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With an increase in non-air travel, weekend road trips and mini vacations have become very popular. In particular, mini vacations in Florida are very popular right now. No matter what kind of mini-vacations in Florida you’re seeking, the Sunshine State offers plenty of opportunities for weekend getaways along the Gulf of Mexico and other locations. 

Mini vacations in Florida provide you with the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind. Southwest Florida provides you with the beach, Gulf of Mexico, boating trips, fishing opportunities and waterfront restaurants. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind from all the stress of daily life.

But where do you start? How do you know you’re planning the best vacation possible?

Read on to learn the best ways to plan mini-vacations in Florida.

Where to Go on a Mini Vacation in Florida?

The question isn’t really where to go on a mini vacation in Florida. It should be, “What can I fit in on my mini vacation in Florida?” Especially Southwest Florida. 

The best place to vacation, though, is Southwest Florida. The second you arrive in the region is the second you’ll know you’ve found your new favorite vacation spot. Whatever you and those you’re traveling with are in the mood for, Southwest Florida has you covered.

In particular, we think you should plan on the following locations for a mini vacation in Florida:

Where to Go for Mini Vacations in Florida

Whether you’re looking to take a quick flight, make it a long road trip, or make a quick half hour jaunt from your Florida town, Southwest Florida is the place to visit. With beaches, golf, great restaurants, and plenty of opportunities for family fun, there isn’t a better place to stay.

Mini vacations in Florida are easy to take, even if you want to see multiple sites in your short time on the coast.

It’s easily accessible and has direct flights from pretty much anywhere in the world. If you can’t find one, you’re almost guaranteed an easy connection flight.

If you already live here, then you know there are an abundance of activities to partake in all around the state. Whether you’re interested in exploring nature, local art shows, the cuisine of many kinds, something sporty, or you simply want to keep the kids entertained, there’s plenty to do and see.

Weekend getaways in Florida are easily attainable — especially on the beaches of the southwest.

Here are some recommendations for you to get you started. 

Looking for a beach vacation? Here’s our top destinations. 

Sanibel Island Beaches

Top Sanibel beach destinations include:

State Park Beaches

Southwest Florida State Park must stop beach locations are: 

Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach

Fort Myers and its beaches can be a bit more crowded than Captiva and Sanibel Islands but that doesn’t make them any less worthy of a weekend visit.

The area comes with a vast amount of history and plenty of opportunities to learn all about it. Once inhabited by indigenous peoples, settlers laid their claim in the mid-1860s, and now families and retirees find enjoyment in every nook and cranny.

Fort Myers Beach has miles of gorgeous beach coastline. We recommend checking out a sunset between New Pass and Big Carlos Pass. 

Where Should I Go For a Weekend in Florida?

Weekends in the Sunshine State are filled with fun in the sun. There are plenty of beach towns to explore, and some are small enough to get to know in just a short amount of time. Here are some beach towns you should consider for a weekend in Florida. 

Sanibel and Captiva Islands

With as many visitors as these islands draw, you’d never know they were tourist attractions. Both offer miles and miles of sandy beaches and terrain for you and whoever you’re traveling with to enjoy. With an abundance of seashells to find and wildlife to observe, there’s never a dull moment to be had.

Are you a nature lover? You’ve come to the right place.  With more than 200 species of birds, you’re sure to find your new favorite in no time. J.N. “Ding Darling” National Wildlife Refuge is also part of Sanibel.

Are Sanibel and Captiva the Same Island?

While Sanibel and Captiva islands are sister islands, they could not be more different. While they are both barrier islands, their styles and even their building structures are different. Sanibel Island has put limits on what you are allowed to build and how high you can build to preserve the coastline visibility. There are also more restaurants, shops and homes on Sanibel Island. Biking trails and conservancy is important here. 

Captiva Island is just as beautiful yet has a different style and flavor. Think Old Florida flip-flop relaxing destination. It’s a great place to rent a boat and head out on the water for a fishing trip. 

No matter which island you choose for a mini vacation, Captiva and Sanibel islands are sure to become your favorite vacation destination.

Where Should I Go For a 3 Day Vacation in Florida?

When it comes to three-day weekends in Florida, you’re likely to find no shortage of activities to keep you and everyone you’re traveling with happy.

Whether it’s the beach with your kids or a high-end restaurant for one, Florida’s got you covered. Here are some 3 day Florida weekend spots we recommend.

Fort Myers River District

Looking for a place with some nightlife, restaurants, live music and more? Check out the Fort Myers River District for old downtown city vibes that includes brick paver streets lined with Palm trees along a beautiful riverfront backdrop. 

As we already talked about, Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach are great places for a few-day getaway. Whether you’re visiting for the history or staying for the small-town feel, you’re sure to fall in love with this town and its beaches.

There is an abundance of restaurants, luxurious spas, and opportunities for recreational water sports that everyone can enjoy.

Cape Coral

Cape Coral is another destination that offers a wide array of things to do. Whether you visit Four Freedom Park for the kids or Yacht Club Community Park, you’re sure to find an abundance of welcome for you and your family. 

No matter what you’re in the mood for, there’s a restaurant to satisfy your cravings. Restaurants we recommends include:

Cape Coral is best known for its 400 miles worth of canals and many prefer to travel by boat when spending a day on the town.

Where to Go For Mini-Vacation for Christmas in Florida

Though you can’t expect snow in Florida, you can expect plenty of Christmas fun. Floridians find a way to create festivity even when it doesn’t feel like a White Christmas, making it the perfect place to take a beachy mini vacation for the holiday season.

Here are a few events you can expect.

Fort Myers Christmas Events

While the Shell Factory in Fort Myers comes with its own year-round Christmas shop, special things happen when it’s actually the holiday season. Visitors can enjoy the annual Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade featuring as many as 30 decorated boats!

The parade begins at Salty Sam’s Marina, sails along Matanzas Pass and into the first two canals of Siesta Isles. Typically, the event lasts two hours.

Sanibel Christmas Tips

Every year, the barrier island communities of Sanibel and Captiva Islands come together for an annual Holiday Stroll.

As the sun sets, volunteers line Periwinkle Way holding candle-lit lanterns while storefronts open their decorated doorways for visitors to enjoy. Here, you’ll be able to find music, Santa visits, art, activities and so much more holiday cheer.

Florida Weekend Getaway Ideas

If you’re looking for specific things to do in the Sunshine State, creating a theme for your weekend getaway is a fun idea! If you’re going on a girls’  trip, center the weekend around something that everyone enjoys. Themes aren’t essential, but they can make things fun for everyone.

Pine Island Fishing Recommendations

Fishing Pine Island is a great place to visit if you want a weekend to enjoy the aquatic sport.

Fishing charters take you and your fishing buddies out on the water to enjoy the view and to have a chance at prime catches like snook, redfish, cobia, tripletail, and so much more depending on the season.

Pine Island fishing tip: Tarpon is the island’s prime catch, and you’re sure to find an abundance of it at local restaurants and eateries.

Naples Family Vacation Tips

Naples is a great place to take the family on a mini vacation. 

Downtown Naples is perfect for those with shopping in mind. Referred to as the “Beverly Hills of Florida,” you’re sure to find no shortage of glitz, glamor, and luxury for some real shopping and come fun window shopping. 

That’s not all there is, though.

Kids are sure to love the Children’s Museum of Naples. If you’re more of a night owl, however, there are even plenty of options available well into the darkness. You can also head to the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens for a fun day with the kids. 

