34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (2024)

The top stops along the way from Cape Coral to Ochopee (with short detours) are Fort Myers Beach, Edison & Ford Winter Estates, and Naples Botanical Garden. Other popular stops include Wooten's Everglades Airboat Tours, Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary-ONLINE TICKETS RECOMMENDED, and Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens.

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Wicked Dolphin Rum Distillery - Cape Spirits Inc.

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Distillery

Food & Drink

Gift basket store

Souvenir store

Tiki bar

This tour is a must!! The guide was funny the hostess during the tastings was funny and it was a lovely experience. The rum was also very good. We bought a few to take home. Will return and highly recommend.

Carolyn Wilkerson — Google review

Nice outside / open air tiki hut vibe. We got there late so things were pretty much wrapped up. But we ordered a drink and caught the last few songs from the band.Good selection of rum co*cktails, and friendly staff. The only knock against them is the bugs... they are right next to a pond and the bugs / No See Ums were bad. I HATE those damn things.

Joe Jaquet — Google review

FUN little afternoon activity. We were unaware we had to make.a reservation. They were accomdating and squeezed us onto the tour. They do them on the hour. Nathan was very informative and was able to answer ALL questions our curious crowd had. Crazy to think they consume over 20 tons of sugar in there operations, but have less sugar content then a lot of the name brands were used to. They had two signature co*cktails on special the Mango Arnold Palmer and the Vanilla Bean Sunrise. They both were tasty, I'm not a big tea fan so Sunrise was my favorite. Want to order a wicked punch but it was not available, but did get a sample during the tour. YUM!! Sampling was fun, with the amount of people on the tour it did get a little hot and stuffy in the gift shop at the end, but we made it. Love that they utilize LOCAL ingredients to make their RUM (they have a Vodka too). Take the time and check this operation out, you will not be disappointed.

Erin Murdock — Google review

It’s a great place to go and visit take the tour along with the free tasting. If you have people come visit make sure you take them here. It’s fun and the staff is fun and very knowledgeable !!

Victor Puig — Google review

Such a great place! We did not take a tour but did sampling. They have an amazing line of rum. Hands down much better than mass produced rum! The staff is phenomenal! We are only here for this week and have made 2 visits here so far!

Darrell Hall — Google review

We toured twice, once alone and once with visiting friends from up north. It is really fun. The tour is about 30 minutes and informative. Samples are great. We walked out with several purchased bottles and we don't really drink rum a lot. It is a fun staff and one of the few (maybe only?) woman-owned distilleries in FLA. This is definitely worth a visit. If you can come on Friday or Saturday later in the day, the tiki bar is open with live music (one guitar player so the noise isn't overwhelming). We would definitely do this again when time allows.

Scott VanderStoep-gmail — Google review

Was hoping to come in for a tour while vacationing, but time flew by and we only were able to visit on an off day. Did a tasting of 4. The vanilla, keylime, pineapple, and mango. All were very smooth. Favorite ended up being the mango so I got a bottle of that one. Hoping the product line will make its way to Michigan to make it quick accessibility.

Sara Fradl — Google review

This place is awesome. Great drinks, owner and employees are great people. Went there after a spring training game. They had food trucks (food was pretty good) and bands playing for bike night. Definitely recommend checking this place out!

James McQuilkin — Google review

Distillery tour was very informative and fun! Rums were very tasty! Coconut was my favorite but I tasted several and they were all awesome. Tour included a small co*cktail which was delicious. Wish I could purchase in Maryland but will ask locally when ordering a drink.

Heather Vest — Google review

A wonderful experience for a rainy day in Cape Coral. Staff was amazing, knowledgeable and funny. Tastings were available tried several, all would be great for mixed drinks.

Melissa fa*gue — Google review

Had an amazing time at Wicked Dolphin on a beautiful Saturday. The tour was educational, entertaining, and perfectly timed. The staff was friendly and helpful and drinks were amazing. I’ll definitely be back and bringing friends and family.

Nedal Nabhan — Google review

Went with out of town friends to tour the distillery. We were told to go into retail lobby to await our tour to be called. When we entered a woman immediately welcomed us and said “before the tour starts you should sample the rum.” There was a handwritten sign with 3 options for a rum drink. We all picked the same one which was mixed up in a plastic cup. Then the woman said that will be $25. WHAT? We had NO idea that there would be a cost. I didn’t see any sign indicating price. There were handwritten signs all over the retail area. It left a sour taste in our mouth so to speak.We went on the tour which was great and informative.

kristi jenkins — Google review

We found this event online in Eventbrite and decided to come. They give us a tour of how they make their own rum. Skyler, which was our guide, explained in detail how the process was. In the meantime, Jane brought us some rum examples, and then, at the end, we were able to test every single rum. We ended up buying some bottles and a punch, which is a little co*cktail with coconut rum and cranberry. It's definitely worth coming out and having some fun.

Oscar Manosalva — Google review

This is a great place for an interesting visit, and also from which to purchase rum whether or not you are able to visit their distillery. Their tours are interesting and the rum is very high quality. They have won over 50 awards, several against international competition. Although all rum is made from sugar, all the sugar has been removed by the time the distilling is complete. Any sugar you taste in rum is from things that are added to it, such as coconut, mango, etc. They offer several of these fruity rums as well as some more complex and interesting spirits, such as coffee-infused or spiced rum. Their oak barrel aged 10-year-old rum has many of the characteristics of a fine whiskey and works well as a substitute for bourbon in your favorite co*cktail. They also have a great recipe book for sale including interesting co*cktail combinations and food. Their rums have all natural ingredients and significantly less sugar content than rums you might be familiar with from the "big boys" in the business. If you tour, you'll enjoy the tasting at the end, usually led by Jen, the tasting room manager. She makes some great suggestions for ways to drink Wicked Dolphin rum, as well as running commentary that will keep you amused. You're sure to enjoy some great rum, and a fun time if you can visit.

Douglas Hoffman — Google review

My husband and I went to the wicked dolphin distillery today. We did a tour which was very nice and everything was explained very well in the making of the various rum flavors along with. The bitters you can purchase separately. The staff was very nice and welcoming, and the ability to sample the various products was nice. They have a patio out front that allows you to get a drink and sit while you’re waiting for your tour to begin. I would highly recommend a visit.

Darlene Ward — Google review

4.8

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4.5

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131 SW 3rd Pl, Cape Coral, FL 33991, USA

(239) 242-5244

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Bowman's Beach

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Public beach

Outdoor Activities

Beaches

Bowmans Beach is a public beach that is popular with beachcombers for seashells. There are also swimming and picnic areas available on-site. The beach is located west of the island, and has grown in popularity but remains private and secluded.

🌅 Excellent sunset spot! Enjoy gorges sunsets. You can even see occasional dolphin.🏖 Beach is very nice. Wide and long. Great for an extended walk. You can definitely find a spot where there are not that many people around.🐚 People say it has great seashells.🅿️ There is plenty of parking. When you get in there is are parking spaces. Then if you drive a bit further in there is another parking lot. 💲It costs $5/hour to park.🚿🚾🚻👶 Good amenities. Nice clean bathrooms. Good beach showers. Kid’s playing area. Plenary of trashcans. Park has several trails.

Constantin L. — Google review

We stopped by at Christmas Day around and the parking was nearly full we got a spot at the west end of the parking lot because another car was just leaving. After we paid $20 for 4 hours we unpacked and took that 10 minute walk to the beach (with small kids).We passed the changing and shower area which also has quite a nice playground in the shadow and some vending machines. The whole location is very tidy and clean. The bridges and paths are well maintained and safe. And it has a lot of trashcan's everywhere and they seem to get emptied out a lot because not one was full. Overall a very nice place to visit.

Nicole & Robert Moosmann — Google review

Loved the beach - not the staff. AT&T service in the area is poor so we couldn’t get either of our phones to load to use the pay to park since it must be paid online.We asked a woman working if we could pay somewhere else directly since our phones wouldn’t load the page. She was snappy and said we needed to restart our phones because no one else there was having issues. Which in fact other people were.. We had to help another couple struggling with connectivity once we found a way around it on our own.A little kindness goes a long way. She could’ve mentioned the park Wi-Fi but instead caught an attitude. An alternative payment method should be in place in my opinion.Regardless, we enjoyed our time on the beach. We even saw a manatee just 10 ft away from where we were swimming. The swimming area drops off pretty quickly in the water along the beach so if you have little ones, you might try to find a different beach. There may even be a shallow area further along the beach then where we were but we did not see any.If it wasn’t for our bad interaction with the staff member, we would’ve given this beach 5 stars.

Lexi Slifer — Google review

Always a favorite! Lots of parking ($5 per hour) and not too long of a trek to get to a good front row beach spot. It’s was a beautiful day at 81 and a nice breeze. We saw dolphins swimming near the shoreline. There was also a spot marked off for a sea turtle nest. Also added a video from a different visit last month where a heron decided to walk along the beach with me!!

Lisa Meminger — Google review

Went during high tide, so mainly small shells, but it was still beautiful. Bathroom facilities were clean and it was nice to have a separate changing area by the showers.

Kimberly Neff — Google review

Bowman beach is a great place to go shelling the beach is beautiful there are tons of shells the tide is full of weeds and shells making the conditions not ideal for swimming. It is beautiful and great for getting sun and other beach activities but swimming isn’t fun unless you get at least waist deep so if you’re with small children this might not be the best beach to go to

matthew christen — Google review

Das ist okay. Was ich gut finde, die Strand ist ist Kilometer weit zum spazieren. Was ich nicht gut finde, Parkplatz Gebühr pro stunde kostet 5 Dollar. Allgemein okay.(Translated by Google)That's okay. What I like is that the beach is kilometers away for walking. What I don't like is that the parking fee per hour is $5. Generally okay.

Eddie D — Google review

It's a decent beach. It definitely has a lot of little shells, but finding big ones is very hard to do. The water is always murky so you can't see the bottom with goggles on, unless you put your face 6 inches aways from touch the ground. There is enough parking. It does cost money to parks, 5 bucks an hour. The facilities are nice. Quarter mile walk to the beach from the parking lot and facilities. No cover after to cross the bridges to the beach so bring your own shade. Nice spot. Not super crowded, but there is a crowd. 4 out of 5 because of the water. We go yearly, same water every time.

Clyde Hartley — Google review

Great beach with lots of sea shells, you can see sea turtle tracks. Nice place for romantic long walks. Nice bathrooms, shower, changing area. There's some walking trails. Beach is pretty clean too. I saw some fish swimming around me while I was swimming. I would go here again and again if I could

George Garcia — Google review

Love the cheap parking and the lot size was good. The beach itself is gorgeous. We were lucky to be out on a perfect day with calm waters with a sought breeze to keep it from being too muggy. Saw a bunch of dolphins just hanging out jumping in and out of the water. Only thing we had an issue with, we all woke up with a crazy amount of sand flea bites... All over. Nothing they can do about specifically, just a warning. We didn't feel any of it the day of, but were covered in itchy bumps the next day.

nunya beeswax — Google review

This IS the beach to go to right now post Ian! It’s like it was never touched! Plus there is tons of parking and the beach is huge, so lots of space to find a spot. We went for Mother’s Day and just had the best day! We brought a wagon, totally recommend as it is quite a hike to get to the beach so lugging gear is exhausting. There are zero shady spots on this beach so bring an umbrella too. The bathrooms are about a 5 min hike and located in between the parking and the beach… so be prepared. There are water fountains there too, so we pack a water bottle and refill there. We didn’t use the picnic tables this time but they are there and accessible. One walkway on the beach is closed off but you can get to the area by walking around. However it’s truly not necessary. The water was perfectly clear and fantastic! We had zero issues post beach visit (it’s been a month since we went). Parking is not credit card or cash anymore. It is by ap… or web so bring a phone! It’s pretty easy once you scan the QR code. Just plan on spending 10 min extra in the parking lot the first time. This beach is dog friendly with a leash. We never saw any poop or issues. Very clean!

Kelsie Gregware — Google review

Absolutely beautiful beach! Highly recommend. Family friendly, nice people, not overcrowded, perfect for shell hunting and picnics. We will most certainly be back. 🍍🌞⛱️🌊

KrisAnn Moore — Google review

Wunderschöner Strand!Wir haben hier einen sehr schönen Nachmittag und Abend verbracht. Es hat viele schöne Muscheln und feiner Sand.Der Sonnenuntergang war wunderschön und Delfine haben wir auch gesehen - einfach traumhaft!Leider hat es mit dem Parkticket nicht ganz geklappt. Man kann das Ticket online kaufen und es hat öffentliches Wlan (super für Touristen, danke!). Leider war die Interentseite überbelastet und es hat so sehr lange gedauert.Aber ansonsten alles super!Es hat auch Toiletten und Duschen.Können wir nur weiterempfehlen!(Translated by Google)Beautiful beach!We spent a very nice afternoon and evening here. It has many beautiful shells and fine sand.The sunset was beautiful and we also saw dolphins - just fantastic!Unfortunately, the parking ticket didn't quite work out. You can buy the ticket online and it has public WiFi (great for tourists, thanks!). Unfortunately the website was overloaded and it took a long time.But otherwise everything was great!It also has toilets and showers.We can only recommend it!

Tatjana Christen — Google review

Great place for long walks and lots of shells. No shade in this area so best to bring your own. A bit of a hike - though manageable, if you're hauling much stuff from the parking lot. Restrooms are open and there's construction going on nearby as this place - like so many others on the island - continues to recover from Hurricane Ian.

Brian Spain — Google review

Recently visited Bowman Beach, and I was surprised to find that it's not very busy, at least not busy like it was five years ago. However, I did notice that there are fewer shells on the beach compared to my previous visit five years ago. Despite that, it remains a serene and peaceful spot to enjoy the beauty of nature.

Louis L — Google review

This beach had top-tier facilities with bathrooms, changing rooms, and outdoor showers and taps to wash your feet! The parking is your standard 5/hr with lots of parking space at the entrance. The only downside is that there is a little bit of a walk from the changing rooms to the beach, that goes over a little bridge and then turns to sand. The waves at the beach were perfect for little kids, with many body boarding. The sand was packed with beautiful shells, overall this beach is a nice stop.

Ragu N — Google review

Love the beach and it's still not as it was post Hurricane but it's getting there..... It is a very cramped parking lot but the beach itself makes it worth going too.. heads up.. family member visiting me parked and there parking pass was overlooked by staff who quickly put a ticket on there car and was gone before we returned a couple hours later..they were served a $300 dollar ticket making it a very expensive visit..worse was they attempted to call and get it resolved but the office was out of state ?? Crazy but figure that the area probably believes all visitors are rich'' not the case sadly and it definitely gave me a bad impression... I can honestly say I've never had a issue myself but it could had just as easy been me...just a reminder to make sure that pass is seen easily or suffer the consequences..

TF Farrow — Google review

Bowmans beach was my favorite beach for many years, but due to the lack of shells after hurricane Ian it needs more time to build back up like it used to be. They’ve added lots of sand to the shores, so fresh soft sand which was a nice change, but I missed the old days when the entire beach was covered in only shells. If you want to find large whole shells turner beach is the place to go. Bowmans was still beautiful and we got to see dolphins and it was really calm and beautiful there.

Michelle D — Google review

If you are looking for a beach that is secluded, beautiful, clean, and full of seashells, then this is it! Best beach in the area! Only downfall... traffic was terrible! But it's worth the visit!

Julia Jackson — Google review

The best off shore fishing around, plus great shelling. The most parking lot space on the island, so if you're unable to park at one of the others, there's a good chance you'll find a spot here. Its also the only beach on Sanibel that's included in the $60/ year pass for Free parking which is $5/ hour without that.

Fred Torrell — Google review

Stunning beach! The water and sand are perfect! Make sure to grab a "clean up" bucket before making your way onto the beach, really cool way to help pick up the beach. We used it for our own personal trashcan too so it was like a win win! Must go

Sierra Head — Google review

Very nice and clean. White sand, clear water, there are some nice shells on this beach as well.

Tonda Jean Jones — Google review

4.6

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4.5

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Bowman's Beach Parking, 1700 Bowmans Beach Rd, Sanibel, FL 33957, USA

(239) 395-1860

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34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (14)

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Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary

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Nature preserve

Nature & Parks

Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary (OWS) is a refuge for abandoned wild animals that provides self-guided tours to visitors. This facility receives support from the surrounding communities due to their exceptional care for unwanted exotic animals, mainly large cats. Recently revamped and well-maintained, OWS ensures that all its residents are healthy and content in their environment. Care-givers at this sanctuary are friendly and helpful, making it an enjoyable experience for all who visit.

OWS is an amazing facility! The love they have for unwanted exotic animals is amazing and deserves the support of the surrounding communities. This is my first visit in over a decade and they've made changes. The animals look well cared for and happy with their environment. I plan to revisit when I have more time to just sit and visit with the animals. If you've never visited or heard of OWS please take the time to support their mission. These animals deserve to be loved!

Frank Simms (Frank G. Simms II P.A.) — Google review

The people at Octagon care for abused, injured, and unwanted pets (like tigers, bears, and lions) who suddenly outgrew their stupid owners apartments 🙄😪Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary is a non-profit organization that exists for decades and lives on through the hard work of about 35 volunteers these days.They are closed to the public since early 2020 to keep their animals safe from Covid-19 (not the other way around).We support them regularly since we came here years ago for the first time. If you can help, please do!

Danny Rahnefeld-Kratsch — Google review

My husband and I enjoyed this tour so much. It is an incredible opportunity to see such beautiful, majestic animals up close. We learned a lot about these animals and their stories. All the volunteers were so friendly. I wish I lived closer so that I could volunteer!

LeAnn Hess — Google review

Definitely an amazing place to get up close with animals you rarely have an opportunity to see. It’s not a zoo - doesn’t even feel like one. The passion and care you see for these stunning creatures is so genuine - it’s all volunteer based, so you know these caregivers truly want the best for them. Tracy was so knowledgeable and friendly with our homeschool group, and welcomed our questions. It’s heartbreaking to know some of the backstories, but it’s heartwarming to know these beautiful, special animals are loved and cared for! They are 100% funded by donations, and proceeds from tours and their gift shop. If visiting or live in the area - I would definitely recommend booking this tour!

Jenn Dobitsch — Google review

Would absolutely recommend this rustic sanctuary that a few great humans, dedicated to these beautiful wild animals, are doing their best to enrich and bring comfort. A very special place. I left feeling so grateful for this experience. Grateful for these people who volunteer. These beautiful creatures great an small are so very incredible, each with their own personality. And the wee monkey that loves to watch cooking shows, my heart.

Michelle Braden — Google review

It's a rescue for animals that cannot go back into the wild. All funds are used for food, upkeep, veterenarian bills, etc. Animals have plenty of space with toys and pools. In most cases there is a description with the animals background and how they came to the sanctuary.

Dawn Sapanara — Google review

I have been to Octagon a handful of times while visiting my parents in Florida. It truly is an animal sanctuary. The time, very hard work and love the volunteers put in to these animals is out of this world. We have missed you the past couple of years but have the utmost respect for what you are doing to keep the animals safe. Shame on those who are trying to mock and bash you for your actions. People like that don't belong anywhere near a sanctuary. I believe some of these people do not realize how much you're sacrificing by keeping Octagon closed to the public. Keep on keeping on guys. Can't wait to visit when the universe allows.

NoIdeaWhat I'mDoing — Google review

Low key rescue center for retired animals who were once pets, circus performers and even on TV/movies. Run by volunteers who really care about the animals. Great place for kid as well as adults seeking a pleasant, calming environment.

Jim DeStefano — Google review

We absolutely loved our tour! The animals are well cared for and seemed happy. You get to see them from a few feet away. Our tour was only 16 people and lasted an hour and a half. We had plenty of time to see al the animals and never felt rushed. Lots of shade and places to sit if you need to. Go see all the beautiful creatures!

Erica Mierop — Google review

Just took the tour today Nov.4. I was thrilled to see all the wonderful animals. The guide was very informative and pleasant. All the animals are very well cared for. The lives they now have are comfortable and they are given plenty of stimulation. I will definitely return. It was a lovely day!!

Susan Delahanty — Google review

We had a great visit today. Our tour guide, Tracey, was FABULOUS! She was very knowledgeable about the animals and you could tell she has a love for these animals. She was very passionate, which made our tour even better.

Judy McConnell — Google review

We went to Octogon Sanctuary as a Homeschool trip. We Loved our experience! It's a small place as in not a huge corporation but very cozy and welcoming because of their staff. We were able to see each animals personalities shine and we were able to be pretty close and even feed some! The staff helps make you feel welcome and are wealth of knowledge on each animal on their compound.My kids learned a lot and our visit sparked an interest in new animals and they pretended they were some of the animals they saw. They have portapottys for bathroom facilities and a small gift shop and no water fountains so come prepared with your essentials and snacks. This was the best experience we've had with animals like this we've been to many zoo's and this doesn't compare its on another level. All the volunteers show nothing but love and respect to these beautiful beings. Go check it out. Support their cause, they are doing the right thing by these animals. 💕

Ashley Giacobbe — Google review

Tremendous! This is a sanctuary for large animals, many being large cats. These folks really care about the animals. Very well kept. You won't regret the drive and the visit. All of the "care-givers" are friendly and helpful. Enjoy!

Owen Thompson — Google review

Our tour was amazing and everyone loved it. The animals all look so healthy and very well cared for. Everything was clean well maintained. It was very interesting and the staff was amazing, it shows that they truly care for all the animals. We will go again and can only recommend it to anyone!

Jennifer Esterline — Google review

Wow! Lions, tigers, bears, monkeys, tortoises, peaco*cks, lemurs!! All had been "kept" by "people" who then didn't or wouldn't care for anymore!! Octogan & these animals are cared for by volunteers!!! The animals all have names and are well taken care of & they all have a story!! Had a 2 1/2hr "tour" to meet them. Nice to see they have a safe, healthy," normal" place to live- it's not back "in the wild" but is better than how they were treated prior. If you're an animal lover will appreciate & enjoy!

W H — Google review

We had great time at Octagon wildlife.We never seen wild animals like this way!Great volunteer staff and wonderful experiences.

Megumi Aldrich — Google review

We appreciated the experience on the tour to see the volunteers engage with the bears, lions, tigers, monkeys and parrots and the tour guide was so nice and knowledgeable.It saddens me that people writing reviews are bashing this sanctuary. Although the enclosures at Octagon aren't the largest, the staff and volunteers rescued these animals (many were sick, traumatized etc.) when the animals had nowhere else to go. Octagon is clearly doing the best they can.If you have ever been to places like Big Cat Rescue, you'll see that the enclosures are not that much bigger than those at Octagon. Octagon is a credible sanctuary as well, and doesn't breed or exploit their animals.I understand feeling sad for the animals, but bashing the sanctuary is cruel and hurtful to animals themselves and affects their ability to be cared for. We should support their efforts and donate our time and money to help fund improvements in the enclosures.I would recommend visiting Octagon. It's a great opportunity to learn about and see up-close exotic animals. But please go with realistic expectations, an open mind and a loving heart. Be respectful and the cause it represents. It's a great day trip for your kids so they can learn about the life of exotic animals and what happens when they are bought as pets and exploited as babies, and the reasons they must live in captivity. At least in captivity they have a second chance to live a full life with love, food and enrichment.

martina KC — Google review

I was unsure going into this tour because any time I had gone to the zoo and seen animals in enclosures, I always left feeling incredibly sad. After doing the guided tour at this facility, I left with tears in my eyes at the amazing love each of these animals receives from all the volunteers.The care that is provided by everyone at the sanctuary and how much they genuinely love these animals is inspiring. They pay attention to all the little details and preferences of each animal and make sure that they are accommodated. With each animal’s different personalities and quirks, modifications have been made to every aspect of their day-to-day lives and each enclosure so that they are happy and feel safe.We got to watch them play in their own personal pools, the different toys for brain stimulation, eat, and even get some special treats from the volunteers (appropriate diet-safe treats of course). All the primates even had their own TVs to watch!!It is so clear that each animal is well cared for and feels safe. They would run over to say hi when they heard the volunteers voice or roll onto their backs, exposing their belly, and take a nap. As we were leaving, one of the volunteers was sitting and chatting with a Macaw!I loved every minute of that tour and my heart is so full. Thank you to all of the volunteers that take care of these animals!!!!

Abigail Farchione — Google review

We truly enjoyed our experience. Our guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. It’s great to see them. Taking such good care of these wonderful animals.

