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Are you thinking about how to plan a road trip to Florida? It may take longer than flying, but there are a lot of advantages. It’s much easier to bring the family dog. You can bring your favorite pillow. You don’t have to deal with the hassles of the airport or cram everything into one bag. You can spend even more time with your friends and family. And you won’t have to rent a car when you get to your final destination.

Are you thinking about planning a road trip to Florida? Our road trip planner should help you get the most out of your Southwest Florida vacation. We’ll give you some tips, tell you about fun places to stop on the way to Florida and help you plan a Florida Gulf Coast road trip itinerary and the vacation of a lifetime. 

People have been driving to Florida and Sanibel and Captiva Islands for vacations and road trips for decades. Families often travel to the same place each year, which makes it even more special. Family road trips were a tradition many looked forward to before air travel became the standard. It meant summer (or spring or winter) vacation was coming and you were headed for somewhere warm and relaxing. This road trip planner should help you get the most out of your Southwest Florida vacation. We’ll give you some tips, tell you about fun places to stop on the way to Florida and help you plan a Florida Gulf Coast road trip itinerary and the vacation of a lifetime. The islands are waiting for you. The first step is getting there!

Driving Vs. Flying to Florida

Driving Vs. Flying to Florida

If you’re asking yourself ‘Should I drive or fly to Florida?’ we can tell you that there are many perks to driving to Florida for your vacation vs. flying.

It depends on where you’re coming from, but driving to Florida is normally less expensive. For example, if you’re wondering about the cost of driving from New Jersey to Florida, TravelMath.com says that at current gas prices a round trip will cost about $167. That’s far less than a round trip plane ticket! It will also give you more money to spend on things to do. Having your own vehicle will give you the option to explore the surrounding area and nearby towns. Discover downtown Naples or get on Island Time and visit Sanibel and Captiva Islands. The choice is yours!

Driving vs. flying to Florida is also better if you’re traveling with young kids or older friends and family members. Driving gives you more freedom to attend to your baby or toddler’s needs and more freedom to do things like stop and change diapers. You also won’t have to worry about them bothering anyone else. Flying on a plane and dealing with the demands of getting through the airport can sometimes be too overwhelming for older adults. If this sounds like you or someone you know, driving to Florida may be the most comfortable option.

Driving to Florida for your vacation is also ideal if you’re going to be staying for longer than a week. While some of our vacation destinations, like Captiva Island, are walkable, you’ll be glad to have the freedom of having your own vehicle. You also won’t have to pay the airport to house your car in a lot or parking garage, rely on someone to drop you off and pick you up, and you can use those fees and the ones you’d accrue from renting a car on a fun outing for you and your loved ones instead. How about a dolphin sightseeing cruise on Sanibel Island?

Driving Vs. Flying to Florida

Driving to Florida

Another reason to drive to Florida for your next Sanibel or Captiva Island vacation is that there are a lot of really interesting and unique places to see on your way to Southwest Florida. Whether you’re traveling via U.S. 41, I-75 or you’re taking road roads; it takes at least six hours to get to Southwest Florida from the Sunshine State’s border.

Here are 5 places you don’t want to miss along the way:

  1. St. Augustine
  2. Legoland (for the kids)
  3. Dali Museum featuring works of Salvador Dali
  4. Cape Canaveral
  5. Ocala National Forest

St. Augustine

This is the oldest city in the U.S. It’s near the Florida-Georgia border and Jacksonville. It’s easiest to get here if you’re using I-95, an interstate that runs along the country’s East Coast. St. Augustine is dotted with Spanish colonial architecture and it’s known for its lighthouse and Fountain of Youth attractions. It feels like you’ve stepped back in time, especially when you’re in the historic district. It’s a magical place.

LEGOLAND

This is an interactive theme park near Orlando. It has more than 50 rides, attractions and shows. It’s dedicated to all things Legos. The kids love it and the adults will secretly love it, too.

Dali Museum

Step into the wonderfully weird world of artist Salvador Dali. The museum is a beautiful waterfront building in the heart of St. Petersburg and features over 2,400 works from Dali.

Cape Canaveral

This is the hub of the Kennedy Space Center. You’ll find it halfway between Miami and Jacksonville. Learn about the history of space exploration and the Race to the Moon.

Ocala National Forest

This beautiful national landmark is located north of Orlando. It’s the southernmost forest in the U.S. and it features the globe’s biggest contiguous sand pine scrub forest. There are also more than 600 rivers, lakes and springs. While you’re in town, consider enjoying a meal at one of Ocala’s best restaurants. We offer vacation rentals in Ocala, too!

Stay in a Luxury Vacation Rental

Stay in a Luxury Vacation Rental

Now that you’ve decided to drive to Florida and you know how to plan a road trip to Florida, we can help you find the perfect luxury vacation rental. Wake up with picture-perfect views of the sunrise and watch the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. Walk to the beach and enjoy endless days of relaxation. Staying in one of our beachfront vacation rentals is the best way to end a road trip to Florida.

If a Southwest Florida vacation sounds like what you need in your life, any of our Vacation Planning Advisers can help you plan the trip of a lifetime. We have vacation rentals in all eight areas of Southwest Florida, including popular Sanibel and Captiva Island destinations. Feel free to browse our vacation rentals if you already have a place in mind you’d like to stay. If you’re not sure, we can help narrow it down for you.

Helping our guests plan the trip of a lifetime is what we do best!

Captiva Island beaches are part of what makes Southwest Florida so special. A little more remote and secluded than its sister island’s beaches, Captiva is where you go when you want to escape, recharge and really relax. Sanibel Island has a little more hustle and bustle (though, not by much!), and Captiva is more reminiscent of a Caribbean paradise. Time slows down. Worries are washed away. They even say the water is bluer and the sunsets are brighter.

Captiva Island beaches are beloved by both locals and visitors. For Southwest Florida residents who don’t live on the island, it’s always a treat to visit its shores. Whether you’re visiting Turner Beach at Blind Pass or Allison Hagerup Beach Park, they’re both known for powdery white sand, emerald-turquoise water and impressive sunsets. 