Family time can also be spent at the beach, in the pool and visiting local ice cream shops like Naples Ice Cream Shoppe in Promenade Plaza at Naples and Ben & Jerry’s in the Village on Venetian Bay. 

Bonita Springs Weekend Getaways

Bonita Springs might actually take a few weekend getaways to see in its entirety. There is an abundance of beaches to visit, so you’ll have plenty to choose from no matter how many times you choose to visit.

Beaches aren’t the only thing you can enjoy, though. With a bustling downtown district, you can discover the city’s history and enjoy local and traveling art exhibitions, classes, and all kinds of other community events.

Also enjoy a disc golf course, a dog park, and Barefoot Beach Preserve Park. You are sure to find something for everyone to enjoy here. 

Sanibel Island Getaway Itinerary Ideas

You can rent a house on Sanibel Island and then pay a visit to Sanibel Island Farrmer’s Market for fresh food to cook for your stay.

If you’d rather be out and about, Periwinkle Place offers plenty of shopping, dining, and even a butterfly and hummingbird garden. If you’d like a peak at harder-to-find flora and fauna, pay a visit to the Sanibel Moorings Botanical Gardens. If you’re lucky, you might be able to purchase a plant to take home!

For a taste of the arts, catch a show at The Herb Strauss Schoolhouse Theatre or go antiquing at Islander Trading Post Antiques.

No matter what part of the islands you’re staying on, you’re bound to leave with happy memories. Both are a favorite for locals and visitors alike, and they’re sure to present a fun time, no matter who you’re visiting with.

Hidden Romantic Getaways in Florida

Florida’s beaches have become hubs for beachside weddings and honeymoons, but where can couples go to find seclusion and romance in the state? Look no further than Southwest Florida. 

In particular, we recommend the following romantic activities on Sanibel Island to get the full romantic island setting: 

Head to the Beach

This is a must for so many romantic reasons. Just go to the beach with your partner and listen to the waves, do some shelling and relax. Head back to the beach later in the day to watch the sunset together. There’s nothing more romantic than what Mother Nature provides for you as a backdrop on Sanibel Island. 

Do Some Sanibel Shopping

It’s always a good time to do some shopping with your loved ones. We recommend visiting Shop on Sanibel for some fantastic outdoor shopping and great restaurant spots 

Head to Lovers Key State Park

With Lovers Key State Park and its beautiful beach, you have access to a well-maintained two-mile stretch of beach and ocean water.

It was once destined to become a stretch of luxury condo buildings but was eventually donated to the people of Florida (and the state’s visitors) to enjoy and cherish for decades to come.

With kayak rentals, umbrellas to lounge under, and even the occasional manatee visit, this is the perfect space for a romantic getaway.

Weekend Getaways in Florida for Singles

No matter where you go in Florida, you’re going to find things to do if you’re single. Whether you’re looking to meet someone or you’ve decided to take the chance on a lone getaway, you have the chance to have fun.

For more casual weekend getaways in Florida for some personal time, we recommend

Best Quick Trips to Florida

No matter where in Southwest Florida you choose to visit, shopping, restaurants, art walks, and different local events are great for quick trips.

Visit Periwinkle Place in Sanibel Island. If you’re visiting with the whole family, opt for a weekend out in nature in one of the region’s many state parks or spend your days lounging in the sun on the beach.

How to Find Florida Getaway Packages

With Royal Shell, planning weekend trips becomes a lot easier. We’re the largest vacation rental company in Southwest Florida and we make it easy for you to plan your dream getaway. With pet-friendly options and access to private beaches, there’s something for everyone you bring on your road trip.

With Flexcation™ options, you can reschedule your trip if things come up, or cancel if worst comes to worst. Your pricing doesn’t change once you’ve booked, so even if you do need to reschedule, you won’t have to worry about any prices going up.

With vacation specials happening all the time, you’re sure to always find something in your price range. Whether you’re looking for last-minute deals or off-season booking, Royal Shell has options for you. You can even choose to book your own private villa or an entire home all to yourself!

No matter where you’re going, when you’re going, or who you’re going with, Royal Shell has you covered.

Book a Mini-Vacation With Royal Shell Today!

Now that you have a few ideas for mini-vacations in Florida, it’s time to find the perfect Royal Shell vacation rental for you. We have plenty of options for your mini-vacation and can’t wait to help you find exactly what it is that you’re looking for.

At Royal Shell, we make it easy to book your dream vacation getaway. Contact us today to get started.

When you are looking for summer vacation ideas, look no further than sunsets, the beach and the Gulf of Mexico. Southwest Florida is the perfect spot for a summer vacation for couples, families and even for parties of one looking to unwind. 

When you are looking for summer vacation ideas, you need to pick a spot that offers ideal weather, outdoor activities, parks, a downtown filled with activities, historic landmarks and vacation rentals that fit your needs. Southwest Florida checks all these boxes for the ideal summer vacation spot. 

Where Should I Go in Southwest Florida?

Where Should I Go in Southwest Florida

When in doubt, you head to the beach in Southwest Florida. The real question is where are the beaches and which ones should you visit? We have you covered with some great white sand beaches below: 

Sanibel Island Beaches

Make sure you visit: 

Beaches with State Parks

Southwest Florida offers so many state parks with beaches that you must visit, including: 

Collier County Beach Locations

Collier County is the county that all of your favorite Southwest Florida cities and beaches reside in. A sampling of Florida beaches you must visit includes: 

Relaxing Summer Vacation Spots in Southwest Florida

Summer vacation in Southwest Florida is the place to be. Kick back and relax in these relaxing summer vacation spots: 

What is the Best Month to Vacation in Florida?

This is such a tough question to answer because it’s always a good time to visit sunny Southwest Florida. The summer months are an ideal time to visit because it’s always a beach weather day. The best month to visit Florida is February for those visitors looking for days that are not too hot and not too cold.

If you asked us what the best stretch of time to visit would be, we would tell you it’s between February and May. The late Winter and early Spring months are the best of what Florida has to offer when you are considering temperatures in the 70s with a nice breeze. It’s the best time for going to the beach, golfing, shopping and anything else you want to do in the Sunshine State. 

Here’s a quick weather rundown for you to help you plan which month you want to visit: 

What is Southwest Florida Known For?

Southwest Florida is the premier summer vacation experience. To give you an idea of everything there is available at your fingertips, take a look at this summer vacation checklist:

Where is a Fun Place to Vacation in Southwest Florida?

The real problem with this question is there are too many fun places to vacation and visit in Southwest Florida. It’s hard to list them all. Royal Shell has you covered though with where to stay, including Naples vacation rentals, Sanibel Island vacation rentals, Fort Myers Beach vacation rentals and more. 

When you are looking for fun places to visit, check out these spots when you come to the area: 

Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens

Plan a half day family friendly trip and head to the Naples Zoo with the whole crew. Once a private assortment collection of tropical plants, today the property is an accredited wildlife zoo. Enjoy a giraffe exhibit area and feeding station, a playground for the kids and a Primate Expedition Cruise. 

Admission prices are $22.95 for adults, $14.95 for children ages 3-12 and free children ages 2 and under. 

Naples Pier

You can’t come to Naples without taking a stroll on the historic Naples Pier. Best of all? The pier is less crowded in the summer months and it’s a perfect spot to catch a brilliant sunset while grabbing something from the concession stand. 

JN “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island

A federally protected wildlife refuge since 1954, the JN “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is a must stop attraction while you are on Sanibel Island. Enjoy breathtaking views while spotting birds, turtles, alligators and more. 

