Discover Why Fort Myers is the Ultimate Outdoor Adventure Destination

If you’re passionate about kayaking, boating, or biking, Fort Myers' picturesque islands, beaches, and neighborhoods provide endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Spot the vibrant pink roseate spoonbills and other breathtaking birds at J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Perfect your swing at one of the nation’s historic public golf courses. Enjoy a day exploring the coastal islands on a private boat. Here are several exciting ways to experience the natural beauty of Southwest Florida.

Explore Fort Myers’ Scenic Waterways by Kayak

Kayakers and paddleboarders will find a wealth of adventure along the shores of Southwest Florida. The greater Fort Myers area features the Great Calusa Blueway, a 190-mile water trail marked by navigational signs that meanders through inland tributaries and coastal waters.

Nature enthusiasts can launch from Bowditch Point Park on Fort Myers Beach to venture into the Gulf of Mexico, where dolphins, manatees, and shorebirds are commonly spotted. Join a guided kayak tour with Gulf Coast Kayak through Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve to navigate mangrove forests and discover the legacy of the Calusa Indians, who skillfully navigated this wilderness over 1,000 years ago.

Experience the thrill of island hopping

No visit to Fort Myers is truly complete without dedicating a day to exploring the stunning coastal islands, many of which are only reachable by boat. Reserve a spot on a charter, arrange a private tour, or rent your own craft from local services like Captiva Cruises or Adventures in Paradise to soak in the tropical atmosphere and unique island charm of Southwest Florida.

Start your day with a hike through Pine Island Flatwoods Preserve, then hop on a water taxi with Island Girl Charters to Cabbage Key Inn & Restaurant for a delightful lunch featuring stone crab claws. Afterwards, explore the charming downtown of Boca Grande at the southern tip of Gasparilla Island, famous for its pastel cottages and pristine beaches, before visiting the historic Boca Grande Lighthouse.

Discover Fort Myers on two wheels

Exploring Fort Myers and its surrounding neighborhoods is best done on two wheels. Designated as a Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists, Sanibel Island features over 25 miles of bike paths that wind through the town and the wetlands of its wildlife refuge. You can either bring your own bike or rent one from several local shops.

On Gasparilla Island, the Boca Grande Bike Path stretches the entire length of the island, offering numerous scenic spots for capturing postcard-perfect photos and breathtaking water views. For those seeking a bit more adventure, ambitious cyclists can head to Cape Coral, another Bicycle Friendly Community boasting over 90 miles of interconnected bike routes that meander alongside picturesque canals, nature preserves, and the Caloosahatchee River.

Enhance your golf skills at Fort Myers Country Club and beyond

Enjoy year-round golfing in the warm, sunny climate of Fort Myers. Established in 1916 by the renowned Donald Ross, Fort Myers Country Club stands as one of the oldest public golf courses on Florida's west coast, where Mina Edison, Thomas Edison’s wife, used to play. (The course is conveniently located near the iconic Edison and Ford Winter Estates.)

Next, hit the links at the region's newest course, Saltleaf Golf Preserve. Nestled on a 144-acre uplands preserve, this 18-hole course designed by Raymond Floyd immerses players in a stunning natural landscape, featuring native plants, lakes, and trails, with no formal bunkers or homes in sight.

Experience birdwatching on Sanibel Island

A haven for birdwatching aficionados, J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge occupies one-third of Sanibel Island and is home to more than 245 bird species. Guests can enjoy a serene walk through the refuge, stopping at various overlooks and an observation tower to spot their favorite birds, including the iconic pink roseate spoonbill. Consider booking a boat or paddling tour with Tarpon Bay Explorers to explore more of the park with an expert guide who can highlight intriguing plants and wildlife, or opt for a relaxing tram ride across the Refuge.