When it comes to planning a family vacation, Florida stands out as a top destination with its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and countless family-friendly activities. In this blog post, we’ll explore two fantastic areas in Southwest Florida – Naples and Fort Myers – offering the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for families. We’ve also handpicked some delightful places to stay and must-visit attractions for you and your little ones.

Naples: Paradise on the Gulf Coast

Naples is a charming coastal town located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, known for its stunning beaches and upscale dining. For a comfortable and family-friendly stay in Naples, we recommend booking a room at the Naples Grande Beach Resort. This beautiful resort offers spacious accommodations and a variety of amenities to keep both parents and children happy. We loved all the pools and on-site dining options, and there was a free shuttle right from the hotel that would take you directly to the beach! This was truly such a kid-friendly resort!

Activities in Naples:

• Boat Tour to See Wildlife: A boat tour in Naples is a must-do activity for families. Explore the pristine waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the Ten Thousand Islands, and the Everglades. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, manatees, and a wide variety of bird species. It’s a memorable experience for all ages.

• Naples Zoo: The Naples Zoo is a delightful place for kids to get up close and personal with exotic animals. With its lush gardens and interactive exhibits, it’s both entertaining and educational.

• CMON Museum: The CMON (Children’s Museum of Naples) is a haven for young minds. This interactive museum offers hands-on exhibits, art programs, and imaginative play spaces that will keep kids engaged and entertained.
• Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park: Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is a beach lover’s paradise. With its pristine sandy shores and calm waters, it’s an excellent spot for swimming, shelling, and picnicking. The park also offers nature trails and opportunities for bird watching, making it a great place for a family beach day.
• Sun-N-Fun Lagoon: For some splash-tastic fun, head to the Sun-N-Fun Lagoon. This water park in Naples features water slides, a lazy river, a family pool, and a splash playground for younger children. It’s the perfect place to cool off and have a blast on a hot Florida day.

Fort Myers: A Family Adventure Hub

Fort Myers, located just north of Naples, is a vibrant city with a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. For your stay in Fort Myers, consider booking a room at the Westin Cape Coral Hotel, located just across the Caloosahatchee River in Cape Coral. The Westin offers a range of amenities, including a pool and spacious suites, making it an excellent choice for families. We really loved that they offered a free dolphin tour, too! And their on-site restaurants (Marker 92 and Nauti Mermaid) have amazing and delicious food options for everyone!

Kid-Friendly Activities in Fort Myers:

• Lakes Park: Lakes Park is a fantastic spot for family picnics and outdoor fun. It features playgrounds, walking trails, paddle boating, and a miniature railroad, making it a great place to spend a leisurely day. If your toddler is obsessed with trains like ours is, this is a must-visit!

• Manatee Park: If you’ve ever wanted to see Florida’s gentle giants up close, head to Manatee Park. It’s a prime spot for manatee viewing in the winter months when the water temperature drops. There are also nature trails and a butterfly garden to explore.
• Six Mile Cypress Slough: The Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve is a serene nature sanctuary that offers a boardwalk experience through the heart of a cypress swamp. It’s a unique opportunity to observe native wildlife, including turtles, birds, and alligators, in their natural habitat.
• Edison and Ford Winter Estates: Explore the Edison and Ford Winter Estates to take a step back in time. This historic site showcases the former winter homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, as well as beautiful gardens. Guided tours and interactive exhibits offer an educational and engaging experience for the whole family.
• Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium: The Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium is an excellent destination for families interested in nature and astronomy. With its wildlife exhibits, butterfly house, and planetarium shows, you can learn about the natural world and the cosmos in an entertaining and informative way.

These are just a few of the family-friendly attractions you can enjoy in Naples and Fort Myers. Together, they create a perfect balance of relaxation, wildlife exploration, and educational experiences for your family getaway in sunny Florida. So, pack your bags and embark on a memorable adventure with your loved ones in this picturesque region of the Sunshine State.

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