You can also walk, bike or drive the beautiful 4-mile Wildlife Drive. Take a canoe or kayak trip to see the refuge from a different and spectacular viewpoint. 

Sanibel Island Farmers Market

Every Sunday, enjoy small town beach life at its finest by heading to the Sanibel Island Farmers Market. The market is open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. each Sunday and offers fresh seafood, fresh baked goods, live plants, fresh organic produce and more. It’s the perfect place to shop for a fresh seafood summer meal back at your vacation rental!

Captiva Chapel By the Sea

Captiva Chapel by the Sea on Captiva Island is the cutest little chapel you’ll ever see in an island setting. Take a canoe or kayak trip and make sure you visit this little slice of historic heaven. The church holds a service every Sunday at 11 a.m. and is also offering an online taped service. 

Fun Places in Southwest Florida for Adults

Are you looking for a short getaway in Southwest Florida for adults? The tranquil luxury studio apartment Bonita Beach vacation rentals at The Beach & Tennis Club in Bonita Springs is the place to go. These relaxing units are right across the street from the beach where you can enjoy a walk along the gorgeous Gulf of Mexico shoreline. 

Another fun and affordable place to relax and unwind is R+L Ambassador Suites in Fort Myers Beach. Enjoy cozy studio apartments that can sleep up to six people. These apartments are perfect for adult getaways right on Fort Myers Beach. 

Summer Vacation Ideas with Royal Shell

Now that you have summer vacation ideas for Southwest Florida, it’s time to book your vacation by choosing the perfect Royal Shell vacation rental. Whether you are looking for a Southwest Florida mini vacation or looking to stay awhile, we have you covered. 

Utilize our easy and secure FlexcationTM options to book your summer vacation getaway today! Then you just have to know what to pack when you travel to Southwest Florida and fly south to paradise! Contact Royal Shell today to get started!

What to Pack When You Travel to Southwest Florida

What to pack when you travel to Southwest Florida, especially during times of a pandemic, is more crucial than ever. The easy part is picking your destination but now you have to tackle the endless list of what you need to bring. There is no need to fear though with our list of what to pack for the perfect trip to Sanibel Island. 

What to pack when you travel can be the most stressful part of planning a trip. It doesn’t have to be that difficult though. By mapping out what you need to bring to Southwest Florida in the form of checkoff lists, you can have everything packed in no time. Must have travel items to Southwest Florida include bathing suits, sunglasses, the proper clothes and sandals and all the sanitizing items you need to stay safe. 

What Are Essential Travel Items for a Travel Packing Checklist?

What Are Essential Travel Items for a Travel Packing Checklist

 

Essential travel items are only essential to that particular traveler. This is a hard question to answer but below we have provided some essential travel items you may not think of on your journey, whether it’s a domestic trip or an international travel trip:

What Should I Pack When You Have a Beach Trip?

Heading to the beach in Southwest Florida is a right of passion. It’s why you come here. The temperature of the warm Gulf of Mexico is perfect and the warm powdery sand in between your toes is calling your name. 

Make sure you pack the following when planning a beach trip to Sanibel Island and Captiva Island:

Sun Protection

That sun in Florida is beautiful but it’s also brutal if you don’t come prepared with some sun protection. What you need to remember is no matter how cool or breezy it is to keep you cool, that sun is still affecting your skin. Always remember to bring lotion with a high SPF and reapply as directed. We also recommend taking a large umbrella or tent that can keep out the wind and the UV rays while you take a beach nap or the kids play in the sand. Bring some aloe vera for the end of the day just in case too. 

Bathroom Options

If you are traveling with kids, remember that bathrooms may be few and far between depending on where you camp on the beach for the day. If you have toddlers with potty training lessons, remember to bring your traveling potty and map out a place where the nearest public bathrooms are. 

Food and Beverages

Even if you just had breakfast or lunch before you hit the beach, that doesn’t mean you should not bring food or beverages with you. The beach life causes you to get thirsty and makes you work up an appetite. Come prepared with a well-stocked cooler of snacks and beverages. Family bonus tip: Freeze some of the beverages the night before to create instant cooler ice packs. 

A Family Beach Bag

What Should I Pack When You Have a Beach Trip

You need a family beach bag to keep everything organized. It’s also a safe place for phones, medication and other valuables if you keep it hidden and keep the sand out.

Big Blanket or Beach Mat

A good place for multiple people to hang out is a large beach mat. Another beach tip: Try bringing along an old bed comforter. These are perfect for a beach outing. 

Zip Lock Bags

These bags are your friends for both food and your valuables like phones and other electronics you don’t want getting wet or filled with sand. 

Clothing and Accessories

Always remember the following must-have beach items: 

Must Haves for the Water

Bring along rafts for you and boogie boards for the kids. Anything else you might want in the water, including arm floaties for the little ones, should be added to this beach list. 

Must Haves for the Sand

We’re talking chairs, beach towels, shovels and buckets for the kids and whatever else you might want for your beach enjoyment. Buckets aren’t just for the children either. Bring some along to hold all the beach shells you will collect on Sanibel Island! Some of those buckets come in handy at the end of your beach day to rinse the sand off your feet. 

Bring a Wagon

Now that you have all the must-have beach accessory items you need on the beach, how are you going to get them to the beach and back to the car? A nice nylon wagon that collapses and has tough wheels that can move through the sands is a beach lifesaver. These wagons help you take all your beach items in one trip. You’ll look like a beach pro. 

Be Prepared to Battle the No-See-Ums

In Florida, we have these annoying little bugs called no-see-ums, also known as sand flies, that you can hardly. The annoying bugs are so small they can fly through screens and can cause small itchy bites. Be prepared to tackle them and keep them at bay with a good no-see-um spray and other deterrents!

Beach House Packing List

Beach House Packing List

Are you renting a Naples vacation rental or a beautiful Sanibel vacation rental? A beach house is a perfect place to unwind in Southwest Florida. 

Remember the following items for your beach house packing list: 

Are you looking for a more specific list? Read on to find out more.

7 Day Beach Vacation Packing List

A seven-day beach vacation packing list should include the following clothes items as a basic rule of thumb:

You should always write everything down that you think you might need. Laying the items all out on the bed so you can see and make your matching outfit options is helpful too. 

Don’t keep adding to the luggage once you are done. Remember you need to save some room for the fun things you are bringing back from your beach trip!

Do you planning on getting down to business on your vacation? Learn a few creative ways to find laptop sunshade and work from the beach!

 

What Should I Pack for an International Trip?

What Should I Pack for an International Trip

Traveling internationally is an adventure within an adventure. You must plan ahead for such a trip because of the length of the trip and the extra security and passport rules associated with the endeavor. 

Follow these tips first to plan for a successful international trip: 

Now that you know what to prepare for smooth traveling, here’s the list of items you need to pack for an international trip:

What to Pack when Traveling During Covid?

What to Pack when Traveling During Covid

Covid times call for an entirely different mindset to make sure you are prepared for travel. To stay safe and protected, you should pack the following items: 

How Do You Not Forget Things When Packing?

How Do You Not Forget Things When Packing

It’s so easy to forget things when packing. To avoid the pitfalls of packing forgetfulness, we present the following tips for you: 

Book Your Beach Vacation Trip with Royal Shell Today

We have exhausted every available packing item for you. Now that you know what to pack when you travel and your suitcase is packed, the only thing left to do is book the perfect beach vacation. The benefits of vacation rentals are endless and we can’t wait to show you all that the Naples and Sanibel Island area has to offer. 

