Naples, Ft. Myers and Sarasota are all located on the southwest coast of Florida.
NAPLES
Located on the Gulf of Mexico in southwest Florida, Naples is well known for its high-end shopping, beautiful golf courses, world-class culture and elegant dining. But Naples is also an affordable family destination that appeals to nature lovers and beach aficionados.
Naples has the reputation of being a haven for the well-to-do. A well-manicured stretch of Gordon Drive in Port Royal is home to many of their beautiful multi-million dollar homes. You can get a glimpse of wealthy and famous lifestyles by driving south on Gulf Shore Blvd. You can rent bikes and get a biking map showing the miles of designated bike lanes all throughout Olde Naples at any bike shop around town.
Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South are the focal points for Naples shopping in the historic downtown area, with numerous art galleries, chic clothing boutiques and home decor shops. When it comes time for lunch or drinks and dinner, enjoy your meal with a water view, whether you choose a swank Naples beachfront resort or one of the local bayside bars.
FORT MYERS
Southwest Florida is a major tourist destination and the gateway to Fort Myers.
Fort Myers is known for its white sand beaches, fishing, shopping and the chance to learn about two of the nation’s most famous inventors. You and your family can enjoy natural wonders, hand out on top-notch Fort Myers beaches and treat yourselves to innumerable family-friendly attractions, restaurants and resorts along the sunny Gulf Coast.
Do not miss the winter estates of Thomas and Henry Ford. The land that Ford bought in 1916 is next to the house of his mentor, Edison. Both estates have become museums that pay tribute. They should remind us of what they accomplished and how they overcame obstacles.
The city has many parks where you can play sports or just relax with friends. There are also several golf courses within driving distance from downtown. If you want to go swimming, there are plenty of public pools around town.
Fort Myers Beach has an abundance of shops and restaurants along its main street, San Carlos Boulevard. It features many art galleries, boutiques, antique stores, and unique gift shops. There are several museums on this beautiful barrier island that offer exhibits about local history and marine life.
If you’re looking for something more active, try biking through one of the many trails near by. Or if you prefer water activities, take advantage of the nearby gulf waters. Boating enthusiasts will find their favorite spots at the marinas located throughout Southwest Florida.
Estero Bay – Fort Myers – Phantom 3 Drone – Greg Heine Photography from Greg Heine Photography on Vimeo.
The abandoned city scene with the Edison Theatre, from the movie Day of the Dead (1985) was filmed in downtown Fort Myers.
SARASOTA
There are a multitude of cultural and environmental attractions in Sarasota, such as beaches, resorts and connections to the Ringling family, the Amish community, and the Sarasota School of Architecture. Fort Myers and Punta Gorda are located north of the city near the southern end of the Tampa Bay Area.
Its visitors will enjoy the city’s mix of culture, fine dining, thrill rides, and pristine beaches, as well as a variety of shopping opportunities. A museum named after the family that founded America’s most famous circus pays tribute to the Ringlings in Sarasota.
There’s a miniature circus and old costumes on display. With over 100 Rubens canvasses, Sarasota boasts the largest collection of Rubens works in the world. The Ca’ d’Zan Mansion, an elegant Venetian Gothic palace that was the former family home of the Ringlings, can also be visited. Sarasota has a variety of fine shopping, including St. Armand’s Circle nearby the coast.
Sarasota is also a popular golf destination.