We’ll tell you about the small details that make each one stand out and why they’re some of Captiva Island’s best beaches. Whether you want to lounge on the beach and read a good book, collect seashells, enjoy the Southwest Florida weather, watch your kids play in the water and build sandcastles, or go boating or paddle boarding, this blog post will tell you everything you need to know about Captiva Island beaches and what to expect when vacationing on Captiva Island.

What is There to Do on Captiva Island

What is There to Do on Captiva Island?

Get on Island Time and enjoy Captiva’s unique shops and restaurants, walk around the village, visit Captiva Island beaches, or do nothing at all. The beauty of Captiva Island is that there’s no need for a jam-packed schedule. It’s ok to take it slow and relax. That’s why they call it Island Time!

Captiva beach parks and Captiva Island beach accesses are great for shelling. If you’re visiting the island and hope to collect beautiful and unique seashells, here are some shelling tips to get you started.

Sit down and enjoy a delicious meal while you watch the sunset after a fun-filled day at the beach. Captiva is home to a handful of eclectic eateries. Locals love a casual meal at The Mucky Duck. The Mad Hatter (which is technically in Sanibel, but very close to Captiva) is perfect for special occasions. And though it doesn’t have sunset views, Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille is a local favorite and we recommend trying it at least once. Be sure to order the Yucatan shrimp if you go. Trust us, it’s a thing.

And without further ado, here are Captiva Island’s best beaches. Please keep in mind that Captiva beaches do not allow open fires, pets or taking live shells off of its beaches. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited from November through May.

Turner Beach at Blind Pass

There is limited parking so plan to get here early. Turner Beach is the beach on the Captiva side of Blind Pass and the first beach you see after you cross over the Blind Pass Bridge. It’s an excellent shelling beach and one of the best in Southwest Florida. You’ll find a unique collection of shells at Captiva Island’s Turner Beach because it connects the bay to the Gulf of Mexico. Shelling is always best after a storm and you’ll find all sorts of treasures from both the bay and the Gulf. Be sure to let us know if you find a Junonia!

Please be mindful that Turner Beach is known for a strong current near the bridge. There is a strong undertow and the water gets deep quickly.

Turner Beach is a great spot for fishing, too. You can fish from the shore and there is also a canoe and kayak launch. The rock jetty is always dotted with fishermen and fisherwomen when the sun is shining and the weather is nice. A saltwater fishing license is required to fish from the shore. There are restrooms at Turner Beach, but keep in mind that the beach on the other side of the pass, on the Sanibel side, does not have restroom facilities. 

Allison Hagerup Beach Park

Some people refer to Captiva Island’s Allison Hagerup Beach Park as Captiva Beach. It’s an excellent place to watch the sunset. Keep in mind that there are no restrooms and there is a small parking lot so parking is very limited. If you don’t mind a bit of a walk, you’ll see some incredible views from the end of the island. Allison Hagerup Beach Park is one of the least crowded beaches on Captiva. For that reason many consider it to be very romantic. There are picnic tables if you want to bring a nice meal and bottle of wine to share.

You’ll find Alison Hagerup Beach Park at the end of Captiva Drive, behind South Seas Island Resort. Royal Shell offers condos, beach homes and beach cottages for rent at the resort. If you are staying there, you will be able to use its private beach. Another great thing about Allison Hagerup Beach Park? It’s within walking distance of some of Captiva Island’s best restaurants!

Captiva Island Beach Rentals  

Captiva Island Beach Rentals

Does a romantic getaway to one of our Captiva Island beaches sound like something you and your loved one would enjoy? What about a family reunion in one of the most beautiful places in the world? Or maybe you’re here for a Captiva Island beach wedding? Royal Shell has a variety of Captiva Island luxury beach rentals to choose from, whether you’re looking for a charming Captiva Island beach bungalow or a large estate to fit the whole wedding party (or any other large group).

We have Captiva Island beach homes for rent, bayfront vacation rentals and a variety of Captiva Island vacation homes with a beachfront view. If you’re planning a vacation to one of our Captiva Island beaches, our team of highly skilled professionals will be able to help you find the best rental home that checks off the boxes on your wishlist. Nearby, we have the best Sanibel Island beaches list for you too. 

If you have any questions about the island, Captiva Island beachfront rentals or the Southwest Florida area, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We can share some tips if this is your first time visiting the island, tell you which airport is the best to fly into, where to go for the best dessert on Captiva and where to rent bikes and get beach equipment. We’re here for you and so are our Southwest Florida beaches! Our goal is to help you create lasting memories you’ll treasure for years to come. Contact Royal Shell today!

Sanibel Island has some pretty picture-perfect beaches and if you’ve visited this beautiful island, then you already know that. But for our friends who are just discovering Sanibel beaches, you are in for a real treat. If you’re already well-versed in Sanibel beach parks, a little refresher won’t hurt. You may discover a new favorite beach! Grab a delicious beverage and curl up in a cozy spot and read about our favorite beaches. Imagine yourself breathing in the fresh air and listening to the sounds of the Gulf of Mexico without a care in the world. It’s the perfect way to relax.

Sanibel beaches are some of the most popular and desired beaches in Southwest Florida. When people think about visiting the Sunshine State and taking a beach vacation with their loved ones, Sanibel beaches are often the first to come to mind.

Does Sanibel Island Have Public Beaches

Does Sanibel Island Have Public Beaches?

Yes, Sanibel Island does have public beaches! And there are many stunning options. However, they take a little work to find. You can’t just drive over the causeway and expect to stumble onto a beach. Many of the island’s beach parks and accesses are tucked out of sight. You have plenty of choices. Many of our beach vacation homes and condos have easy access to Sanibel’s white sand beaches, too.

Our guide to Sanibel’s public beach parks includes information about:

Are Sanibel Beaches Dog-Friendly?

Pets are allowed on Sanibel beaches, but they must follow the rules and be leashed, and owners must clean up after them. Please note that Captiva beaches do not allow pets.

