Family Insider

Only a two-hour drive west from Fort Lauderdale, you’ll find the beautiful beaches of Sanibel and Fort Myers. These destinations are literally just minutes apart and since they’re so close to my home in Miami, we escape here each summer.

 

One of my all-time favorite resorts is Casa Ybel, steps away from the sea-shelled covered beach and the Gulf of Mexico. Case Ybel is awesome for families and here’s why: large units with all the comforts of home like a full-size refrigerator, full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, living and dining areas, and they have a huge swimming pool including a kiddie pool. You can also dine right onsite at their poolside bar and grill, Coconuts, or at the Thistle Lodge (the finest dining establishment on the island in my opinion)! They also have an onsite kids program where they can spend a few hours each day making crafts and having fun.

 

We did something completely new this year; we headed over to Fort Myers Beach and explored Salty Sam’s Marina. This place has it all! Ever rode a segway? Man is that fun! Kids ages 8 and up can take an hour-long segway tour that included lessons. They also have a real pirate ship that you can board and set sail for a 90-minute ride. Spot dolphins, get your face or body painted, see live pirate shows, and enjoy drinks and snacks, too. And this isn't just for kids! There were plenty of fun-loving adults on board who got off the boat sporting painted tattoos and wearing big smiles.

 

Salt Sam's Marina also has an ice cream shop onsite and a beautiful waterfront restaurant serving up a really nice variety of fresh dishes. You can even come by boat if you prefer. I have to tell you how relaxing it is to sit out there and watch the boats and birds, and just let that warm breeze blow all over you! Love it.

 

On Sanibel, one place that’s not to be missed is J.N. Ding Darling Nature Reserve. You can take a four-mile, drive-through car tour, but before you do, stop at the Visitor’s Center with its great exhibits and touch tank. There’s also an area where you can rent kayaks, pontoon boats or take a guided boat tour. Don’t miss the gift shop upstairs.

 

My boys, even though they are only 5 and 11 are "foodies." We always have a hard time deciding where to eat as there are so many great places! First on the list is Biddle’s Bucket. This place was made for family fun. Kids get a big galvanized bucket of toys as soon as they enter and there’s also a game room in the back so adults can enjoy their dinner too! Their menu offers something for everyone and their daily specials will make your mouth water.

 

Doc Ford’s, a great dining establishment, has two locations that you’ll love: on Sanibel right off Rabbit Road and their newest location is on Fort Myers Beach – right on the water – right before the bridge. We love Doc Ford’s fish tacos and if you're looking for a GREAT fish sandwich, order it here. It is so full of flavor. Their kids’ entrees include an appetizer of carrot sticks and ranch dip, and an ice cream sandwich for dessert.

 

Another neat find is the Twilight Café on Sanibel. Be here for breakfast and try the Eggs Benedict or Sanibel Omelet.

 

 

The biggest draw to this area is its natural beauty and the sheer amount of seashells, in every shape, size and color. You will not believe it until you see it for yourself. There is nothing like it in all of North America. In fact, it’s one of the top shelling spots on the planet. No kidding.

 

 

So my recommendation would be to come visit the beaches of Sanibel and Fort Myers and discover paradise. You’ll see why it’s our family’s summer vacation year after year. (Perhaps we'll try a romantic getaway next time, what a concept!)

 

 

Now, back to reality...

 

Jill Martin, Family Insider, VISIT FLORIDA