A charming waterfront enclave near Fort Myers, Cape Coral reflects the Old Florida lifestyle with its winding canals, mangroves, nature preserves and rustic fishing docks. From water sports to golf and kid-friendly activities, Cape Coral offers a laid-back getaway along the coast of south-west Florida.

Things to do

If you love the beach and water, head to Cape Coral Yacht Club, home to a white-sand beach. Anglers can enjoy snook fishing on the long dock jetting into Caloosahatchee River. Stay through the evening for seafood, tiki-bar cocktails and live music at The Boathouse.

Preserving the area’s natural resources takes centre stage at the 147-hectare Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve, where you can hike or rent a kayak to explore the river and spot indigenous heron and ibis. Spend time at the boardwalks and picturesque parks at Rotary Park Environmental Center, which also houses the Tom Allen Memorial Butterfly Garden.

Pick up some local art, produce, flowers and handcrafted cheeses at Cape Coral Farmers Market and sample regional cuisine from the town’s best food-truck vendors. Travelling with the family? Take adventurous little ones on the Cape Fear slide and Fun-L-Tunnel at Sun Splash Family Waterpark.

Honour the nation’s military by visiting the Southwest Florida Military Museum & Library, stocked with memorabilia and artefacts from the Revolutionary War. In a nod to Florida’s past reputation for pirates and pillaging, toss back a rum cocktail at Wicked Dolphin Rum Distillery and visit the barrel room to learn about the distilling process.

Getting around

Buses, shuttles, mini-buses, trolleys, taxis and rideshares offer transportation in Cape Coral. You can also rent a car at Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers, about a 25-minute drive from Cape Coral.