Leashing your dog on Sanibel beaches in Florida also helps protect the area’s wildlife. A leashed dog prevents the chances of Fido accidentally digging up a sea turtle’s nest, disturbing a colony of shorebirds and disturbing sensitive beach vegetation. It’s also good doggie etiquette! And it’s part of section 10-62 of the Sanibel code, which states that dogs must be leashed on beaches, public property or on any public right-of-way.

More Sanibel Island beach rules:

Where Are Sanibel Beaches

Where Are Sanibel Beaches?

Sanibel Island has miles of beaches. You’re even surrounded by some of them as you drive over the causeway into paradise. Sanibel beaches are some of the most unique beaches in the world, too. Sanibel and Captiva Islands are barrier islands with an east-west orientation. Most islands are north-south. This is one of the reasons why Sanibel is known as one of the best shelling destinations in the world. If you love collecting seashells, Sanibel Island is calling your name!

Causeway Islands Park Beaches

These beaches are your first impression of Sanibel Island and it’s not a bad one, if we do say so ourselves. The view from the causeway is amazing in its own right, but the Causeway Beaches are always teeming with happy beachgoers, parasailers, kiteboarders and boaters. It’s impossible not to feel relaxed as you drive by. It puts you in the right frame of mind and you’ll be on Island Time in no time.

The beaches are on man-made islands that were built to help support the causeway, which connects Sanibel to the mainland in Fort Myers. The beaches are narrow and not the best for collecting seashells, but they’re perfect for lounging on the beach and soaking up the sun with a good book. It’s also a popular place to catch the sunset. Public restrooms are available and parking is free, too.

Lighthouse Beach Park

Lighthouse Beach is just off the causeway, to your left at the first intersection. In addition to a gorgeous white sand beach, there is a historic lighthouse, fishing pier and boardwalk nature trail. There are bike racks if you choose to cycle around the island. There is a parking fee along with bathrooms and outdoor showers. For a tasty breakfast or lunch, visit Lighthouse Cafe nearby. It’s a local favorite!

Gulfside City Beach Park

This beach is toward the middle of the island along Algiers Lane off Casa Ybel Road. It’s not normally as busy as other island beaches. Walking this Sanibel beach is a treat. There are nature trails to enjoy if you’d like a change of scenery. Loggerhead sea turtles have often been known to visit this beach. If you see one of their nests, please make sure not to disturb it.

Tarpon Bay Road Beach Park

This is a smaller beach and you’ll find it at the end of Tarpon Bay Road. Expect to take a small hike from the parking lot to the beach. You’ll be relatively secluded, though—if that’s what you’re looking for.

Bowman’s Beach Park

This is probably the most remote beach on Sanibel Island. You won’t find many hotels near it, either. It’s one the largest beaches and one of our favorites! You’ll find it on the west end of Sanibel, nearly on the way to Captiva. This beach has a good-sized parking lot, but you will have to walk a bit to get to the beach. This is also the only Sanibel beach with barbeque grills, so keep this in mind if you’re planning to grill out.

Blind Pass Beach Park

This is the beach at the farthest west end of Sanibel Island, just before the bridge to Captiva Island. Blind Pass Beach is on the Sanibel side and Turner Beach is on the Captiva side. Keep in mind that both beaches have limited parking, and you cannot use your Sanibel beach parking receipt on Captiva beaches. Blind Pass Beach is popular with shellers as well as fishermen and fisherwomen.

Best Sanibel Beaches for Shelling

Best Sanibel Beaches for Shelling

All of our Sanibel beaches are great for shelling. You won’t be disappointed with any of them. The island’s unique formation and east-west stretch is ideal for finding special shell treasures. Low tide is best to venture out and find seashells. If you can go after a storm the shelling choices will be even better. Don’t forget a bag, sunscreen and water.

Lighthouse Beach on Sanibel is the place to go if you’re hunting for smaller shells. The larger shells tend to wash ashore more frequently as you work your way along the coast toward the west end. For that reason, we recommend checking out Sanibel’s Blind Pass Beach.

Sanibel Beach House Rentals

Does a beach vacation in paradise sound like it’s something you need in your life? Pick a Sanibel beach to visit and call home for a while—or try them all! Let us know which one is your favorite or if you have any other questions about Sanibel beaches or Sanibel Island vacation rentals.

Give us a call today so we can help you start planning the perfect Sanibel beach vacation. We have vacation rentals in all shapes and sizes whether you’re planning a romantic couples getaway or a large family reunion. Wake up and walk out onto a gorgeous white sand beach and look out at the glorious Gulf of Mexico as the sun shines on its emerald-turquoise waves. Stay in the heart of Sanibel near all of the shops and restaurants and bike to different beaches each day. There are so many options to help make your next beach vacation one of your best trips yet!

One of the best parts about living in the Sunshine State is the opportunity to take some great Florida road trips. 

Whether you’re coming from Jacksonville, Orlando or Tampa, most roads lead to Southwest Florida’s white sand beaches, the Gulf of Mexico’s emerald-turquoise water and the area’s relaxing island lifestyle. If you’ve been in the mood for Florida road trips with your loved ones, or a change of scenery, some of the best Florida road trip destinations are in Southwest Florida. It’s a wonderland for nature enthusiasts and boaters. Foodies will appreciate the variety of culinary options. And the beaches are like a dream.

It’s no secret that Florida is home to a handful of other destinations like St. Augustine, theme parks in Orlando and Tampa, and cities on the east coast like Miami and West Palm Beach. The great thing about Southwest Florida’s location within the Sunshine State is that it’s nearly at the end of U.S. 41 and Interstate-75. You can start from pretty much anywhere in Florida and end your trip in Naples, Fort Myers or on Sanibel or Captiva Islands. Southwest Florida is a true vacation destination. Pack up the car, get your loved ones together, relax, recharge and create memories you’ll cherish forever.

In this Florida road trip planner, we’ll give you tips for the best Florida road trips and all of the reasons why Southwest Florida should be your final destination.

What is the Best Road Trip in America

What is the Best Road Trip in America?

Florida is hundreds of miles long with scenic roads and highways crisscrossing the state. You can get to Southwest Florida via U.S. 41, Interstate-75, State Road 29, State Road 17 and State Road 27. We have vacation rentals throughout Southwest Florida. Depending on what type of view, how much space you need and whether you’re bringing the family dog, Royal Shell has a variety of vacation homes we think you’ll love.

