Fort Myers is a tranquil, tropical city located in Southern Florida. Unlike the bustling metropolitan areas of Tampa, Miami, or Orlando, it provides an opportunity to unwind under the sun while enjoying the exquisite coastal scenery.
The nearby beaches and numerous islands present exceptional options for day excursions, while inland areas and further along the coast showcase vast expanses of pristine, protected state forests, wetlands, and the renowned Florida Everglades.
The region surrounding Fort Myers caters to diverse interests, offering something for everyone.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find a magnificent playground on their doorstep, complete with extensive reserves of biodiverse ecosystems unique to southern Florida.
Adventurous individuals can explore swamps and waterways by boat, encounter crocodiles and alligators along the rivers – and, in some areas, even catch a glimpse of the rare and endangered Florida Panther – while just a short journey away, the reefs and marine life in the Gulf of Mexico await discovery.
After a day of hiking or boating through the tropical wetlands, there are countless islands featuring pristine white sand beaches for relaxation, all conveniently located near Fort Myers. Enjoy a drink while you unwind and take in the picturesque surroundings.
Below are the top day trips from Fort Myers:
1. Everglades National Park
Fort Myers serves as an ideal gateway for exploring the diverse ecosystems of Everglades National Park, a vast area comprised of tropical wetlands and forests at Florida’s southern tip.
This extensive region is home to several critically endangered species, including crocodiles, panthers, and manatees.
Due to its unique ecological significance, the Everglades has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, encompassing 1.5 million acres of land that provide virtually limitless exploration opportunities.
The wetlands present countless options for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife observation; however, the most immersive way to appreciate the Everglades is by traversing its waterways on a boat trip or embarking on one of the famous airboat excursions.
The Everglades stands out as the premier day trip destination from Fort Myers, offering such an abundance of sights and experiences that many visitors find themselves returning repeatedly.
Available tour: Everglades Day Safari from Fort Myers
2. Big Cypress National Preserve
Located closer to Fort Myers than the Everglades, the equally impressive Big Cypress National Preserve remains slightly less renowned.
This protected area borders the Everglades and encompasses an extensive expanse of vital swampland integral to the region’s ecosystem.
As an inland, freshwater location, it differs from the Everglades, as it was originally designated as a sanctuary for Native American communities, some of whom still inhabit parts of the land today.
Visitors can enjoy numerous hiking trails, boardwalks, and wildlife tours that provide insight into this uniquely preserved ecosystem.
3. 10,000 Islands
Positioned south of Fort Myers and north of the Everglades, the area known as 10,000 Islands is not as numerous as its name suggests; while there aren’t actually 10,000 islands, there are still several hundred, offering plenty for exploration.
Most of the islands are uninhabited, transforming this area into a genuine wilderness waiting to be discovered.
Consider taking a kayak for a peaceful exploration of hidden bays and secluded beaches, renting a boat for extensive island hopping, or engaging in a snorkeling adventure to explore the pristine marine surroundings.
4. Marco Island
Marco Island is the largest island within the 10,000 Islands chain, featuring hotels, high-rise buildings, and stunning beach views overlooking the distant islands.
As a beachfront escape, it provides the ideal environment for enjoying the luxury associated with island living in Florida.
This destination allows for relaxation, with limited activities aside from lounging on the inviting white sandy shores while taking in the scenic ocean vistas.
5. Naples
This relaxed coastal town invites visitors to enjoy beachside dining and drinking along its spectacular waterfront.
With countless restaurants and bars offering high-quality cuisine and beverages, guests can unwind while observing life unfold at a leisurely pace.
Notably, Naples Beach is renowned for its remarkably white sand, stretching for miles and providing ample space to find your own tranquil spot along this pristine segment of the Florida coastline.
6. Florida Panther Refuge
The Florida Panther Refuge constitutes a smaller protected area within the Everglades Region and safeguards the habitat of some of the final remaining panthers in the locale.