Judy Rubin — Google review

Octogon is a wonderful forever home for animals who need a place when their original owners no longer want them or never should have had them in the first place. The guided tours are informative and well done. Do go and support their efforts.

Mary Widmer — Google review

The guided tour was educational and informative. We enjoyed seeing the different Animals. there were lions, tigers, and bears and the list went on and on, an alligator and peaco*cks, monkeys and lemurs, parrots….loved them all! Great volunteers ❤️

Desiree Chase — Google review

I wouldn't call this a zoo, but more like a rescue zoo. You get to see the animals up close and learn about their lives. I recommend going if you want to help and see the animals. I found this place while searching for a bird's wildlife rescue sanctuary close by; otherwise, I don't think I would've known of this place.

Lizette — Google review

I’ve seen social media posts and photos of Octagon and always thought it was “a regular sanctuary” you could find all over FL. Let me tell you how wrong I was! I learned so much about the history and current methods of animal care and safety, which really showed just how much they prioritize animal welfare above all else. This place is run entirely by volunteers but it is maintained as if there’s a full time staff. The grounds and enclosures are in great shape and you can tell the animals are relaxed and happy. Some of them never knew a kind hand until they arrived here, so seeing them so settled and peaceful is heartwarming. For tours, they give the animals treats and enrichment activities so you get to see them active and engaged. If you go in the morning you’ll likely see the team of enclosure cleaners making their rounds…watching how much work they do to keep the enclosures clean and safe was an added bonus! This is the kind of place you wish you found sooner and can’t wait to go back to for another visit. My heart was full as I drove back home and now I want to volunteer there!

Jennifer Ayotte — Google review

4.8

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4.5

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41660 Horseshoe Rd, Punta Gorda, FL 33982, USA

(239) 543-1130

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Babco*ck Ranch Preserve

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Wildlife park

Nature & Parks

Babco*ck Ranch Preserve is a vast conservation area that boasts breathtaking landscapes and offers an array of outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, hunting, and camping. This nature preserve covers more than 73,000 acres of land and features stunning natural beauty that is a must-see for tourists visiting the area. Visitors can take in the sights while enjoying delicious food from the snack shop or browsing souvenirs in the gift shop.

Best place in the world to visit and spend the afternoon good food little snack shop gift shop and the chores unbelievable I felt like I was in the Everglades the natural beauty on the 73,000 acres is amazing it’s a must see must see

Alison — Google review

We had such a wonderful time on our tour! Our eco guide, Brad, was so informative and down to earth which made the experience that much better! We went at the 11:00 tour and saw so much wildlife! Lunch at the Gator Shack was delicious and plentiful! We highly recommend this adventure!

Michelle Lenczuk — Google review

We all had fun on our first trip here, family of 6.We'll be coming back in the rainy season so it's more swampy and deeper water.

Nev Freeman — Google review

This is one of my all time favorite places. Time before it was wet with foot deep water at the three weir's crossings. This time bone dry. Roads always well maintained. Please be respectful of this treasure.

DC HUNTER — Google review

This is an awesome place to visit. We did the Swamp Buggy Eco Tour. Our guide Michelle was the greatest. Worth every penny.Lunch after was delicious and great service. Would visit again if we are ever in the area again.

Janet Snyder — Google review

Wonderful tour! Camry was an excellent and knowledgeable tour guide who made it a fun and interesting tour! Saw lots of wildlife including alligators, raccoons, deer, wild pigs, cows, bulls and a variety of birds. The changing terrain was very interesting and we learned a lot about the Florida eco system as we traveled through swampy areas, fields etc. Highly recommend this 90 minute green bus tour - we thoroughly enjoyed it!

Beth Voce — Google review

Great place to go. Stay for lunch, the prices are decent and the food good. The tour was beyond our expectations, and the tour guide made it even better.

Chad Seibel — Google review

Always enjoy time spent at the Babco*ck Ranch. Guides are always friendly and informative. Always plenty of wildlife and nature to see. This is my 3rd time, I try to bring any friends or family that come to visit. They even have a small snack shack with plenty of options including gator bites to curb the appetite. The shack closes at 3 though so go early!

Samantha Fisher — Google review

Fun for the family, both old & young have interesting things to see & learn

Mr Dont tread on me — Google review

The Eco Tour is very nice the driver /guide was very knowledgeable We did an morning tour and was able to see lots of animals.

Irene Weathers — Google review

The swamp buggy tour was really awesome! The tour guide was very knowledgeable and nice. We even got to pet a baby alligator.

Kenneth Bond — Google review

What a great experience!! Was fun for all ages in our group, and better than we expected. The guide was extremely knowledgeable and could answer all the questions that were asked. It was so fun to see the different animals, learn all about the history of the ranch and Florida. Highly recommended, you won't be disappointed!!

Julie — Google review

Was absolutely amazing. We had a great time, our driver and guide was great. Was amazing to see so many different animals and learn the history of the ranch.

Alisha Hall — Google review

We went on the eco tour and had more fun than we did on the tours in the everglades! Loved our guide, who was the manager, and we seen a lot of animals. Loved the deer that were fed by our guide, and the sensational 17 pigs that came running up as a group. We were very impressed with the tour and will definitely recommend it to others!

Brandy Purdon — Google review

Resident soon usually visit weekly monitor my new Toll Brothers builder at Regency phase 2 continuation..

Dave C — Google review

4.6

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4.5

(247)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (26)

Punta Gorda, FL 33982, USA

(888) 404-3922

5

Edison & Ford Winter Estates

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History museum

Nature & Parks

The Edison & Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, Florida, span 21 acres and showcase the former residences of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. This historical attraction offers insights into the lives of wealthy individuals in the early 20th century. Visitors can explore the research lab, botanical gardens, and a museum that houses intriguing artifacts related to these famous figures and their families.

We were trying to find something to do before we headed to the FT Myers airport for a late flight today and I found this historic site on Google Maps. The Thomas Edison and Henry Ford winter home museum was the PERFECT last day for our trip to Florida! CHET WAS OUR GUIDE, he was super knowledgeable and very informative. The total tour took about 75 minutes but it was a beautiful day and we moved from place to place so he kept our attention! For a moment we dreamt away and realized we were standing in the same spots as some of the all time greatest inventors in the world and that was fantastic!! The fact that Thomas Edison and Henry Ford were best friends was the best of all the fun facts! As a BIG bonus the trees are absolutely breathtaking! Pack a lunch and just sit in the gardens and take it all in! Completely unforgettable and highly recommendable!!

Lisa Devenport — Google review

I went to Edison and Ford Winter Estates during a trip to Fort Myers. I took a guided tour which was approximately $30. Our tour guide who called himself an historian, provided a lot of good insights regarding the lives of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford and kept us engaged during the entire tour. It was approximately 100 degrees outside that day but he managed to keep us in the shades most of the tour. You're not allowed to go inside the homes but you can peek through the doors/windows. After the tours which was approximately an hour and a half, I went back inside the museum to visit some of the exhibits of Edison and Ford. I also visited the grounds which are well maintained and beautiful. I could have spent a whole day there.

La Tigresse — Google review

I learned so much. It was like a trip back in time. The grounds, lab, and museum are well worth a visit. Just check the weather first. If there is thunder they close the grounds. The museum with all of the phonographs and Model Ts are still open during thunderstorms though. They will stamp your receipt so you can come back.

Lindsay MacAskie — Google review

Gorgeous grounds .. fascinating friendship between Edison & Ford ..💡 🚗 Thoroughly enjoyed walking through the gardens & seeing inside the houses. Loved how we were able to take a self guided tour & see inside the homes. The houses 🏘 have 1/2 opened doors to allow for a wonderful view of the various areas of the inside of the homes. The gardens, houses, workshop & museums are meticulously kept. A very enjoyable experience & we learned a lot! Highly recommend!

Sharon Lee — Google review

Well worth the stop. It's always fun to visit places where wealthy industrialists from the 19th century vacationed. Both men were true pioneers from 1880s through their deaths in the 1930's and 1940's .Take your time use the app and do a self guided tour. It really well done.

Ray Dude — Google review

Absolutely wonderful. It's like taking a walk through history. I would like to extend special thanks to one of the volunteers, named Steve. He seems very passionate about his job and made our tour that much more special (it was my first time in the U.S.). Highly recommended. Beautiful place. Greetings from Hungary!

Diana S. — Google review

Came here on the first day that they celebrated their holiday nights special event. Booked the guided tour and our tour guide did a fantastic job explaining all the information. It’s a very expansive estate at the same time the guide didn’t waste any time and we were able to finish the tour after an hour without issues.It is absolutely beautifully decorated and they aren’t normally open this late but it’s beautiful to see all the holiday lights being set up. It’s quite a unique experience.They also had some food vendors which we partook in a few treats since it was getting late and it was a replacement for dinner. Recommend buying guided tour tickets early as they do sell out pretty quickly.

Victor Wang — Google review

I had a wonderful experience at this museum, which featured both outdoor and indoor exhibitions. Additionally, they offer two engaging activities for people of all ages, making it a delightful experience. The workers were extremely friendly, adding to the overall enjoyment. If you find yourself in Fort Myers, I highly recommend visiting this museum!

Shunshunnn L — Google review

Went today with my wife. Had Bailey as our tour guide. We loved the experience. We got to see where Thomas Edison and Henry Ford spend summer months. Homes were amazing and the grounds were well maintained. The cost of the tour goes to property maintenance as we did see some lingering damage from Hurricane Ian. We have lived here three years and I am so glad we finally went. Perfect for locals and visitors to see a little piece of history right here in Ft Myers.

Timothy Conley — Google review

The Edison & Ford Winter Estates is a must see when near the Fort Meyers, FL area. It is truly an amazing iconic walk through the past. Not only the history but the museums with their stories. And all set on breathtaking views of waters and lovely gardens. The history of great people of the era that visited or stayed there is amazing to read about.

Bob Boyles — Google review

A great place to visit if you're in the Ft Myers area. We got a cool little " private" tour because only 4 of us had paid for the guided tour. Scott was so knowledgeable about every aspect of Edison's history. He was very impressive. There is a museum with Ford's cars and some of Edison's inventions. Across the road are their estates which sit on beautiful waterfront grounds. We learned a little about Ford, but the majority of the tour focused on Edison. There is a cute gift shop at the end of the tour.

Kathy M — Google review

On a recent first visit to Ft. Myers, I decided to check out this amazing place on the river. I never knew that Henry Ford and Thomas Edison were next door neighbors in their winter homes! Both men are legendary American icons. The grounds of the estate are gorgeous. Throughout the tour there were volunteers to explain and demonstrate things. I particularly liked Edison's office and home. They have a fantastic museum with an original model T. There is ample parking and the admission fee was reasonable. This is a must see!

Michael C. Delapena — Google review

Well maintained residency, location is near the water with great view. The parking is free. If you buy tickets online, you need to exchange them to waist bands at ticket office first. It is better to visit the museum first because it has so many first hand real things to see and read. Also the garden and the park adjacent to the ticket office are great, many nursery items for sale. Spent about 2.5 hrs today but could do more especially at the museum.

Keqi Gan — Google review

Fun experience with the family! Please note that if you are going on a reciprocal membership please be sure all reciprocal members names are on cards or you need to pay for those not named.Gardens were well maintained with really interesting specimens. I had no idea the extent that Edison and his assistants experimented with plants.Plan for the weather as most of the exhibits are outside. Gardens close in thunder alerts. You cannot walk through houses, but they have opened all the doorways to see in many of the rooms. Highlight of the gardens is the self guided audio tour. Short, entertaining, informational and well done!Museum is quite interesting and air conditioned :)

Shannon Pierce — Google review

A great place to take a 3-hour break. They have guided tours and self-guided tours. The self-guided tours have follow-along references using your cell phone. Great for keeping your own pace.There were just as many children excited to see the Winter Estates as the adults.A few of my favorite highlights are in the images of the laboratory, the Ford, and the pier.At the end of your visit, cool down in the museum. And before you go, there is a seating area with some refreshing drinks in the shade.So neat to see what the inventing minds of our country had for their everyday use.

Shoshauna Conner — Google review

Don’t let the price which may seem high shy you away from this gem of a destination in Fort Myers. There are plenty of places to stop and admire the view and the beautiful grounds without a lot of noise or heavy people traffic. I spent 30 minutes on a bench under coconut trees just listening to birds and the waves of the river splashing against the shore. The app is full of great facts and content to make the self tour fully immersive. The staff were all so pleasant and helpful.

Avery Sexton — Google review

If you're in Fort Myers, you've gotta check out Edison and Ford's winter estates—it's a real gem. First thing you'll see is this massive Banyan tree at the entrance that's just mind-blowing. Seriously, it's like nature's welcome hug.Inside, there's this mix of cool old buildings, beautiful gardens, a research lab, and a museum dedicated to Edison and Ford. It's not just history; it's like stepping into their world.Oh, and don't miss the on-site store – they've got some really unique stuff. Plus, You can see the native plants of Florida from the garden next to the on-site-store.Whether you're into history or just want a chill day surrounded by good vibes, these estates are a winner. It's not your average tourist spot; it's like a little escape into the past with a touch of nature. Don't miss out! 👍

Sarah C — Google review

Very interesting exhibits, thought I knew quite a bit about Edison, but a lot of this was new. Interesting insights into his life and friends.The grounds were very nice as well, nicely maintained and interesting plantings.

Derek Pogorels — Google review

I was in town for another event but spent the rest of the day here touring the grounds and museum.I absolutely enjoyed my visit. Staff was very friendly and helpful. They had a mini presentation on how to work the old phonograph devices that I enjoyed listening to.There's lots of small little walking trails on the grounds including one by the river that is very nice. You can't get lost and there are benches to sit everywhere.I enjoyed using the app to tell me about certain spots.I'm not much of a plant person but they have plants everywhere here. Some very pretty.I am a history nerd and this is a great place if you like history. I learned a lot.

Jennifer Nanek — Google review

If this is the type of history you enjoy, you'll probably like touring the grounds and poking your head into the homes, Edison's study, and the museum. The homes are underwhelming in my mind; period furniture that you'll see at just about any historical home/building of roughly the same era. That being said, it isn't totally my thing, so you might notice interesting differences. The grounds are pretty with a variety of plant life and a nice walk along the river. The museum is brief, but once again, interesting if this is your type of history. The laboratory adjacent to the museum was the not intriguing thing for me.

Lane Stevenson — Google review

A must-see attraction when in the Fort Myers area. Took the guided tour and it was a great experience. Started with a 15-minute intro to Edison, Ford, and the history. The group (~12 persons) walked around with the guide and we stopped regularly to get more info about the buildings, plants and trees, history, etc.

Thomas G — Google review

We've lived in Fort Myers for a few years, yet this was the first time we were willing to dish out $30 to visit this place. We picked a good time, because the place is very beautiful when covered in Christmas lights. The Christmas trees decorated by local classrooms were particularly nice. The history and exhibits at the estate were interesting, but I'm not convinced worth the $30 entrance fee by themselves.

Brian Spain — Google review

Wonderful visit. The guided tour is recommended if you want to ask questions or learn more in depth knowledge if the premises and their occupants. Didn't realize that the Edisons and Fords were good friends. Great gift shop with a number of books to choose from, great kids toys and handmade art pieces.

John Espinosa — Google review

We went for Holiday Nights and loved it! They did such an amazing job decorating for the holidays. We loved learning about the estates and the families who lived there. There were plenty of docents around to answer questions and they were very knowledgeable. The interpretive signs were also very helpful. We had a laugh over the house rules. "Don't kill the black snakes under the porch. They are there for a reason!" And "Don't tell us about Palm Beach. We don't care." There were many photo ops throughout the estates. The gift shops had really nice things from snacks to books to Christmas ornaments.

Amber Connell — Google review

We came on a Saturday evening for the Holiday Nights light show. It was such a cool experience. The houses had the top glass doors open. You could look into the rooms but could not enter. The gift shop was also open, and there were plants for purchase. The only thing we could not do was the museum as it had closed a couple hrs before we arrived. This is a family event, so bring the kids. The bathrooms were clean. There was music playing as well as snacks and drinks available for purchase. The Banyan trees are an amazing sight to see. The parking does fill up, but there is plenty of overflow parking available. I recommend to anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit.

Mary Ulmer — Google review

4.7

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4.5

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2350 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33901, USA

(239) 334-7419

I'll never travel to Ochopee without this trip planner again

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6

Sanibel Causeway

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Outdoor Activities

Scenic Drives

The Sanibel Causeway is a raised roadway that links the mainland to Sanibel Island, passing over a park area that includes several beaches. This causeway provides an efficient way for travelers to access the island without having to take a ferry or other water transportation. The route offers stunning views of the surrounding waters and natural scenery, making it popular among tourists and locals alike. With its convenient location and picturesque surroundings, the Sanibel Causeway remains an important landmark in Southwest Florida's transportation infrastructure.

4.5

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Florida, USA

7

Manatee Park

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Park

Nature & Parks

Manatee Park is a waterfront recreational area that offers visitors the chance to enjoy various activities while being close to nature. It features scenic trails, an amphitheater for performances, and kayak rentals for those who want to explore the waterways. One of its main attractions is the opportunity to observe Florida's gentle giants, the manatees, in their natural habitat from November to March.

first we walked around the property saw a couple manatees but the watercolor is very dark so you only saw like a little nose about coming out of the water. Then we rented kayaks for the 2 hour kayaking trip on our own They give you a map and it's pretty simple to find the manatees they tell you where they're hanging out that day. Well worth the trip we had a great time 15 to 20 manatees They came right up to our kayaks You just float around in the bay area about a mile down river. It was a little windy so the paddle back took a good hour of paddling non-stop.

Kimberly Hartman — Google review

The information boards about the manatees were very Informative. Plenty of seating and shade for those taking their time along the walk. Very much enjoyed the music from the lady playing the hand pans in the pavilion.

Mike Bersuder — Google review

What a lovely park. The workers are helpful and friendly. I like coming here because they have rentals for my family and friends to join in on the fun! They also have clean bathrooms that are fully stocked.You're able to go either up the river or out towards the bay for different experiences. The houses around there are nice to look at and up river there's a farm with cows! I frequent often.

Raysa Rodriguez — Google review

The park is very small and picturesque, we went at around 9 in the morning and we saw many manatees poking their heads out and tails. I would recommend going there at opening time to see the manatees as they like it a little bit cooler and will surface more of their body at the temperature. The boardwalk was gorgeous, and very education for the little ones. They have bathrooms, playgrounds, and a butterfly garden. They also have kayaks you can rent and go around the mangrove forest being up close with the manatees. The parking was also very cheap with it being only 2/hr, and the place was definitely worth the time!

Ragu N — Google review

It is a beautiful area to paddle around. They have kayaks for rent, and you can bring your own and launch there. The parking was $5. We saw 3 manatees while we were paddling around in the early afternoon.

T R — Google review

This was a surprise! We were looking for covered playgrounds to burn some energy while staying out of the sun.Before we even made it to the playground we took a walk through the mangroves, saw some manatees, hung out by the water, played on the boardwalk, and hung out with a (fake) alligator.Parking is a reasonable $2/hr. Parking is plentiful for the size of the park. There is a gift shop with snacks and reasonably clean restrooms.There are lots of walking trails, all gentle and easy. The highlight of the visit was the walk along the water, which had covered awnings every 50 yards or so which provided VERY comfortable manatee viewing areas on a hot 90F day. The water channel appears to be a power-plant cooling discharge...my guess is that manatees like the warmer water. I was chasing a 3 year old so I didn't have much time to learn (but the opportunity is there with lots of signage).We got to see a few manatees without a lot of waiting. Definitely one of the highlights of our trip...we're big animal people. What toddler parent isn't?There are boardwalks over the water through the mangroves that lead to a kayak launch area (it would be LOTS of fun to rent a kayak here...maybe when the kid is a little older), another manatee viewing area, and other locations within the park.The playgrounds are on the smaller side and better for kids under 4 probably.This was a great visit and will be a future stop. If you bring lunch, this could be a two hour visit. More if you rent a Kayak.

Dan K — Google review

Great place to learn a thing or two about Floridas wildlife, kayak on the orange river, and, if it's winter time and the water is below 68°F, you probably will see manatees!!! It's very inexpensive to rent a kayak, the facilities are clean and functional, and the employees are kind and helpful. You really can't get lost and it's very safe! They also have a little gift shop with snacks and such. I definitely recommend! Have fun 😊

Mimi — Google review

I visited the manatee park with high hopes of seeing these gentle giants, but unfortunately, there were none in sight. The park's size was smaller than expected, and the overall experience left me disappointed. Considering the absence of manatees, I doubt I'll be returning.

Sarah C — Google review

Great park! Parking was only $1 for an hour, and the kiosk closest to the gift shop accepts credit and debit cards. Plenty of spots to stop and view the manatees. We have visited the park in the past but were unable to spot any, but this trip we easily spotted many swimming around and coming up for air. There are some boardwalks and walking trails in the park to enjoy the area. Worth stopping by if you’re in the area!

Olivia Rimkie — Google review

We first went late in the day. We walked along the boardwalk & saw two manatees surface!! We went back the next day to rent kayaks. We rented for 2 hours & saw a ton of manatees! We saw several pods hanging out near the banks while we were out. Highly recommend going out in the kayaks (the tour sounds cool if you've got time!). The water there was very dark & murky, but we had no problems finding manatees. There were tons of them!!

Katie Franke — Google review

What a nice park. I have been a lee county resident for 40 years and have never been to this park. I took my kids for a meet up with our homeschool group and it truly is a gem. We had fun looking for manatees and walking the small trail they have. We went and looked out over the water. We visited the small shop and got drinks. The kids played on the playgrounds and we walked around the entire park. I would recommend anyone visit this place. Definitely will be back. You pay for parking but it’s $5 for the entire day. You can also kayak, launch your own or rent one from the park.

Jennifer Alvaro — Google review

I love this place! We used the public kayak launch, which isn’t too far a walk from the nearest car drop off point. It’s a cool mangrove area within the park, but this leads you out to the Orange River. They also offer kayak rentals here. We didn’t see any manatees, however we did see turtles, and lots of bird and fish. The current was not even noticeable as we headed east on the river but once we turned around a wind kicked up making the current pick up against us. Overall easy awesome paddle!

Lisa Meminger — Google review

It was nice. I saw the rare atala butterflys. Not a single manatee, but it just wasn't the season. Sad i didn't get to see one on my vacation, lol.

Jordan Smith — Google review

Awesome Park, we visited on 12/28/2023. There were a dozen or more manatee swimming that day do beautiful site to see. They also offered kayaking with the manatee, which looked really cool, but we had other things to do. I'd highly recommend seeing this if you're in the area.

John Sandfer — Google review

This was our second time at the Manatee Park! It’s such a great place to enjoy watching the Manatee and their baby’s, pluss sharks, and other fish close up between January and March. They have an area with butterfly’s, a snack bar, inside area with tons on back ground information about the Manatee, they sell refreshing snow cones, they have a Gift shop and if you want to see Sea Turtles, snakes etc you can go down the street in overflow parking and get a ride to visit the Florida Aquarium buildings where they rescue sick turtles etc and see them up close as they get rehabilitation and later get released back into the ocean. We had a great time and it’s Free!

Timothy, Renee Moore — Google review

Nice smaller park right on a canal and a smaller river. A shorter trail will take you along the canal and to the river. Unfortunately the river was extremely warm (92F, 33C) here in March, so it is too warm for manatees. So no animal sightings at all. There are restrooms and a gift shop.

Thomas G — Google review

A beautiful park with a butterfly garden, walking paths, kayak launch, two small playgrounds (no swings), and lots of nature. We did not see any manatees as we were there during a time where they have typically left back to the ocean. There is a gift shop open until 5pm and public restrooms.

Ashley Goodwin — Google review

Cheap fun for all. Paid for parking. A very nice and clean park. The manatees were so neat to watch. The gift shop was reasonably priced. We did not kayak due to it being a very windy day. The paths within the park were clean, smooth, and easy to get around. The butterfly garden was beautiful.