Florida road trips are ideal because there’s so much to see and do. Travel from Orlando and trade theme parks for white sand beaches and world-class shelling on Sanibel Island. Explore the island’s famous J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Get on island time on Captiva Island. See how Thomas Edison and Henry Ford lived in Fort Myers. Visit the Southwest Florida Military Museum & Library in Cape Coral. Check out Bonita Springs’ oldest roadside attraction, the Everglades Wonder Gardens, built in 1936. Or walk the historic Naples Pier.

How Do I Plan My First Road Trip?

The first step in planning a road trip is deciding where your final destination will be. There are eight popular areas in Southwest Florida. You’ll be able to choose from Naples, Bonita Springs, Estero, Fort Myers Beach, Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Sanibel Island, or its sister island, Captiva. 

How do I plan a road trip?

  1. Decide where to go
  2. What’s your route?
  3. Give your car a tune-up
  4. Bring snacks
  5. Bring things for the family pup
  6. Bring things to entertain yourself during the drive

If you’re still not sure which Southwest Florida city is for you, any of our Vacation Planning Advisers can help you make your final decision. We live, work and play here, and we know the area well.

Some people prefer to take back roads for a more scenic view. These routes tend to take more time to get to your destination, so you’ll want to factor that into your decision.

Make sure your vehicle is in good working order. Top off the fluids, check the oil, lights and tires. Make sure a certified mechanic looks it over before you leave. 

Snacks are king on road trips. If you’re bringing a cooler, you’ll have even more options. Nuts, fruit, crackers and sandwiches are always a great choice. Don’t forget water, too!

We have a variety of pet-friendly vacation rentals. If you want to bring the family dog, that’s no problem! Make sure they have food and water bowls, food, a leash, toys, a bed, and anything else they’ll need. You want to make sure Fido has a memorable vacation, too!

Instead of focusing on ‘Are we there yet?’ preoccupy yourself with books, magazines, homework, crossword puzzles and anything else you like to do. It makes for a more enjoyable drive.

Florida Road Trips from Orlando

Florida Road Trips from Orlando        

To get to Southwest Florida from Orlando, you have three options.

  1. Take back roads and go down the middle of the state via I-4 West to State Road 17 South to State Road 31 South in DeSoto County to I-75 South into Fort Myers.
  2. Go down near the west coast via I-4 West to I-75 South into Fort Myers.
  3. This route is similar to the first option, but it provides an opportunity for more scenic views. Take I-4 West to State Road 27 to State Road 64 to State Road 17 to I-75 South to Fort Myers.

Florida Road Trips from Tampa

To get to Southwest Florida from Tampa, you have two options 

  1. I-75 runs straight through Tampa and Fort Myers, so you can take the interstate all the way down to Southwest Florida. If you live closer to St. Petersburg or Clearwater, you’ll need to hop on I-275 to get to I-75.
  2. The second option takes you on back roads for about half of the drive and joins back up with I-75 to take you into Fort Myers. Take Selmon Expressway to I-75 to County Road 672 to South County Road 39 South to I-75 into Fort Myers. You’ll join back up with I-75 at Kings Highway.

Florida Gulf Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Whether you’re coming from Tampa, Orlando, Miami, West Palm Beach or anywhere else on the Atlantic Coast, or anywhere else in the Sunshine State, we’re happy you’ve decided to enjoy a vacation in Southwest Florida.

From state parks to white sand beaches, Southwest Florida is a paradise for nature lovers. On Sanibel Island, there isn’t even a traffic light. And Captiva Island will make you feel like you’re in the Caribbean with its easy, laidback, tropical pace. Visit for a short getaway or a longer rejuvenating vacation. The drive here is beautiful and you’ll return home feeling recharged and refreshed. Stay on one of the islands in a condo resort, beach bungalow or large single-family home. We have all types of accommodations for every type of vacation. Go bird watching at Ding Darling, enjoy all three meals of the day at eclectic world-class restaurants and end the day shelling on the beach, watching one of the islands’ famous sunsets.

Naples is home to upscale shopping, dining and rows of art galleries. The beaches dot the coast and you don’t want to miss the historic Naples Pier. Make sure you drive into the Everglades while you’re here, too. It’s a really unique part of Florida you won’t want to miss.

Fort Myers Beach is a small beach town. It’s perfect for a romantic couples getaway or a family vacation for guests who want to stay on the beach, but also want to have easy access to other parts of Southwest Florida. Sanibel and Captiva Islands have more of a remote feel, so keep that in mind when you’re selecting your destination.

Bonita Springs, Estero and Cape Coral are great family vacation spots. They’re not on the beach, but they have access to a variety of parks and each offers something different. Bonita has a charming downtown. Estero is small, but full of beautiful views and great shopping. Cape Coral has more miles of canals than Venice, Italy and it’s a boater’s paradise.

Fort Myers is one of Southwest Florida’s larger cities. You’ll find so many things to do for the entire family. Catch a Boston Red Sox or Minnesota Twins Spring Training game, visit Thomas Edison and Henry Ford’s winter homes and enjoy art or music walks in the picturesque downtown River District.

Southwest Florida offers something for everyone, making it one of the best Florida road trips you can take within the Sunshine State.

Florida Road Trip Planner for All Types of Occasions

Florida Road Trip Planner for All Types of Occasions

If you live in the Sunshine State, there’s no need to plan road trips to other parts of the country until you’ve had a chance to experience road trips in Florida and take advantage of what’s already in your own backyard. We have everything you need to learn how to plan a road trip to Florida. 

Whether you’re traveling from Cocoa Beach, Jacksonville, Destin, Orlando or anywhere else in Florida, we hope you make Southwest Florida your final destination. Enjoy the scenic drive, stop at a state park or two (we love the Ocala National Forest in Central Florida) and breathe easy. 

This part of the state is truly paradise and we hope you come to see us soon! Connect with Royal Shell today. 