Book directly through Royal Shell today to plan your idyllic Southwest Florida paradise vacation. Our FlexcationTM option reservations make booking a trip stress-free.

Contact Royal Shell today to plan your ideal vacation today and grab those bags!

Planning and booking a vacation have never seemed more stressful. Even though we have the opportunity to travel and airline rates have never been more affordable, we still wonder about the coronavirus pandemic and our work and school schedules for our families. Flexcation™ options are the alternatives you need to book your next vacation with confidence.

How do you come to grips with booking a vacation and worrying if you have to cancel? The solution to your problems is a Flexcation™. When you book a vacation rental property with Flexcation™ options, you are giving yourself peace of mind about booking a vacation for you, your family members and friends.

What is a Flexcation™?

What is a Flexcation?

Flexcation™ is a new term in the vacation industry meaning that vacation planners have the ability to book a vacation without fear they will lose their entire trip if they have to reschedule because of unforeseen circumstances. Even better, opportunities for different types of Flexcation™ options give vacation goers the ability to:

When is the Best Time to Take a Flexcation™?

Flexcations are still emerging as traveler trends in the vacation rental market. Families are more willing to be flexible in September and October. Those months and any months during the year make it easier to book a flexible vacation when you know you can alter your plans if needed.

What are the Benefits of a Flexcation™?

What are the Benefits of a Flexcation?

The benefits of a Flexcation™ are endless. You need Flexcation™ flexibility built in for visiting the beach on your schedule.

Let us count the reasons why it’s a good idea to plan ahead and book a family vacation or a romantic getaway while keeping your options open. The benefits of a Flexcation™ include:

What are the Different Types of Flexcation™ Options Available?

What are the Different Types of Flexcation Options Available?

During trying times, it’s important to have the ability to reschedule a trip for personal or business-related reasons. A Flexcation™ allows you the ability to hold onto your trip and reschedule it without losing your entire deposit.

Flexcation™ options are the keys to booking success and we outline three Flexcation™ options for you below:

Flex Cancellation Policy Options

With a Royal Shell Vacation Flex Cancellation Policy, you have flexible options that make you feel secure no matter what. You have the option to choose between a 50% refund or the option to change your reservation. That’s peace of mind that makes you feel secure when booking a trip.

If the reservation is canceled between 6 and 30 days prior to arrival, you may choose either a 50% refund or the option of a one-time date change for your reservation.

Semi-Flex Cancellation Policy Option

A Semi-Flex Cancellation Policy gives you peace of mind knowing you still have the option to receive a partial refund and the ability to reschedule your trip if something comes up. Even better, you have the ability to re-book dates if you reschedule more than 30 days out from your visit.

Standard Cancellation Policy Option

A Royal Shell Standard Cancellation Policy still provides you with some cancellation flexibility if you have the option to cancel your trip more than 90 days before your scheduled arrival date. Trip insurance is also available that can help protect you if you need to reschedule your vacation.

Book a Flexcation with Royal Shell Today

Book a Flexcation™ with Royal Shell Today

No matter which Royal Shell vacation property you choose, the good news is there are Flexcation™ options that fit your individual needs. Royal Shell also has the Covid 19 guest safety protocols in place that make you feel confident to book a Florida vacation now. We also keep you updated with our Covid 19 updates at the beach. We understand the need for flexibility and have the options you need to book your next vacation today.

For more information on the Flex policy options or if you have additional questions before booking your vacation, contact us today!

A girls getaway trip is good for the soul and a Florida girls trip may be just the thing you and your girlfriends need to recharge. Whether it’s for a bachelorette party, good old-fashioned friends trip or a kid-free vacation, there are eight cities and towns in Southwest Florida and they all have something unique to offer. From spas to beach days to fantastic meals from area restaurants, there is something here for everyone.

Royal Shell can help you plan your Florida girls trip, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, so you and your favorite people can relax, rejuvenate and get back to the simple things. Visit the Gulf Coast in Southwest Florida, reconnect, be a beach bum, go sightseeing, have wine nights, go boating and do it all in paradise!

Here are 8 great destinations for a Florida girls trip:

  1.   Bonita Springs
  2.   Cape Coral
  3.   Captiva Island
  4.   Estero
  5.   Fort Myers Beach
  6.   Fort Myers
  7.   Naples
  8.   Sanibel Island

Bonita Springs

Bonita Springs

If you’re thinking about staying in Bonita Springs for your Southwest Florida girls trip, Royal Shell has vacation rentals available at Beach & Tennis Club. This is an ideal place for a girls trip if an on-site restaurant, pool and spa appeal to you. The high-rise views and beach across the street certainly don’t hurt either! It’s minutes from Fort Myers Beach and centrally located between other cities in Southwest Florida. Drive 30 minutes south and visit Naples or go north for Sanibel and Captiva Islands. Bonita Springs is a great location if you plan to do a lot of exploring while you’re here.

Some local Bonita Springs girls trip favorites include:

Cape Coral

One thing people may not know about Cape Coral is that it has more canals than the Italian city of Venice. If you love being on the water, feeling the sun on your face and the wind in your hair, we recommend visiting this waterfront wonderland. Cape Coral Parkway, near the bridge that shares its name, has an up and coming downtown area with charming local shops and restaurants you and your girlfriends will love.

Some local Cape Coral girls trip favorites include:

Captiva Island

Captiva Island

Captiva Island is one of our most desired vacation destinations. It’s a little more private and secluded than Sanibel Island. South Seas Island Resort is a great option for a Florida girls trip and Royal Shell has a variety of vacation rentals available. A girls trip to Captiva Island means true relaxation. There are miles of white sand beaches with impeccable shelling, vibrant sunsets, and some say the water even looks clearer. It’s paradise.

Some local Captiva Island girls trip favorites include:

Estero

Estero is nestled in between Bonita Springs and Fort Myers. It’s one of the smallest towns on this list, but it’s also the newest. Estero is home to a variety of excellent golf courses and fantastic shopping and dining. If you visit Koreshan State Park, you’ll get to learn about the Koreshan’s leader, Cyrus Teed, and his belief that the universe exists inside a hollow sphere, and that the Koreshans would live forever. Their buildings are still standing and in great condition. If you’re a history buff and want to learn more about the early history of Florida, Mound Key Archeological State Park, located in Estero Bay, is home to a Calusa Indian shell mound. Launch a kayak at Koreshan State Park, paddle to Mound Key and explore.

Some local Estero girls trip favorites include:

Fort Myers Beach

Fort Myers Beach is sandwiched between Bonita Springs and Fort Myers. It’s like a piece of Key West and its beachy vibe and colorful buildings got transplanted to Southwest Florida. There are a variety of parks to visit, historical attractions and excellent restaurants. Mound House is also a favorite spot for visitors. The home is the oldest remaining building on Estero Island.

Some local Fort Myers Beach girls trip favorites include:

Fort Myers

Fort Myers

Fort Myers is one of the largest cities in Southwest Florida. It’s home to Thomas Edison and Henry Ford’s winter home. The downtown strip is quaint and sits along the riverfront. Nature lovers will enjoy the Caloosahatchee Oxbow and Riverlore Cruise. Departing from the Franklin Lock in Olga, east of Fort Myers, the cruise is a relaxing, narrated tour of the old oxbows of the Caloosahatchee and the river’s colorful history. 

