kayaking through a mangrove forest
or stopping by a bird or butterfly sanctuary.
HIGHLIGHT: Be sure to visit the Shell Fac- At the southern tip of Gasparilla Island
tory and Nature Park in North Fort Myers,
area, check out VisitFortMyers.com.
12 DREAMSCAPES WINTER/SPRING 2022