There are few things that are more quintessentially Southwest Florida than the Fort Myers Beach Lions Club Shrimp Festival. For two days every March, locals and visitors visit Fort Myers Beach to enjoy the parade, meet the Shrimp Festival Queen, and participate in arts and crafts, the shrimp-eating contest and the iconic shrimp boil and dinner. Approximately 30,000 people come out to the Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival. Parade and festival attendees consume about 13,000 pounds of shrimp. This is the ultimate event for seafood lovers.

The Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival began as the Blessing of the Shrimp Fleet more than 50 years ago. Now it is a major celebration. Shrimp is known as “pink gold” to locals, and in the early days the shrimp industry was one of the things that helped put Fort Myers Beach on the map. Come enjoy a Southwest Florida tradition since 1959.

Meet new people, enjoy the weather, try some shrimp and other seafood dishes, watch the parade, visit more than 100 arts and crafts vendors, watch live entertainment, meet the Shrimp Queen, or try to take home the title of the winner of the shrimp-eating competition. The Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival is an excuse to get out, eat a delicious meal, participate in some Southwest Florida culture and have a fun day on the beach.

It’s come a long way in 62 years. Today the Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival raises tens of thousands of dollars for charities that provide assistance for services like eye surgeries, the Florida Lions Eye Bank, Southeast Guide Dogs, scholarships for area students, Little League and Youth Soccer, large print books for the local library, and Beach Elementary and Cypress Lakes High School students’ needs.

Lions Club secretary, Shelby Stites, is in charge of the parade float and shrimp-eating contest.

She says her favorite part of the event is the 10 a.m. parade on Saturday.

“You get to ride on the float and throw out candy. That ties it all together for me,” said Stites, who is a third-generation Lions Club member.

She also loves seeing the festival come together.

“We work really hard and get lost in all that happens and forget the fun it creates for the community and what a big deal it is for them,” Stites said. “We work so hard. To take a step back and see the faces in the crowd and how much fun it creates for them and the camaraderie of the community, it hones in on why we do it in the first place.”

Where is the Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival

Where is the Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival?

The March festival is from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on both days. The free event is open to kids and adults and there’s something for the entire family to enjoy.

The Shrimp Festival grounds are located at Lynn Hall Memorial Park at 950 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, 33931.

Tips on Traffic and Parking

Some people opt to leave their cars off-island and take the LeeTran trolley to the festival. There is plenty of parking at LeeTran’s Beach Park and Ride facility at the corner of Summerlin Square Drive and Pine Ridge Road. The LeeTran trolley takes you to Fort Myers Beach. Once on the island, a free tram service runs continuously to help you get from point A to point B.

Keep in mind that the Matanzas Pass Bridge is closed from 9 a.m. to noon for the Saturday morning parade. If you’d like to access the beach from San Carlos Boulevard you should arrive before 8 a.m. The only bridge open to Estero Island during the parade is from Bonita Springs, about 16 miles south.

If you choose to park on the beach, there is a pay lot you can use on the north side of the island. From the south, you can park at Santini Plaza in the 7200 block of Estero Boulevard, or at Lovers Key State Park.

Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival Parade

The parade of the season begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday. The one-and-a-half-mile-long route runs down the main street of town, Estero Boulevard. Many people get there early to claim a prime viewing spot, so if you want first dibs, prepare to get there by 9 a.m. The parade starts near Fort Myers Beach Elementary School and ends at Lynn Hall Park next to Times Square. It has run the same route for 60 years and it’s a piece of Southwest Florida history.

Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival Shrimp Boil and Dinner

Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival Shrimp Boil and Dinner

For more than 50 years, the Fort Myers Beach Lions have been serving delicious Gulf shrimp to festival attendees. In fact, many festival goers attend the event just for the delicious pink shrimp dinner. The secrets of the perfectly cooked peel and eat shrimp have been in the Lions family for generations, passed down throughout the years from boil master to boil master. The Lions also use their secret recipe for cocktail sauce. This is a dinner fit for a king or queen. The shrimp comes straight from the Fort Myers Beach shrimp boat fleet. It’s a whole operation. The Lions boil shrimp for two days, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. They make it a priority for festival goers to experience the goodness that is shrimp directly from the Gulf of Mexico.

Shrimp-Eating Contest

The shrimp-eating contest has become a new island tradition. Ten sponsored contestants compete to eat as many pounds of cooked and peeled shrimp as they can in eight minutes. They are distributed to contestants in pre-weighed portions. Whoever eats the most wins! Will Fort Myers Beach firefighter, Joel, be crowned the Shrimp King yet again or will a newcomer outlast him?

Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival 5k Run and Kids Shrimp Run

The Shrimp Run 5k, presented by the Cypress Lake High School Athletic Booster Club and Cypress Lake High School, is back. It’ll twice take over the Matanzas Pass Bridge while thousands of onlookers cheer the runners on! It starts and ends at Doc Ford’s restaurant.

There is also a run for kids. The Kids Shrimp Run is a one-mile run on the beach sand and it takes place on the first Saturday in March. Each participant gets a T-shirt and accolades will be awarded to the top-three finishers for each gender per grade, Kindergarten through fifth grade. The free race will begin at the beach access on Gulf Beach Road. Each grade will be released separately and the race begins at 8 a.m.

Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival History

Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival History

Before the first Shrimp Festival was held in 1959, there was an event called Beach Day. St Raphael’s Episcopal Church sponsored the Blessing of the Shrimp Fleet, which was held on the Beach Pier. Shrimp rolls were sold in the county park.

“We started it from the beginning,” Stites said.

But at first, instead of shrimp, the Lions sold barbeque chicken dinners.

“Someone asked why we were selling chicken dinners at a shrimp festival and we stopped that and got local shrimp from shrimp boats, and turned it into a shrimp festival with shrimp from local shrimp boats,” Stites said.

And they haven’t looked back since.

“We’ve got some new members this year and they’ve reminded us that some people move down to the beach after experiencing the Shrimp Festival because they’ve decided this is where they want to be,” Stites said. “It brings everyone together. They (locals) consider it a holiday. For the community, it’s a way to get together. It’s all about the local pink shrimp.”

It also gives the local economy a boost.

“Everyone is slam jam-packed,” Stites said.