Shelly Richardson — Google review

Went with my family to check out Florida wildlife, wasn’t disappointed! lot’s of manatees were in the canal and we could see there noses, tails, and bellies popping out of the water. Cool trees and nature paths to walk around, cute little gift shop as well. Highly recommend itPlaning to visit again to spend more time

Sylvia Lisiecki — Google review

a wonderful place to take the family and kids for a day trip, or if you’re new to swfl. the manatees are gentle creatures, and you’re able to rent kayaks to ride alongside them in the water. there are trails to follow in nature and a fun park to distract the kids for a while so parents can take a breather

eliza cruz — Google review

8

Sanibel Lighthouse

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Historical landmark

Sights & Landmarks

Lighthouses

The Sanibel Lighthouse, LLC is a historic beachfront beacon located on Sanibel Island that offers spectacular views of the Gulf of Mexico. The grounds are open to the public to view the exterior of this historic lighthouse up close, and it also makes for an ideal location for photos and memories with loved ones.

First time visitor and I absolutely love this beach. Parking is limited, there are several very small lots. Parking is $5 an hour, you prepay and put slip in your car. Bathrooms were clean. There is a fishing pier and the landscaping everywhere is well maintained. Found some pretty shells, water was very clear. We will definitely return!

Debbie Gregory — Google review

The beach wasn't crowded. I found parking easy. The water had a bit of a current but not to strong. The tree area had alot of tiny biting gnats.

tracy zoon — Google review

This is one of the amazing locations s we visited during our Florida trip. The beach was almost empty, and the light house was unique.There are limited parking spaces, and the parking payments can be done through the phone. The parking area had a lot of slush!I would recommend walking past the light house and you would be able to see an amazing view of the city.

Satheesh Chandran — Google review

Beautiful beach and tons of parking lots throughout. The lighthouse is historic and awesome to see up close. The beaches have picnic tables, bathrooms, and a pier.

Elizabeth Hadden — Google review

A main historical point on Sanibel Island. Well preserved, nice historical plaque, the houses and adjacent blogs. are well kept. Definitely worth the visit. And so close to a beautiful beach that changes daily and has many different shells. This is a fun beach area for kids also since it is shallow for a ways out.

Joyce Jones — Google review

Favorite Florida beach!! Best and clearest water, biggest and prettiest seashells! Not overly crowded which is nice. Parking can be challenging but if you have patient's you won't have a problem finding a spot.

Brandieanny 1 — Google review

Some storm debris and more bugs here than the upper island spots. But we loved this whole island! Visited on a Fri in Sept. Soft sand, great shelling, awesome spots to eat. Our only out of pocket was parking. Lots of rebuilding underway but definitely open and ready to have your support and patronage

Trish Klein — Google review

The facilities for this place aren’t the best due to reconstruction from the hurricane. There are only Porta Potties around the beach. However, the parking is the standard 5/hr and is right on the beach front. This beach is amazing for people who love to collect shells, the collection on the beach itself was fantastic. The water was very moderate in temperature, and there are sandbars so the water is very shallow and is perfect for little kiddos.

Ragu N — Google review

Excellent beach for walking my puppy. Clean and plenty of room for everybody. $6 toll to enter island. $5 an hour to park. Limited parking. But if you get there by 8:30am or so you should be good. Rising sun is beautiful. So calming.

Mike & Erin Jarvis — Google review

The toll getting to the island is ridiculous!Once you get to the lighthouse, parking is limited, if it’s the weekend, holiday or summer, get there early.Both the beach and the lighthouse are wheelchair accessible.Public restrooms were cleanMake sure you explore the west part of the island as well.Christmas is a great time to visit and my favorite, so many homes and businesses partake in the decorating.I’d recommend bringing a cooler with your drinks and lunch, the island is a bit pricey.

Roads Traveled Photography — Google review

The Iconic Sanibel Island Lighthouse and beach is currently closed due to damage by hurricane Ian but be sure to visit as soon as it reopens.

Steve Walker — Google review

Beach is clean. Shells are robust. Lighthouse still standing. Still a beautiful beach.

gayle tomaszewski — Google review

Beautiful park of the island lot of people looking for seashells. Parking is a bit expensive. I think it is $5.00 an hour.

Tabetha Fischer — Google review

Not much to do here due to hurricane damage. You can use the beach and hang out though. Parking is $5 an hour

Robert Wachs — Google review

Gorgeous beach. We went to watch the sunset, and it was worth it. Lighthouse is still being worked on since the hurricane. Give yourself some extra time to get on and off the island, especially from 4-6. We experienced a lot of traffic.

Erika Halvorsen — Google review

We were there on Dec 9. And we didn't have any gnats or noseeims flying around like we had about a month ago. Weather was beautiful but the water was like ice water! But that depends on where your from I'm guess. It was to cold to get in over our feet. But a very nice walk down the beach.

Jenny Rutland — Google review

It's a wonder to see it come back to life. Go early to get parking. It's paid by app. Love this feature, you get reminded before your time is up and can add time without walking all the way back to your car. There are (port a pottys) but bring toilet paper just in case. There are no showers so I suggest a gallon of water in your car to rinse with. Definitely a do not miss for the visiting guests. Don't forget sunscreen! They offer buckets to help clean up, so if you see trash, remove it. As for shelling it's the best I've ever seen for a beach lately, and I've lived here for 28 years!

Rebecca Aviles — Google review

Went around 2pm on a Saturday in February, very crowded. Parking is through smartphone and $5/hour. Coming from Sarasota county I wasn’t impressed. As there were no recent major storms, there wasn’t much in unique shells to find. However it’s a beautiful little lighthouse.

K Caffee — Google review

Nothing better to be able to fly a Drone with this amazing scenery, every body around here is very friendly and welcoming, the city is very nice and organized super clean, the beaches are very wide open, is not too crowded so is very peaceful like a dream vacation, plenty restaurants to go eat for different tastes we come here a lot

Drone Training School — Google review

It was interesting viewing all the different areas being reconstructed since Hurricane Ian.The island is overcrowded.The lighthouse is under construction. Enjoyed the history.There is a parking fee.

T S — Google review

It's so nice to see the island recovering from Ian. Spent an afternoon at the Lighthouse beach. Many other people had the same idea to visit here on an exceptionally beautiful February day.

R Hritz — Google review

So parking is 5 bucks per hour, they do check this regularly. As I was pulling out of the parking lot, they were running plates. Get there early for shells. I would plan on a day if checking out the local scene, which currently is still during construction due to Ivan. But worth the drive, it is a beautiful beach.

jay clay — Google review

4.6

(2245)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (59)

4.0

(2399)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (60)

112 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957, USA

(239) 472-3700

9

Fort Myers Beach

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Outdoor Activities

Beaches

Fort Myers Beach is a picturesque town situated on Estero Island in the southwest region of Florida. It boasts a beautiful, lengthy sandy beach that overlooks the Gulf of Mexico and the Ostego Bay Marine Science Center, which presents an array of marine life indigenous to the area. On its eastern side, Matanzas Pass Preserve natural sanctuary provides trails for visitors to explore.

61% as popular as Naples

17 minutes off the main route, 25% of way to Ochopee

10

JetBlue Park

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Stadium

Sights & Landmarks

JetBlue Park, also known as Fenway South, is the venue where the Boston Red Sox hold their spring training. It serves as a home to the team and has been given the nickname "Fenway South" due to its design resembling Fenway Park. The stadium was named after JetBlue, a prominent airline headquartered in Boston, which purchased naming rights for this modern facility.

So I am here at the BeerFest and I’m so glad we came!! It was so much fun! Different beers for all tastes! Ice cream, hot dogs, French fries, discount prizes, donuts, 🍩, music, 🎶 and soooo much more. Come! #enjoy and know you will have a wonderful time. All American baby! Plus… wait for it! A tour of the stadium! We were in high heaven 💃🏻🎶♥️. God bless America!!! You’re welcome ☺️

Cynthia De Las Salas — Google review

Great sight lines. Fun pregame atmosphere with live band on the plaza with food trucks. Food is expensive yet most of it was well received. Sitting in the Green Monster keeps you in the shade. The stadium is not wraparound, so make sure to do the walk out to right field lawn and also all the way up to the top of the Green Monster (ask the security guard if you can grab a pick) - make sure to look behind the stadium from up there too, to see all the practice fields.

Gabriel Douglas — Google review

The ballpark is just OK. Really slow and long food lines and the game wasn’t even sold out. Craft beer options are very limited. Hammond Stadium a few minutes away is a much better experience.

Ben Hayle — Google review

Replica of their stadium provides the 'feel' of hometown baseball.Purchase tickets on-line or at the stadium. Parking was efficient. Traffic not bad. Some areas covered for those sun conscious. Varied food options. Cool yet sunny skies gave a lovely experience of spring training. Saw a hometown player bat several times along with a home run.

Paul Clay — Google review

I went to a Red Sox versus Twins game on Sunday March 26th. I thought the park was very nice, and there's really not a bad seat in there.The game started at 1:00 and there was a decent amount of shade for about half of the seats in the stadium. I would not have wanted to been in the outfield bleachers, or in the seats beyond the left field wall, or a few other areas but generally it is a great ballpark for viewing.Parking was a bit of a hassle, but you just have to get there a little bit ahead of game time to ensure that you're going to see the first pitch.As is typical these days the only reason I didn't give it five stars was because of service and employee attitude. I went to a concession stand up up beyond the left field line, since they wouldn't let me enter with my own water bottle (hydro flask), and water was $4 a bottle. The other prices weren't bad, for instance for an Italian sausage with peppers and onions for $7.75, or a hot dog, but then you had to wait to get a drink and pay at the end of the line. If people wanted only food they still had to wait for people getting beers and drinks and it was extremely inefficient and time-consuming. Two people cooking in one person checking everyone out when the ratio should have been reversed.I will say that I'm 6'3" and the aisles were a little cramped. Be prepared to stand up and sit down every time someone wants into or out of your row.Fun day, good seats, slow food and drink both in the concession area and the vendors walking around.

Tom Cooper — Google review

Easy parking. Wonderful design allowing for shade and breeze. Love the Fenway park design and accurate dimensions. Looked forward to attending a game here for many years. Finally made it to see a young Team Jam ministry friend's son play in the Perfect Game 14u national select game. Probablly the most enjoyable and comfortable game experience Ive had in years. Last chance to be here was in 2013. Had to wait a while for this. Saw our young friend win the homerun derby too!

TEAM JAM — Google review

Great minor league stadium. Only down point is the way they have the good set up. More like a food truck area. Seats were narrower than most stadiums.

Maryanne Konkowski — Google review

Awesome show well worth it me n my family had a great time

Shane Morris — Google review

Fantastic park! Awesome staff! Had a great time watching my Sox win! We were with my Dad & finished off the night getting a golf cart ride to our car with a hilarious woman. She was a boss directing cars out of her way. 5 stars all around!

Paula Smith — Google review

This is one of our favorite parks for spring training. The carnival atmosphere right outside the stadium is so exciting and unique! Food trucks, live music, batting cages for the kids, radar gun for the kids! Love the vibe at this park. We are Atlanta Braves fans and the visiting team players exit on the 3rd base side at the end of the game. They give autographs and talk with fans and kids!! Great stadium and venue!!!

Aaron Watkins — Google review

Good fun in the sun! Food, drinks, and parking were all easy as can be. There isn’t a bad seat in the place. I’ve been to Fenway hundreds of times in my lifetime and this was a nice second choice if you’re looking for a fun ball field to visit. Be careful of fly balls along the pesky pole!

Penny Howard — Google review

Very cool. Same as Fenway, except every seat in the stands is a great seat! Watching them play under the lights was amazing!

Kimbrough Polinsky — Google review

This was our first trip to JetBlue Park, and it won't be our last. It has a very retro feel, similar to Fenway, as it's clear it was designed to replicate. The outside surrounding the park was done really well, it has that street party feel like when you are in Boston. Most of the seats are in direct sunlight, so be prepared to get a lot of sun. We sat on the first base side 5 rows in, which was a fantastic view, but even the seats against the wall behind us looked great because of how small the park is. The scoreboards are operated manually like Fenway. Oh, we had the opportunity to get pictures with the 07 and 13 world series trophies, which were on display. The Ortiz picture I added was made of Legos. Parking is free, somewhat easy to navigate, but plan on being in a long line of traffic after the game since there is really only one way in and out for most of the vehicles. Cute town, but loved the experience. Go Sox!

Nate Miller — Google review

Had a great time. Very clean. A ton of people to help you out. Be careful using a 3rd party service to get tickets, and then having them ready when you go to the gate. Make sure you follow the 3rd party steps so you are ready and your wife doesn't yell at you while you do it in line.I like how they have recreated the green monster. They even have someone keeping score manually.

Michael Ryan — Google review

Great ball park and very well maintained fields. Our fields for the tournament were the best. The grounds crew and facilities management did an amazing job of preparing and taking care of the fields throughout the tournament. I’m extremely grateful and thankful for my opportunity to play at this incredible ball park.

Randy Houck — Google review

I got there so early I was 20th in line. I received my medium sized Hawaiian shirt. I virtually had the entire park to myself for the first hour I was there. I walked around and saw everything I wanted to. By game time the park was jam packed. The Red Sox won in late innings to beat the Philadelphia Phillies. I highly recommend. My ticket was very reasonable @ $36.00.

William Cloutier — Google review

Don’t love the stadium design. Small electronic scoreboard makes it hard to see info, especially important at Spring Training with unfamiliar players. Concourses were extremely cramped and effectively outside the stadium disconnecting you completely from the game when going to restroom or seeking food. Food was actually pretty good. The mini big green monster is awesome.

Bill Me — Google review

We came down for a Red Sox-Yankees spring training game and were treated to a great blowout by the Sox! Lots of quality concession options and activities. I found the infrastructure to be of good quality, but the amenities not very well staffed or stocked. The concession stands were extremely, painfully slow, requiring several innings of standing, and there was no ketchup, barbecue sauce, or any condiments like that. A little more attention to detail would make this ballpark perfect.

Daniel Kassl — Google review

4.7

(2579)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (70)

4.5

(829)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (71)

11500 Fenway South Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33913, USA

(239) 226-4700

I'll never travel to Ochopee without this trip planner again

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I will never travel to Ochopee without this app againAvailable on the App Store

11

Lovers Key State Park

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State park

Nature & Parks

Lovers Key State Park is a state park that is located in Fort Myers Beach. It offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico, manatees, dolphins, and bald eagles. The beach is open 365 days a year and provides a perfect getaway for any beachgoer.

Lovers Key State Park is a really neat location with lots to do! We just got our annual park pass and decided to try this one out! They have an awesome shuttle to and from the beach. The beach views and sand are gorgeous! We did one of the walking trails which takes you through some jungle looking wilderness, past the butterfly gardens and next to a bunch of beautiful scenic waterways. I would highly recommend checking it out if you’re in the area and have some time to explore! They have a cute gift shop, rentals, discovery center and much more for the whole family!

Drew Miles — Google review

They have a new welcome center. We went kayaking and went to the beach. Love the tram driver. We went off our anniversary... Would you know we got on Fox 4 Now while we were there. We will come back. They have done a great job getting things up and running and open to the public.

Americo Menendez — Google review

I wanted to enjoy the paddleboards offered at Lovers Key again, but the day got away from me and I arrived too late. The boards need to be returned by 4:30 and it takes about 15 minutes it fill out paperwork and make it across the street where the boards are located. So be there by 3 at the very latest to enjoy a full hour paddling the channel, maybe you'll see a manatee while you're paddling. I made my way out to the beach. It is a short walk but there is a tram that runs from the parking lot to the beach. Ample room in the back of the truck for chairs and coolers. They have bathroom facilities in the parking lot and the tram drop off at the beach. The beach was wonderful, white sand and plenty of shells. Saw small sea birds, pelicans, dolphins and even a manta ray leap out of the water! The park closed shortly after sunset. The last tram waited for the people to clear the beach before pulling away. There was not much time after arriving in the parking lot to get in your car and go before they locked the restrooms and main gates. Found out they have several beach wheel chairs available for use!

Dayna Willson — Google review

Beautiful state park with wonderful beaches between Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Springs. There is plenty of parking for an entry fee of 8$ per car, which is very reasonable.We went there several times with our kids during our Florida holidays and it was always an experience. Even the little tram ride from the parking spot to the south beach is great for them.At the beach you have all facilities in place with restrooms, showers and picnic areas, as well as a little food truck.The beach itself is amazing with clear water, white sand and tons of shells. We will definitely come again ...

Daniel Czemmel — Google review

We really enjoyed our day at this park. We mostly did a beach day but also did some hiking on the trails. Note that after parking you take a trailer ride to the beach from the parking lot. This was running continuously all day and seemed to be back every 10-15 minutes or so. This worked out well. They had good bathroom facilities at both sides of the trailer ride (adjacent the parking lot, and at the beach), so this was nice too. There is a gift shop next to the main parking lot and it has some ice cream and drinks there too, plus lots of gift ideas. There is also food available at the beach. The beach was great for shells, we got some good ones! It was a red flag day so the water was rough, but we did walk along the shoreline and that was nice. Lots of birds around and the water was a pretty color here. 2+ miles of shore here so you can walk a long ways. We had no problems parking but got here around 10AM-ish, I'd imagine at later times after noon it gets much busier. When we were leaving the lot looked pretty full. Highly recommend this place.

Maximilian — Google review

Great beach and many people visiting Ft. Meyers never make it here. This beach is hidden and you have to go over the bridge coming from Fort Meyers. Then you have to take a weird turn to get to the parking lot. You have to pay, it’s not free. The beach is pretty and there are a number of people fishing day and night at this spot or near by. It’s a hike to the nearest beach but you can go down further. It’s very pretty and there are several mangroves in the area. Some people are more adventurous where they go on a kayak in the mangroves near by or the coves. It’s not wilderness but use your common sense. If you swim keep in mind there are currents don’t underestimate the ocean.

Ian — Google review

beautiful place 10/10. easy access to a beautiful beach. i had a great experience in the canal with a paddle board (didn’t see any alligators). cheap fee and free tram that comes in fast intervals that takes you from parking lot to beach. showers and bathrooms right next to parking lot. friendly staff 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

Nikolas Alvim — Google review

We absolutely adore this state park. Even if there’s a lot of people, there’s still plenty of room for everybody. They have trams to take you to another area of the beach if you don’t want to walk. They have a few different areas with concessions and bathrooms. The water is absolutely beautiful, you’ll want to spend all day here! Just don’t forget your sunscreen.

Ashlea W. — Google review

Beautiful park. We kayaked the canals and the scenery was nice, lots of birds. The manatee were a no show that day. Didn’t see any alligators either. The beaches are gorgeous. There are trails to walk/bike as well. Lots of accessories to assist disabled to beach.

Kim Shelton — Google review

I love it here! The guy who rents the umbrellas and chairs is so sweet. It is peaceful and pretty!!! And the is a trolley to pick you up and drop you off.

Dawn Battle — Google review

Loved this park! It was a scorching hot day so walking any paths was out for us, but the beach was so calm and peaceful. Lots of shells here too. There is a tram that takes you to the beach or you can walk. Walk would take about 10 minutes at an average pace. It’s $7 to park for the day. You can pay with cash or using your phone.

Kelly Wehrenberg — Google review

I haven’t been to that specific spot since hurricane Ian. But it’s was an absolutely stunning, special, place. And I’m sure they’ve done stuff with it since. But that beachwood……. Irreplaceable. I’ll share a photo of the beautiful beach and our Christmas “tree “ full of shells , sand dollars , wishes , people’s names , visitors and locals alike.

Karma Dharma — Google review

Visited this state park to catch the sunset, and it was breathtaking. The beach is beautiful, and you have the option of taking a tram or a half-mile walk to reach it. Keep in mind that the park closes around 6 due to hurricane-related issues affecting the lighting. Overall, a serene and picturesque spot for nature lovers.

Sarah C — Google review

What a stunning knock dead gorgeous place. Beautiful beaches, estuaries, and Discovery Center.We first stopped at the Discovery Center to get the lay of the land, so to speak. We were met by Glenda, a docent who volunteers her time here. Very pleasant lady and very knowledgeable. She was able to answer all of our questions, and she pointed out things to do after leaving the Discovery Center.The Discovery Center is amazing. Very well put together, giving you an excellent overview of the biodiversity of the marine life and land loving creatures. There are a lot of interactive displays for kids of all ages. There is a telescope there where you can spy in on a nesting pair of Ospreys. We strongly recommend that you visit this place first.From there, we walked over and took the trolley down to the beach. The beach has been combed down to a depth of three feet to remove the hurricane derbis from hurricane Ian less than two years ago. Be careful if you go into the water. It is strongly recommended that you wear shoes in the water. Many hazards may still be on the ocean floor that can not be seen. There are restrooms near the beach area.There are lots of trails, and you are allowed to ride your bikes on these trails.Again, it is a must-see place during your travels to this area.

Kenneth Davis — Google review

Picturesque beach is characterized by pristine, white sand. Access to the beach is provided via a tram service that operates every 20 minutes and is included in the $8 entrance fee. Ample parking is available, and the beach is not excessively crowded. For those who prefer not to bring their own seating, there is an option to rent chairs and umbrellas at a reasonable cost.

William Smith — Google review

Great park with excellent trails through the mangroves. One of the better wildlife viewing areas we visited while in the area. Lots of birds. Saw a couple snakes. A bunch of lizards. And the endangered gopher tortoise! Wonderful education signs. It’s a great way to spend a morning. The trails weren’t busy but the beach and beach parking was very busy.

Jacob Blandford — Google review

Great State Park. Hiking trails that are wide and easy, very bike-able. Also kayak rentals, fishing and beach access with trolley option. Clean facilities and bathrooms everywhere. Great nature opportunities.

Scott Berger — Google review

Very well maintained areas and beach. Staff were courteous and helpful getting those with disabilities around, and beach wheelchairs were free to use. We were able to see dolphins and collect seashells to our hearts' content.

Rebecca Loduha — Google review

Just went back and our group rented Kayaks through Lover's Key Adventures. We had an amazing experience with three Manantee encounters. Plus our guide, Karen did an excellent job, kept us entertained while exploring the Estuary.

Bob L — Google review

Its a cute little statepark. The last hurricane unfortunatly took down the bridge to my favorite spot. Now the bus and the sidewalk just take you to the regular spot.Nevertheless, a lot of wildlife, white beach with a lot of shells

Eric Ryan — Google review

4.7

(7079)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (83)

4.5

(3082)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (84)

8700 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931, USA

(239) 707-6328

12

Miromar Outlets

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Shopping mall

Shopping

Factory Outlets

Awesome shops, amongst the better shops in the area - IF you want outlet shopping. Both Miromar and Sanibel Outlets are great, but we'd pick Miromar for the food selection. We found items at many stores, and enjoyed an exceptional 2 hours of shopping and learning about Lee County.

Drew Weltin — Google review

A great place to recommend to your clients for shopping, after a long day of showing properties for sale in Estero.

Brent Pleeter / Realtor at Domain Realty — Google review

What a wonderful place to walk around are in a nice chilly evening. Beautifully decorated with the Christmas decorations. I was fortunate enough to take some gorgeous pictures of what i'd like to call. The christmas fountains of Of near mar lakes. I wasn't able to take as many pictures as I was hoping to so here's to that

Michael Meow — Google review

CAR SHOW 2/6/2022Free admissionOver 150 carsMy 1st real show since I moved to SWFLA..Definitely saw cars I've never seen before.Spent a couple hours walking around...Many owners were present and loved chatting about their rides..Some owners just parked and left..Worth the trip out from Cape Coral, 30 minutes ride...The mall itself looks cool.Typical strip mall.It has a Levi store and I need jeans pretty badly...Other than that I was only here for the cars....

John Chase — Google review

This place is huge with stores and restaurants in a open air mall with a nice landscaping and plenty of parking. A number of fountains some with turtles and fish in them. Outlets such as Nike, Under Armor, Michael Kors to name a few. A must see place in Southwest Florida.

F T — Google review

This mall has it all. If you have an afternoon take the time to go shopping. Most stores have great pricing. Very well kept and clean. Food is available, from your quick food to sit down restaurants. A nice way to spend an afternoon.

John Taylor — Google review

Good shopping experience - little dining possibilities but all in all worth to come.

Manuel Woelfelschneider — Google review

One of the biggest and best outlets in US! Every store and brand you are looking for.Special-Deals and Coupons are available on the website from mall (PDF download).For us a must on every vacation in RSW

Egalaml Inc. — Google review

Excellent place to walk around and look for deals. Spend the day shopping, eating and time with loved ones. Incredible variety and good prices. Hard to find so much selection in one area. The turtles are a nice bonus.

Dan Moisson — Google review

Quiet, well maintained and a good variety of shops to suit all tastes.Plenty of parking.Around 2 hours to stroll around, some good restaurants also.Well worth a visit.

