Few places in Florida rank as high on the romance meter as The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel and the Lee Islands. Over 100 of them dot the Gulf Coast opposite Fort Myers. We stayed on Sanibel, then took day trips to investigate a half-dozen others.
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| Shelling on Bowman's Beach. Sanibel Island, Florida. |
| Photo © Barb & Ron Kroll |
Each morning, we searched the beach for heart cockles, angel wings and kitten's paw shells. Later, we rented a bicycle-built-for-two and cycled along the path bordering Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
Brown pelicans dived for fish and cameo-pink roseate spoonbills perched in mangroves like Christmas ornaments.
Lovers Key
One day, we drove to Lovers Key to stroll along the driftwood-strewn beach and enjoy a barbecue. We discovered more wonderful picnic spots at unspoiled Bowman's Beach.
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| Sanibel beach. Banded tulip shell. |
| Photo © Barb & Ron Kroll |
If you're counting pennies, many resorts offer substantially reduced rates from late April to early December. You can also save money at hotels which have kitchens and/or microwave ovens. Make your own breakfast or lunch, then splurge on dinner at a romantic Fort Myers or Sanibel restaurant.
Useppa Island
From the marina at South Seas Island Resort, on Captiva Island, cruises depart daily for Cabbage Key. The laid-back island inspired Jimmy Buffet to pen Cheeseburger in Paradise. The restaurant is papered with 30,000 autographed U.S. $1 bills.
Alternatively, cruise to a bygone era at Useppa Island, with its turn-of-the-century homes and Great Gatsby-style croquet games. Either way, you'll be back in South Seas Island Resort in time to witness a colorful palm-stenciled sunset.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau: www.fortmyers-sanibel.com
Visit Florida: www.VisitFlorida.com
More things to see and do in the Fort Myers and Sanibel area:
Calusa Indian History at Mound Key Archeological State Park Florida
Ding Darling Canoe Trips – Sanibel Island Florida