The beautiful white sand and calm waves of Southwest Florida make the area a perfect setting to say “I do” on your special day. Demand for wedding beach house rentals in Florida is high as couples search for the best spots.

Whether you select the marvelous Sanibel Island or the intimate charm of Captiva Island to exchange vows, planning a stunning beach house wedding in Southwest Florida is simple when nature provides the backdrop. As with any wedding, planning a beachfront wedding has many things to consider.

 

Timing Your Beach House Wedding

Do you have your heart set on a beach house wedding but have yet to decide on a specific date? Visit Florida notes that October to May is a popular wedding month in Florida. If you plan your beach destination wedding during those months, it is peak season in Southwest Florida.

The region is a top destination for visitors seeking upscale lodging with excellent access to the beach. A beach wedding in January or February appeals to couples escaping the winter snow back home. Couples should start planning early to ensure the right beach house is available.

 

What is the Best Month to Have a Beach Wedding in Florida?

When planning the perfect Florida beach house wedding, timing is everything. Southwest Florida offers stunning beachfront settings year-round. But choosing the right month can make your special day even more magical.

The optimal months for a beach wedding in Florida are typically from October to May. You can expect comfortable temperatures and lower humidity levels during this period — perfect for an outdoor celebration. High temperatures range from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (24°C to 30°C). Lows are pleasantly mild, ranging from the mid-50s to mid-60s Fahrenheit (12°C to 20°C).

These months offer the ideal balance of weather conditions. Your guests will usually be comfortable throughout the ceremony and wedding reception. The slightly cooler temperatures mean you won’t have to worry about the scorching Florida sun.

So, if you envision a beach house wedding in Southwest Florida, consider planning your special day during these months. Make the most of the region’s beautiful weather and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

 

What is Considered Off-Season for Weddings in Florida?

Florida’s peak wedding season from October to May is popular for its perfect weather and romantic ambiance. But don’t discount the charm of an off-season wedding between June and September. Choosing to tie the knot during these months can bring a host of benefits and unique experiences to your beach house wedding:

More Lodging Availability

One significant advantage of an off-season wedding is the increased lodging availability for your guests. Your loved ones will find it easier to secure lodgings, ensuring everyone can join in on your special day.

Cost Savings

Cost savings are another compelling reason to opt for an off-season wedding. Many venues and vendors offer discounts during these months. Stretch your budget further while still achieving the wedding of your dreams.

More Intimate

Beaches and venues are less crowded. You may have a quieter, more intimate experience — a smaller, serene backdrop for your ceremony and photos.

Added Adventure

If you’re an adventurous couple, an off-season wedding can be a delightful departure from the norm. Embrace the wild side of nature and create a unique wedding story.

 

What it Takes to Wed on the Beach

Saying your vows on a Southwest Florida beach includes a few additional details. Florida residents have a three-day waiting period for a marriage license. However, couples from outside the state are exempt from this rule.

A wedding planner will guide you through the details, such as whether a special beach permit is required for the ceremony or reception.

For example, items such as aisle runners are not allowed on Sanibel Island beaches. Couples should also be mindful of beach rules during the annual sea turtle nesting season from May 1 to October 31. There may be more things couples must change in the ceremony to avoid disturbing a new generation of sea turtles.

 

How Do You Plan a Florida Beach Wedding?

Florida is a popular destination for weddings, with its stunning beaches, mild climate, and abundant resorts and venues. Planning a Florida beach wedding can be a dream come true. Start early and prepare for the unique challenges of a coastal wedding.

Set a Budget

The first step in planning your Florida beach wedding is setting a budget. Determine how much you will spend on the venue, decor, catering, and other essentials. A clear budget will help you move forward with your plans.

Choose a Beachfront Destination

Florida offers a multitude of stunning beachfront destinations. Decide whether you want the tranquility of Sanibel Island or the intimate charm of Captiva Island. The right destination sets the tone for your entire wedding experience.

Choose a Date

Picking the perfect date is crucial. If you’re aiming for pleasant weather, consider the October to May window, which boasts comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. Ensure your chosen date aligns with your vision and fits your guests’ schedules.