Alan W — Google review

Nice shopping experience… this place has all the big brands…it is very pretty and you can get fresh air…there are so much greenery and there is area for koi fish and turtles…my best to hang out while shopping is near wish fountain….there are restaurants that serves scrumptious food…and the shop smells nice…all the shops has good directions and easy to find…it has very good view to see…I hope you enjoy your shopping experience!!!

Suryanarayanan Ranganathan — Google review

Two of my favorite places to shop are here in one place Van Husen and Levi's. If you love shopping it is a great outdoor mall to practically spend the whole day there. Places to eat and drink and sit to people watch are plenty. Bring good walking shoes as there is a lot to walk.Update Feb 2023:Repeat visit, disappointed to learn all Van Husen stores are closed. Despite that there is a lot of variety that still exists. Unfortunately we were not there when they have live bands playing on weekends.The fish and turtle pond/fountain are a hit with kids and adults alike.

Phil Vania — Google review

My favorite outdoor mall, many great outlets to shop from and gorgeous outdoor walkways to stroll around.

DF MIX — Google review

This is a one stop shopping plaza. Save time and saves you money. Gives you the ability to check out one store, shop at another, compare and then go back to the one that gives the best value. No dring, quick walks. Great place, Neat, tidy and safe.

Richard Sullivan — Google review

Beautiful mall to shop. Very accesible. Beautiful sceneries while you shop.

Magda Gonzalez — Google review

Good little outlet with lots of terrific stores. Love the water fountains.

Jason Smith — Google review

Beautiful place. Has all the outlets of major stores such as Coach, Michael Kors etc. places to eat and for the kids to play.

Maria Rodriguez — Google review

nice place, but not a lot of choice

zz top — Google review

Somehow disappointing. Many stores from previous years are no longer there. Only offers geared towards tourists.The ray of hope is the Fords Garage restaurant.

Josef Glasmacher — Google review

We drove about an hour and a half to get there. The shops were attractive and of good size. Even though it was raining lightly there was a portico people could walk under to help stay dry. Great shops to choose from. It was a pleasant afternoon.

John Hunter — Google review

This outlet has every store possible. The amenities are clean and deals are great. This is a great place to spend the day! Will be back if I’m ever in fort Meyers!

Gabriel Bokich — Google review

Oddly I associate " Outlet" with overstock , CHEAP , we must get rid of clearance stores. Not many if any clearance stores here. Some empty store fronts. We'll maintained grounds and water fountains.

Sj Daley — Google review

4.6

(10493)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (89)

4.5

(1769)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (90)

10801 Corkscrew Rd, Estero, FL 33928, USA

(239) 948-3766

13

Clam Pass Park

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Public beach

Outdoor Activities

Located just minutes from the bustling heart of Naples, Clam Pass Park is a lush oasis with stunning views of the Gulf of Naples. The park features a variety of plants and wildlife, as well as a sugar white sand beach and boardwalk. It's perfect for a tranquil day out with family or friends!

Stunning Park, Walking Boardwalk, Great Beach Food & Beautiful Sand BeachIf you’re in the area, check out this gem! You need a Collier Beach Pass to park at Clam Pass Park or you have to pay $10 for parking. There is a rather large parking lot but if you’re going on the weekend - get there early! Spots fill up quick! There is a beautiful and long boardwalk through the mangroves that you can either walk through to get ti the beach or they have free cart drivers that will take you back and forth from the parking lot to the beach!Once you finish the boardwalk the other side, the waterway opens up to the beach food stand, bathrooms, showers, a kids play place and ample seating! I attached some pictures of the menu - please note it’s cash only!There are chairs and plenary of beach space when you go down to the beautiful water! When you’re done playing on the beach, you can take the cart ride back to the parking lot! It’s a sunning pocket of Naples that’s a must see!

Drew Miles — Google review

Great beach and awesome place to watch the sunset! We went on a Sunday evening in January and it was not very crowded at all. Sand is nice and powdery but there were still quite a few shells. Very cleaned and well maintained, but away from the hustle and bustle of town. It’s quite a hike in a long boardwalk to get to the beach but they were running golf cart shuttles when we were there.

Kevin Horst — Google review

Was able to capture the sunset on my visit, was extremely pretty. The boardwalk to the beach was longer than I anticipated but nice. There is a cart that will give you a ride from the beach to the parking lot. There is also a stand where you can get beverages.

Andrew Vasquez — Google review

Great beach, clean, super soft white sand, nice ocean. Pretty crowded and the rentals are expensive. The walk or tram to the beach is the highlight for me. Sad to see some trash in the mangroves. Also even through they have some awesome signs protecting animals, the restaurant uses a lot of plastic (silverware, to go cases, etc). Food is good, there are a few restrooms at the restaurant area.

Laura Loria — Google review

Always love to bring my family here. Great beach and accompanying facilities which are very clean. Be sure to arrive early as parking will be sold out pretty quickly. Walk the trek to the beach and enjoy the sights or take the golf cart if you're carrying alot of beach supplies.

Thomas Madden — Google review

Beautiful doesn't cover it! The jungle walk to the beach is 16 min and worth it on a day that's not too hot and the bugs are down! The beach is gorgeous, water is perfect! Swimming during Christmas/new years- so awesome!

Paris Jaye — Google review

Went on a Monday. Practically empty , Good parking space. Cost to come in $10. Free advice: take the little train to go to the beach. Long walk. We wanted to take pictures so we walked but on the way back definitely used the service, its is free, but accepting tips. They have a bar and food. Margaritas are $15. White sands, good beach overall.

Lee D — Google review

Nice beach, with some decent shelling too. The walk to get there is longer than I thought by boardwalk, but trams are also available if needed.

Ray McCarthy — Google review

Loooooove this place soooo much! It's just a delightful beach/ place to spend time with friends or simply on your own fabulous self! Clean soft sand, friendly atmosphere, and there's a great bar for cold drinks and food if you want to refresh yourself throughout the day. Decent clean and spacious bathrooms too!Overall a wonderful place to go and spend time during your Florida visit, give it a try, you won't be disappointed!

Valéria — Google review

The most beautiful board walked ever. Weather was amazing today for a walk. We did not take the trolley drive because walking you can see and enjoy a lot more of the beautiful nature walk

Florencia Florentin — Google review

Hidden gem alert!!!Great park. Our whole family enjoyed it (kids/teens/adults). Pay one flat parking fee (can pay at booth) $10. We walked the boardwalk out then took the tram back in. I would probably take tram both ways due to the amount of stuff we had, the heat index and the distance. Park is next door to hotel so it serves as a more secluded beach than others. Nice food spot with good pricing. Bathrooms are good, sand is beautiful and white. Ocean was blue and green and warm and clean. Bring some type of shade. We rode the current at the far end of th Beach. It acts like a lazy river can use a tube or just float yourself down. It's relatively shallow. Super unique spot. We even saw a manatee swim into the ocean. That was an awesome sight. Totally give this beach a 10/10 to this Florida girl and her Native New Yorker husband.

garyccollins — Google review

I just can't get enough of this place. It's definitely a #mustvisit if you're in #Naples, the scenery, the wooden path, the river, even the tiki bar.Bring your beach chairs and umbrella, they're not cheap if you rent it there.One of my favorite #touristdestinations in #Florida#HighlyRecommended by the@Aventure.dos

Jaime Plaza — Google review

Great sandy beach. The walk is a bit far from the parking. However, there are little golf carts that can you bring you if you don’t want to walk. Lovely atmosphere at the beach. There are toilets and a little canteen for food. Love the vibe.

Evelyne Nguyen-Khac — Google review

Gorgeous beach that is only accessible by the tram. You are able to rent beach chairs and umbrellas, which is very convenient if you’re not from the area. They also have a little cafe/food stand there! Very clean and peaceful beach. Loved it!!

Catherine D — Google review

This beach was amazing. It was great for parking. $10.00 per car for the day. There is a golf cart shuttle that holds 8 people. We were able to bring our cooler and lawn chairs with us. It is a 3/4 mile through the mangroves on the boardwalk. We tipped the drive a few dollars . It was worth the ride. The beach was amazing. There are clean washrooms and a covered area with a snack bar with a great menu and drinks. The beach was wheelchair accessible. We will definitely be back.

Mary Druce — Google review

Fantastic beaches! Jump on a golf cart cause it’s a long walk but it’s beautiful going through the mangroves

Rick S. — Google review

Awesome beach. Lots of parking available but during the season get there early. You can walk on the board walk to the beach which is about a mile in or take a free shuttle service. Golf carts that seat six are very comfortable as you enjoy the shaded drive through the Mangroves. You can bring your own chairs or rent them and umbrellas when you get down to the beach. Great bathrooms at the concession stand. Lots of great food and drinks to choose from and places to sit. This is a great beach to enjoy the day!

Diana Busso — Google review

Went to combine a little beach visit with a little hiking. The beach is very nice. The boardwalk, well, it's beautiful and all but with all the tram traffic doesn't feel very outdoorsy. However, if you had trouble with mobility or kids about to have a meltdown, those trams might just be a great choice for you.

David Bouwkamp — Google review

Amazing Beach. Tiki Bar is nice option. A bit pricey but nice to have food and beverage option. The golf cart ride to the beach is great. $10 parking is reasonable. We will go back.

Kyhl Thomson — Google review

Free shuttles to get to and from the beach. Soft, white sand. Food and drink options. Ample restrooms with a foot wash. Ability to rent towels and beach shelters. It’s a beautiful beach!

Ronald Budhi — Google review

Very nice beach. Clean warm water and the sand is perfect. We took the tram on the board walk to get there. The drivers were very nice.

Michael Perrotta — Google review

4.7

(2526)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (97)

4.5

(1173)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (98)

465 Seagate Dr, Naples, FL 34103, USA

(239) 252-4000

14

Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary-ONLINE TICKETS RECOMMENDED

34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (99)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (100)

34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (101)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (102)

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Park

Nature & Parks

Nature & Wildlife Areas

The Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a protected wetlands area that features a scenic boardwalk trail and an observation tower, offering visitors the opportunity to observe native wildlife in its natural habitat. This private park provides great information about the early Florida conservationists who helped establish and maintain the sanctuary.

What an amazing place! The lady who checked us in was super informative and sweet. Saw so much wildlife and the information on the tour was terrific. Lots of great Info about the early Florida conservationists and great minds behind the Sanctuary. Ranger also helped us spot gators (though we had just missed otters! Bummer) Totally worth the $$$.. it’s a private park and the boardwalk is great and accessible. A beautiful stroll through time. Saw tons of herons, egrets, ibis, woodpeckers, wood storks, hawks, black vultures, deer and a gator. Also saw lichen and many 800 year old bald cypress ! Will be back for the ghost ;)

A Flyswatter — Google review

Fantastic!!Most of the time you are in the shade. I went in June so there wasn't much water yet. Tons of wildlife. Gators, baby gators, raccoons, woodpeckers, vultures, hawks, frogs, lizards, owls, butterflies, and many many birds.Tip: we were passed by almost everyone because we would take a few steps, stop, listen, and look around. That is how I found the gators and the raccoons as well as many birds.

Target Priority — Google review

Absolutely wonderful experience here! Quietly walking through the park is so interesting. It’s really a great place to experience nature and see amazing animals and plants. Coming from PA, I saw so many things I’ve never seen before! I loved walking the trail and looking and listening to all that the swamp has to offer. I also enjoyed my conversation with Art, a volunteer who was out on the trail to share information with visitors. He was so genuinely kind and helpful and my family and I had a nice time chatting with him. Overall, it was one of my favorite things I got to experience in Naples.

Nathaniel Legg — Google review

What an absolute delight of a habitat! My hubby and I are both biologists, avid birders, and native plant nerds, and we had an amazing morning on the boardwalk. This habitat is endemic to our state and can't be found anywhere else!! We saw salt and pepper square stem wild flowers and salt marsh mallow in full bloom and don't even get me started on the scarlet hibiscus! Just gorgeous! This is a truly special place that should be preserved for our future. We love that they only allow so many people on the boardwalk because we were less likely to be disturbed when getting the awesome bird photographs that we came early for. If you love Florida native plants and ecosystems as well as our lovely native wildlife than this is the place for you. We will absolutely be back for more of real Florida.

dani hall — Google review

Loved the sanctuary itself. It was beautiful and well kept.However, we used to faithfully give to Audubon for many years, but after they use their charity in a political way we no longer will donate or support them. Which actually very much saddens my heart to do so but we won't stand by while our beliefs are mocked. They are a charity, for birds. It's unfortunate they have to politicize that.

Ashley Nicole — Google review

First time here and we, couple in the 40's, really enjoyed this place. Majority of the board walk are in shade. We arrived around 10 am, took a leasure walk, oh and ah on air plants, looked for orchids, birds, ground animals. Took pix at the calusa land mark. Would we come back? Why not? Love this peaceful place ...

blue sky — Google review

I had a fantastic day hiking/walking along the boardwalk today (it is all boardwalk). Took me about an hour to get around once.The first quarter-mile or so goes through grasslands, so no shade, but the rest of it, except for the very end where it goes through grasslands again, is mostly shaded by the very tall trees.Sunday afternoon it was pretty crowded, but that was good because there were other eyes picking out the alligators, turtles, etc.Don't forget to look up, so you can find the owls and other birds, flowers, lichen, raccoons, and of course, look down so you can see the alligators, lizards, turtles, etc.Keep your ears open for the multitude of birds, which I could never actually find because my eyes are not trained for that, and for the various bullfrogs, who were quite vocal today.Nice visitor center and restrooms, lots of parking. There is a $17 charge to get in, but it's really worth it - plus it's for the Audubon Society.The loop is about 2 miles, and since I had time, I ended up walking the trail twice and saw different things each time.Some people were commenting on not seeing wildlife, but you really need to look hard for it sometimes and don't go in there with the expectations of seeing dozens of alligators. I saw three. Four raccoons. One owl. A dozen lizards, one turtle, etc. but it was all very nice.

Leslie Smith — Google review

Amazing! A wonderful walk along the boardwalk showing off a protected mature cypress forest. Rich in plant and animal life. Suitable for entire family. Saw many birds, alligators (and baby alligators!!), racoons, and plants. Informational signs along the way. Was a wonderful day!

K H — Google review

I am neither a biologist or an arborist. I am a mom of three children (8, 11, 14) who were not at all convinced that a swamp was a worthy way to spend their morning. Upon arrival at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, however, their spirits were quieted and they gave space for it to be bearable. In the end, and to their surprise, we all really enjoyed it! I didn’t hear one complaint until it was time to leave.Understanding my role of mom, you will allow me to show you the swamp as my boys saw it. My oldest, a daughter, read the plaques and enjoyed the expected sights, such as the hidden bittern we spotted (pictured—you gotta look carefully!). My boys, on the other hand, saw things such as the cypress tree eating a hand rail and the nice tree hugging the other tree (aka the Strangling Fig—a misnomer in their opinion). They continued to notice more cypress trees trying to consume handrails or “melting” onto the edge of the boardwalk, but occasionally had their attention turned to the swamp beyond the boardwalk by raccoon families, a (false) sighting of a ghost orchid, and—most impressively—a very big alligator.Along the way, guides helped us see things our novice eyes did not spot. Our questions to them were simple and easily answered, but I overheard some very in depth exchanges between the guides and more knowledgeable guests than we. They were helpful in both situations.I would recommend this for any age! One consideration for those who might struggle to walk for a long while—there are benches along the way, but if you or a loved one has difficulty with distances, rest may not be as accessible as needed. There are rails to lean on along the entire boardwalk.

Tamara G — Google review

Great family activity. We came at the end of March so it was dry season. The first hour, we didn’t see much. Just lots of walking to see many trees and a few birds. Close to the end, it was a bit more swampy and so it got more interesting. We saw many birds and alligators. I recommend going when it is less dry so that you could see more.

Evelyne Nguyen-Khac — Google review

Beautiful hike plan to get theirs early as they do close the trail around 1:00 since the hike takes about 1:30-2hrs. Love walking here to see all the beautiful unique air plants, any of the animals and all the bird sounds!

Doga Doga — Google review

Such a peaceful, beautiful place. It is absolutely amazing to experience some of Florida's natural habitats and see land that is untouched (less the boardwalk providing you said view!)I took my seven year old with me for our first girls "hike". She was able to keep up, even taking the extended path (3mi.)Being from the north, I wasnt sure what I was getting into going to a swamp. Certainly not at all like the stero type I grew up with!Plenty of picture taking opportunities. A great way to connect with nature and only 20 minutes or so from the residential communities of Naples.The gift shop had so many choices to bring home a keepsake from your visit, so be sure to bring your wallet!They offer a few snacks and bottled beverages, but you'll want to make sure you had a meal before or plan to after.Restrooms at the entrance but not along the boardwalk. This didn't cause issue for us, but something you'll want to take note of before you get out there!

Alexandria Sandell — Google review

Beautiful park. Well maintained. Very friendly staff. There’s a nice facility at the entrance with restrooms and lots of information on the area. The entire thing is a handicap & stroller accessible boardwalk. Costs some money, like $20 an adult, but given what they do to protect our Florida ecosystem it’s well worth it. We were lucky enough to see a gorgeous owl perched on a branch not even 15 feet away. Very memorable.

Tim Chase — Google review

Wonderfully well-kept buildings and boardwalks. The preserve itself encompasses several types of habitat and really shows of the beauty of this region's nature. If you love the play of sunbeams through a thick forest canopy and trees from a thousand years ago, all in the cooling shade with a fresh scent of water, tea-stained but very clear, and to hear the songs of many birds and the soft croaking of an alligator to her hatchlings, and to catch sight of hawks riding the thermals out above the marsh, then this vast silent isolated sanctuary is for you! If you can avoid groups of people along the boardwalk, you will be rewarded with the profound quiet of nature: no distant rush of traffic, not even passing aircraft, something actually hard to come by in our area. This sanctuary has been in place long enough that you will see many cases of trees' boles growing around/incorporating the handrails of the boardwalk, and many others where the rails have been cut back to give the trees room. It's a great walk, whether you actually spot animals or not :-) OK, I know it sounds like I'm totally enthralled, and just for balance: I'm not fond of their gift shop, it's large enough and has many things, but it doesn't seem to connect with what is outside their doors. In general I like gift shops, this one just seems to me to have too much kitsch and not enough connection. Perhaps it just suffered by comparison to the gorgeous swamp we had been traversing!

Heather Preston — Google review

You and I, dear reader, don’t know each other. We may or may not like many of the same parts of the day.If you respect your fellows and admire nature with a hushed reverence commonly shown in the awe of a centuries-old place of worship, we have common ground.If you are looking for flashing lights, blaring music and dancing bears, you are in exactly the wrong place.The most exciting non-human mammals spotted during our mid-day March visit were raccoons and squirrels. We have too many of these at home to be interested.Several on the boardwalk noticed a dark, ridged stripe basking in the sun. Probably a gator’s back. Could have been sculpted. Many small skinks and kin escorted us through the greenery.Several birds, from anhinga to ibis to ted-shouldered hawk.Lots of plant life unfamiliar to this northerner. Tall cypress, small water spangles, and lots in between.It was less eventful than I hoped - even expected - but I loved it. I could spend many days wandering these boards. I’d be sure to spot something new each time.

Paul Maguire — Google review

It was a nice cooler day to visit. The nature and beauty are unbelievable. It is a nice boardwalk path that you take for 2 miles, no way to get lost. You stay on the boardwalk the whole time. Use the restroom before you start. It does take a good hour and half to walk the whole way. We saw a raccoon, birds, a gator in 2 different areas, an anahinga (look it up)drying its feathers with wings spread out and a baby bald eagle in its nest. There are not too many creatures in the water except for the gator. Had a small lunch in the Café and a nice gift shop to look through. Nice visit. 17$ for adults. We bought our tickets in advance online.

Lisa Hill — Google review

Our first time here and we thoroughly enjoyed the walk through the Audubon corkscrew swamp sanctuary. The full walk is about 2.5 miles on a boardwalk. The boardwalk goes through the swamp with safe guard rails. You get to see many areas of the swamp, some fields and prairies that are marshes as well.We saw many birds, including herons, ibis, warblers, and many more. About 30 species during our hike.There are many stops along the way with benches where you can sit in the peace and quiet and enjoy the foliage and the wildlife. I recommend it for a place of tranquility. This was my first visit through a swamp, and it was much more pleasant and enjoyable than I ever thought it would be.There are tour guides that give tours on Sunday mornings. We ran into some of these tour guides during our walk on the boardwalk. They are very knowledgeable and sometimes will point out birds, orchids and other sightings as you walk on the boardwalk. I was very grateful to run into these tour guides.There is a very nice gift shop in the visitor center with lots of gifts around birds. There’s also a little café where you can buy food. They have salads, sandwiches, and drinks that you can purchase, as well as hotdogs and condiments.If you really like your visit, you can purchase a membership on the way out, and they will credit your ticket purchase toward the membership. I highly recommend visiting this place, if you would like a pleasant hike, and to see the beauty of the swamp as well as the birds.

M. B. — Google review

Pretty place to spend the day in nature. There are public restrooms at the entrance as well as a small cafe and gift shop. The boardwalk leads through a prairie areas as well as swamp. You may see alligators, birds, deer, raccoons and if you are super lucky panthers and bobcats. The path is pretty safe since you are on the boardwalk the entire time. There are lookouts along the way and sitting areas also. Online tickets were required for Thanksgiving however you may be able to purchase tickets when you arrive. I suggest calling first.

Paula Bonna travels — Google review

We went on the last day before 2 weeks of upgrading. Due to our earliest many animals and bird were in the move. We heard an alligator roar very close, saw raccoons, owls, frogs, ospreys, etc. There are 4 different types of environment, not just straight mangrove. Shop was open. Rest rooms at start but not on 2+ miles boardwalk.

Mike Sweeting — Google review

So beautiful and peaceful! Saw so much wildlife on the large loop walk. Really easy boardwalk path with lots of benches along the way. The area is very well preserved.

Mallory Winkler — Google review

4.7

(1945)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (103)

4.5

(3407)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (104)

375 Sanctuary Rd W, Naples, FL 34120, USA

(239) 348-9151

15

Lowdermilk Park

34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (105)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (106)

34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (107)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (108)

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Park

Outdoor Activities

Lowdermilk Park is a public beach and park located on Gulf Shore Boulevard North in Naples, Florida. It features a sandy beach, concession stand, volleyball courts, and gazebo. The park is popular among locals and tourists alike for its incredible ocean views.

A great beach with a controlled environment and not overly crowded, even when you have to struggle for a parking space. We went for a romantic sunset and walk in the sand... it was perfect, but isn't everything when you're with the right partner? 💕 💥 💖 ... the one person you were meant to be sharing that moment with 💙

Randal J. Lyons — Google review

Best beach I think in Naples !Parking is very close to the beach You don't have to walk very far. There is an awesome snack shop with drinks good food. They have umbrellas with chairs if you want to rent one so you don't have to drag your stuff downBeautiful beaches very cleanNot too many kids at that timeKayak rentals and boogie board rentals are availableI'm from Canada and this was definitely the best place on my vacation to Florida Will be back

Melody Culp — Google review

Good place, chair, umbrella and, kayaks for rent. Food for sale on site, don't have high expectations about the food, would post a picture but it was too small lol. Fyi, they want to charge $22 for sunblock

Paul — Google review

Beautiful park. Very clean. There is paid parking and concession stand. The parking wasn't terrible. But the food was little to desire. Otherwise, it was a gorgeous beach. Bring beach things (umbrella, towels, goggles, swimwear, etc) and your own refreshments, and you'll have a great time.Don't feed the seagulls! 🦤

Armah The Trainer — Google review

Really loved this beach. Kid friendly, some shaded areas, lots of sunny areas, shells and sand. It was perfect. It is pretty crowded close to the main entrance but more spacious if you walk a little. We were there end of March and got there around 9:15am. We parked easily but within an hour there was no parking left and people were circling forever. We enjoyed our day and can't wait to be back.

Jodi M Mosley — Google review

Wonderfully soft white sand beach with a mature family vibe! Amenities include rest rooms as well as affordably priced food. Few shells to be had. Convenient parking right off the beach. Tiki huts available for the early arrivals.

Dennis Bloom — Google review

The beach is easily accessible and they have public showers to wash off afterwards. It gets pretty crowded and you don't have much personal space but from my experience all of the people were very nice. The atmosphere is amazing!

