Page 36 - DreamScapes Magazine | Winter/Spring 2024

PHOTOS: FORT MYERS – ISLANDS, BEACHES AND NEIGHBORHOODS
Find Wellness Throughout
FORT MYERS — ISLANDS BEACHES AND NEIGHBORHOODS
BY DREAMSCAPES STAFF
Fort Myers is an easygoing destination
SPOT NATIVE AND
with nearly 970 kilometres of natural
MIGRATORY BIRDS
coastline, including more than 100
Nature enthusiasts of all ages will find coastal islands and 81 kilometres of seashell-
enriching insights at J.N. “Ding” Darling strewn beaches. It also has a way of leaving a
National Wildlife Refuge, and birdwatchers lasting impression. You can relax on white-
especially will see a paradise. The park takes sand beaches, drift along peaceful paddling
up one-third of Sanibel Island and is home to trails, explore thriving neighbourhoods, and
over 245 species of birds, including the area’s indulge in fresh-caught seafood. Start
signature pink roseate spoonbill.
exploring what makes Fort Myers the perfect
place to recharge and reconnect.
WARM UP ON WHITE-SAND BEACHES
GET CLOSE TO NATURE
Visitors should spend at least one day visiting
Wellness travellers will find peace and tran-
coastal islands like Cabbage Key, North Cap- quility in parks and preserves throughout Fort
tiva and Boca Grande. Be sure to reserve a spot Myers — Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods.
on one of several charters, arrange a private Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve has a 1.5-
tour or rent a boat. Natural settings and kilometre boardwalk through intermingled
secluded beaches will have you feeling like wetland and upland ecosystems. The Great
you’re worlds away.
Calusa Blueway, a 305-kilometre marked pad-
dling trail, meanders through mangrove
NOURISH THE BODY WITH
forests and past historic sites.
FARM-TO-TABLE FOOD
Endless sun and subtropical conditions lead to
great bounties of produce in the Fort Myers area. Visit Buckingham Farms, a 35-hectare property growing and serving its own harvest where you can purchase honey, preserves and more of nature’s goodies to take home. Don’t forget the fresh seafood served at restaurants up and down the coast, including “pink gold” shrimp.
RETREAT TO A HISTORIC HOTEL
Book an overnight getaway to Shangri-La Springs, a historic hotel on 3.2 hectares of beautifully cultivated land in Bonita Springs. The property brings together all the necessary
elements to improve your well-being, including an organic garden, farm-to-table restaurant and on-site spa.
BOOK A REJUVENATING
SPA TREATMENT
A healthy dose of sunshine and warm Gulf waters are good for the soul. What’s even better? Visiting a world-class spa at either Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa or ’Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa. You can combine a dream vacation with some serious self-care. Book everything from relaxing massages and pressure therapy to good old- fashioned pampering.
Yes, it’s true. Wellness comes naturally throughout Fort Myers—Islands, Beaches And Neighborhoods. DS
Travel Planner
For more wellness travel information about Fort Myers and area, VisitFortMyers.com
36 DREAMSCAPES WINTER/SPRING 2024