Some local Fort Myers girls trip favorites include:

Naples

Naples, Florida is a picturesque and charming city. Downtown Naples is a foodie destination and it features a variety of unique and local shops and boutiques. The historic Naples Pier is where visitors and locals go every night to enjoy the sunset. There’s also a special place in East Naples that will make your Florida girls trip truly unique. It’s a refuge for wolves, cougars, wolfdogs and several exotic species of foxes.

Some local Naples girls trip favorites include:

Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island is a secluded paradise. There’s only one traffic light, no chain restaurants and over 25 miles of bike trails. If you stay at the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, there are on-site restaurants, a spa and you’ll enjoy easy access to the beach. Sundial is also close to top-rated shopping and dining. We recommend visiting the Shops on Sanibel. The island is also known as the Seashell Capital of the World. If you want to take treasures back from the beach, this is where you want to go!

Some local Sanibel Island girls trip favorites include:

Whether you are looking to book a last minute holiday getaway, a family spring break trip or a long weekend with the girls, we have you covered.

Connect with Royal Shell today to plan your perfect Sanibel Island vacation rental getaway.

As we adapt to changing environments, working remotely and virtual classrooms are becoming more popular. It’s important to learn how to create a virtual classroom learning place. As we navigate new ways of doing things together, it’s important to have fun while doing it. Here are some ways to get creative and create a virtual classroom learning place while you’re on vacation (or a staycation). Learn at the beach or at the pool and do it all in paradise.

The best way to create a virtual classroom learning place is while on vacation. We know some of you, parents, may still have to work during your vacation. If you were thinking about staying for a week, consider staying for longer if you can work remotely and your child can attend school virtually.

Find a Room That Isn’t being Used and Make It Fun-min

Find a Room That Isn’t being Used and Make It Fun

Explore the home and find a spare room that can also double as a makeshift classroom. A corner of the room or a dining room table can work, too, in a pinch. If you’re looking for a vacation rental with a lot of space, we have a ton of options available throughout Southwest Florida. You could convert a guest room or even the lanai. Enjoy being outside and feel the sun on your face. Take advantage of the beautiful year-round weather. Many people enjoy staying on Sanibel and Captiva Islands because of their tropical, laidback vibe, views and proximity to the beach.

Work on better adapting to a changing schedule

Establishing a routine helps. It could be something as simple as not starting the learning process until you’ve enjoyed your morning coffee on the lanai and gotten to relax a bit with a breathtaking beach view. This is also something you could enjoy doing with your kids. After they complete their first few lessons or assignments, you could reward them with a short trip to the beach. Many of our vacation homes are located directly on the beach or are a short walk away from them. If you’re not staying near the beach, you can get out for some fresh air and go for a walk or bike ride to help break up the day. You can rent bicycles while you’re here, too!

Get the proper supplies

If you decide to drive to paradise, make extra room in your car for some educational necessities. When it comes to how to create a virtual classroom learning place, you’ll need some supplies. If you choose to travel to Southwest Florida by plane, you’ll be able to get these things from Target, Walmart or any other general store.

Here are some things you’ll need for your virtual learning environment. You’ll want to make it as reminiscent of a traditional classroom as possible. If you need to teach your kids something or help them with their homework, it’ll be helpful to have these things on hand.

Have fun and be creative

Depending on what your kid is learning about and what grade they’re in, you can help them create custom posters to enhance their virtual learning environment. You can also make posters to represent your vacation and keep these as keepsakes. Create an image of the Sanibel Lighthouse, Naples Pier, Downtown Fort Myers or any other iconic Southwest Florida landmark. As a “field trip” you can go to these places and learn all you can about them. It’ll be fun for the parents to learn about something or somewhere new, too!

Teach your children how to love reading books

Learning how to create a virtual classroom learning environment should definitely involve books! What better time to teach your kids about the magic of diving headfirst into a good book? They can read on the beach, near the pool, in the pool on a float or from the comforts of their own (vacation rental) home with a view of the beach. Parents can get in on the action, too. Grab some books you’ve been meaning to read and find your new favorite place in the sun. If you want to check out some books about Southwest Florida, we recommend any Doc Ford novels, A Land Remembered and The Allure of Immortality: An American Cult, a Florida Swamp, and a Renegade Prophet.

Try a hands-on lesson at the beach

If you don’t want to stay indoors, you can take your learning environment outside—especially if you are staying on or near the beach! Sanibel and Captiva Islands are known by many as the Seashell Capital of the World. Look for seashells, take them home, clean them off and try and identify them. Just don’t take any shells home if there are creatures living inside of them. Here’s Royal Shell’s Guide to Shelling to help get you started. This Shell Guide from the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum on Sanibel can help you identify them. Or you can use your Royal Shell playing cards!

Make sure you have a good internet connection

For any kind of distance learning or remote work, it’s important to have a good, reliable internet connection. When you book a vacation rental with Royal Shell, you won’t have to pay extra for Wi-Fi and you’ll have access to a reliable connection. If for any reason you experience an issue, we will handle it and get you back up and running.

How to Create a Great Remote Work Environment

How to Create a Great Remote Work Environment

Many of these tips can also help you create the perfect remote work environment. After you help your child with how to create a virtual classroom learning place, you can use these tips to set up your space in your vacation rental.

Visit Paradise and Work and Learn Remotely

Whether you’re thinking about driving to paradise, flying or you live in the area and you’re in need of a staycation, Royal Shell has a variety of vacation rentals available all over Southwest Florida and beyond. We hope you can use these tips on how to create a virtual classroom learning place and how to set up a great remote work environment to extend your vacation, so you can stay with us even longer. Or maybe they’re the push you needed to feel more comfortable taking a vacation. We also offer family spring break vacation tips and everything you need for Southwest Florida vacations for families.

Let us know if you have any questions and contact Royal Shell today. Our Vacation Planning Advisers are here to help answer any questions you might have about our rentals or the surrounding area. Our favorite thing is helping you create memories you’ll cherish forever, and we’re here to assist in any way we can!

Picture this: You’re sitting on the couch, scrolling through Google and looking for the best vacation rental company to book with. Third-party sites like HomeAway and VRBO are coming up, but you’re not sure if you’re getting the best deal. Then you remember that when you book directly with Royal Shell, you can save up to 19%!

Royal Shell has been around since 1996 and we are the largest vacation rental company in Southwest Florida. We live, work and play here, so we know where the hidden gems are and all of the ins and outs of the areas we serve. Some of our homes are pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry family member. Royal Shell has its own in-house cleaning service, rental reservation team, and more than 500 vacation rentals on Sanibel and Captiva Islands and about 1,500 mainland and island homes throughout Southwest Florida.

10 tips for renting a vacation home for the first time:

  1.     Begin your search early
  2.     Know what housekeeping does and doesn’t do
  3.     Make sure you fill out the damage waiver
  4.     Choose your rooms before you get there
  5.     Wait to buy extras
  6.     Know what amenities the rental comes with
  7.     Think about what you want to do when you get there
  8.     Consider purchasing travel insurance
  9.     Talk to a local professional who knows the area and the rental market
  10.     Have the trip of a lifetime!

Begin your Search Early

Begin your Search Early

Starting your search early will help you avoid last-minute headaches and stress. It gives you time to decide which area you want to visit and it gives you time to find the ultimate vacation rental. Planning six months to a year ahead is ideal. If you decide you want to visit paradise at the last minute, our Vacation Planning Advisers will be able to help you. However, keep in mind that if you have your eyes on a particular rental property, it’s best to book it as soon as possible to ensure its availability. As a general rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to have a few backup properties picked out in case your first home is already booked.