Suzy Boehm — Google review

Peaceful and clean with bathrooms and showers. Sunset is perfection in visual joy. Occasional dolphin sighting is really cool. Also snack bar but bring your bank card for parking and double check your spot number so you don't have to go back and look.EnjoyCJ

CJ — Google review

This is another great beach in Naples. They have a cafe serving drinks, snacks, burgers and hot dogs— yum! You also can rent umbrellas and chairs, super great if you’re visiting from far. Clean beach, beautiful warm & calm waters. Outdoor showers available. Parking is tricky as they do have a parking lot but it gets very full on weekends. I recommend coming by on a weekday to avoid this issue.

Catherine D — Google review

This is the most beautiful beach. Ive been to many but this is my favorite and I will always default to coming here. The sunsets are gorgeous. I wish with all my heart that they figure out a way to add more parking. Theres “plenty” of parking but it really needs more if you’re not there before 8-am good luck getting parking. Other than that it has plenty of outdoor showers to rinse off. And also has a nice area to play volleyball.

Danijanet — Google review

Great beach. Parking is limited and you need to get there early in the morning for a spot. There's a canteen/hot food and covered area to sir down. Washrooms there. Outdoor shower to rinse off salt water.

Binder Vegas — Google review

It is hard to imagine a public-beach-access park that is nicer than this one. Lots of amenities from food service and tables to playground equipment and sand volleyball courts.That said, Naples certainly owes it to its residents because public-access to the beach is quite limited. It would sure be nice if there were more access-points and parking capacity for Naples’ many residents that do not own beach property.

Lou Donkle — Google review

Only a short mile and a half drive off Tamiami Trail to the parking lot. This beach is popular and the parking lot fills early on a nice day. Parking spaces are $4/hr paid with a credit or debit card at one of 2 pay stations at either end of the parking lot. If you enter your cell number, you will be notified when your parking space is about to expire and you can extend your stay from the beach if you're having fun enjoying the sand, shells, sun and saltwater of the Gulf.This spring and summer (2023) the snack bar is being remodeled, so be sure to bring your cooler and snacks with you.The bathrooms and showers were still working so you can rinse off before driving off at the end of your visit.

Pete Rossmiller — Google review

Very clean beautiful water good showers and food ! But parking machine wouldn’t work for us ! Hence a $77.00 ticket !! I explained to the cop who said it worked at 7:15 am when I checked? Well it didn’t light up for us & we were not the only ones!! He didn’t give a rats behind ! I felt shaded like dealing with Barbie Fife from Mayberry Rfd ! So beware

Marie Ann — Google review

Amazing beach, very clean & calm waters, family friendly, easy parking access, we went in the morning & did not see any jet ski or other traffic on the waters. Wish the UK had such weather & beaches!

BALAJI Jay — Google review

Perfect beautiful white sand. This park has a great concession stand and showers to use before getting in the car. A lot of parking but on the expensive side at five dollars an hour.

Matthew Gray — Google review

Beautiful place in Naples. It's ridiculous that the "richer" area wont let you go to the beach, like its their private little world. So the plebeians share the common area lol.

Julie Castin — Google review

Had a very nice sunset walk along the beach starting at Lowdermilk Park tonight. Near the pavilion the beach is pretty crowded but as you get further down either way on the beach it becomes less so.The park has always been very nice - parking can be tough, but they have a big picnic pavilion and restrooms. I wasn't there when the snack bar was open, so I can't say anything about that.Always enjoy my time there, but then I always go for the sunset.

Leslie Smith — Google review

Beach is white sand and amenities are nice. The snack bar has great food options and the bathrooms are well maintained. They could use more washing stations for rinsing sand off but it works. Volleyball courts are also nice. Get there early though or you will be parking a ways away. Parking is definitely more expensive here as well than other beaches.

Tyler Wilsey — Google review

Great Naples beach with amenities like ample parking, a bath house and concessions. There's also a park for the kids. We watched the Naples Pier fireworks on New Year's Eve and it was the perfect viewing location for us. It was also easy for us to get out after, which was unexpected.

Amber Connell — Google review

I had a fun time there for my son first birthday whole family was there and we enjoyed our self. The only down part was a lot of people was smoking weed there around the kids and the bathroom was extremely dirty but other than that i had a great time

Samentha Theodore — Google review

We spent the afternoon here today and it was beautiful! We paid just over $10 for two hours of parking. We got there about 3:30 and struggled to find a parking spot. We had to wait while someone loaded up to leave. There is a short wooden walkway to get to the beach. It can be a little crammed with traffic walking both ways. The beach and park areas were both pretty busy, but everyone was nice and respectful of others. The grounds and beach were both really clean. There are showers to rinse off afterward. Highly recommend spending some time here!

Miranda Esper — Google review

Fabulous outdoor beach, this was my first time visiting but I hope to visit again someday they do have restroom facilities on site as well as food & drinks available for purchase.

Lacrosse Hydrocephalus Community Network — Google review

First time at this beach today and I loved it. The parking is close to the beach and there are a lot of spots. We used the QR code to pay for parking ( $4 an hour I believe) and we even got a 15 min warning text as our time limit approached. We arrived before 11 am and had no problem parking. There are clean washrooms along with change rooms and an outdoor shower. There is a small restaurant that even offers breakfast until 11am. The restaurant is also licensed to sell alcohol. We did not eat there so cannot vouch for the food. The beach itself is lovely with beautiful sand. We managed to get one of the tiki type umbrellas they have. I cannot wait to go back!

Ann Gratton — Google review

Very nice park with beautiful sunsets and friendly people. Also perfect for photo sessions.

Paola Sanabria — Google review

4.7

(5116)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (110)

4.5

(2373)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (111)

1301 Gulf Shore Blvd N, Naples, FL 34102, USA

I'll never travel to Ochopee without this trip planner again

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16

Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens

34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (119)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (120)

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Zoo

Outdoor Activities

The Naples Zoo is a local favorite with its impressive variety of animals. Visitors can marvel at such creatures as lions, giraffes, and bears while learning about their habitats and personalities. The zoo has been nationally accredited and underwent several reformations in order to keep up with the latest trends in animal care.

I don't love zoos normally because I'm against animals in captivity but this zoo appears to have a strong conservation element with many programs underway to help animal populations around the world. The zoo offers lots of shaded areas, ample water and bathrooms, and is set up so that there's lots of room and space to walk around. I wish they would offer more vegan choices in their food court - definitely bring your own food if you're vegan. Some of the exhibits were closed which was disappointing but there was still lots to see. There were also lots of Lego animal displays that were really neat!

Jessica Doyle — Google review

We loved our visit to the Naples Zoo! 😍They have a great variety of animals, and the zoo is not huge, so you can explore it and visit all exhibitions in one day!The staff is super professional and friendly, they are walking around with some animals (as you will se in the picture) and they are all wiling to share information and teach very interesting facts about the zoo and different animals.The venue is well maintained and the animals looks happy; in my opinion and based on what we saw and learn, they are more like a conservation place than a zoo (which is great because their mission is protecting the animals, more than taking advantage)We have been there only once, but we are definitely looking forward to come back soon 💪100% recommended 👍

Antonio Perez Coss — Google review

Beautiful animals and enclosures. But there was not enough shade, a lot of construction, and no snack bar or drink locations open throughout the park. We unfortunately didn’t even stay an hour because it was just so hot even at 9 am.

E. H. — Google review

The Naples zoo is amazing!So many fun animals, that were all out and visible in their enclosures. The landscaping, scenery, and flora are beautiful too, it's basically a botanical garden within a zoo.Lots of enclosures have zookeepers give speeches throughout the day, teaching you about the animal, showing you training tricks, and feeding them. Everything was reasonably priced.I do wish they had an aquarium or reptile/amphibian section. However, the animals they have are great.

Chance Moore — Google review

The Naples Zoo is one of the nicest we have ever been to. The zoo and exhibits are the perfect size to go with the cost of admission. The grounds upkeep are immaculate, very clean, and beautifully done. There was a wide variety of animals that are kept in large, clean areas for viewing. You can pay to feed the giraffes and have your photo taken with one, which was a fun experience. There were several different options for food and drinks spread throughout the zoo. All in all, the Naples zoo is a great way to spend an afternoon!

Mark Hyland — Google review

The Naples Zoo is beautiful! It’s perfect for little ones because it’s not very large so you can get through it pretty quickly or take your time and circle a couple times checking out the animals. The giraffes were probably the highlight for us because you can feed the giraffes if you wish to pay extra and get a picture taken. The Lions were also spectacular and the cheetahs. My little guy was too young for the boat ride but that’s a really nice option to take a boat ride around to see the monkeys swinging from the trees. Definitely visit if you have an hour or two to spare while visiting Naples!

Elizabeth Claunch — Google review

Love going here! It was hot, there is construction and the animals were sometimes hard to find, but that's not the point. It was being with family, seeing beautiful nature and knowing they are fixing it up to make it even better. Remember we just had a hurricane not to long ago! Had a great time as usual! Make you own fun with it! Look at the beautiful trees 🌳 and flowers 💐 too! Mumma and I had a great time as you can see in the pictures 📸!

Melissa Rowe (Missy) — Google review

FREE ADMISSION FIRST SATURDAY OF EACH MONTH IF YOU'RE A COLLIER COUNTY RESIDENT. Nice smaller zoo, and just got Orangutans that were very active and playful. Best to go early and get on the boat tour to see the monkeys when they're most active as we've seen them swing and heard them sing. They are an absolute blast. (and they're more active when it's cooler!). Loved the feeding the giraffes as you get a great view since they're all pretty much out in the open. First Saturday of each month is free for Collier County Residents, so take advantage of that if you're local. You won't regret it.

Dan Johnson — Google review

I'm normally not a zoo person but this was really great. The zoo is small enough that you can easily see everything in a few hours and the exhibits are nice and big, so it really feels like the focus is on the animals welfare and not about making money off them. We really enjoyed the free alligator talk / training / feeding session, and definitely take the free boat to see various species of monkeys and apes living on a few small islands. We arrived at 2pm on a weekend and there were not a lot of people. Entry free is $27. Definitely worth it.

Thomas G — Google review

Such an amazing zoo! The staff was very friendly and the environment was quiet and enjoyable. The foliage is so fascinating since it was previously a botanical garden. You’ll see a lot of huge tropical trees and unique plants. It feels like you’re walking through a jungle. The animal exhibits are big and the animals are comfy and clearly treated well and with respect. I highly recommend

Tiffany Smith — Google review

I have to say I was pretty disappointed. I was here 8 years ago and it seemed so much more alive. Monkey island was exciting and incredible 8 years ago but today it was so unactive. What few monkeys we could see were not active. Giraffes looked bored and no desire to come up close. All animals everywhere in the zoo were sleeping. Just seems like the zoo was so much better 8 years ago.

terri betts — Google review

Beautiful grounds to walk, lovely trails, and the boat was awesome! On the other hand, it was incredibly scorching hot and areas where there was no shade. The animals were hot too so they were hiding in the shade and we missed several animals. One lady complained to get a refund or store credit for her 30min experience of seeing not one animal. They did not honor any of these request except for a rain check, since there is no guarantee to see the animals. Perhaps the entry fee should come with a warning.Overall, I would not recommend to come during the high peak summer time. I would love to return in the fall or spring as the zoo it self is very beautiful.

Ashlynn Sastre — Google review

Wow! We thoroughly enjoyed this zoo. It felt like we stepped into an 'old Florida' zoo with plenty of foliage and shaded areas to relax. I was happy to see the paved walkway for easy wheelchair access. Oh, and the boat ride was super fun! The price point at around $22 was super affordable.

Jill Diers — Google review

This zoo was a great day trip and is just the right size to be worth the admission price but not overwhelming. The animals were healthy looking and all appeared to have adequate room. The orangutans and the Florida panther were very active on our visit and very fun to see. The playground and the gift shop at the end of the zoo were a huge hit as well.

M Perry — Google review

Really fun place. Honestly exceeded expectations. Decent size, animals are very easy to view. The giraffes feeding is a cool experience. Has a playground at the exit/entrance. Pricing was overall fair. A beer $10, chips $3, dots ice cream around $10. Expected pricing for a theme park of any type. Makes for a fun day and the boat tour is free!

Alfred Button — Google review

This is such a wonderful zoo!!!! The talks with the trainers are very informative!!! They also help you actually see the animals because the animals were so excited to see their trainers!!! It is great that they have the times listed in all the right places so everyone can make it to the talks!!!! Another highlight was the free boat ride!!!! We were able to see lots of primates without any fences because like the Capitan explained.....the water is a natural fence for them to live on their islands!!!! I recommend doing the giraffe feeding.....they are so huge and cool to see and feed!!!! It is an extra $5 but was totally worth it!!! Plus they have photographers there to capture the moment!!! I highly recommend checking this place out.....it was a great experience!!!!

Emily Darow — Google review

I recently visited this zoo with my family, and it was an unforgettable experience! One of the highlights for my nephews was the fantastic jungle gym.But the excitement didn’t stop there. We got the chance to meet some incredible live animals, including the charming Elmo the bird. The kids were mesmerized by Elmo’s colorful plumage and friendly personality. It was a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with such a fascinating creature.Feeding the giraffes was another unforgettable moment. The kids were thrilled to hand-feed these gentle giants, and the experience left them with big smiles on their faces.To add to the adventure, we took a boat ride around the zoo’s waterways, which offered a refreshing change of pace and allowed us to observe various wildlife in a more natural setting. And of course, learning about different types of monkeys was both fun and educational. The zoo’s knowledgeable staff provided interesting facts and stories about the monkeys, making it a great learning experience for the kids.Overall, this zoo provided an amazing mix of entertainment and education for the whole family. We left with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation for the animals It’s a must-visit for families looking for a day of fun and discovery!

Ericca Jane Rios Stylist — Google review

I’ve been coming here for years. Every year on vacation, we make a trip to this zoo. The employees are friendly and offer lots of information when you see them by the animals. They are patient with the giraffe feeding option, letting the giraffes choose when to come.The additions done with the orangutans is amazing! I’m excited to see what the new welcome centre is going to look like! It’s open now, but I missed it by a week, next trip!

Sarah A — Google review

We decided to take our kids to the zoo. Was clean employees were nice and informative. Was very disappointed that there wasn't as many different animals as other zoo. Not worth it for what we had to pay to get our family in. If you

Kayla Rogers — Google review

4.4

(6477)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (125)

4.5

(3713)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (126)

1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd, Naples, FL 34102, USA

(239) 262-5409

17

Airboats & Alligators

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34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (129)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (130)

Boat tour agency

Tours

Boat Tours

Nature & Wildlife Tours

This hidden gem is amazing. Our guide Kenny was awesome and shared so many details on the birds. The different trees, the grasses and of course the gators. He was great with my kids, one of which was pretty anxious to get on a fan boat. By the end, no one wanted to go back to the dock - we wanted to keep going and searching for more and more gators!!

Eric Silkwood — Google review

My wife and I drove close to an hour because our three grandsons (ages 9, 11 & 13) wanted to see alligators. The place looked a little sketchy, but what a great airboat ride through the grasses at the edge of lake Trafford. We had a great boat, a great captain, at a great price. We saw hundreds of gators, thousands of birds, and many other critters. The kids had a wonderful time. This is a better boat ride than the one through the mangroves in Everglades City.

Andy Schwarz — Google review

I have frequented this airboating tour since I was young. It's a great tourist & family experience! They make frequent stops to view gators, and other wildlife and provide fantastic photography opportunities. Bring your family, friend's, or even you worst enemy. It doesn't matter, you'll have an unforgettable time!!! The first time I came here was when I was about 7, I'm 26 now and still hold my family memories on this tour close. So to all of you moms and dads, and wildlife lovers, bring it on down!

Mitchell Murphy — Google review

Good people and a great tour! I can't recommend them enough. We saw so much wildlife and the kids had the best time. Definitely a glimpse into real Florida.

Cruising with the Clemons — Google review

Awesome time all around. Kenny was great spotting all the wildlife even a big gator getting his fish lunch. Absolutely recommend it and will be back

Gregory Karasinski — Google review

Call for a reservation. 3-7 days in advance during “season.” We were lucky enough to find a cancellation for the next day. 😊. Paid $39.50 per person plus tip. Bring a jacket and sunglasses or hat. We had a great time! Grant was a fabulous captain and pointed out a wide variety of birds as well as baby & adult alligators. So fun!!

Gretchen Potter — Google review

Our family had such a great time! Most definitely a favorite on our trip. We got to see gators up close in nature (safely of course) and other native wildlife. Our guide was awesome, told us all kinds of interesting facts and answered all our questions. Our 13 yr old son said this was the favorite part of our trip. The birds were fun to interact with too. Everyone was so friendly!

Mindy S — Google review

Great family excursion today with Captain Kenny. Thanks for taking the lesser traveled pathways. Amazing gator and bird sightings and a cow surprise as a bonus treat.The family loved it! Thank you!!!

Anne Oldfield — Google review

It was an awesome experience for an hour ride We got to see some alligators and the swap was beautiful. It was hot that day so the nice breeze from the airboat ride was just perfect. Our tour guide was giving some history background but we were sitting at the front seat so we couldn't hear it all. For sure it was loud but they give you a noise reduction headset to put on and it's very strong wind so make sure you tighten your hat if you are wearing one & no need to bring the bag full of stuff just water and sunscreen. Of course your camera! This was included in our package and also the boat ride which it seems you can purchase separately. They have a small convenient store for souvenirs or things you need but kinda pricey. This was where they ask u to sign your name for the waiver they also have a bathroom if you need and so while waiting for your airboat ride you can enjoy taking pictures of baby alligators and some snakes and birds they have in their cages. Enjoy! And be safe!

Sha Lyn (Shawshaw) — Google review

A fantastic airboat tour! We saw all types of herons, egrets, common and purple gallinules, and of course alligators! Captain Kenny was our boat captain and he’s extremely knowledgeable about the wildlife and a great spotter. Lots of fun!

M. B. — Google review

Captain Kenny gave us a delightful tour that was highly informative. We saw tons of aligators -up close and personal- and a variety of birds. Bonus: the prices are reasonable.

Connie Tronnes — Google review

Loved the airboat tour! You do have to make a reservation in advance. My friend and I found it worthwhile! Saw many alligators, birds, cows, lots of wild life we don’t see often! Tour was 1 hour long. Would come back! Thank you

Micaela Butron — Google review

Amazing and very perfect tour on the lake and in the everglades! As a family we're welcome and super hosted by Kept. Ken and his family.He knows a lot of things about this area, the Birds 🐦, Fishes 🐠 and Alligators. It's a unbelievable and exciting trip, if you're not growing up in this area. As European you will be totally flashed from nature!Perfect for families and a lot of fun, "flying over the water" with this power Airboat.We'll be back and ride it again, sure! 👏 👏 👏

Egalaml Inc. — Google review

We saw so many gators that I lost count! The tour was breathtakingly beautiful and an amazing experience!

Christy Tester — Google review

4.7

(798)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (131)

4.5

(263)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (132)

6001 Lake Trafford Rd, Immokalee, FL 34142, USA

(239) 657-2214

18

Riverwalk At Tin City

34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (133)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (134)

34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (135)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (136)

Mentioned on

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$$$$affordable

Seafood restaurant

Riverwalk at Tin City is a casual nautical-themed seafood restaurant located in historic Tin City. The restaurant offers delicious Western cuisine, with the majority of dishes being salads, sandwiches, pasta, and steaks. The waterfront views are especially beautiful at sunset and the atmosphere is relaxing and comfortable.

Awesome view. One of my favorite places for lunch and dinner since 2007! Consistently excellent food and service. Wonderful place to watch the dolphins as well!We enjoyed the grouper sandwich, coconut shrimp, Mahi tacos, new England clam chowder. As you can see the view was exceptional.

Summer P — Google review

We stopped here after a sunset cruise. The bar is very small but the service was great and the views of the water are nice. We got the tuna appetizer, and it was fantastic! Then we got fried grouper tacos, and those were good, but I didn't love the side of beans. They were a bit dry. My husband got the crab cake sandwich, and that was just ok. Too much bread. We preferred this spot over Pinchers next door.

Julie Twomey — Google review

A spur of the moment find, the grouper was absolutely fresh and key lime pie was to die for. The staff are extremely nice and menu prices considering the area is very decent. Coming back here for sure

George Betances — Google review

Riverwalk is like the epitome of Naples. Perfect location to get the Naples experience. It has great views of the water and food is good and reasonably priced. The drinks are good too. If your time visiting Naples is limited, I highly recommend adding this spot to your itinerary to get more out of your trip. This also a good spot to hit for apps and drinks if your doing the water taxi. It’s close to one of the stops.

Cowboy 2 Beach Bum — Google review

Very touristy. If you’re in the area or within 15 minutes, it’s worth a quick look. I wouldn’t suggest making a long trek out here unless you had other plans in the area. It’s cool inside, but there’s a lot of overpriced touristy garbage. There are some good restaurants though, so make it worth your while if you go!

Lorenzo DelSanto — Google review

Great view and atmosphere. Watching the fishing boats come in and getting their dishes cleaned was an extra. Food was good but basic. Server was super friendly and worked hard to take care of us. This is definitely a place to visit if you like an open atmosphere and nice things to see.

c mckster — Google review

This nice waterfront spot has a happening bar and great atmosphere. Ordered the snow crab legs and they were great. The server and the rest of the staff were good too. Little bit of wait, but that's to be expected in season on a weekend.

Glenn DiResto — Google review

If I see Fish & Chips in the menu, I will likely order it. They offer a version they call Grouper & Chips. As per our server recommendation, both dishes are good but since the Grouper is a local fish, I went with it and it did not disappoint! Very Good! Definitely fresh!

Javier Carretero — Google review

Wonderful place to eat while taking a break from shopping. Waterfront view is gorgeous. Service was friendly and quick. The peel and eat shrimp was delicious! The Cobb salad was delicious as well. Highly recommend!!

Lisa Preuett — Google review

We had fun in the breeze watching boats, planes, and dolphins. Pasta was decent (a good option for a vegetarian), fish tacos and a burger were good. We were happy overall especially with the view. It was fun to walk and explore afterwards as well. What a great day!

Natalie Sablina — Google review

I'm disappointed We are celebrating a birthday. My first time in this restaurant. 1 st I’m an expert about Lobster. Instead they brought me Crab. A almost 30 dollars plate. But it’s not about the money. The point is the lobster is not crab. Plus the bacon was burned sweet portion was all dry. What do they think? We know what we like. We know what we want. Here pictures of my order. No good. The flavor was mm so so. Are they lying about lobster? That’s not good at all. 😡

Celeste Figueroa — Google review

Our first experience here and we were impressed! It was my mom’s birthday and she loves a view and a fish sandwich, so we thought we’d give it a try. We arrived and were seated, but unfortunately my mother hates wind and it was very windy. We started to leave because it wasn’t going to be a good experience for us, but the manager saved the day! He immediately recommended that we sit at the back of the restaurant, more in the canal side and it worked out perfectly! I was blown away by his compassion and care. They were starting to get busy so for him to take that extra time really was touching! Our waitress was one of the best I’ve ever had! She recommended the fish tacos and after hearing I was a whimp on spice, recommended that I put the sauce on the side. She was right! BUT she didn’t end there, as if she read my mind she brought over a pineapple salsa and said that this might be the ticket to making my tacos extra yummy. My mouth was dropped, it made all of the difference and made my dinner so tasty! This is how service is supposed to be. She was busy but she never missed checking on our table and was so kind considering we have a 4 and 8 year old kiddos in tow, and they are all kid! My mom was so thrilled by every part of her meal, the service and the views. We truly picked a gem of a place and I am so thankful they made my mom’s birthday one she will cherish! Thank you to the entire staff for really going out of their way! Also, we were there for happy hour and they have some great deals on drinks and appetizers! We took full advantage!

Kelsie Gregware — Google review

such a fun place, ive been going to tin city with my family for probably 20 years, and i still love going there. lots of great shops, icecream, restaurants, and the magic shop is my favorite, i collect playing cards and they have a great selection as well as a ton of other cool stuff. they have a bunch of really cool nicknacks and decorations in all the shops as well. all come home with something cool. such a great place!