Pick Your Wedding Party

Selecting your wedding party is a joyful task. Choose friends and family members who will support and celebrate your special day with you. These people will stand by your side as you exchange vows on the beach.

Make a Guest List

Compile a guest list that reflects your style of celebration. Beach wedding ceremonies may have capacity limitations. So be mindful of the number of guests you plan to invite.

Start a Registry

Create a wedding registry to help your guests choose meaningful gifts for your new life together. Consider items that align with your beachfront lifestyle, such as outdoor gear or beach-themed decor.

Book Wedding Vendors

Secure essential wedding vendors, including a photographer, caterer, florist, and entertainment. Beach weddings often have unique logistics, so choose professionals with experience in outdoor settings.

Send Save-the-Dates

Once you have a date and venue locked in, send save-the-dates to give your guests plenty of notice. Your loved ones will have time to plan their attendance and lodgings.

Say Yes to the Dress

When selecting your wedding attire, consider the beach environment. Lightweight, flowy fabrics and casual styles often work well for beach weddings. Remember comfortable footwear for sandy shores.

Get a Marriage License

Florida requires a marriage license, even for beach weddings. Obtain your license in advance at any county Clerk of Court.

Enjoy the Special Day

Most importantly, embrace the magic of your Florida beach wedding day. Relax and enjoy the beautiful beach, the love of your partner, and the joy of sharing this special moment with your loved ones. You’ll cherish this day forever.

 

Shelling it Out for the Beach

When planning your beach wedding, there is still a budget to consider. Add in the costs associated with non-traditional wedding items like beach permits. You must include other equipment rentals, like chairs, to seat your guests during the ceremony.

While a beach house wedding and reception venue can range from $5,000 to $10,000, the price depends on how long you use the property. Homeowners may have other fees for using the property for weddings and events. Most venues require a deposit to save your date.

When reserving the beach house, make sure to ask up front how many people are allowed to attend a wedding at the home. Homeowners, HOAs, cities, and counties may have different guidelines.

Many wedding supply vendors are in the region. Such vendors assist couples in adding creative and elegant touches to their dream beach wedding. Wedding planners can recommend photographers, caterers, and florists who know the region and beach guidelines best.

 

Stunning Beach House Location

As the saying goes, it’s all about location, location, location. When selecting the perfect beach house as your wedding venue, you should consider several things. Do you desire private access to the beach? Or is it OK to be a short distance from the beach?

Determine if the beach house needs enough sleeping space to accommodate everyone included in the wedding party. Or if the property is spacious enough to host a reception following the ceremony. Consider the parking, sleeping, catering prep, space to dance, and other wedding elements.

Couples should also consider whether a private beach house rental includes concierge services while in use. And ask how maintenance issues will be addressed.

Couples get an intimate wedding venue with breathtaking views by selecting a beach house. It’s the perfect way to capture the day’s special moments. Plan the perfect vacation trip to Sanibel Island today to scout your beach wedding.

 

Can You Get Married on Fort Myers Beach?

Absolutely! Fort Myers Beach, located in Lee County, Florida, offers a picturesque setting for your beachfront wedding. You don’t typically need a permit to marry on Lee County beaches. Some beautiful Lee County park beaches where you can say “I do” include Bowditch Point Regional Park, Lovers Key State Park, and more.

For detailed information on planning your beach wedding on Fort Myers Beach, visit the Lee County Clerk of Court Office website.

 

What Beaches in Florida Can You Get Married On?

Florida’s stunning beaches offer a perfect backdrop for a dream wedding, but navigating the regulations can take time and effort. Weddings are usually allowed on most public beaches in Florida. Restrictions may vary depending on the county or city managing the beach. And a marriage license is always a must.

