Day 1 Fly from the UK to Tampa, collect your hire car and drive to Fort Myers, approx. 125 miles

Stay for 7 nights in a three bedroom home with private pool, or one of the areas other self-catering properties, resorts or small inns

Days 2-7  You are likely to run out of time before running out of things to do on The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel. Traditionally, the most popular attractions throughout the area have been the area's miles of unspoiled beaches, award-winning state parks and wildlife preserves. In addition to experiencing wildlife, shells and birds along the shores of Sanibel, Captiva, Cayo Costa and other barrier islands, there is much to experience by land and water. And almost everything on The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel is family-friendly. From learning about Calusa Indian culture on Pine Island to attending sailing school or stepping back in time with a visit to Edison Ford Winter Estates, sharing memories is what a holiday is all about.

With more water than land, water activities are a must when visiting the destination. Kayak or paddle board to get close to the Manatees, paddle the same trail as the Calusa Indians by heading out on one of the largest, best executed blue-ways in the country – 190 miles of waterway. 

Sanibel Sea School is a fun way for kids to learn about nature and the waters of Sanibel and Captiva. Kids get to spot dolphins, search for crabs, discover beautiful shells and learn about the abundant wading birds that live off the islands.

End the day by boating across the quiet waters of Pine Island Sound to Cayo Costa State Park or Cabbage Key. But when on Cabbage Key do not leave until you have tried the authentic American surf ‘n’ turf island style.

Fun on land 

The best way to see Fort Myers & Sanibel is by pedal. Sanibel Island and Cape Coral are big biking communities with over 90 miles of cycle routes through wildlife parks, heritage sites and golf courses.

Fort Myers Beach is the best place to cycle along the waves, whilst Caloosahatchee Regional Park is great for Mountain Bikers with its rugged inclines and forest terrain. 

Immerse into nature with a visit to J .N. ‘Ding’ Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Located on Sanibel island, this is the largest undeveloped mangrove ecosystem in the USA with miles of primordial wetlands. Watch flocks of birds migrate across land and sea and watch out for alligators and manatees in their natural habitat as you head along the drivable 'safari' trail. 

Famed for its sunsets, Fort Myers & Sanibel offer the best places to watch the sun go down at the end of a long day. Fort Myers Beach has seven miles of coast line, find a spot on the pier and take in the striking view of the golden sun.

A visit on the main land Fort Myers is a must. In the afternoon visit some of the outlets, outdoor malls and boutiques and in the evening experience downtown Fort Myers nightlife by heading out to the River District. Stroll along the waterfront of the Caloosahatchee River with its original brick-lined streets.

Day 8 Return to the airport and drop off your hire car in time for your flight home.

Alternatively you can extend your stay with a visit to the Florida Keys or head up to Orlando for some theme park thrills.