Marc — Google review

Great food and good service. It was packed when we went but they managed to push some tables around just to get us seated. Drinks were good and food was really good. Seafood is some of the best around, and the fries are the best I've ever had. Love that the calamari was the real stuff and not the fake rings. Our server was slammed but other workers kept stopping by just to make sure we didn't need anything. Would go back again for sure

Ben K — Google review

Went for dinner in a large group. Given lovely seats overlooking the harbour and river. The service was unhurried and relaxed, but still suitably attentive to not leave us wanting for anything. The food was tasty, and the portions sizes were good. We had a selection of most of the menu between us, and no one had any complaints about anything. It was all cooked well. The co*cktails were all made well and reasonably priced.

Dan — Google review

Our server was great, the views are amazing, the food is ok, but the manager was extremely rude and mean. We came for lunch as a party of 4, ordered food and drinks and after we finished eating 2 of us stayed behind having a glass of wine. We closed the tab and opened another one. When we asked the waiter for another glass of wine the manager told him not to serve us and that we had to switch to the bar. We chose to stay at the table and ordered some oysters and did not let it ruin the day, however, Mr Bryan is one of the worst managers we have ever seen (and we go out a lot). This industry is called hospitality industry. What happened here? I gave one star for atmosphere just because of the manager. The looks and attitude from him were hostile. The place and the location and the people are great

greta cedeno — Google review

Food was okay, service was so-so, long wait @ the bar for a table. 7 of us were finally seated @ a table for 6, which was cramped but I get it...not your usual setup. Waitress was snippy & made us feel rushed. She was clearly stressed out and not handling it well. We enjoyed sitting by the water w/ good company. Drinks weren't bad, but our party of 7 had mixed reviews about the food. I was disappointed w/ the Grouper. Initially it came fried/battered. I had ordered grilled. One of the food runners was kind enough to ask the kitchen for a new grilled piece, but our waitress was MIA, so by the time it came out, it was cold and about half the size I expected. Maybe she got hungry?Oh well, the fries were tasty...

Matt Meehan — Google review

Food was great! Drinks were Amazing. Service was exceptional! Server was Brianne she was a great server! Awesome attitude. Quick service. Very friendly, helpful, went back for supper after eating lunch lucky enough to have her as a server twice in one day!

Cody Hammond — Google review

4.3

(1741)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (137)

3.5

(1181)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (138)

1200 5th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102, USA

(239) 263-2734

19

Naples Botanical Garden

34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (139)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (140)

34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (141)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (142)

Mentioned on

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Botanical garden

Nature & Parks

Gardens

Naples Botanical Garden is an outstanding botanical garden in Florida that features a variety of gardens and programs for visitors. The gardens are set on 170 acres of land with lush vegetation and beautiful views. The gardens are perfect for those looking for a little peace and tranquility, as well as opportunities to learn about plants and their ecology.

This garden is STUNNING! Full of amazing plants, wildlife, great walking paths and trails, and so much to look at and enjoy! If you’re new to the area or even a resident that hasn’t been - I strongly recommend checking it out! The price to get in was like $25 which was totally reasonable. We spent about 2 hours walking around and exploring. Try to get there earlier when they open up because it does get pretty crowded mid day. They do have a little cafe with a decently large menu so you can do an early lunch or midday snack. The gift shop is full of cute gifts and unique items to take home with you! Check out this local gem!!

Drew Miles — Google review

We visited this in October on a Saturday in 2023. We were very impressed at the size and amount of fauna on site. The staff was very friendly. We caught a tour that was very informative and the girl was very clear with her speech. They do warn you to bring bug repellent and suntan lotion. We used a free pass but I think it's probably worth the cost of admission.

Bill Palis — Google review

A great place to learn about some of the many plants and trees from around the world. This botanical garden is just beautiful. Very nice walking paths with plants labeled well along with interpreters strategically placed to answer your questions. Wildlife opportunities here too. Saw an osprey, egrets, cormorants and even a small wild crocodile. Yes, a crocodile and not an alligator. Nice gift shop and clean restrooms too. Did not visit the restaurant, but it looked nice.

Timothy Raney — Google review

This place was incredible! I can't say enough about the beauty. It was so much bigger than we expected. Very family friendly! The workers go above and beyond to educate the visitors and take care of the grounds. There are paid tours as well as self guided QR code tours. Free wheel chairs, a gift shop, a Cafe, very clean restrooms, and did I mention just gorgeous. It's very cool, definitely check it out if you have time!

Tatyana Kuster — Google review

Awesome place to visit. Even though it was 90°, there was a nice breeze through out the gardens. Several shady areas to sit and rest and take in the beauty. The cost to enter is $25.00, and I would say well worth it. You can also get a nice lunch there. We did and the food was pretty good, maybe a bit pricy, but super convenient with an option to sit inside with AC, or eat outside with beautiful views. Highly recommended!!!

Linwood Straight — Google review

Love the orchids garden, there r so many varieties and all beautiful. Relaxed by the pond and watched the waterfall. Took a walk on a highland trail, and enjoyed the fresh air. Love this place. Oh, and we were able to buy the tickets at the gate

blue sky — Google review

"From the moment I stepped into the Naples Botanical Garden, I was transported into a world of lush beauty and serene natural splendor. This 170-acre paradise is a symphony of vibrant colors, exotic fragrances, and the melodious sounds of nature. Each garden, meticulously themed and flawlessly maintained, offers a unique journey through different botanical landscapes.The Brazilian Garden, with its bold tropical plants and the stunning water feature, was a highlight. It felt like a vibrant celebration of life and color. Equally impressive was the Asian Garden, where tranquility reigns, and every turn reveals a new, meticulously designed vista, complete with a peaceful Asian-inspired structure.For families, the Children's Garden is a wonderland of interactive play and learning, where the little ones can connect with nature in the most delightful ways. The Butterfly House is another must-visit, offering an up-close experience with these ethereal creatures in a rainbow of colors.What truly sets Naples Botanical Garden apart is its commitment to sustainability and education. Their conservation efforts are evident throughout the park, making each visit not just a visual treat but also an enlightening experience.Whether you're a gardening enthusiast, a photographer looking for the perfect shot, or simply in need of a peaceful retreat, Naples Botanical Garden promises an unforgettable visit. The blend of art, nature, and conservation makes this not just a garden, but a living, breathing masterpiece. A must-visit for anyone in Naples seeking beauty and inspiration."

jordan — Google review

Best botanical gardens I’ve been to! $70 for 2 adults and 2 kids. We ate lunch at the cafe (pricey and no kids menu) The gardens were gorgeous and lots of photo ops. During our visit the musical swings were up and the kids loved it! Lots of benches and places to stop and relax if you can’t walk long distances.

Melissa Stephens — Google review

Amazing! Paradise. Anyone would find it beautiful. A place for those interested in botany. A sacred place for those interested in understanding and appreciating rare collections of trees and plants. Beautiful place to go with family 👪 nice and clean place to eat. The food was excellent.. they also have wines, beers, co*ke, water. Etc. Nice outdoor dining area next to a lake. Go have fun and enjoy. Highly recommend. There is a trail around the lake. Go comfy tennis shoes 👟 so you can walk this amazing place. 10 starts 🌟 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Maria Garache — Google review

Beautiful and stunning for any nature enthusiasts.It was really really a class apart garden , the sheer number of flora this location has is amazing.I was short on time as I arrived near to 12:30 and the garden closes at 2 PM. I wish I had arrive early at garden to spend time.Make sure you have at least 3 hrs to visit every sub gardens they have in here.They have a lot of seating area to sit around amazingly beautiful flowers and plants.Parking is available in abundance

Asim Nabi — Google review

Very nice garden to visit. Well maintained with beautiful flowers. Nice walking paths with some shade for the warm Florida days. Lots of other things to do around this area. Head over to the beach after and have something to eat and enjoy the ocean views 💕

Serge de Winter — Google review

A beautiful garden. Great place to walk. Amazing amount of work has been done to make this a world class operation. Also have a very nice cafe. Plants available to purchase.

John Angevine — Google review

Wow! So gorgeous! Definitely worth the admission price, I spent about 2 hours here and would have stayed a bit longer if I'd had the time. Bring a hat and a water bottle. There are water fountains for refilling, and some shaded seating dispersed on the main garden areas. Easy parking.

Lisa Skalecki — Google review

We saw many many things on our 7 day Florida vacation but I have to say that the Naples Botanical Garden made the top 3 for me!Anyone who enjoys plants and gardening will have an absolute blast here. I was impressed with everything. I send my most sincere compliments to the folks who maintain and create the various botanical displays, they are phenomenal and all perfectly kept.We visited during a very heavy rainstorm and practically had the place to ourselves, I found it to be immersive, diverse and truly wonderful.I'm the gardens we saw a turtle, birds, fish, lizards, a giant cricket, and some of the coolest lily pads I've ever.seen.Be sure to walk the longer paths on the outskirts too, we saw a neat bird hunting fish in the water, diving and swimming under the bridge. How cool!

Kaitlyn Baker — Google review

By far the best Botanical garden we have been to, rivaling even Gardens by the Bay in Singapore. Outstanding organization of thematic gardens which makes it so fun to explore. This is a true delight to visit.

Aleksei Shchekotikhin — Google review

Nice place to spend a couple hours wandering around seeing all the different plants. The plants are grouped by the area of the world in which they grow. Many of the larger specimens have plaques that show the common name and the scientific name. There are many QR codes that you can scan for more information. They also offer 3, 45 minute tours daily that provide more in depth information about the plants. If in the area again in the summer I would attend again.

William — Google review

This is just a beautiful botanical garden worth to visit in Naples. The landscape is wonderfully designed, full of plants and flowers. We loved tours offered in price of the tickets and a lot of places to sit in quiet and enjoy the nature

Kateryna Kaca — Google review

Beautiful, must see attraction in Naples, Florida! I recommend signing up for the (free with ticket purchase) daily walking tours. The tours were interesting and informative. They are about 45 mins. each hour and audio pieces are provided. Bathrooms are clean and sanitized. Staff is friendly and helpful to answer any questions. Cafe, eating area on site. Lots of Beautiful blooming orchids, plants, trees and more! Need about 2 hours to walk the botanical gardens peacefully. A great experience in Naples!

Allison — Google review

One of most beautiful places to visit in Southwest Florida and in all of Florida! This place is perfect for a peaceful stroll or for some time of reflection. I recommend that you come early! We arrived shortly after they opened, and we felt like we had the whole place to ourselves. Enjoy the photos!

Abraham Velazquez — Google review

Beautiful gardens to wall thru appreciating all the different varieties of plants, flowers and trees.The kids will enjoy the musical swings and the waterfall area is picturesque for photographs.The gift shop was a little pricey but had some unique items.The only concern we had was the handout map was not very clear on where we were. More "you are here" maps physically placed would certainly help.

Phil Vania — Google review

So fun! We lucked out with perfect weather for our visit, which coincided with the musical swings interactive installation as well. The botanical garden is beautifully maintained, well labeled, and has many delightful places to sit down and soak it all in. Be sure to check their daily menu of tours and programs.

Carrianne Dillon — Google review

We had a lovely time here and always do. We've been here a few times over the past couple of years. Lots of beautiful plants and flowers to see. We usually spend about an hour and a half here. We really enjoy that they change the exhibits with the seasons, so there's always something new.

Jessica Rogozinski — Google review

Came too late for a guided tour (last tour was at 1:30 on the day we visited). No worries, we walked around ourselves. Saw the most beautiful lily pads…lots of gorgeous nature arranged beautifully. Kids had fun too. Really enjoyed ourselves for a few hours.

Zina L — Google review

This is a very good place to spend a weekend. The garden has a cafe, restrooms, a souvenir shop, and benches for relax. I liked the musical swing the most. And be sure to have comfortable shoes as you will be walking a lot .

Yana Stephen — Google review

4.8

(5125)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (144)

4.5

(4484)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (145)

4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples, FL 34112, USA

(239) 643-7275

20

Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee

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Casino

Casinos & Gambling

Hotel

Modern rooms & suites in a casino retreat with an outdoor pool, 3 restaurants & regular live shows.

Great place to play for leisure.I really enjoyed the drinks. I had to actually walk to the bar and get them though.Don't know why the ladies walking around never acknowledged me nor ask if I wanted anything.They walk by so fast not making contact.I even asked a lady in red and black to take my order she left to find the waitress after waiting 1 hour I politely asked where is the bar.I found it and ordered from the bar.

Ebonee Watson — Google review

Parking on a busy weekend physically challenging. If you get sent to the out lots you must be able to climb on a bus to be shuttled in. No complaints about the slots and restaurant. Not much wait for food service and the food was good and generous. I was there for a car and music show and there were also many good truck options and vendors outside. Traffic is heavy so give plenty of time to get in and out.

Nicki H. — Google review

I'm local and for years I've been going with my family, enough that we know many of the dealers. They are seriously short staffed both on the floor and in the restaurants, so although the food and service is great, it does cause problems.There used to be enough incentive to come when we got points as we played, both on the table and on the slots. Gradually, we were forced to jump through more and more hoops for even a drink comp, and yesterday was the last straw as we were told we needed to hunt down a casino host to convince them for a few bucks after spending hours and hundreds of dollars on the tables. It adds insult to injury after losing, when before we could console ourselves with a dinner we are now told we have to beg for a drink. No, thank you.There's now no point having a unity card, so I tossed mine. I spoke to several other people who concur.They've raised the table minimums drastically as well, so don't expect to stay long.The only up side was the band that was playing that night. Soon the bands will be playing to an empty room unless something changes.This is one of those places that is perfectly aware you have no other alternative for gambling, so they treat you however they like.

J Z — Google review

Too bad, my husband is on the IRS radar. He hit a jackpot and had to fill out an IRS report of income. (my way of telling people do win.)The next day, I played Black Jack and ordered a drink by the time the drink came. I was out of chips, and the waitress came but refused to give me the drink, saying, "You aren't playing." (free drinks are for those at tables and playing) Even the Pit Boss verified I had been playing. But, the waitress turned around and left.No problem, I went to check with Casino service and was given a drink from the bar. I was told a supervisor would speak to the waitress.When my husband came to find me, he was also given a courtesy drink from the bar.They were very accommodating on the casino floor

Jo Wills — Google review

We had such a great night! Highly recommend staying here. The hotel room was great. Very modern, clean and spacious. Both the hotel staff and the casino staff were all very friendly and courteous. We had dinner and breakfast on property and both exceeded expectations. We will definitely be back!

FishinBK — Google review

We go a few times a year with my Grandson Chad who is avid player and I must say the casino is very rewarding. We always have comped lunches and drinks when we come out and have the time of our lives. Go with a group. Each person puts in a $20, take turns, on button, and play for fun. 9 outta 10 times 5 hours passes and we go home up or about even and just always glad we went. Special Thanks to casino and that nice gal named Gloria G. who is a casino host. She is always so nice and makes our time very fun. I love the new games and hope eventually Lucky Mi returns. Cant wait to go again this weekend. Thank you and Good Luck to all.

Ruby Fuller — Google review

Only visited casino and it was to much smoke for me. The non-smoking area is adjacent to the smoke. Virility of games was good and plenty of machines to play. Only a short ride from Fort Myers. The one meal was acceptable and the services was friendly. High charge on cash withdrawal so bring your money with you. Good luck.

Tim Skiba — Google review

Good assortment of games, smoking Casino, but pretty well ventilated if you don't smoke. Decent Long Island Iced Tea, decent payout, and of course the Blackjack girls are beautiful. Very revealing and sexist outfits, but I guess that's to be expected. Highly recommend if you can't afford to go to Vegas. Just wish they had at least one day a week for $5 blackjack on a few tables. I think they're losing money by not having that as an option at least one day a week. The Seminole in Hollywood has two tables every day of the week devoted to $5 blackjack. Just saying

Doug Hudson — Google review

I’m no casino frequenter, but at least three or four times a year. I’ve been to all the local ones in South Florida, but my first time here. I’m kind of surprised, it’s a nice and peaceful casino in a beautiful setting. Make time to go outside to the stands for the horse track and look over the infield and see the link flamingos, they are easy to see. The casino floor is actually quieter than any casino I’ve been to, it’s not overly loud machines blaring. This place is definitely nicer than Gulfstream Casino, by a lot.The food options looked reasonable, if unimaginative. Fair pricing. And where else can you get a Cuban coffee for $1 these days. If you like slots (I did see they have a poker area but didn’t go there), definitely give this place a chance.

Bonita Kramer — Google review

It was my first time going to a casino. It was amazing. I loved it, and the food was excellent. I was there all day, great games. I had so much fun. Everyone who worked there was just perfect. My son took me for a mini vacation. I'm handicapped and there is excellent access for all who go there I will go again. Perfect day, the food 😋 🥳 😋

Kathy Rhoden — Google review

This isn't the most luxurious casino I've been to but they make up for it with their incredible service.They have all the table games and slot machines I like to play. Property is safe and always fun.If you're in the area, great place to stop in for a bit.

Shane Santacroce — Google review

Very noisy. Very tight slots. I don't expect to win every time. Some playback would be nice. Asked six months ago to have my dual account to be fixed. Nothing yet. I'm not getting play points due to this. Overhead music needs to be coordinated. Multiple zones. Playing different songs.

Thomas Webster — Google review

Always a fun time. The place is quite large. Penny slots are for me. You can find many for under 88 cents per pull. Most games are colorful and offer interactive fun. They offer a large non-smoking areahere are plenty of tables, but I have not played. Alcohol is served, but at a cost, in most areas of the casino.

Breda Purdy — Google review

If you smoke, you're in luck! If not, you'll be hard pressed to find any table games that aren't cloudy, and even the non-smoking areas are getting some second hand exposure, even at 1030 am when I was there. I played at a 3-card table for about an hour, all my sinuses could bear. Switched to a slot and actually made the experience better by winning more than I'd spent! Easy, close parking during my morning hours visit. I stopped by the Player's Club, friendly staff! The husband of a table player sitting next to me hit a $40K+ progressive slots jackpot as we were playing poker! I'm betting they had a very nice lunch that day! Remember, only gamble with "front pocket" spare money, never your wallet!

Tim Gillow — Google review

I went to this casino for the first time and although they had table games they did NOT have craps. That was disappointing.Brooklyn sandwich place for lunch was excellent, food very fresh.Good selection of current and modern slot machines.

julia Eaton — Google review

The casino was very nice, courteous staff and wide variety of slot machines, gaming tables, etc.I will add that drinks in Casino were not free. While I only drink sodas it was the very first time I've been charged for drinks. Both sodas and alcohol or beer are not free. Caught me by surprise.I would still highly recommend.

Randy Belcher — Google review

I would give 5 stars but the location is not convenient for visits. Otherwise the hotel and casino are welcoming, clean, updated, secure, and well operated. I enjoyed the smaller size and the ease of parking. All the employees were very friendly and helpful. If you are in the area. Stop in for a good experience.

Terry Stafford — Google review

I'm commenting on this place as a whole and it is a great place as a casino, hotel and entertainment complex. It is a little bit in the middle of nowhere but is really just an hour or so drive from most places so not bad. The casino is very nice with all the games and table games you could want. They bring great second tier entertainment here and have a good indoor and outdoor venue. As casinos go, the hard rocks are the premier ones in Florida and this rates third on the list. Which means it's still good.

Mike Fritsch — Google review

This place has come a long way in the last few years. For its size, it's got plenty of slots, table games, and a decent High Roller section. It does have a non-smoking section which compared to most is probably the same percentage as a bigger Casino. However, the no smoking section is adjacent to the smoking section so it still smells of cigarettes and cigars. However, if you don't smoke, you won't end up sitting next to somebody that does. Overall, smoke inside the casino is not too bad. Outside of Friday and Saturday nights when it's super big. Two restaurants and a little coffee bar with sandwiches and sweets make this a place you can stay at all day. I live in Fort Myers and I'm only about 30 minutes away so I've never actually stayed in any of the rooms. Highly recommend.

doug hudson — Google review

Of course it's always fun when u win. Very nice casino. We didn't stay at the resort, just visited. Had a great time. Had Chinese food in one of there restaurants. Great date night with my wife.

Joseph Bellisario — Google review

Everyone we dealt with was very nice.... I would definitely be at this casino more often if it weren't for the smoking. I appreciate the non smoking areas but the table games are all in smoking areas. As soon as you walk in the casino the smoke smell hits you in the face. Hopefully they will eventually go full smoke free, until then I'm out.

Michael G — Google review

I was extremely disappointed in the wait service at the machines. I asked for bar service repeatedly, even asking the floor walkers/managers. At one point, a floor person even volunteered to watch my machine while I went to the bar. I reluctantly did so, only to be totally ignored by the bartender, who was around the curve. I had been on a roll, and I was getting *very* annoyed at this point. I went back to my machine and was told by the man that he would send a server over. I waited another 20mins before she appeared. By this point, my friend said, and so did several people, I should have been comped a drink. It was my first time there, so I just dumbly went along. And of course, my roll ended ... ☹️

Michele Marriott — Google review

It was nice, if a touch on the smaller side. The restaurants and bars there are nice as well. We had good fortune, as my wife won 300+ on our visit. The ticket cashing machines actually give you change, unlike so many that won't. Plenty of TV's if you want to watch sports... Not overly noisy too. Lots of parking...

peter pinkham — Google review

I'll never travel to Ochopee without this trip planner again

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21

Tigertail Beach

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Beach

Outdoor Activities

Tigertail Beach is a stunning stretch of white sand that boasts a tidal lagoon, ideal for bird watching and shell collecting. This 32-acre habitat is renowned for its wintering and nesting shorebirds and has been listed among the best all-around birding locations in southwest Florida. Visitors can explore the area's captivating lagoon, which separates Tigertail Beach Park from the Big Marco Pass Critical Wildlife Area.

We had so much fun at Tigertale beach! Newly updated prices as of January 2022 is $10 to park. Credit cards only. You should try to park in the farthest parking lot possible as it decreases the long walk. Also try to use the restroom before you walk out because it’s about a 10 minute walk to the beach. The sand is not super soft because there are lots of shells, but we found some super cool ones! Beach is well populated but not crowded. Overall great beach day!

Paige Reese — Google review

Beautiful and Peaceful place. I love ❤ the white sand and the feeling just looking at the nature : shells - please do not take live shells is against the Law-, little fishes and birds. Depends on the tide, you can walk true the pond and get to the shore. Mud ? Yes, but is worth it!!

Zoila Velez — Google review

Tigertail beach itself is very rocky and full of seashells that are hard to walk on with barefeet. However you can wade across the bay or walk around to get to a very nice beach by the ocean. There are restrooms and showers in the parking lot but they were pretty dirty. The parking fee is cheap though so it's a good way to spend your day if you don't mind the walk out to the nice beach.

Karissa Eckert — Google review

It’s a long walk from the car park! Never seen such a huge swathe of sand , very clean and spacious. It’s a lovely walk up by the lake . Sea was very cold (January) so didn’t brave a dip. Bring your own gear and food as nothing was offered once down by the water

Neale Phillips — Google review

The beach is clean with light and pleasant sand. Lots of seashells on the beach. Water was cool this time of year. The walk from the parking lot is very long, beware if you have little kids.

Dmitriy A — Google review

Beautiful long beach with powder like sand and lots of different types of shells. Definitely worth the long walk if you are interested in long walks. You can also catch the most beautiful sunset.

Iggy Deez — Google review

I liked it. If you're trying to go to the beach, when you drive into the parking lot hang to the left and take the long dirt road all the way to the end. This will save you a half mile of walking. Otherwise you'll walk into the lagoon first and have to then walk around it to get to the beach. Amazing shells and a great sunset.

Anthony Church — Google review

Beautiful beach! White sands, water is pretty clear. Great for shelling ! Found great shells, and sand dollars for the kids. You have to walk near a mile, but it's worth it. Saw dolphins swimming, crab, and beautiful shells ! Very nice oveei!

Steve Popdan — Google review

Highly recommend! You can't go through the lagoon anymore, but the walk around is doable and totally worth it, and little crabs are so cute over there. Look for them on the sides of the path. Bring snacks and spend some time. Don't get stuck at sunset....while it's beautiful, there is a little hike back, and the mosquitoes are so bad right there because of the lagoon. There are good shells, but the better ones are on the "South Beach," opposite sides of the beach stretch. You're welcome 😊 😉

My Life - DIY — Google review

Nicest beach on Marco. Has wildlife refuge, playground, facilities, and a beach much less busy than the main drag.$10 entry

Be Pol — Google review

A nice, clean beach.⛱️ Very large. The distance to walk was a good 10 min walk from the parking lot. 🚗 The sand was soft and beautiful. A good place to find shells 🐚

Shelly Richardson — Google review

We loved the beach - beautiful sunsets, and amazing shells - and so many!!! It a beautiful spots I can’t compare to some of the more pristine, fine sanded beaches. It’s different but well worth the visit to find some shells and enjoy the wildlife - tortoise, iguana, crabs and whatever lives in some of the shells.

