This boating and fishing hot spot has 400 miles of canals.
While southwest Florida is famous for its beaches, Cape Coral offers a fresh alternative — namely, a seemingly endless network of canals that boating, kayaking and fishing enthusiasts can’t wait to explore. Paddle through the mangroves, relax at dockside restaurants along the Caloosahatchee River and sign up for water sports, including the chance to search for dolphins during an eco-themed boat tour.
Explore Cape Coral
- Marina Village
- Greater Cape Coral
- Cape Harbour
Marina Village
Overview
Boutiques, bistros and a spa draw visitors to this ritzy area of Cape Coral, overlooking the Caloosahatchee River. Beloved for its river views and waterside bars, Marina Village is also home to Glover Bight Trail, a scenic wildlife pathway with excellent birding opportunities.
Known For
Restaurants, Bars, Views
Greater Cape Coral
Overview
Family-friendly Greater Cape Coral, which fans out over 120 square miles, boasts museums, a water park, art and weekly farmers market. Visitors can observe blue herons, dolphins, even manatees in the area’s canals and Sirenia Vista Park offers popular kayak routes to Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve, where nature lovers can experience the wilder side of Florida among the mangroves.
Known For
Waterpark, Parks, Museums
Cape Harbour
Overview
Explore Cape Harbour, a waterfront residential community with a scenic marina, whenever you’re craving fresh oysters, ice-cold beers and a gorgeous view overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. When you’re not having fun on the water, there are plenty of coffee bars, shops and art galleries to explore.
Known For
Dining, Galleries
Stay in The Center of it All
Immerse yourself in your destination at these centrally located hotels.
Spend a Long Weekend on the Water in Cape Coral, Florida
Go Kayaking, Then Sip Local Brews
This part of southwest Florida is famous for its canals and nature preserves, which are home to a wide range of wildlife. Get to know Cape Coral from the water with a kayaking tour. Later, check out the local brewing scene, join a dolphin-watching tour and dine dockside under the stars.
Charter a Boat
Explore Cape Coral’s culinary options with a visit to the local farmers market and a guided tour at a local rum distillery. Cast a line for redfish or sea trout on a fishing charter or take in the local creative scene at the Cape Coral Art Center, then sip a happy-hour cocktail with a glorious sunset as a backdrop.
Go Beyond Cape Coral
Board an airboat for an exhilarating, naturalist-led tour through Everglades National Park’s primal sea of grass. View alligators and a wide range of birds up close before feasting on seafood in Fort Myers. Enjoy the sunny weather on a hike or bike ride in a state park, then cap off the weekend with some live music and local barbecue.