Know What Housekeeping Does and Doesn’t Do

Some rental services will charge you and surprise you with cleaning fees. At Royal Shell, those fees are included in the total price when you book a property. Our maintenance staff and cleaning team are in-house, so we know they are providing hotel quality service. Our linens are also laundered and supplied from our in-house facility. We know they’re good quality and that we always have fresh products for you to use. We have also directed our chemical distributor to adjust our settings to maximize the sanitation process. Commonly used items such as doorknobs and TV remotes are being sanitized along with keys to the rental properties. Guest safety is always our top priority.

Make Sure You Fill Out the Damage Waiver

The damage waiver doesn’t need to seem scary or overwhelming. One of its main purposes is to offer the guest peace of mind and to make sure they’re protected. The fee is added to the reservation total. When issues are reported immediately, it covers the guest against any accidental damage to the unit or its contents for an amount not to exceed $3,000. This fee essentially takes the place of a traditional security deposit. Please keep in mind that the damage waiver is only valid if incidents are reported before checkout.

Choose Your Rooms Before You Get There

When you look at our vacation rentals online you’ll be able to see all of the available bedrooms. Some homes also have sleeper sofas and daybeds so they can accommodate even more people. Choosing which room you sleep in before you arrive will be helpful if you’re traveling with kids. This crucial step could prevent a fight.

Wait to Buy Extras

It may be tempting to order things like groceries, beach towels and beach equipment before you arrive and have them waiting for you, but if you wait until you get there, you may find that some items you were going to buy are already there. Our rentals come with things like toilet paper, laundry and dish detergent, trash bags in trash cans and some units have beach equipment in them, but this can’t always be guaranteed.

Know What Amenities the Rental Comes With

Know What Amenities the Rental Comes With

All of our vacation rentals come with a full kitchen. If the home has a pool or beach access, those features will be listed in the property description. If a home is in a complex or community that offers golf, a clubhouse, restaurants, a pool or other perks, those things will also be cited in the property description. If you have any questions or want to confirm what amenities you’ll have access to, our Vacation Planning Advisers are a phone call away at 800.656.9111.

Think About What You Want to Do When You Get There

Having a vacation plan or a loose itinerary will help you save time when you get here. If you’re looking for things to do on vacation in all of the cities we offer vacation homes in, head over to our Things to Do Page! It’s beneficial to make a plan so you don’t waste part of your first day here putting it together. It’s also a good idea to leave some flexibility in your schedule in case you want to lounge around and do nothing or you discover something new you want to go do or see.

Consider Purchasing Travel Insurance

Royal Shell offers optional trip insurance. It can help protect against unforeseeable circumstances that could lead to a cancellation. Please note that in order to be binding, all cancellations must be made in writing. Cancellation refunds are processed within six to eight weeks on reservations canceled outside the Cancellation Policy and six to eight weeks after the original departure date of the reservation, for reservations canceled within the Cancellation Policy.

Talk to a Local Professional Who Knows the Area and the Rental Market

Southwest Florida is so diverse and unique, so why not explore the whole region? Especially if you’re going to be here for a while! Sanibel and Captiva Islands are like paradise. If you’re staying elsewhere, these islands are definitely worth a day trip. Downtown Naples is charming and reminiscent of a European city. The River District in downtown Fort Myers has weekly events throughout the season and it’s also home to Thomas Edison and Henry Ford’s winter estate. Or go a little further south and explore the Everglades. It’s a Southwest Florida treasure. There’s no other ecosystem like the Glades.

Have the Trip of a Lifetime

Have the Trip of a Lifetime!

As more people are opting for vacation home rentals vs. hotels, we wanted to provide you with some tips for renting a vacation home for the first time. Everyone deserves a vacation, and we’re here to answer any questions you might have. Our goal is for everyone to have a relaxing trip with as little stress as possible. Southwest Florida is about letting your worries wash away, rejuvenating and getting on Island Time. And we’re here to help make that happen.

This last tip for renting a vacation home for the first time should be pretty easy! Now that you have more information about booking a vacation rental, we hope you feel confident and good about the overall process. If you have any questions or if there is anything we can do for you to make your trip even more special, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Vacation Planning Advisers. We love helping you create lasting memories you’ll cherish for years to come.

 The goal of any vacation or dream getaway is to relax as much as possible, right? To make sure you’ll be able to see and do everything on your wish list and get the most out of your Southwest Florida vacation, it’s best to have a plan or vacation itinerary. We’ll explain the benefits of planning a vacation and help you plan your next trip to the Sunshine State so you can start planning your trip to paradise as soon as possible.

In a world where it feels like we’re constantly on-the-go, taking time off to relax can seem like a monumental task. But what if planning a vacation to rest and recharge in paradise isn’t as hard or as stressful as you think it will be? There are many benefits of planning a vacation and many say the planning process is relaxing and vital to our wellbeing. It gives us something to dream about and look forward to. Besides, who doesn’t love an excuse to plan a vacation to Southwest Florida?

What kind of place do you choose for your vacation? A hotel room or a vacation rental with all the comforts of home? If you want a place with enough room for everyone and amenities that include close access to the beach, you need to choose a vacation rental for the perfect vacation. The benefits of vacation rentals are endless.

We have the road map outlined for you below to help you choose a vacation rental over a hotel room.

Why is it Important to Plan a Vacation

Why is it Important to Plan a Vacation?

Most people say it’s more about the journey than the destination and the same thing is true about planning a vacation. Knowing you’ve worked hard to be able to take a trip to paradise means you absolutely should let your imagination run wild and get excited about planning your trip. Maybe you’re seeing the Gulf of Mexico for the first time in decades or you’re introducing it to your kids for the very first time. A trip to Southwest Florida—and especially Sanibel and Captiva Islands—is a treat and we’re so glad you’re thinking about experiencing our slice of paradise!

Top benefits of planning a vacation:

Why Should I Take a Vacation?

A good vacation can do wonders for your soul and one of the main benefits of planning a vacation is that it will be less stressful when you reach your destination. You won’t waste time looking things up once you get there or walk around hoping you’ll stumble upon everything you want to see and do. Those precious hours can be used relaxing, recharging and rejuvenating. People who decide to treat themselves to a vacation and make it a point to relax are also less likely to experience burnout. 

Taking a vacation can help you feel more focused and productive. It’s not just something we say helps improve peace of mind and productivity. Studies show that people come back to work feeling more positive, determined, and ready to tackle everyday tasks. More vacations and less stress also helps you better manage relationships with your loved ones.

How Far in Advance Should You Plan a Vacation

How Far in Advance Should You Plan a Vacation?

The first thing you have to do is decide where you want to go. If you have your sights set on the Sunshine State, then you’re in the right place.

Royal Shell has vacation rentals in nine Florida locations:

  1. Bonita Springs
  2. Cape Coral
  3. Captiva Island
  4. Estero
  5. Fort Myers Beach
  6. Fort Myers
  7. Naples
  8. Ocala (Central Florida)
  9. Sanibel Island

Each area has something unique to offer all types of vacationers. Sanibel and Captiva Islands will give you a true beach vacation. Captiva is a little more secluded and more private. You won’t find any chain restaurants. Bikes rule the island. There’s only one traffic light on Sanibel. Locals love where they live and the islands are always in pristine condition for visitors. Cape Coral has more canals than the Italian city of Venice, making it a boater’s paradise. Fort Myers Beach is a small beach town full of lots of things to do. It’s a great family-friendly destination, and it’s also great for romantic getaways. Naples has an excellent food and arts scene. If you’re looking for an extended beach vacation, the City on the Gulf is a great choice. We offer a variety of annual rentals in Naples. 