And every dollar raised goes back to the local community.

Stites says the Lions raise more than $60,000 in two days.

“We distribute funds we raise to local food pantries, students at the Beach School, help families in need, and all sorts of other efforts,” she said. “We can’t keep any of the money for ourselves. One-hundred percent of the money we raise goes back to the community.”

Fort Myers Beach Vacation Rentals with Royal Shell

Come visit us on the beach and check out the Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival. Soak up the warm Southwest Florida sunshine, mingle with the locals, try some freshly boiled peel-and-eat shrimp and take advantage of this local tradition. If you’d like to dip your toes into the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico or take in one of our famous sunsets at our famous beaches, any of our Vacation Planning Advisers will be happy to help you book a vacation in paradise. We have all sorts of rentals available, whether you’re looking for something to accommodate a large family or a romantic vacation for two. Call us today and let us know how we can help. Creating lasting memories is what we do best!

Naples is known for being a cultural and artistic hub in Southwest Florida and people come from all over to enjoy the annual two-day Naples National Art Show. In 2018, Sunshine Artists Magazine ranked it No. 18 out of 25 art shows in the country—and it’s easy to see why. The show has been a Naples stable for decades!

The Naples National Art Show is one of the oldest art shows in Naples and locals consider it to be one of its premiere must-see events. It’s also a fun event the whole family can enjoy. You can catch the show at Cambier Park in Downtown Naples and when you’re done you can stroll up and down Fifth Avenue South and eat at one of the many delicious dining options. The Naples National Art Show also features high-quality work, so if you’re looking for more home décor options, this is a great event to plan your trip to Southwest Florida around. Royal Shell has a variety of vacation homes in Naples, too. It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling with a large group or it’s just you and your significant other. We have homes in all shapes and sizes. 

When is the Naples National Art Show?

Come out on Feb. 22 and 23, but make sure you get there early as parking is somewhat limited. The show will be held at scenic Cambier Park at 755 Eighth Avenue South. The show is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday and there is a concert after the show on Saturday. It’s free to enter and look at all the beautiful artworks, but a $5 donation is suggested. Come enjoy the beautiful weather in Southwest Florida and celebrate these national ranking artists!

What Do I Need to Know About the Naples National Art Show

What Do I Need to Know About the Naples National Art Show?

Not only is this a great art show, but it is also a competitive event for the artists. The Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention and Visitors Bureau says the Naples National Art Festival draws more than 20,000 residents and visitors. Meet some of the finest artists from across the United States. Downtown Naples is an idyllic setting for this event, too. It features Spanish and Mediterranean architecture, the landscaping is on point and it looks like it could be on a postcard from Europe. It’s hard not to be in a good mood when you visit!

The juried art show will showcase approximately 190 artists. Since the show is so prestigious and well-known, it features some seriously talented artists. The fine art and craft show features all different types of mediums, too. These include digital art, furniture, ceramics, leather and fiber, jewelry,  glass, metal, printmaking and graphics, mixed media 3D, mixed media 2D, sculpture, wood, photography and painting. 

Ceramics must be originally shaped and fired clay. This includes earthenware, stoneware, terracotta and porcelain. Digital art should be original and signed. Fiber includes non-wearable artwork from fibers such as batik, basketry, tapestry, papermaking and weaving. Wearable art includes leather goods and clothing. 

Furniture can be constructed in any material that is functional as a piece of furniture. Glass work should consist of blown glass, stained glass or fused glass. Drawings are made from pastels, graphite, wax crayon, charcoal or chalk. Jewelry should be made from precious stones, gold, enamel, gold, sterling silver or silver. 

Mixed Media 2D incorporates more than one type of media, has a relief depth of less than 1/8 of an inch and includes collage and handmade paper. Mixed Media 3D should be non-functional work and combine more than one material or media and exceed 1/8of an inch in depth.

Oil, watercolor and acrylic paintings can be a still life, landscape, portrait or abstract. Photos should be signed prints created by the artist from their own original digital files or negatives. 

Naples National Evening Concert

Make it an all-day thing and stay for the 5 to 7 p.m. concert at the Cambier Park Band Shell. Relax in your lawn chair and listen to the Blu-Tones. The weather this time of year is perfect for an outdoor concert. There will be small bites of food from Artichoke and Company in Bonita Springs. The Blu-Tones have been on the Southwest Florida music scene for about 10 years and they specialize in songs from the 1950s to the 1970s. 

What to Do After the Naples National Art Show

What to Do After the Naples National Art Show?

The great thing about the Naples National Art Show being in Downtown Naples is that there are so many great things to do after the show’s over. The beach at the end of Fifth Avenue South is about a 20-minute walk from Cambier Park. Driving is the best way to get there, but parking can be limited during this time of year. You’ll also be happy to know that there is a Starbucks in front of Cambier Park and an ice cream shop across the street from there. And if you have a taste for even more art, there are a handful of galleries along Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South.

Some popular restaurants near the Naples National Art Show and Cambier Park include:

When you’re done eating dinner, you can stroll along Fifth Avenue South and take in the sights. There are orb lights hanging from the trees and when they’re lit up at night, it gives the whole street a romantic vibe. It’s great for lovers, but also soothing enough for children and other families to enjoy. Fifth Avenue South is a hub for foodies, artists and people who appreciate the finer things in life. Visiting for the Naples National Art Show is just the icing on the cake!

Why You Should Stay At a Royal Shell Vacation Rental in Naples, Florida

Royal Shell has a variety of vacation rental homes near the Naples National Art Show. Let us know what you’re looking for and we’ll do our very best to find it for you! If you have any questions about things to do in Naples or more questions about the Naples National Art Show, we can answer those, too. Our favorite part of what we do is helping you create lasting memories you’ll treasure forever. 

Stroll through downtown Fort Myers and enjoy the unique works of art, warm weather, glimpses of the Caloosahatchee River, Fort Myers waterfront, and meet artists from around the world. ArtFest Fort Myers began in 2001 and it’s one of the largest and most beloved art festivals in the country. Professional artists from nearly all 50 states showcase their work in the downtown River District, where the streets are blocked off, and the whole event feels like a block party in the winter. There will also be a sidewalk chalk-art competition, art demonstrations, children’s craft area and children’s art activities, high school art competition, and high-end food court. Attendees may also purchase the works they see.