Planning your dream Southwest Florida wedding? Here’s all the essential information you need to know:

• Lee County Beaches (Fort Myers Beach, Captiva, Bonita Springs): Permits are not required, but you must adhere to Lee County regulations.
• Sanibel: A Special Event Permit costing $50 for residents or $150 for non-residents is necessary. There may be restrictions during the nesting seasons of protected species (sea turtles: April 15 – October 31; Snowy Plover/Least Tern: February 15 – September 1)
• Naples: Weddings for five or fewer guests don’t require a permit. Larger gatherings need a permit costing $100-$165 per hour (depending on residency) with a $50 damage deposit.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a legal, hassle-free, and beautiful beach wedding in Florida.

 

How Can a Non-Resident Get Married in Florida?

Florida’s beautiful beaches and picturesque landscapes make it a popular choice for destination weddings, attracting brides and grooms worldwide. Getting married is straightforward for non-Florida residents. First, get a Florida marriage license, which can be obtained at any county Clerk of Court. Locally, get licenses at the Official Records Services of the Lee County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller or online via the Lee County Clerk of Courts website.

Marriage licenses are valid for 60 days. Obtain and use it in any county in the state. The state waives the three-day waiting period if both parties are non-residents.

A qualified officiant must perform your ceremony, which two people must witness. So it’s essential to have this arranged before your visit.

 

Find Wedding Beach House Rentals Florida with Royal Shell

Many private beach houses in the Southwest Florida region can accommodate weddings. From private homes to multi-unit estates to accommodate family and friends on a single property. Royal Shell offers additional wedding services to make your ceremony a memorable occasion. So, if a beach wedding is your top choice, it’s time to begin planning for the big day.

Connect with Royal Shell today to find your perfect beach house wedding location. See our Naples rentals, Sanibel Island vacation rentals, and Captiva Island vacation rentals.

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?

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

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!

The Hobie 16 worlds championship sailboat races are back in the United States. And they’re not going just anywhere—they’re coming to Captiva Island.

More than 500 sailors compete in the Hobie 16 World Championship. They come from 25 countries and six continents. The Hobie 16 Worlds will feature three world championship disciplines—pen, Youth and Women’s—along with three additional disciplines: Great Grand Masters Cup,  Masters Cup, and Masters Cup. The races begin at the north end of Captiva at South Seas Island Resort, and the public and the Southwest Florida community is invited to attend.

Royal Shell has vacation rental homes available at the resort along with a variety of homes to rent on the island itself. If you’re thinking about visiting for the competition, let one of our Vacation Planning Advisors know. We’ll try and accommodate you at South Seas if you’d like to be closer to the action, or we’ll work on finding you the perfect island bungalow, large single-family home on the beach, or anything in between. At Royal Shell, we give you the treatment you expect and the treatment you deserve.

The Hobie name comes from the company, Hobie Cat, known for making catamaran sailboats. It offers stand-up paddle boards, boats for both fishing and recreation, and kayaks. In the Hobie 16 World Championship, which began in 1976 in Honolulu, contestants compete on the brand’s signature 16-foot catamarans.

What is the Hobie 16?

The Hobie 16 is a lightweight catamaran that features asymmetrical fiberglass hulls along with a dual-trapeze rig. It transformed multi-hull sailing in 1970 when it was initially released in Southern California. It now holds a proud spot in the Sailboat Hall of Fame. Some say it’s the most popular sailboat of all time. The Hobie 16 worlds let competitors compete in identical sailboats. The company does this to make sure there is a level playing field for everyone.

The Hobie 16 Worlds Event on Captiva Island

There are a couple of firsts to celebrate this year. This is the first time the championship has been held on Captiva and it’s the first time Cuba will be represented.

The water is clear on Captiva and life is simple, so it’s no surprise Hobie chose the island to bring the competition back to the United States. Captiva’s residents can teach you about Island Time and help you relax, slow down and enjoy your stay in paradise. The white sand is more powdery, shells are abundant and all types of water sports are celebrated here, especially sailing. This is just one of the reasons Captiva was chosen to host the Hobie 16 World Championship.

According to Sail-World.com, Hobie Cat CEO, Doug Skidmore, said, “Captiva Island is a perfect location for the Hobie 16 World Championships and South Seas Island Resort is the perfect host. The water, white sand beaches, weather, people and location offer some of the best sailing conditions I have seen. As a company, we are proud to be a major part of these world championships.”