If any of these options seem like the best fit for you, let us know! In addition to giving you information on the benefits of planning a vacation, we can also help you plan your trip to paradise!

Now that you’ve decided where you want to go, it’s best to plan your vacation five to eight months in advance. This will give you time to pick the perfect vacation rental and talk to our team of Vacation Planning Advisers about your options. You can also use this time to plan your road trip to the Sunshine State if you’ll be driving, or secure airfare if you’ll be traveling by plane. We’re here for you if you need any help!

What Makes a Great Vacation Rental?

There are always some things that turn a good vacation rental into a great vacation rental. The types of perks to look for in a great vacation rental includes:

What Should Be Included In a Vacation Rental?

Now that you know what makes a great vacation rental, you have to do your research to find out what should be included in a rental as standard protocol. This list should include:

Why Vacation Rentals Are Better than Hotels

Why Vacation Rentals Are Better than Hotels

It’s a no-brainer that renting an apartment is much more expensive than staying in a hotel. Vacation rentals are the right choice when you are looking to stay in Southwest Florida for a week or longer. There are also many long-term vacation rental options available.

While the comforts of having your bed made and your room cleaned every night are enticing, there’s something about having your own privacy in a vacation rental that seems more like home. It’s also nice not to have to hear hotel room doors slamming constantly in narrow hotel hallways.

Let us count the ways how vacation rentals are better than hotels:

Benefits of Vacation Rentals You Can’t Deny

There are some other big reasons why vacation rentals rise above the rest when planning a vacation. Below is a guide to some of those vacation rental perks:

Room for Everyone

If you are planning a family vacation for any length of time that’s three days or longer, you need the same space or similar to what you enjoy at home. Maybe more space than home with separate rooms for everyone so you can relax! Plan for a vacation rental home with enough bedrooms, bathrooms, a living room and personal space that will allow you and your family space to hang out separately and together.

Kitchens

Kitchens are key to any vacation and it’s important to cook at home even on vacation!. It’s still space where people congregate to talk, relax, make a cocktail and make a meal together. You can’t do that in a hotel with a mini-fridge and a microwave. Pick a vacation rental home that has the kitchen you need to relax and make good food (think fresh seafood!) together in a vacation setting!

Extra Security

If security is important to you, you don’t want maintenance workers or cleaning crew members entering your space to clean, repair or restock supplies. You also have the issue of parking your vehicle in hotel parking lots or garages. When you rent a vacation home, you have your own driveway, possibly a private garage and all the privacy you could ever ask for in a condo or home that won’t be accessed by anyone except you and your family.

Green Space and Backyards

There is something about having space to gaze out upon that keeps you grounded and keeps you from being confined and feeling claustrophobic. Who wants to feel boxed in on their vacation? Get a vacation with a backyard and some green space. Or better yet? Find a vacation rental where the beach is your backyard view!

Book Direct with Royal Shell Today

Book Direct with Royal Shell Today

It’s official now. The benefits of vacation rentals in Florida are too much to pass up and a trip like this can be very cost-effective. Saving money is important, right?  Time to book a vacation rental. Now you just need a property management company to help you find your home away from home. You have to book direct with Royal Shell today to plan your perfect Southwest Florida vacation. Royal Shell even offers flexcation™ reservations. You can book your Sanibel vacation rental trip today with peace of mind flexcation™ options.

Contact Royal Shell today to get the best deal on a vacation rental today and plan a luxury vacation!

Booking a trip and staying in a warm and cozy vacation rental is something many people look forward to each year. It can be easy to get lost in the planning and excitement of the holiday that the question of how to avoid vacation rental scams might not even cross your mind. Almost everything is done online these days and that includes using websites and apps to find the perfect vacation rental. Normally, you’re just thinking about whether the property you want is available, not whether or not it exists. When you work with Royal Shell, you’ll never have to worry if a rental is legitimate. And you won’t encounter any fraudulent issues.

It’s important you know what to look for when you’re looking for your next vacation rental property. We’ve compiled a list of red flags so you can learn how to avoid vacation rental scams and focus on making memories with your loved ones. A professional rental management company will never ask you for a wire transfer and someone will always be available to speak on the phone. If a discount seems too good to be true, chances are good that it is. We have a cancellation policy, but we do not offer a 100% refund. If an Owner Relations Manager or Vacation Planning Adviser from Royal Shell emails you it will always come from a Royal Shell email address. Most importantly, a property owner will never directly contact a guest. All booking arrangements are made through Royal Shell.

How Do You Know If A Rental Is Legit

How Do You Know If A Rental Is Legit?

There are a few major red flags to look out for when determining whether your rental property is legit. Do a Google search of the property’s address and name and see if it comes up on any other rental sites like HomeAway, Vrbo or Airbnb; or if it comes up at all. And when in doubt, you can always give us a call and ask us directly.

10 Tips on How to Avoid Vacation Rental Scams

These 10 red flags should help you avoid vacation rental scams and enjoy your trip to paradise. After all, a vacation is about relaxing, or at least it should be!

Here are 10 things to look out for:

Wire Transfer

Any reputable vacation home rental management company will never ask you to wire transfer money or provide them with a payment in an unusual way. Unless otherwise specified, Royal Shell accepts E-checks, debit and credit cards. We will certainly not ask you to wire money into a bank account. If you’re discussing a vacation rental home with a property manager who asks you to do this—stop immediately!

Deals That Are Too Good To Be True

If a deal seems like it’s too good to be true, it probably is. An offer that seems like it’s a once in a lifetime type of thing is designed to entice you and make you act quickly before you take a minute to think about whether it’s legitimate. Look out for someone who wants you to act “now” or you’ll lose the deal. A special that doesn’t advertise specific dates is a red flag, too. Most importantly, trust your gut. Deep down, you know when something doesn’t look or feel right.

Deals That Are Too Good To Be True

Can’t Speak On the Phone

Royal Shell is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Our call center is also available 24/7. Chances are pretty good you’ll be able to get someone on the phone when you want to talk. If the person offering you a vacation rental home deal is dodging your calls then it’s best to move on. Working with a legitimate vacation rental company like Royal Shell will give you more peace of mind and you won’t have to worry about where your money is going.

Language Skills in the Email

A big red flag is a poorly worded email. While not everyone who sends you a poorly worded email is a scammer, it can sometimes be a dead giveaway you are dealing with someone who lives overseas and isn’t fluent in English. Bad language skills and repetitive messages are common with vacation rental scammers.

Something Doesn’t Add Up With the Property

Sometimes scammers will try to trick you and send you a link to a property that’s different from the one you requested. People are typically looking at so many homes at a time, the scammers hope you won’t notice. Pay attention to the photos and research the area. If the photos look too good to be true, they probably are, especially if after researching the area on Google Maps you discover that the home isn’t in the best part of town. The best way to do this is to use street view.

No Real Refund Policy

A popular vacation rental scam that scammers like to use is saying you can cancel for a 100% refund. This is a huge red flag.