ArtFest Fort Myers takes place over three days this year on the last day of January and during the first couple days of February. More than 200 artists display their works. There are also performance stages and food vendors. It’s a fun event you can bring the entire family to. The festival uses its proceeds to promote the arts in local schools. ArtFest Fort Myers isn’t limited to one age group either. There is a high school art competition and children are invited to make their own masterpieces in the Art Yard. 

While ArtFest Fort Myers is a juried fine art festival, it’s also a great opportunity to purchase new pieces for your home or maybe as a gift for the art lover in your life. If you’re looking for a variety, this is where you’ll find it!

ArtFest Fort Myers Dates:

ArtFest Fort Myers Opening Night

ArtFest Fort Myers Opening Night

VIP tickets for opening night are available. There will be 65 artists at the event for you to meet and get to know. One section of the art show will also be open from 5 to 9 p.m., so you can be one of the first to experience the artists’ creations. 

Planning ArtFest Fort Myers

A lot goes into planning the event. In fact, it takes a year to organize it. A three-person committee is responsible for looking over the previous year’s event to help get ready for the next one. A local TV news station says that beginning in March, the team holds 25 meetings to discuss how the three-day festival went. The committee starts choosing artists in May. 

Out of 900 applications, only about 200 are accepted. From ceramics, glasswork, clothing, to jewelry, there will be all types of mediums at ArtFest Fort Myers. The jurors are an assorted group of experienced art professionals selected for their backgrounds and appreciation of the value of art festivals. Each year, members vary and the panel often includes a festival artist. The jurors also do not know the names of the artists or anything else about them.

Planning ArtFest Fort Myers

What is Publix Run to the Arts?

The Publix Run to the Arts is a 5k set in the beautiful backdrop of the Caloosahatchee River. There are post-race events, too. Attendees will receive breakfast, race awards, a chance to make art at the Silk Experience and door prizes. There will also be live music. Be sure to register at www.runtothearts.com by Dec. 30 so you can make sure you get the T-shirt size you want! Children 12 and older can participate in the race and runners under 16 must have an adult with them.

The course starts and ends at the corner of Bay Street and Monroe Street, in front of the Harborside Event Center. The race’s route goes from Bay Street to Lee Street, over the Caloosahatchee Bridge and back over the same course.

Stay in Fort Myers with Royal Shell

We have a variety of vacation rental homes in Fort Myers, including along the McGregor Boulevard corridor. This desired location also isn’t far from the downtown Fort Myers historic district. Whether you’re vacationing with your significant other, a small group of friends or the entire family, we have homes that accommodate every type of vacation.

Southwest Floridians get to experience a variety of restaurants at a discounted price from Marco Island to Cape Coral during Sizzle SWFL Restaurant Week. The event also donates $1 from every Restaurant Week meal sold to the Sizzle SWFL FGCU Food & Beverage Scholarship. You can eat like a king or queen, and it benefits a great cause. It’s the best of both worlds.

The semi-annual, charity-driven Sizzle SWFL Restaurant Week gives both visitors and locals a chance to try all the restaurants on their wish list and to visit places that may be new to them. Restaurants from Collier to Lee County will offer a two-course lunch and/or a three-course dinner with fixed price menus. Sizzle SWFL Restaurant Week celebrates the concept of dining out for an affordable price, and one of its goals is to raise awareness and make a positive impact on Southwest Florida’s varied culinary community. 

The Goal of Sizzle SWFL Restaurant Week

The Goal of Sizzle SWFL Restaurant Week

There are so many original restaurants offering delicious food in Southwest Florida. Restaurant Week wants to showcase them so everyone has a chance to discover and enjoy a great meal. Sizzle SWFL Restaurant Week’s goal is to strengthen Southwest Florida’s brand and culinary reputation. Local businesses feel the effects of restaurant week, too. Participating restaurants order more supplies, have more people working and see increased traffic and business. Combine that with the uptick in business for hotels, entertainment, shopping centers, and other local businesses, and nearly everyone in the local food and hospitality sectors feel the benefits from the impact of tourism dollars spent across Southwest Florida during restaurant week.

A dollar from every restaurant week meal benefits the Sizzle SWFL FGCU Food & Beverage Scholarship. It will be used to help teach and fund the next generation of local chefs, directors, supervisors, servers, caterers, managers and concierges.

Last year, over 60,000 Restaurant Week meals were sold and participating restaurants donated more than $20,000 to the Sizzle SWFL FGCU Food & Beverage Scholarship. This scholarship helps local restaurants find and hire more qualified staff members.

How Do I Participate in Sizzle SWFL Restaurant Week?

  1. Visit www.SWFLRestaurantWeek.com and click on the “Menu” tab, located at the top of the page.
  2. Browse the menus and choose a restaurant. Participating restaurants are located in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Estero, Bonita Springs, Naples and Marco Island. There is also a “Restaurants” tab if you’d like to see all of the participating businesses on one page.
  3. It isn’t always needed, but it’s recommended to make a reservation.
  4. Visit the restaurant or restaurants of your choice and order from the special Restaurant Week menu.
  5. Enjoy a great meal with your loved ones!

Cape Coral Restaurants

Fort Myers Restaurants

Bonita Springs and Estero

Downtown Naples

Naples

Marco Island

Stay at a Royal Shell Vacation Rental in Southwest Florida

Stay at a Royal Shell Vacation Rental in Southwest Florida

We have a diverse selection of rental properties throughout Southwest Florida, from Naples vacation rentals to Cape Coral to Sanibel vacation rentals and Captiva Island vacation rentals. The good thing about all of the cities participating in restaurant week is they are not far from each other if you’d like to venture out and try several new options. Estero and Bonita Springs are more centrally located. They are less than an hour north of Naples and downtown Naples, and less than an hour south of Fort Myers and Cape Coral. If you’d rather stick to one municipality, you have plenty of choices in each city.

