Shells, sand and sun

Southwest Florida offers the unabashed pampering destinations like Naples, Marco Island and Fort Myers Beach provide. Florida’s Southwest mixes island resort paradise with unspoiled natural wonders. Mix in some family-friendly attractions and you can see why the Southwest is one of Florida’s top-ranking destination areas.

The Lee Island Coast, which stretches from Boca Grande to Bonita Springs, boasts more than 50 miles of beachcombing opportunities along the warm Gulf of Mexico shoreline. Captiva and Sanibel Island are known as the shelling capitals of the world, where visitors come to pick their favorite sea treasures.

Southwest Florida is home to the following best beaches:

Captiva Island: Named the most romantic beach two years running, it’s no wonder.

Captiva is a popular wedding and honeymoon destination.

Fort  Myers: This family-friendly beach is both affordable and bursting with activities. The planetarium and hands-on imagination museum  are just the start.

Sanibel  Island: Shells and wildlife make Sanibel a natural wonder that  draws both snowbirds and honeymooners.

Lovers  Key State Park: As the name suggests, this is an ideal location for lovers. A Florida wedding and honeymoon hotspot, nature lovers will  also appreciate the unspoiled beaches, and the native wildlife.

Naples  Beach: This beach is hot, hot, hot! If you like nightlife,  there’s plenty of action to be found, but not just for party animals -culture vultures will love the symphony and live theater.

Marco  Island: Dolphins, mangroves and sandbars make this a great  escape for nature lovers and newlywed.

Punta  Gorda: Golf and Old South charm lure snowbirds and anyone  seeking a peaceful refuge.

Siesta Key: A circus museum, imagination zone and tropical jungle crank this Key up a notch. Between beaches and  attractions, the kids will never be able to say, “I’m bored!”