Josiah Dahlstrom — Google review

Beautiful state beach park! We ended across the inlet to get to the far side and we enjoyed a beautiful day searching for shells and bird watching. The water was still quite warm for December.

Sheri Farag — Google review

Beautiful and clean Wildlife Refugee and beach all in one.The best way to get to the beach is to cross the lagoon . It’s not that yucky at all as long as you wear flip flops or water shoes. Low or falling tide is the best to cross the lagoon as water is around up to your waist. Keep in mind to go to the beach using path will take literally 20 min as when you get to the beach it sooo wide like endless 😂We did once out of curiosity .To see wildlife the best is to visit early in the morning and late afternoon closer to sunset. There is a wide variety of shore birds as well as bunnies , raccoons and iguanas.For shell picking you need to check the tide again . Come 2 hours before low tide not earlier . We found a lot of shells there especially fighting conch once. There are so many if you walk down to the vey end of the beach in direction of Marco pass .

dilkachor29 — Google review

Connected to Tigertail Beach is a lagoon pictured above. This lagoon is a prime example of how hurricanes can change coastlines. Before 2005, the lagoon pictured above was non existent. The thin strip of sand shaped like a tiger’s tail separating the Gulf of Mexico (left) and the lagoon (right) was pushed inland from hurricane Wilma. In short the tiger had grown a longer tail after the hurricane.Because there is a lagoon between the public parking lot and Tigertail Beach…to reach the beach from the street entrance, you have two options. There is the short way or the long way. But, I’ll warn you…distance is not your primary deciding factor.The short way involves walking through a lagoon with water that could be anywhere from knee to chest deep and a squishy bottom. If you decide on this option, you have to put out of your mind the critters lurking in the lagoon as you slog toward the other side. If that isn’t for you…you can choose to walk the 1/2-mile sandy path around the lagoon. We opted for door number two, which thankfully was minus the murky water and hidden critters.The lagoon of Tigertail Beach is a place where hundreds of protected wildlife call home. The Ibis pictured above is just one of many birds you can see while exploring the area.I guess random Shell Trees along the beach are a thing in southwest Florida. I wondered about the purpose of hanging shells on trees. The tree caught my attention when I stumbled upon it. Hoping to find an answer to my question when I returned home, I snapped a picture.You just never know what treasures the ocean will offer up. Check out the cool barnacle cover piece of wood pictured above. The ocean is home to a lot of fascinating things.Public parking for Tiger Tail Beach is not too far away but be prepared to do some walking. There is a daily parking fee no mater how long you stay. This beach is also a nice place for a decent sunset pic.

CJ — Google review

We loved this beach park. Well worth the entry/parking fee. It was pretty full when we got there but thankfully were able to get in & find a spot.It was quite a hike to get out to the actual beach but again, well worth the effort. The beach is nice & wide and water is great. We will definitely be coming back!

Julia McKinney — Google review

22

Marco Island Historical Museum

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History museum

Museums

The Marco Island Historical Museum showcases the rich history of the region, covering everything from ancient Native American civilization to modern development. The museum is operated by the Marco Island Historical Society and is part of the Collier County Museum System. One of its main highlights is an exhibition on the Calusa Indians, who spread throughout Southwest Florida and into the Keys. The museum also features exhibits documenting the development of Marco Island over time.

The staff was so friendly and knowledgeable. They give you a brief breakdown and send you on your journey. It was nice to see and hear about the history of the island and all the exhibits were so detailed. Absolutely loved it.It is free to get in but they ask for a $5 cash donation and it is so worth it.

Melissa Stewart — Google review

We attended a homeschool field trip day at this museum. The kids enjoyed it and it was fun to see the people.dreased in costume, however, it was very crowded and because lines were long to see the characters we needed to check off our passport, the learning opportunities during the character discussions became just waiting in line for them to tell you the answers and love onto the next group. The nun character was out favorite. She was very nice, stayed in character, and really knew everything about her history and more. Very interesting and fun to visit with her. The homeschool field trip was overall a great activity. Our kids learned a lot about the history of Marco Island, enjoyed the passport, activities, and playing on the grounds after. Thank you for a great visit! We will be back with local friends on a quieter day to learn little more.

Sarah Bitter — Google review

The Marco Museum never disappoints. Gorgeous displays take visitors through Florida's history with stories, photos, artifacts, life-sized diaramas, and hands on activities. I take all my out of town guests here to see and appreciate our incredible and colorful history. The art gallery is always impressive as well, showcasing local artists.

Carrie Drew — Google review

A very interesting and informative little museum. Individual at the entrance shared good information on the museum. A lot of artifacts and displays. Plenty of things to read to get more information. A few activities for the kids. Spent a little more than an hour. Some in the group would have gladly spent more time. Would highly recommend.

Kevin Anderson — Google review

Very informative, detailed history of the island and it's native heritage, fun for the kids and adults, friendly staff, very amazing place, a must see if you are on the island! You would never guess how much history this island has and you can truly grasp it with the trip here.

Justice & Cassie Borst — Google review

We were there back a few years ago and what a treat. To learn the true history of how Fla and it's people came to be. It is not a huge museum but it is loaded with lots of great facts information and artifacts. If visiting Marc Island ,I wouldn't miss the opportunity to see and hear the stories and history of this small but wonderful Island . I think it's a must !!

Kimberly Schmidt — Google review

Wow! I have been coming to Marco nearly 30 years. How did I not know this existed? So much to see and learn. The layout of the museum is very well done. This is a hidden gem. They are only open until 4:00 during the week. We got there at 3:00 and will likely go back to take in what we missed. And it is free! But be sure to bring cash for a donation. The Island’s 6000 year story needs to live on!

Katie B — Google review

We enjoyed the history behind the making of the island, and I'll never look at Elkcam without thinking of the Mackle brothers!

Beth Glauber — Google review

Visited July 2 2022 from Miami. Wonderful museum with lots of exhibits. We loved it.

Sheila Drain — Google review

Such a wonderful way to learn about the history of Marco Island! Great gift shop too!

J N — Google review

This Is A Very Interesting Museum To Visit While You’re Here On The Island 🏝, To Get An Educational/Historical Understanding Of The Island & The Natives. 👍🏼

Vladimir Renard — Google review

We have been to Marco many times and had never visited this free gem. Learned so much about the development of the area. Good rainy day activity. 1 hour plenty but you could stay all day to read everything.

Peggy Murak — Google review

Best place on the island to learn about the history of Marco. The staff was very friendly and passionate about the exhibits. There is so much information here and you could spend hours walking through just reading everything

Andrew Neppl — Google review

Very well done museum. Lots of interesting exhibits that were very informative.

Isabel Spiwak — Google review

It is a very well done and thought out museum! Such a great experience, and the staff were very friendly and able to answer any questions. Worth visiting when on Marco Island!

TJ Cluney — Google review

So important to come here if you visit the island. Very unique and deep history. Free admission. Go and check it out. It is a beautiful museum.

Jeffrey Cito — Google review

Loved it! Lady at the front desk was super helpful and informative. The interactive portion was great for the little ones. It's worth the time, check it out for yourself and learn a thing or two about Marco's history.

Roman Wlodarski — Google review

Beautiful landscape on the outside and educational on the inside. We enjoyed going through each area and thought the Indian sceneries were great. The volunteer (gentleman who also tags sharks) couldn't have been any nicer. I loved the interactive scene at the end where you get to see Marco Island's magazines from a long time ago... Loved seeing the snapshot in time of topics, outfits, etc.

Jaja Aylaj — Google review

This museum was a pleasant surprise and a nice stop while on our first visit to the island. It was larger and more professionally presented than I would have assumed. Both the sections on Native American history and the story of the island development were very interesting.

Bob Barkley — Google review

I went with a school on a field trip and apart from the traffic to get there from Fort Myers, everything else about the trip was really enjoyable. They had a couple of hands-on activities for the kids, and the exhibits were really well done. I intend to take the rest of the family back for a visit.

Julie Zehnder — Google review

4.8

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4.5

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180 S Heathwood Dr, Marco Island, FL 34145, USA

(239) 252-1440

23

Marco Island South Public Beach Access

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Public beach

Outdoor Activities

Beaches

The southernmost end of Marco Island features a paved path shaded by palm trees and hedges, leading to a pristine white sandy beach. This easily accessible beach is wide and bustling with activities such as volleyball, parasailing, jet-skiing and paddle-boarding. High-rise buildings line most of the shoreline, offering amazing views of the Gulf of Mexico. Families with small children can enjoy their stay here as well as those wanting condominium accommodation for their first visit.

We were here last month and we have a great time. water was cold but the beach was fun with all the sea shells. parking was $10 for the day, no matter what time you got there. they just changed that according the post. the walk to the beach was nice bc it was paved and there is a wash station. Lots of snowbirds. there is a ramp and plastic padding in the sand at the end of the ramp, if you have a wheelchair but it doesn't go all the way to the water. it was a surprise to see for us. there is another beach just north of this one but there isn't any parking. We did see that there is a lagoon beach called Tirgertail beach we want to go to next time.

jaime martin — Google review

Great beach access, walked down so can't speak to the parking. Also there in the off season. But great spot to access the beach. The beach is very well maintained! Very clean and beautiful! (And they look for turtle nests during that season to care to rope them off 🤗)

Julie Franks-Henry — Google review

Went with family and friends to have a great time at the beach day. Sand felt like flour with sea shells mixed in. The water is so clear and you can see tiny fish swimming around.

Christina De La O — Google review

The cluster of palm trees on the walkway from the street to the beach is a beautiful sight. Like most public beaches it's a great place to watch sunset.

Random Traveler — Google review

Best place for shells! Way better then tigertail! Highly recommend!

My Life - DIY — Google review

Beautiful white sand beach! The water is clear and warm. There is a sandbar you can swim to when the tide is out. If you’re lucky enough you may see a dolphin or two.

Randy Kimble — Google review

Beautiful beach! This was my first ocean sunset. It was perfect. I was there with my wife, sister in law, neice, and nephew. It was a bit breezy so there were lots of waves. Sky was so clear and that sun dips I yo the ocean in like 3 minutes. We ate dinner at Sunset Grill, then walked out and saw the show. Perfect timing.

Mark Spencer — Google review

Number 6 it's like a good half mile walk mostly through sand but it was definitely worth it. The view was beautiful it was not crowded at all. Lots of seashells. If you like to swim around with your goggles or your snorkel and just look at the stuff on the bottom that was fun too lots of fish swimming around you.

faith41018 — Google review

Nice white sand beech for long walks in the sun, lots of fun. The ocean is nice and calm and has a nice temperature. Very relaxing.

Howard Polley — Google review

Great public beach. Clean. White sand. Fun shells. Easy parking and beach access.

Molly Allen — Google review

This is a beautiful and peaceful beach...typically calm and not too wavy, with a nice view of the buldings along the shoreline. The only con is the lack of public parking, so you have to get there before 10 am to find one. However, this helps with keeping the big crowds away. Overall, I really love this beach.

J C — Google review

Sand is so fine feels like you are walking on flour, there are millions of seaschells across the beach . If you know the feeling of walking on a pebble beach- this is the same feeling but you are walking on seaschells (its a little bit uncomfortable ).Its a uniqe experience and I loved every single minute . #🐚

GEISHA9007 M — Google review

Parking nearby, nice public access area to the beach. Good to visit on a sunny or rainy day. Lots of shells and wildlife. Worth the stroll.

c “cfl” lane — Google review

Excellent clean safe free beach, easy walking acess, no stairs. Life jackets are available for small children, $10 parking nearby but lot fills up quickly.

Andy Kelly — Google review

Easy access, $10.00, short walk to beach. Bathrooms and water ♿ accessible for all users. Shells thickest at rock jettys. Not crowded. 🐚🦩😁

Valerie Flanagan — Google review

$10 public parking across the street from the beach walkway. Beach area abuts a long line of hotels and condominiums, but wasn't overly crowded. I imagine that would be different in the warm balmy months. The beach is comprised of shells, so not the best for barefoot walks, but great for shell seekers!

Sheri Farag — Google review

Amazing beach! Beautiful to see the sunset and enjoy during the day!

Catalin Martin — Google review

Short walk from the public parking lot . It was $10 to park for 7 hours I believe. Pathway to beach is easy to navigate.

M — Google review

Beautiful white sand, clear warm water. Lots of shells..

Tonda Jean Jones — Google review

4.7

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4.5

(1063)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (176)

870 County Rd 951, Marco Island, FL 34145, USA

(239) 642-0575

24

BILLIE SWAMP SAFARI

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Tours

Animal park

Preserve across 2,200 acres offering swamp buggy tours where visitors can see snakes & alligators.

The last few years have not been kind so it needs some TLC. We had a great time!

kurlye2011 — Google review

I've never had more fun at an adult field trip before. I felt like a kid again -- only this time paying attention. But seriously from start to finish 8 to 5pm I enjoyed myself so much and learning more about the Seminole tribe. If you are a history buff like me, or want to know more about the Everglades and native lands this is it for you. I wouldn't recommend if you have toddlers and below because I know my niece gets antsy after a full day but there really is entertainment for everyone. The airboat was awesome, saw about 10 gators! The wildlife shows and then the museum--their staff is A+. They are so knowledgeable I really am glad I came and can't wait to bring family from out of town. They are a little further out than other tour groups but well worth it to get the bang for the buck. Their customs are beautiful and im so happy I got to learn all that I did . They are way beyond casinos and duty free tobacco. The husband and wife tour guide duo (I forget their names) were excellent. So many cool items at the gift shop too. If you're debating don't hesitate to come here!

Miso Jones — Google review

It is hard to get to Billie Swamp Safari but it is worth the effort. Right now, it is still not fully operational after the Covid Pandemic but it is still worth the effort to go there, especially when yiu also visit the Seminole Museum which is just a mile or so from there.

Don Wynn — Google review

Love Billie Swamp Safari! Restaurant/Cafe Is Open select days of the week Wed- Sunday make sure to call ahead before going out there. They can cater small groups and have a few nice locations for groups to have lunch and meet around areas of the cafe. Exhibits and tours are not running currently but you can still walk around and see animals out in the wetlands around the restaurant and the alligator and croc exhibit is still open for viewing🐊 capybara exhibit is still there too! They are so friendly!

Beach bbunny — Google review

Great attraction. Worth the price n long drive. Shows were great. Employees were friendly n knowledgeable. Kyle was great dune buggy driver. Critter show guy was funny and very interactive. Reptile Guy awesome n very knowledgeable fun Venezuelan guy.

Orlando Martinez — Google review

This place was wonderful! Plenty to do in one day. We originally went because of a Groupon and were surprised by the petting Zoo and various animals and the shows. Hank was our airboat driver and he was very friendly and knowledgeable! He was also a really fun driver and made the ride fun! We saw a variety of wild animals and of course an alligator! I definitely want to go again and try the swamp buggy tour!

Tyra Soucy — Google review

What an amazing experience! My kids loved it. They got to see, pet and hold so many animals. We are Florida natives but we don’t always get a positive encounter with alligators, snakes or turtles. This place has it all and is growing. The Florida panther is a sight to see. Also the airboat and buggy rides are well worth the time. Definitely a great family adventure day!

Bryan Prather — Google review

beautiful scenery. clean and entertaining.Second visit even better. Armando was really nice in the boat ride, thrill ride and tour in one, best so far. The bungee ride was really good, lots of things I've not seen in a long time, other I've never see in the wild. Lots of nice pictures.

Ludwig O'Hallorans — Google review

A few women and I went today and were very impressed. The airboat ride lasted about 1/2 hour and the guide was informative and engaging. The swamp buggy ride was almost an hour and couldn't have been better. The guide had been there for many years and was full of information. A few times he got off the buggy to get leaves and and fruit for us to smell and look at. The critter show was also terrific. We thoroughly enjoyed our day and will be back soon.

Jody Sanders — Google review

We had a great time today at Billie Swamp Safari. When we first arrived, we were told that the boats and buggies may not go out due to thunder and lightning in the area so we visited all the exhibits. So much to see and do, even without the boat rides. We fed alligators and crocodiles along with otters and parakeets. See my pictures and you will see all that they had to offer. The weather cleared out while visiting the facilities and we went out on an air boat ride. Great staff and a great time to be had. Two thumbs up.

Michael LeBlanc — Google review

This is definitely a hidden gem. Excellent place to walk around and do buggy or air boat rides. Nowhere close to the actual Everglades experience, but this is a different league in itself.I did the one hour buggy ride (VFM at 25 bucks) and was thoroughly impressed with the service and the guide / driver. The walk around later around the property was fun too, with a few animals on display.Must do if you are around this side.

Vishal Salunkhe — Google review

I took my daughter there for her birthday. Just to get away and feel secluded. I was really impressed with the amount of animals and Wildlife they have there. They had a nice nature walk and it was very secluded. It was a wonderful day with the kids. It was quite the drive to get there but well worth it. The food is very reasonably priced and delicious. And the only other thing you have to pay for is the Airboat Rides or buggy rides which I believe is only about $20 and they have a cute little gift shop with plenti to choose from. What a nice day getaway.

charlotte guy — Google review

Love this place! It's a bit of a drive, but definitely worth it. It's a small complex about four buildings. There's a nice restaurant and Bar with mostly American fare and some Native American dishes thrown in. The Critter show is really fun. They bring out a super friendly, super tame deer and they give the kids pieces of Apple to feed the deer. They also bring out a skunk, gray fox, and baby alligators that people can touch and hold. The snake show has venomous snakes in it and it is very interesting. I highly recommend it! The Swamp Buggy ride was really informative and they have a ton of wild animals and you can see them in natural Preserve and not cages. Even a very friendly ostrich. The airboat ride was not scary or loud, just super fun! Bring the kids, a hat and sunscreen, and enjoy!

Lynn C — Google review

4.6

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4.0

(632)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (182)

30000 Gator Tail Trl., Clewiston, FL 33440, USA

(863) 983-6101

25

Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum

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Mentioned on

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Museum

History museum

The Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum is a dedicated institution for the Seminole tribe, offering exhibits, programs and a living reservation village. Located close to Billie Swamp Safari, the museum provides an opportunity to learn and remember about Seminole culture. Visitors are first oriented in a small theater before exploring tableaus, information and legends of the Seminoles in the interior museum that includes a library.

Truly a special place and a wonderful learning experience about the Seminole peoples. There is an initial orientation in a small theater followed by tableaus and information plus a small area where you can listen to some of the Seminole Legends. After you finish the interior museum which includes a library you then may take a walk around a mile long raised wooden trail and see the real fishing camp of one of the Seminoles, a village and more with places to rest and bathrooms along the way. Highly recommended 😊

AllenFunStuff — Google review

Great little museum on the Seminole tribe and their history. Although very small, they did have a really cool boardwalk in the back that leads through the beautiful peaceful trees of the everglades. We were also lucky enough to experience a live festival on site where they displayed their art and dancing. Staff were very polite and friendly.

Michael Jimenez — Google review

What a beautiful day we had visiting the museum & walking the mile long boardwalk. From the warm & friendly greeting (hi Anita!)to the beautiful museum, this is a trip worth taking.

Shelley F — Google review

We absolutely loved our experience at the museum. It gave us so much insight in the Seminoles history and culture. Not to mention our tour guide Cypress was incredible. We'll be back for sure.

Karen Koonin — Google review

The museum is open and keeping normal posted hours. Masks are recommended though staff aren’t wearing them. Great exhibits describing the history of the Seminoles and their traditional lifestyle. Highly recommended. $10 for adults $7:50 for seniors/students/military. Gift shop offers excellent gifts too.

Michael Conchscooter — Google review

Very informative museum with lots of art made by its local on display. From education regarding it's traditional dances to videos describing mythological tales, it was definitely worth the visit. It also rained really bad so I didn't get to go down the boardwalk this visit.

Juliahna — Google review

Beautiful place to visit and beautiful people managing the museum. We had a great experience as a family and we enjoyed every minute of it. It was also very informative. Great souvenirs to buy!

Ines Ramirez — Google review

Beautiful displays, gifts, hope, and boardwalk. I came with a friend who used a wheelchair and we were driven to the entrance and picked up and driven to the car when we left.

Sylvia Templar — Google review

I am very glad that we went to this museum. It is very well done. The Seminole Tribe in Florida has put a lot of effort to make this museum available to the public. It covers the history and lifestyle of the Seminoles.

Don Wynn — Google review

We had a delightful day at this very nice museum of Seminole culture & history. Spent about 1 1/2 hrs watching short video, seeing many artifacts. and reading about each area. This is a wonderful place for all - kids, families. seniors. Very reasonable prices . Clean. Excellent boardwalk about a mile long. Interesting & informative! 👍🏼

Jon Williman — Google review

Very well organized museum. Nice hiking board, but no wild life spotted.

Waguih Messiha — Google review

Beautiful museum, I love seeing the cultural history of such strong people. The nature walk outside is so peaceful, the greenery is just so refreshing to look at. You can truly feel the magic in that walk. They also have a cute gift show area where you can buy artwork and very cute authentic things. You are not allowed to record or take pictures inside, please respect their wishes. There are multiple signs posted up stating this as well.

Doris Acuna — Google review

I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum, which translates to "A place to learn, a place to remember." It encapsulates the museum's mission of education and remembrance, serving as a space where visitors can deepen their knowledge and appreciation of the Seminole Tribe's heritage.Located on the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation in Florida, this museum is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Seminole Tribe of Florida.Upon entering the museum, I was immediately struck by the beautifully designed architecture, which seamlessly blended with the natural surroundings. The exhibits inside were thoughtfully curated, offering a comprehensive glimpse into the history, traditions, and contemporary life of the Seminole Tribe.One of the highlights of my visit was the outdoor boardwalk trail, which winds through the cypress dome and allows visitors to explore the natural environment.The staff at the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum were friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about sharing their culture and history. They were readily available to answer questions and provide further context, enhancing the overall experience.The Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum is a gem that beautifully showcases the vibrant history and culture of the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Whether you have a deep interest in indigenous cultures or simply want to learn something new, this museum offers an enriching experience that is both educational and inspiring. 💫 ✨️🛍 🎁 Furthermore, I was delighted to discover that the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum boasts an impressive gift shop, offering a wide array of distinctive gifts and travel mementos. From exquisite jewelry pieces to adorable animal figurines and intricately crafted dream catchers, the gift shop truly captivated my attention. It serves as an excellent opportunity to not only find a special keepsake but also contribute to supporting this local business and the invaluable work of the museum.

Maya — Google review

Wonderful and friendly staff here. Very interesting artifacts and history. We love the boardwalk here and we purchased a family pass so we could come over and visit here anytime as we're camped at the Big Cypress RV Park for the winter. The gift shop has lots of interesting items for sale.

Russ Chapin — Google review

Visited the Museum today 3/11/24. Spectacular! The staff were all warm, friendly, and extremely helpful. The museum was exquisite, and the history and culture told in an authentic way through film, art, videos, exhibits. The boardwalk and grounds were gorgeous. I can’t say enough about how inviting and special it was to experience the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum Thank you!!!!

June Mishcon — Google review

4.7

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4.5

(192)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (188)

34725 West Boundary Road, Clewiston, FL 33440, USA

(877) 902-1113

I'll never travel to Ochopee without this trip planner again

Learn more

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34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (194)

I will never travel to Ochopee without this app againAvailable on the App Store

26

Museum of the Everglades

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Mentioned on

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Museum

Specialty Museums

This small museum in the town of Everglades City has displays on the history and culture of the Everglades area. It is run by kindhearted volunteers who have a wealth of knowledge on the region's history.

What a wonderful time on our visit. A Free museum with absolutely outstanding displays. The curator was incredible and very attentive to ask the visitors. A wealth of information and a true love of Everglade City and Collier County. Must stop location.

Lisa N. — Google review

Nice little museum of the history of Everglades City and Collier County. Not an all day attraction.

Random Traveler — Google review

What a treat! This museum is full of really interesting and insightful pieces of Everglades history. The exhibits tell a really compelling story and the staff is extremely helpful - what we expected to be a 10 minute stop ended up lasting an hour!