Sizzle SWFL Restaurant Week has been growing and gaining popularity for years and the Restaurant Week is no exception. It’s the perfect chance to indulge in new food and create lasting memories with the ones you love. Let us know which restaurants you visited and which ones you loved the most. We’re always looking for new places to try because we love the best restaurants in the area and are always looking for more!

Let us know if you have any questions about the area before you book. Our Vacation Planning Advisers are well-equipped to address your questions and concerns. They’ll help you plan your trip and make sure you’re set up for success. Our goal is for you to have the best possible vacation while you’re here in paradise. Mouthwatering entrees from Sizzle SWFL Restaurant Week are just the icing on the cake! Contact us today to book a vacation!

The Annual American Sand Sculpting Championship will make Fort Myers Beach its home for 10 days at the end of November and the first day of December.

The American Sand Sculpting Championship is the largest sand sculpting competition in the United States and people come from all over to compete. More than 30 sculptors from eight nations, including World Class Master Sand Sculptors and amateurs, will compete in a sequence of competitions to see who will be the next American Champion. The event will also include a kids’ activity area, quick sand speed sculpting, music, sand sculpting demonstrations and a vendor village. Food and beverages are available for purchase. 

Parking at the American Sand Sculpting Championship

Parking at the American Sand Sculpting Championship

There will be free parking and a shuttle service at the Lovers Key grass lot at 8700 Estero Blvd. in Fort Myers Beach. Paid parking is also an option at businesses closer to the event, which is located behind the Wyndham Garden Hotel.

American Sand Sculpting Championship on Fort Myers Beach

There will be nearly 50 sculptures made by 10 advanced amateurs competing in the Florida State Championships, 10 Masters competing in doubles and 16 Masters competing in solos.

In addition to people creating impressive works of art, the American Sand Sculpting competition will feature more than 40 arts and crafts vendors, food and drinks, photo opportunities and a people’s choice award. The VIP pass has also been reinstated this year. It includes a complimentary event T-shirt, food and beverage, as well as access to a private sand lounge.

Last year, sculptors worked with about 600 gallons of water and 10 tons of sand for each of their masterpieces.

Past  Master Sculptor Solo Division winners included John Gowdy from the U.S. in first place with “A Tribute to the Wildland Firefighters of California,” Melineige Beauregard from Canada took home second place and the sculptor’s choice award with “You Make My Heart Burn,” and Seveline Beauregard, also from Canada, received third with “Dance and Breathe.”

As for the Master Sculptor Doubles Division, “Return to Oz” by Bruce Phillips and Jihoon Choi won first place, sculptor’s choice and people’s choice. John Gowdy and Laura Cimador-Gowdy took home second with “Dreaming Nonna’s Bedtime Stories” and “Connected/Disconnected” by Bert Adams and DeLayne Corbett received third.

The Advanced Amateur Division winners were “Alien Vacation” by Lisa Fewless in first place and “Pucker Up” by Amanda Bolduc.

In a local news article, President of the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce, Jacki Liszak, said the American Sand Sculpting Championship had a huge economic impact.

“With 50,000 people coming in and putting heads in beds and staying the night, we don’t have hard numbers, but it has a significant impact,” she said. “It’s also over the holiday week, so a lot of people turn this into their vacation.”

Vacation on Fort Myers Beach with Royal Shell Rentals

Vacation on Fort Myers Beach with Royal Shell Rentals

Thousands of people visit the Annual American Sand Sculpting Championship on Fort Myers Beach each year. Whether you planned your trip around the competition or you stumbled upon it during your stay, it’s worth taking half a day to visit the beach and admire the creative sculptures. If you want to stay as close as possible to the action, we can help accommodate you. We have rooms available at RL Ambassador Suites, which is about a five-minute walk from the site of the event. We have the beach accessories you need for a day at the beach too. We also have a variety of rental Fort Myers Beach vacation rentals. Let us know which option is right for you and our Vacation Planning Advisers will get started searching for it right away. Contact us today.

If you’re visiting our slice of paradise to celebrate the holiday with your loved ones, you’ll need to know which Southwest Florida restaurants are open on Thanksgiving to help plan your day. That is, unless you want to go to the grocery store, haul everything back home, and spend the entire day cooking up a feast. If you do, we salute you and ask that you save us some leftovers. If you’re looking for something less stressful, this blog post will give you plenty of options.

From Naples to Sanibel and Captiva Islands, there are many Southwest Florida restaurants open on Thanksgiving that will make your mouth water. The best part? You won’t have to mix, chop or bake anything! There are a lot of restaurants in Southwest Florida throughout Collier and Lee Counties that are open on Thanksgiving. If you don’t want to cook, you have a lot of choices, and you’ll still get to enjoy the traditional turkey breast, mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie, sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, green beans, butternut squash soup, and your other Thanksgiving favorites. From special Thanksgiving menus and Thanksgiving meals to scrumptious buffets, you’ll find a cornucopia of choices.

Many of the restaurants on this list are open for breakfast and lunch, too! You don’t have to settle for just a great dinner, you can indulge in some of Southwest Florida’s best for all three meals of the day.

Some of these eateries don’t require reservations, but many of them do. Southwest Florida, and especially Sanibel and Captiva Islands, are popular vacation destinations and restaurants get even busier around the holidays. To be on the safe side and to ensure you get to eat at the first restaurant of your choice, it’s better to err on the side of caution and make a reservation. 

Let us know where you end up. This list has some great options. We only wish we could try them all!

Bonita Springs and Estero

Bonita Springs and Estero 

Cape Coral

Captiva Island

Fort Myers

Fort Myers

Fort Myers Beach

Naples

Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island

Stay at a Royal Shell Rental for a Memorable Thanksgiving Holiday 

Regardless of where you’re staying, all of these Southwest Florida restaurants open on Thanksgiving are sure to serve up great culinary options that won’t disappoint. If you have a question about any of these restaurants or how to get to them, we can help! If you have a particular craving, we can point you to an option that will satisfy your cravings and your taste buds.

We hope you have a great Thanksgiving holiday and we hope to see you again next year. The holiday is about relaxing and giving thanks and we are thankful for customers like you! Contact us today and book a flexcation!

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