Top 5 Beaches In SWFL

Attention Beachgoers!! Now that it’s officially summer, who’s ready to hit the beach? (Like I really need to use summer as an excuse to go to the beach in Florida.)

 

I did however, use this blog as an excuse to take a few days off and explore the many different beaches Southwest Florida has to offer and give you the best advice on which beach you will enjoy the most. It doesn’t matter what kind of beach person you are–we have them all.

5. Fort Myers Beach

I couldn’t possibly choose the top Southwest Florida Beaches without mentioning Fort Myers Beach. Having almost 7 miles of soft, white sand, Fort Myers Beach is one of the widest and prettiest beaches in SWFL. It’s easy to simmer down and get some R&R here. Plus, FMB offers one of the prettiest sunsets you’ll ever see. There are more than 30 public beach access points along the beach that are marked with colorful signs. If you’re the type of beach bum that likes to pop into bars and restaurants, this is the one for you. Fort Myers Beach is filled with fun restaurants and shops.

 

When you are coming over the bridge to get onto Fort Myers Beach, if you make a right and take it down all the way to the end, you will find yourself at Crescent Beach Family Park. Located right at the bend after crossing the Matanzas Pass Bridge onto Ft. Myers Beach. This 400ft long beach has a lot to offer for its size. There are public restrooms, a very nice picnic area, two small sand volleyball courts, plenty of shops for all your beach needs, and lots of places to grab a bite to eat, making it the perfect family beach. Plus, Margaritaville is moving in soon. Just another great reason to go visit FMB!

 

Pro Tip: Get there early for easy parking.

4. Lover’s Key State Park

Whether you’re in Naples or Fort Myers, Lover’s Key State Park is a two-mile-long beach that is bordered by mangroves. The park is open all year around and is accessible by trams and boardwalks. There is a bike rental shop to ride along the trails through the natural growth. Canoes, stand-up paddle boards, and kayak rentals are also available.

 

The 2.5-mile mangrove estuary is a must to take a paddleboard or kayak through and if you’re lucky you might even catch a glimpse of some of Florida’s wildlife: manatees, bald eagles, ospreys, dolphins, and the occasional alligator. The hiking trails are especially fun for nature lovers and there are picnic areas throughout the park that makes this beach the perfect way to spend the day for anyone. Weddings and special events have become very popular at Lover’s Key State Park.

 

Pro Tip: Say ‘yes’ to packing your bug spray!

3. Lighthouse Beach Park

Located at the eastern tip of Sanibel Island at the end of Periwinkle Way is Lighthouse Beach Park and Beach. Just like the name suggests, there's an iconic lighthouse overlooking the beach. Good sunbathing, excellent shelling, and the clear warm ocean make this one of the best beaches in Sanibel.

 

There are public restrooms, outside showers, picnic areas with BBQ grills, and on the bay side of the park there is a fishing pier also. The sunsets are another iconic feature of Lighthouse Beach. I have been fortunate enough to capture some of the most amazing sunsets here. This beach is also located along Boca Grande Pass, which has been known as one of the best spots for fishing in the world. Whether you’re looking for beautiful scenery or some adventure, Lighthouse Beach has it all.

 

Pro Tip: Say ‘yes’ to packing your bug spray!

2. Bowman’s Beach

On the west end of Sanibel Island lies one of the best beaches SWFL has to offer. Bowman’s Beach is a beautiful wide, white sand beach with excellent shelling and calm clear water. There is a little bit of a hike to the beach along boardwalks that wind through mangroves, but trust me when I tell you that the walk is worth every minute.

 

One of the coolest features of Bowman’s Beach is that it has a shell kiosk that will help you identify all the shells you find along the beach. There is an easily accessible kayak launch and fitness for all nature lovers and a small playground and grills so it makes it easy to bring your family for the day.

 

Pro Tip: Pack a wagon or cart with wheels if you plan on bringing a cooler!

1. North Captiva Island

Not to get confused with “Captiva”, North Captiva Island is my personal favorite beach to visit in SWFL. The tiny island is only accessible by boat and the main form of transportation on the island is by golf cart. The island is pretty secluded and there is so much privacy that at times I’ve felt like I was on a deserted beach. There’s so much nature and wildlife on the island. If you’re looking for crystal clear waters and clean beaches, you’ve found it here. North Captiva Island is perfect for an authentic island vibe and an island getaway, You will not be disappointed.