Laura Latendresse — Google review

What a really neat place to visit! We got to visit with my cousin that lives in the area and really learned a lot! The gentleman at the front was so nice and helpful! There is so much that we learned about the area and next time we will spend a little more time so we can read more of the stuff. Would highly recommend while visiting the area, it is truly worth your time and you will learn so much!

Teresa Brown — Google review

What a great job they have done. If was closed Monday and stayed the night (on a boat) and went next morning. Very well done and you have two personal guides there to anser any questions.

Colin Campbell — Google review

A wondaful local museum with people who care deeply about keeping the history alive. I had the pleasure of speaking with the person who now runs the museum and learned even more. An all around wonderful experience off the beaten path.

Alex Strobl — Google review

Amazing historical archive. Community driven, shows the deep root residents have within the community. The person at the desk was very kind and knowledgeable.

Craig Heyne — Google review

Simple and small museum in Everglades city. Definitely worth popping in.

Frida Nguyen — Google review

Nice little local museum. We were greeted as soon as we walked in and given a good primer for the area's history. Worth a stop if you're I. The aeea

Jeffrey Feld — Google review

Great museum. Seems to be bigger inside than it looked from the outside. Very helpful crew. The guys there offered great insight and information. Lots of interesting exhibits to see. We stayed about an hour and all 4 of us learned a little and were glad we took the time. A great place to stop for a bit if you're in the area.

Andrew Gasworth — Google review

Very informative FREE museum filled with info about native settlers and life in this area. We really enjoyed the exhibits. The staff are very knowledgeable and eager to share. This museum is a must for anyone visiting!

Patricia Havener — Google review

The Museum is full of information that makes you appreciate the city a little bit more. It’s a lot of reading they also has a short film movie you can watch. The lady at the front was very kind.

Marla Della — Google review

This unique museum provides information on the history of development of the Everglades that is both comprehensive and entertaining. Thomas Lockyear the curator is a fountain of knowledge. And it's free!

Gregg LaLiberte — Google review

A very nice little museum. Learned a bunch about the development of the area. Staff was super friendly and knowledgeable.

Matt Kovar — Google review

4.7

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4.5

(384)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (202)

105 Broadway Ave W, Everglades City, FL 34139, USA

(239) 252-5026

27

Wooten's Everglades Airboat Tours

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Boat tour agency

Tours

Wooten's Everglades Airboat Tours is a great way to see the wildlife in the Everglades. The airboats are fast and provide a great view of the animals. The swamp buggy is not as fun and provides a less exciting view of the animals. Make sure you make reservations in advance to avoid long wait times.

We drove down from North Ft. Myers and had a pretty good time. The fan boat ride was a blast. Our captain was educational and made the boat ride a blast. We got to see some gators and learn about the habitat. The buggy ride was just okay. The driver was good, and getting to see the Native and logging homes was cool. That being said, if I were to go again, I'd skip the buggy and go for a longer ride through the Everglades. Just my opinion though!

Dustin Boicourt — Google review

The airboats were tons of fun. It’s a great way to see wildlife and landscapes you wouldn’t be able to see close up any other way. The guides are extremely knowledgeable and friendly. Gift shop is very low priced! I recommend morning tours so you don’t miss the alligator shows.

Nikia Zaremba — Google review

Purchased the private combo package for 4 on a smaller air boat and swamp buggy run.The swamp buggy ride was fun and and the driver had some great information about the swamp area.The captian of the air boat was very knowledgeable about the area and with being on a smaller air boat we were able to go places in the everglades the larger air boats could not go through. Seen a few alligators and other wild life. We would definitely go again.

J kbisch — Google review

I highly recommend taking a trip to Wooten's. Our family had a wonderful time. We rode the airboat with Captain Jake and the swamp buggy with Ralph. They were excellent hosts and we enjoyed every moment. We loved the alligator show, too! The trainer (I am so sorry I don't know his name!) was great with kids. Everyone was personable and knowledgeable. We made life-long memories at Wooten's.

Christy Witte — Google review

We booked at private tour for Dec 1 at 2:30 pm. If I had never been on an Everglades airboat tour, I might have thought this one was good.To my readers: BOOK A TOUR THAT GOES NORTH OF HIGHWAY 41. South of the highway is not the natural Everglades. It’s all mangrove forests because the highway blocks the flow of water. North of the highway is more authentic.Our guide—who never stated his name one time— spoke with a tone that was over-compensating for lack of true understanding of the area. He recited a few paragraphs of memorized facts, but his lack of knowledge was apparent in his inability to provide context and broader view.We saw one gator—“old reliable”—that is more like a pet than wild. No birds or turtles or anything else.Their “zoo” was more interesting than the tour. They have dozens of gators and crocodiles in cages. I think most of them are rescues. I was pleased that I was not able to see their Siberian Tiger in a small cage. Not sure why he was off exhibit.

Matthew Wilson — Google review

I originally wanted to go somewhere not so Comercial but glad we changed our minds. This place was awesome. We booked the combo and had a blast. We had Captain Matt for our Airboat tour and he is the man! Very fun and knowledgeable about the area. The swap buggy tour was really cool and saw some really cool stuff including bear tracks. I cannot recommend this place enough.

Anthony Riviera — Google review

Definitely worth stopping for. Do the air boat. Skip the swamp buggy. Make sure you make reservations prior to going and get there early. It was a long wait even after having a reservation. Our online reservation was at 1 but was maybe 2:15 or 2:30 when we went out. Swamp buggy was a disappointment. The driver kept stopping and showing us pictures on his phone of what we might have seen there because there wasn't much to see. I'd rather spend more time on the air boats. The animals were cool too. Their tiger could be the biggest cat I've even seen. I would definitely go back.

Joseph Gullett — Google review

We decided to drive to Everglades after coming back from our cruise in Miami. It was hard to find a place that doesn't take reservations the day off and we are so happy we found this place and we were able to explore the Everglades by air boat and a swamp buggy. The tour guides are really informative and they get payed off tips so take some cash. Also a big bonus of this place is that they have alligators, crocodiles, tigers and lions. They also have a really cool and informative show with a Gator named Charlie and at the end of the show we were able to hold 2 small alligators. The guy giving the show is funny and patient answering questions the children and adults have. He also accepts tips. We highly recommend this place.

Belladventures — Google review

We had a blast at this airboat tour. We didn’t need reservations and it was fairly priced. We took some of our family members that had never been before. Our captain was great and very knowledgeable about the area. We saw two small gators and fish. The animals back at the facility were neat to see and we got to hold a baby gator. If you are ever in the area definitely give them a try. Would highly recommend stopping in and enjoying this place for everything it has to offer.

Jennifer Alvaro — Google review

Okay, a lot to say. The airboat tours were AMAZING and when you were on them, it felt like flying and it was as fun as a roller coaster! The swamp buggy was so fun as well. It was a very bumpy ride though, so if you get motion sick easily, it may not be a great choice. Both guides were super kind and helpful. The gift shop was small but, cute. The animal sanctuary however, was pretty sad :( The enclosures were small and made of concrete and the lion had what appeared to be some sort of skin issue all over his body. None of the animals appeared to be underweight though, so they are probably being fed well. Another plus is that the bathrooms were super clean.

Fantastic Films L.J.B — Google review

Really enjoyed our airboat ride. It was our first. The captain took through mangrove tunnels and cut cookies in the open waters. We saw three alligators and many birds. He stopped often to tell us of the flora and fauna and the ecology of the area. Then we went to the animal sanctuary. There were otters, 43 alligators, 6 crocodiles, turtles, and of course, the man who got into the fenced-in alligator, Charlie. He told us many interesting facts about gators and then grabbed Charlie by the tail and drug her to the center. Then he pulled open her mouth and held it open with his chin. After this, we were able to hold a couple of baby gators. Great experience.

Robert Loudon — Google review

I always worry about animal cruelty when supporting a business like this and honestly, I’m still unsure of it. Airboat ride was a lot of fun! Swamp buggy tour was interesting. The animal sanctuary was a little sad. The enclosures are not very large and it’s mostly cement with a wood platform. The river otter enclosure was very stinky. The live gator show was very cool and the handler seemed to genuinely care about the gators. Handling the small alligators was very cool. They were held in a small covered box, I hope that’s not where they stay all of the time. The alligators did seem to enjoy being pet around their ears. I would feel better about it if the enclosures were cleaner and actually had anything stimulating for the animals.

Lisa Meminger — Google review

Such a positive first experience for us. Group of 9 - trying to find an airboat tour last minute over Spring Break. We found Wooten's! 3 adults and 6 teens ages 16, 16, 15, 15, 14 & 13. We booked the ORIGINAL TOUR - 30 min airboat and 30 min buggy tour with alligator show for $74.00. I was nervous about the cost. Totally worth it to us. Something for everyone. Cool but short airboat tour, funny swamp tour guide, and the GEM for us the little 'zoo' of animals and informative and funny alligator show! And holding the alligators!Do not miss spending the time exploring the entire animal area we almost missed some cool things way in back!Overall very well run and just great service too. We had to have two people get really sick the night before who had to cancel very last minute. Despite their clearly stated 24 hour refund policy we emailed them after hours as our tour was first thing in the morning and it was fixed, refunded, and all set again before we even arrived!!!! Just great service and a really fun experience. One heads up though - Their bathrooms are really limited and have issues with water pressure. Just be warned that it is not a quick potty break!!!!Thanks for the amazing memories!

Heather Rettler — Google review

This was the best trip ever. We had our own boat and Captain Matt was amazing, personable and very knowledgeable. He taught my grandsons quite a bit about the mangroves, the Everglades, the ecosystem and the alligators. The swamp buggy tour was okay...not near as thrilling as the air boats, but definitely very educational. These guys know their stuff and you can tell they LOVE what they do and take great pride in protecting their environment and sharing their knowledge. It was cool to hold an alligator too!

Sonja Racke — Google review

We booked the Total Everglades Combo as part of our 10 year anniversary celebration. I loved every minute of it! Every captain was knowledgeable and friendly! I love people with a sense of humor and all 3 definitely had one 😊The gator handler was also very knowledgeable and you could tell that he cared about his gators! We want to come back to Florida again and this place will definitely be on our list again!

Danielle Lilly-Mischke — Google review

The actual boat ride was fun, though the ear covers still let in quite a bit of the 110 decibel noise. The gator park part was interesting, but the most exciting part was a group of birds who would eat out of your hand. Also a random lion...We thought we'd get more from our captain than we did this time.

Carrianne Dillon — Google review

28

Big Cypress National

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Nature & Parks

Nature & Wildlife Areas

Parks

4.5

(567)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (213)

Big Cypress, FL 34141, USA

29

Big Cypress Oasis Visitor Center

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Visitor center

The Big Cypress Oasis Visitor Center is a great place to visit if you're interested in alligators. The visitor center has a boardwalk that follows a narrow roadside stream, and the staff there is always happy to answer any questions you might have about the preserve or the alligators who live there.

I had planned a trip out into big cypress to finish off my 8yo daughters spring break strong. I had planned on 14 miles of amazing Florida wilderness and an incredible dad/daughter bonding trip. What I had not planned on was an incredible experience with a ranger at oasis visitor center. Athena Gonzalez made the experience go from incredible to flat out amazing. She took the time to actually talk with my daughter, ask her questions and engage her thoughts about nature and just what we were doing there. She went out of her way to set us off with a picture to start the trip, an amazing app to identify plant species, and a junior ranger program that sparked my daughters imagination and desire for the outdoors. When we returned after our over night trip she yelled out to us as we passed the doors and when we returned inside to finish her ranger program activities she made an impression on my daughter that I know she will never forget. She swore her in as an official junior ranger, stamped and signed her off, and gave her the badge that is a priceless trophy to my daughter. When we walked out of the visitor center the first thing my daughter said was “I want to be a ranger just like her!”I can’t begin to explain the enthusiasm and excitement she’s had ever since the trip and meeting Ranger Gonzalez. All I can say is thank you so much, you made a difference and may have even set a little girl on a path to being a ranger! We need more people like Ranger Gonzalez around, the world would be a much better place for it!

Chris Sugg — Google review

This is a must-stop while driving The Tamiami Trail, US Hwy 41 -- aka alligator alley! Gators! Gators! Gators! This was the best place for gator watching on our trip from Colorado to Key West in March 2022. The gator hole is full of ‘em, and also lots of fish and birds. The visitor’s center is well staffed, has a nice gift shop and clean restrooms. The southern terminus of the Florida National Scenic Trail is also here; making it an interesting sight for us hikers. We had been to the northern terminus of the Trail earlier in our trip at the Gulf Islands National Seashore near Pensacola – 1,500 miles away!

David Lobree — Google review

If the main building had been opened it would have been five stars. It's always the highlight of my drive across to stop there and view the wildlife. Driving through a national park, just delightful!

Margaret Dowd — Google review

Great place to see some alligators, so recommend stopping here if you are passing by. However visitor center is closed so unable to rate that. Also the boardwalk railing seems a bit in disrepair as well. So just be careful 😁

Lucas Smith — Google review

Nice visitor center. Had books for sale. (I finally bought a Passport book for stamps at the various National Parks) Drinks, toys for the kids, maps, etc. books on Florida and the Everglades Clean restrooms, some picnic tables, big parking lot. The man inside was very friendly and helpful. Saw an alligator (the one pictured below) while walking on the board walk. He was just hanging out waiting for someone to be pushed in

dx d — Google review

Great quick stop on our way to Naples. Saw a bunch of gators, fish, birds, and cool insects. Great quick stop especially if you have little children with you and you want to see some wildlife.

Stephanie Perez — Google review

This place definitely gives a little experience of being at the Everglades with short board walk overlooking the river/ pond with different kinds of local fish and alligators. There is also a book store which was closed when we were there and restrooms which is definitely convenient stop while u drive for hours through everglades.

Justyna Soltys — Google review

Well maintained center! The toilets were clean, they have a diaper changing station on men/women and are good equiped.We saw directly many alligators next to the parking space which was pretty cool! There were plenty of fishes and as we left the area we saw some wild boars crossing the street. We will stop there next time if we are there.

Richi Kaehny — Google review

Warning the turn off is very sharp. We were expecting a turn off lane but NOPE it was more "driveway"-esk. If you wanna see some gators, they got gators. Nice boardwalk with info signs. Ladies running the desk were very friendly. Prices were actually pretty standard and not that bad. Super glad we stopped to stretch our legs.

T Popp — Google review

Lots of alligators (10+) in the water and sunning themselves on land. Worth a visit. As of yesterday, visitor center posted hours are Fri-Sun 9 am - 4:30 pm. Closed all other days.

Joanne L — Google review

Very nice and clean rest area. There is a walkway that goes along a pond with plenty of alligators. The Florida Scenic Hiking Trail ends here.

Brian W. — Google review

Nice boardwalk with lots of wildlife to see in a small area. We saw multiple alligators, lots of fish, and different birds. The visitor center is rather small, but has souvenirs, passport stamps, and an exhibit to read about alligator wrestling and its origins in the area.

Lisa Meminger — Google review

Amazing little gem in the Everglades! Free access. Did the ranger-led walk, very informative and fun. Helps understand the eco-system, spotted various bird species and alligators. Visitor center staff and rangers were happy to answer questions and help navigate the park!

Swati R — Google review

Fantastic place to visit for all the information, attire or exploratory needs. The Super Hero Staff that protects this place from dangers or invasive species have all the knowledge or resources to get you on your way to understanding the preserve and to sport you support for this haven of nature. Thank your rangers for their hard work and never stop asking questions, knowledge is power.

Christopher Strode (The Traveler) — Google review

Great park. I recommend to everyone who wants to see alligators. I recommend choosing a cloudy day for a walk, because there are long trails in the park under the open sky. At the entrance you will be met by a very nice employee who will show you the way and hand you a booklet with information about the park

Анжелика Минаева — Google review

So we saw a ton of alligators here! More than we did anywhere else. But the visitor center isn’t great at all. Really nothing there. Gift shop has nothing and very little info and no displays about big cypress. The only reason it gets 3 stars is because of the massive gators we saw close up.

Elizabeth Schaffner — Google review

Very helpful team and a great short boardwalk from which you can see so much wildlife. They recommended I made a stop for the boardwalk at Kirby Storter and I loved that place.

J Yoga — Google review

Perfect place to stop if you need a little break from driving. The boardwalk gives views of alligators and fish. The visitors center has history of alligator wrestling and an informative video. The only downside were the restrooms. The men’s was pretty nasty and my wife said the women’s was no pleasant either.

Wolfgang Scheel — Google review

The short boardwalk took us through an area that was teeming with action. There were a few alligators swimming around or sunbathing, an anhinga that caught a fish and beat it against some tree branches before swallowing it whole, there were also a few great egrets...

Pradeep — Google review

The most alligators we've seen in one small spot! They were lying all over eachother. We did a tram tour in the area as well and seen roughly half the amount of alligators that this visitor center had. Park staff was very informative and polite. The visitor center was clean and well done.5 🌟 all around!

Nick W — Google review

Lots and lots of gators to see close up. Nice boardwalk to observe the birds and gators. Small gift shop and you can get your National Park book stamped. If you forget your book, like I did, you can stamp a piece of paper to add to your book. They also sell the National Park book too.

Carolynn Zeitz — Google review

This used to be one very nice rest area to stop at but it seems to have gone downhill there was no toilet paper in the bathrooms my wife was a little upset. Cleanliness not so much the boardwalk where you view the Gators is falling apart one day it's going to be in the water with the gators. Little bit of maintenance would help.

Lawrence Vance — Google review

Very educational video inside about the Everglades and enjoyed a wonderful walk along the boardwalk. Excellent spot for Gator viewing. There are restrooms and picnic tables here.

Sara Ramsey — Google review

4.6

(2203)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (218)

4.5

(227)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (219)

52105 Tamiami Trail E, Ochopee, FL 34141, USA

(239) 695-2000

30

Loop Road Scenic Drive

34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (220)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (221)

34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (222)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (223)

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Outdoor Activities

Hiking Trails

Loop Road is a scenic drive through cypress and pine forests in the Big Cypress National Preserve. It offers an opportunity to get off the main road and explore the preserve at a slower pace. The Loop Road is well known for alligator viewing and is also home to vultures, turtles, and other wildlife.

This was one of my favorite parts of the Everglades! This had the largest collection of alligators that I had seen in the area as they are in almost every pull off along the drive. There are cypress trees, great blue herons, and egrets along the whole drive as well!

Jeremy Janus — Google review

One of my favorite places to visit in the Everglades. A great and comfortable way to introduce visitors to the Everglades where they can get a taste of the scenery and wildlife without having to worry much about mosquitoes or discomfort in general. Typically spot a fair number of gators though wildlife is never guaranteed and see quite a few wading birds from ibis to egret to herons. Have also seen turtles and even the odd snake though always at a distance. Trees are beautiful and interesting to note varying water levels depending on the time of year. Road condition varies and can be quite full of potholes if it hasn’t been graded for a while. Always manageable with an SUV but I’d be careful with anything that has low clearance. Also a great spot for gravel bike rides! The shade helps!

Alison Joslyn — Google review

Most amazing day trip! We’ve done airboat tours, which are fun, and maybe we’ve seen a few alligators, but here you see tons! Plus beautiful birds, turtles, fish… and you just go at your own pace.

Isabella Ramos — Google review

One of the coolest drives in Florida, a lot to see along the roadside. Take note that this is a shell/reef sand surface and it gets VERY dusty, especially if people speed by so it's good to have a bandana or something to cover your mouth same nose at times. Also, be ready for the car wash when you get off the road, your car will be covered is grey dust and sand.

Blair Wright — Google review

If you are going to drive on this road, be ready to spend some time here. It took longer than expected, especially because we kept seeing wildlife and kept stopping to take pictures of the alligators and turtles. It's a dirt road, so make sure your car can handle it. Also, depending on the time of the year, there will be lots of grasshoppers. It's possible that they were something else, but they looked like grasshoppers. There is also a restroom along the way, but when we arrived, it was covered (and I mean covered) in all kinds of moths, grasshoppers, and miscellaneous crittery things.

Ariz Himani — Google review

Great experience for free, must do it! We saw more than 23 aligators ca 2 meter away from us, some turtles and lots of birds. Most of animals were on the right side of the road when driving west—>east, mostly very peaceful while sunbathing so we did a lot of nice photos. The road was first 10-15min bumpy and after that ok. We were driving very slowly 20-30kmh and it took us 1.5h to end the road. At the end of the road we were very lucky to see the biggest aligator in the middle of driveway and took some crazy photos outside of vehicle.

Jovana Ivancevic — Google review

Most beautiful stretch of road in the Everglades if you like birds and nature. You will see a lot of alligators, dozens of different birds, turtles etc. Stop at the bridges and get out of your car there. That's where you see the most. It can be a bit dusty on the road but that does not outweigh all the beauty on the road.

Ilse Orsel — Google review

Highly recommend coming here! We spent about 3 hours for the whole drive but we stopped a lot. Saw tons of gators and birds. Some of the gators were chilling right by the road too which was cool.

Kiely Perrus — Google review

We heard Loop Road was full of wildlife so we decided to take it back on our way home, it was totally worth! The neighborhood road goes into the scenic dirt road and it’s about 20 miles the whole stretch. We stopped numerous times along the way. There was lots of large lubber grasshoppers everywhere. 100s of gators just lounging in the swamps. You can stop along and take photos.It was an amazing drive! There are a few trails along the way. The Hammock Tree Snail Trail is a short little nature walk that says it takes 30 mins. We did it in about 8. Then few miles up there is the Gator Hook Trailhead. Had a small area with picnic table & over head shade.There’s an outhouse bathroom. Didn’t smell the greatest but you are out in the middle of nowhere.We walked that trail for about a mile and it was dry season so the path was really awesome but isn’t for anyone who has balance issues and it’s a rough rocky terrain! Normally, the water sits in that area and covers the trail and you walk along the trail in ankle deep water 😬

Brandy D — Google review

If you are going to the Everglades to see wildlife, then I can highly recommend the Loop Road Scenic Drive.Firstly, it can be quite a bumpy ride in parts. The surface is mostly compacted dirt. Some parts felt like a wash board, and other parts were smooth, some rather large pot holes. Nothing too taxing that good careful driving can't handle.It's around 24 miles long. So bear that in mind when you're driving along between 10-20mph trying to spot the wildlife that it will seem like the road is never-ending!Wildlife - Oh my goodness, did we see wildlife! Do you long to see, film, or photograph alligators in the wild? This is the road for you. We saw a total of 8 Alligators whilst driving this route. From small to big, under the water & on top of the water. Right there, in front of us, maybe 2 metres away! Holy macrol. You have to understand that this road cuts through their backyard. Do not leave children or pets unsupervised anywhere near the roadside. You are surrounded by water/everglades on both sides. Getting out of the vehicle to view the wildlife is also a nerve-racking task 😆 If I could have climbed through the sunroof, I would have.Loads of birds, white/black or grey ingrits? Vultures, heron looking birds, birds of prey, fish, deer. It's amazing for wildlife lovers, I wished we'd had more time. Sadly, we didn't see the panther, maybe next time?

Donna — Google review

Just the best free attraction in Florida. True. Everglades, birds gators and much much more.Loved every minute of the 2 hour loop. Stop look and watch . Lots to see . Be quiet and patient

Richard “Tolly” T — Google review

Took the Class-C down this road averaging around 5-12mph because the road was a little washboard.We of course made stops along the way to admire the wildlife. Lots of Gators! Use caution and don’t get too close. Keep an eye on your little ones!From East to West the scenic road took a little over an hour.All the cool kids don’t litter! Pack it in, pack it out.

Cole — Google review

Best free and easy gator experience in FL. Saw 40+ gators driving through the entire loop. Coming from the west the road is very bumpy at the start up until gator head trail, but after that it's smooth. Speed limit only 15mph so takes about an hour to get to the end.

S Stanley — Google review

So so so good! Road is really rough at the end but such BA gorgeous drive with so much wildlife every where you look. Definitely recommend

Lindsey Morris — Google review

Well worth doing the drive - beautiful scenery (mixture of cypress swamps, pines, hardwoods, flooded grasslands) and lots of opportunities to see animals.In September, parts of the road are pools of water, and there are potholes. You would probably not want to drive this in a sedan or something with low ground clearance.

Tim Robinson — Google review

4.8

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4.5

(507)34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (225)

Loop Rd Big Cypress National Preserve, Ochopee, FL 34141, USA

34 Best Stops Between Cape Coral and Ochopee (2024)

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