5 Ways to Warm Up This Winter
Among all the warm places to visit in February and beyond, we can think of one amazing place that checks all the boxes for a perfect vacation. When it comes to sunny winter destinations, Fort Myers has balmy beaches, lush outdoor spaces and unique neighborhoods that are ripe with cultural and culinary discoveries. Experience the best of Southwest Florida with these five ways to make the most out of your warm-weather days.
Beach Days Ahead
From the buzz of Fort Myers Beach to the more secluded stretches of Sanibel and Captiva and beyond, our beaches are probably our best-known attractions — and for good reason! Pure white sands framed by turquoise waters and endless collections of pristine seashells make every beach day a delight. Want to see what it’s all about? Our webcams give you a live view of real-time conditions. Watch the gentle waves in action, see a sunset or get ready for your next beach adventure.
Patio Dining at Its Best
If you come from a colder climate, you’re probably already craving that sensation of dining outdoors with the sun on your shoulders. Here in our islands, beaches and neighborhoods, we’ve practically made outdoor dining an art form! Dine al fresco overlooking Estero Bay, hang out in the heart of downtown’s First Street, or even enjoy a meal on a farm where you can see exactly where the ingredients were grown.
Paddle Up!
With more than 80 access points along the 200-mile-long Great Calusa Blueway, we have what is considered one of the best paddling trails in the country. Rent a canoe, kayak or paddleboard and watch the water sparkle under the sun as you explore waterways like Pine Island Sound and Matlacha Pass, the Caloosahatchee River and Estero Bay. These tranquil trails meander through lush mangroves, into quiet back bays and along flowing creeks, inviting you to inhale the fresh air and center yourself in the warmth of the outdoors.
Go Wild for Wildlife
Playful marine life and bashful crustaceans, rare sea turtles and some of the best bird-watching spots in the world — it’s no wonder that the Fort Myers area is such a hit with wildlife fans. Discover where friendly manatees like to congregate (hint: Manatee Park is hopping between January and March) and get to know the migratory birds that call Fort Myers home during the winter months. Want to help support conservation efforts? May through October is sea turtle nesting season and there are a variety of organizations dedicated to helping these fragile creatures thrive.
Art and the Outdoors
Look around and you’ll see splashes of creativity everywhere. Local artists have created galleries of outdoor murals throughout our neighborhoods. The first Friday of every month is made for cultural immersion at the Art Walk, where more than a dozen distinctive galleries in the downtown Fort Myers River District showcase works, live art demonstrations and performances. Enjoy the light evening breeze at a rooftop bar, such as the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, where you can roam around sculptures while taking in views of the city and the Caloosahatchee River.
What’s your favorite warm-weather activity? Chances are you can experience it right here in Fort Myers, so start planning your winter escape!
