Kayak, kick back on the sand, take a history tour, and eat a huge slice of orange crunch cake
The handful of us native to the islands, beaches, and neighborhoods of Fort Myers like to say that we live where everyone else vacations. We say it to make folks envious, sure, but also to remind ourselves of the ever-present natural beauty and diverse history that surrounds us in Southwest Florida.
Explore ancient Calusa shell mounds, paddle through mangrove tunnels, fish for monster tarpon, and do it all while basking in the tropical climes that have drawn visitors here for more than a century. From the crystalline waters of Captiva to the retro wonders of Bonita Springs, I have the pleasure of living in one of the most beautiful corners of the state. For a few sun-soaked days, you can too.
Who I am: I’m Annabelle Tometich, a writer and author who has always called Southwest Florida home. I spent 18 years as a journalist, food writer, and restaurant critic for the Fort Myers News-Press. In 2025, my first book, The Mango Tree: A Memoir of Fruit, Florida, and Felony, won the Southern Book Prize for Nonfiction. When not writing, I’m getting up early to beat the crowds to the beaches, then marveling at the rising sun as it turns the gulf every shade of pink.
Before You Go
Yes, we do have seasons: From November to April, weather tends to be cool, dry, and minimally humid, which is to say gorgeous. Temperatures start to climb in May, but the rain usually holds out for June, July, August, and September, when you might see afternoon thunderstorms. But great travel deals make summer a great time to visit. Storms dissipate almost as quickly as they form, and in their wake, you’ll find cooler air, lovely breezes, and sunsets that will leave you breathless.
Getting around: Locals can fillet a fish with our eyes closed, we know ibises from egrets, but public transportation is not a Southwest Florida strength. If you want to visit large swaths of the area, a car of your own, rental or otherwise, is helpful. Rideshares are readily available from Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) to anywhere in Lee County, but finding a rideshare on some of the barrier islands can be tricky, especially late at night or early in the morning, so reserving ahead is helpful. On Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel, and Captiva, you can rent bikes, trikes, golf carts, scooters, and almost anything else with wheels. They’re a great way to get around; just be sure to follow local regulations as to where, when, and who can ride such things.
What to pack: Sunglasses, sunscreen, a bathing suit, flip flops, maybe a coverup of some kind if you’d like to sit inside a restaurant. This is the Southwest Florida uniform, and it’ll get you pretty much everywhere.
Where to Stay
Tarpon Lodge
This historic Pine Island fishing lodge turned charming waterfront inn offers a taste of old Florida at its finest. The onsite restaurant serves a standout menu filled with local seafood and produce. Accommodations range from quaint rooms to spacious-yet-cozy cottages. And it all overlooks Pine Island Sound, where dolphins, mullet, and the setting sun team up to put on a spectacular show.
This excerpt from an article by Annabelle Tometich originally appeared on Thrillist.com.