With only around a hundred of these endangered animals surviving in Florida, the refuge serves as a critical breeding ground.
For the adventurous, several challenging hiking opportunities are available, accompanied by Rangers, which may allow you to observe one of these elusive and endangered creatures in their natural habitat.
This experience is truly adventurous; therefore, be prepared to embrace Florida’s wilderness.
Prepare for mosquitoes, humidity, and the thrill of adventure.
7. Bonita Springs
Just south of Fort Myers lies another serene coastal town known as Bonita Springs.
This location is famous for its undeveloped sandy beaches and beautiful sand dunes that border the shore.
Barefoot Beach stands out as a preferred destination for fishing, watersports, or simple relaxation while gazing at the ocean and basking in the Florida sunshine.
8. Sanibel Island
Located just offshore from Fort Myers, Sanibel Island is renowned for its abundant collection of shells.
The sandy beaches facing the Gulf of Mexico have accumulated shells over thousands of years, attracting collectors from around the globe in search of rare varieties that are hard to find elsewhere.
Visitors flock here to marvel at the multitude of shells along the coastline while also enjoying the large wildlife refuge areas, where it is possible to observe various species, from turtles to bobcats, along the shores of Sanibel Island.
9. Captiva Island
Adjacent to Sanibel Island is Captiva Island.
Notably, the two islands were once connected until a hurricane struck in 1926, severing the sandbar and creating two distinct islands.
Although smaller than Sanibel, Captiva is equally stunning and offers ample opportunities to spend an entire day walking along its rugged beaches and observing the abundant local wildlife.
10. Pine Island
Pine Island is situated a short distance from both the mainland and Fort Myers, designated as the largest island in the state.
Accessible via a connecting bridge, this island offers a peaceful retreat with a unique day trip option, away from the bustling environment of Fort Myers.
Life on Pine Island is calm; though it lacks extensive beaches, the landscape is characterized by lush mangroves, and much of the area is dedicated to agriculture rather than urban development, imparting a true rustic charm in contrast to the rest of Florida.
11. Matlacha Island
Matlacha Island is located between Pine Island and Fort Myers.
With a population of only around 700 residents, it features the Matlacha Pass National Wildlife Refuge, a sanctuary of mangroves and endangered wildlife.
This island exhibits an even more rustic atmosphere than Pine Island, showcasing a quaint small-town vibe that instantly makes visitors feel at home.
12. Lake Okeechobee
Lake Okeechobee is a vast freshwater lake situated in the interior of Florida.
Its extensive size offers numerous exploration possibilities limited only by time.
Hiking and biking trails extend for miles along the shoreline, while fishing expeditions venture onto the tranquil waters in search of significant freshwater catches.
13. Venice Beach
North of Fort Myers lies the iconic Venice Beach.
Famous worldwide for its expansive white sands, Venice Beach is conveniently accessible for day trips from Fort Myers.
Endless stretches of sand, coral, piers, and boardwalks line the shore, offering countless opportunities to embrace the vibrant beach lifestyle along the Florida coastline.
14. Tampa
The city of Tampa is situated approximately a two-hour drive north of Fort Myers.
This vibrant location is ideal for those seeking museums and theme parks, offering a refreshing change from the stunning beaches and natural attractions in the area.
Tampa is a prominent metropolis, being one of Florida’s largest, featuring an array of cultural and artistic exhibitions, galleries, and family-oriented amusement parks.
15. Miami
Miami is a prominent coastal city recognized worldwide.
Although it is approximately a two to three-hour drive from Fort Myers, a journey to Florida is incomplete without experiencing the breathtaking skyline and bustling beaches of one of America’s most renowned cities.
Often referred to as the “Capital of Latin America,” Miami boasts a vibrant cultural scene, reflected in its music, cuisine, and festive atmosphere.
Consider making a long day excursion to take in the extraordinary sights, including the remarkable skyline, before returning to the peaceful and refined ambiance of Fort Myers for the night.