Vacation Rental Found on Craigslist

Vacation Rental Found on Craigslist

Anyone can post on Craigslist and without a proper vetting process, it’s hard to tell up front how legitimate their listing is. Craigslist isn’t the best place to search for your Southwest Florida vacation rental, especially if you do a reverse image search and the photo comes up on other rental management sites like Airbnb or HomeAway. Sometimes scammers will take you to a website that looks like those sites, but they’re not. Instead, we recommended browsing vacation rentals on a professional rental management company’s website.

The Email Address Doesn’t Add Up

If someone contacts you claiming to be from Royal Shell, you should expect them to have a company email address, business card, and they may even be wearing a Royal Shell T-shirt. If someone tries to get in touch with you from an alternative email address, do a Google search on them to see if they are who they claim to be.

They Won’t Answer Your Questions

If someone contacts you about a vacation rental and a once in a lifetime deal, but suddenly isn’t available to answer any of your follow-up questions, stop working with them. They may offer up excuses, but it’s problematic if you can never get them on the phone. That shows they have something to hide.

Read the Reviews

Look up the person’s name and company (if they give it to you) and see if you can find any reviews. If nothing comes up—especially a physical address—this person and company probably don’t exist. If the reviews warn you against scammers, then you have your answer right there. Stop working with them immediately.

How Do I Protect Myself When Renting A Vacation Home?

How Do I Protect Myself When Renting A Vacation Home

To avoid a fake Vrbo inquiry, fraudulent Craigslist vacation rental, or any other scenario that seems like it could be a scam, follow these tips, go with your gut and use your best judgment. A professional rental company like Royal Shell would never dodge your phone calls, make repeated excuses or ask you to wire money. If you have any questions or concerns, you can give us a call and we’ll do our best to put you at ease. When you book with us, we’ll treat you like a member of the family, and we believe in transparency.

Rent a Vacation Rental With Someone You Trust

We have a variety of different types of vacation rental homes throughout Southwest Florida, Central Florida and in the Highlands-Cashiers plateau area of the Western North Carolina mountains. Regardless of the type of trip you’re taking, we should have a vacation rental property that can accommodate all of your needs. This includes Sanibel Island vacation rentals and Captiva Island vacation rentals. If you’re still wary about how to avoid vacation rental scams or which vacation rental website to use, you can contact any of our Vacation Planning Advisers and they can explain the booking process to you and help you plan a Sanibel Island vacation. At Royal Shell, we believe in giving you the treatment you expect and the treatment you deserve.

Naples, Florida is known for many things, but the City on the Gulf’s claim to fame is its exquisite white sand beaches. Here is our guide to the best Naples beaches. Whether you’re looking for a historic pier, a popular destination loved by visitors and locals, or somewhere more secluded, this guide of the top Naples beaches can help you find the perfect one for you. 

The 6 Best Beaches in Naples, Florida:

  1. Barefoot Beach Preserve
  2. Clam Pass Beach Park
  3. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
  4. Lowdermilk Beach Park
  5. Naples Pier Beach
  6. Vanderbilt Beach

What is the Best Beach in Naples, Florida?

What is the Best Beach in Naples, Florida

All of the beaches in Naples offer something different. We couldn’t possibly choose just one favorite! From North Naples to downtown Naples near Fifth Avenue and Third Street South, we’ll tell you about all of Naples’ best beaches.

Barefoot Beach Preserve

This is the northernmost Naples beach. It’s worth a drive if you’re staying further south. Barefoot Beach Preserve consists of 342 acres of pristine, untouched natural land. Sanibel and Captiva Islands are the better-known barrier islands on this coast, but Barefoot Beach is also one of the last undeveloped barrier islands on the Gulf Coast. 

It has all of the amenities you’ll need for a perfect beach day:

Located off Bonita Beach Road, the drive up to the beach is nice. You’ll pass through a neighborhood with beautiful, colorful mansions. Dream about living in the Sunshine State on your way to this somewhat off the beaten path option. You’ll want to come back again and again!

Clam Pass Beach Park

Clam Pass Beach Park is a favorite among locals and visitors. Beachgoers love the boardwalk that takes you through a mangrove forest up to the beach. It’s also one of the only beaches that has a restaurant on the beach, at the end of the boardwalk. It overlooks the Gulf of Mexico, and it’s not a bad way to spend an afternoon.

For getting to the beach, you have two options. You can either catch a tram or ride with other people or you and your crew can walk the three-quarter miles to the beach. Whether you ride the tram or walk, the views along the shaded boardwalk are relaxing and rejuvenating. Passing through a mangrove forest and tidal basin is a great way to get ready for a relaxing day at the beach. You’ll probably see a handful of birds and butterflies, too.

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park

Delnor-Wiggins Pass is a state park with a lot to offer. Beachgoers will have plenty of space to spread out. There are grills and picnic tables to use if you want to grill out and spend the day at the beach. Fishing is allowed on the northernmost beach. Boaters will also find the launch area into Turkey Bay to be easy to navigate. Delnor-Wiggins has restrooms and wheelchair, umbrella, canoe, paddleboard, kayak and beach chair rentals. There is a concession stand in parking lot 4 with ice cream, food and drinks for purchase.

Lowdermilk Beach Park

You’ll find this beach on Gulf Shore Boulevard. The three previous beaches are in Collier County, but Lowdermilk Beach Park and the Naples Pier are located in the City of Naples. This beach features a concession stand, volleyball nets, children’s playgrounds, picnic tables and two gazebos. It’s near all of the great shopping and dining that Naples has to offer, making it a convenient way to end the day after exploring Fifth Avenue South or Venetian Village.

Naples Pier Beach

Naples Pier Beach

This is, by far, the most popular beach in downtown Naples. Locals and visitors gather each evening for the sunset and fishermen line the pier in the morning. It’s more than a beach. It’s a place to go to check-in with your neighbors. There’s a real sense of community here. There’s a concession stand, bathrooms and a couple of volleyball courts.

The pier also has quite a history. It’s been through six major hurricanes but has recently undergone a major renovation, so it’s still modern, too. The pier has Brazilian ipe, which is cool to the touch, so beachgoers can walk on it barefoot. There are also sea turtle-friendly lights.

Before the Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) was completed in the late 1920s, the only way visitors could access Naples was by boat via the pier. However, there was also a shell road from Fort Myers to Naples, before the pier was built in 1928.

Vanderbilt Beach

This is a popular beach destination for the younger crowd. Located in North Naples at the end of Vanderbilt Beach Road, Vanderbilt Beach, or Vandy if you’re a local, is big and spread out. The parking garage gives you plenty of options, but there is a bit of a walk to the beach. If you are carrying things and want to make it a little easier on yourself, there is a drop-off area you can use to drop off beach items and equipment. The Beach Box Café is nearby, so you’ll be able to get snacks, food and drinks. Vanderbilt Beach also has restrooms and showers.

Royal Shell Beachfront Vacation Rentals

Royal Shell Beachfront Vacation Rentals

Whether you’re vacationing in Naples or you’re staying in another part of Southwest Florida and exploring the area, this guide to the best Naples beaches should help you find your new favorite place in the sun. If you have any questions about any of these Naples beaches or one of our beachfront vacation rentals, let us know! Our Vacation Planning Advisers are available at 800.656.9111 and you can always browse our Naples vacation rentals online at your convenience, from anywhere in the world.

We have Naples vacations rentals ready for you. This is one of the most desired vacation destinations near Southwest Florida beaches that are safe and open. If you’re interested in staying for six months or longer, Royal Shell also offers annual vacation rentals in Naples. Whether you want to stay for a month, a year, or anything in-between, we can help make it happen! Contact Royal Shell today. 

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