Best Vacations Blog

If you live up North, you know a thing or two about winter weather in December, and it’s safe to say that the cold, dreary winter days are not many people’s favorite time of year. Since children get time off school and many parents are ready for a vacation, December is already a popular month to take a trip. Another reason is to escape the weather. If this sounds like...

Southwest Florida is a quiet tropical paradise that tops many bird enthusiasts’ bucket lists due to its diverse habitats that attract both migratory and resident bird species year-round. While Sanibel and Captiva Islands, especially the renowned J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, are well-known birding hotspots, lesser-known destinations like Naples, Fort Myers, and Cape Coral are hidden gems that offer equally rewarding bird watching experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned birder...

Vacationing to Fort Myers in Southwest Florida is a popular option for travelers because the city offers the best of both worlds: A vibrant and walkable downtown paired with nearby serene beaches along the Gulf Coast. Stay in a cozy bungalow along the beach, luxury estate, or high-rise with the best views and take in the beaches and natural beauty by day and then enjoy unique restaurants, a rooftop bar...

Southwest Florida is home to the only museum in the United States that’s dedicated solely to seashells and mollusks. The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium is a natural history museum and aquarium located on Sanibel Island, in Southwest Florida, on the Gulf Coast. It showcases shells from all over the world and is home to marine wildlife, including octopuses, Giant Clams, and conchs. Children will love the hands-on touch...

One of the main reasons many choose to vacation along Southwest Florida’s Gulf Coast is because of its beautiful beaches and tranquil emerald-turquoise waters. If you have children with you or you’re young at heart, you may be wondering how to build a sandcastle that will rival all other sandcastles. This guide on how to build a sandcastle on vacation in Southwest Florida will help you learn how to pick...

We look forward to our vacations for months or even years, and we dread the possibility of feeling under the weather and having something put a damper on our trip. To ensure your vacation goes off without a hitch, here are some tips and steps to avoid getting sick while traveling. We want to help you focus on making unforgettable memories with your loved ones, having fantastic beach sunsets, exploring...

You know you’d like to vacation somewhere warm, fun, and tropical. You’ve settled on a place with something for everyone and chose Southwest Florida on the Gulf Coast. When it comes to the question of where should I stay in Southwest Florida that will set me up for a memorable vacation, Royal Shell has you covered. We know the ins and outs of the region, and we can help you...

Tropical vacation destinations like Southwest Florida are some of the most sought-after places for the breezy palm trees, relaxing islands, turquoise and emerald-green waves, and the area’s laidback lifestyle. Summer is one of the best times to visit Southwest Florida because it’s less crowded during the off-season. However, it’s no secret that Florida temperatures can soar in the summertime and get pretty hot outside. However, if you know what to...

It can be fun to go on vacation and experience the tourist hot spots, but one of the best ways to soak up all that an area has to offer is to go where the locals go and experience how they live. Whether this is your first time vacationing in Florida or you come here every year, we have your guide to the best hidden gems in Southwest Florida so...

When you embark on a family Florida beach vacation, you’ll discover the Sunshine State’s unique charm. From the pristine sands of Fort Myers Beach to the shell-strewn coastline of Sanibel Island and the upscale ambiance of Naples, each destination offers a distinct experience. Southwest Florida is about sun-kissed shores, endless adventures, and creating lifelong beach memories. Whether you’re building sandcastles with the little ones, indulging in water sports adventures, or...