The Sailing Competition Will Help Boost the Island’s Economy

Sailing experts, their families and their fans will travel to Captiva Island from all over the world. Lee County tourism officials hope this will help put Captiva and Sanibel Islands on sailors’ nautical charts, as more international visitors are exposed to it during the competition. Money spent from visitors will also help bolster the economy in an otherwise slow time of the year.

Royal Shell Captiva Island Vacation Rentals

Whether you’re participating in the Hobie 16 worlds championship or you’re visiting as a spectator, Royal Shell has a variety of accommodations for you to take advantage of on the island. We offer all types of rental homes. If you’re looking for something cozy and romantic for just you and your partner, or you’re bringing the entire family or a large group of friends and need a larger estate home with Gulf of Mexico or bay views, our Vacation Planning Advisors can accommodate your needs for any type of property.

After the races, you can go for walks on the picturesque beaches, collect seashells and see a magical sunset at The Mucky Duck, which many argue are some of the best in the world. Grab a bite to eat at the eclectic The Bubble Room restaurant or go just to look at the décor. Believe us, this is one of the most popular restaurants on Captiva, and it’s not just for its food and gigantic slices of cake. The interior is full of kitschy items like vintage toys and Christmas decorations. After you’ve tried the cake at The Bubble Room, you can’t leave the island without grabbing a slice of famous key lime pie from the Keylime Bistro.

One of Southwest Florida’s hidden gems is the Island Hopper Songwriter Festival. The 10-day event honors songwriters and crooners with impressive talent, featuring low-key music with a country vibe.

The Island Hopper Songwriter Fest is spread out over four different locations and it’s not like other music festivals that last longer than a few days.  It’s comfortable, affordable, and rejuvenating. Explore this beautiful slice of paradise while discovering tons of new music. A vacation doesn’t get much better than this.

The annual Island Hopper Songwriter Fest is also the biggest festival in Southwest Florida that’s dedicated to all things songwriters. The best part? The event is mostly free, save for a few performances that require tickets.

Island Hopper began in 2014 and it continues to grow each year. With venues downtown near Fort Myers vacation rentals, Fort Myers Beach, Captiva Island vacation rentals, and Cape Coral, the annual Island Hopper Festival gives everyone a chance to catch a variety of musical acts.

The festival, typically held in late September, also helps boost the local economy. Each year local shops and restaurants see an uptick in business during the event, and it gives Southwest Florida visitors a chance to see what this part of the Sunshine State is all about.

The festival is produced by the Lee County Tourist Development Council, iHeartMedia, and BMI. It’s meant to bring people together through music while shining a spotlight on area bars and restaurants. Attendees will be able to enjoy 60-plus artists, most of which are free and in small, intimate venues across downtown Fort Myers, Captiva Island, Cape Coral, and Fort Myers Beach.

Island Hopper Songwriter Fest Music Lineup

Past featured artists include Chris Janson, Kristian Bush (half of the popular country duo Sugarland), Gone West, Jerrod Niemann, Rodney Atkins, and Ryan Hurd. Check back every year to learn about the exciting music lineup!

Royal Shell Vacation Rental Homes – Captiva Island, Fort Myers Beach, Cape Coral, and Fort Myers

Royal Shell has a variety of rental homes available on Captiva Island, Fort Myers Beach and in Fort Myers. They come in all shapes, sizes and colors. Whether you’re coming with a lot of friends and family or you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a low-key retreat with close friends and family, Royal Shell can accommodate any type of vacation. Our Vacation Planning Advisors offer optimal customer service, can help you plan your vacation and can answer any questions you have about Island Hopper Songwriter Fest.

For more information, you can also download the official Island Hopper mobile app for iOS and Android devices. You can use it to purchase tickets for select performances, look up artist information, updates and alerts, and performance times and venues.

Now that Memorial Day and Independence Day are over, there’s only one summer holiday left to enjoy. With a variety of things to do in Florida for Labor Day Weekend, you should have no problem planning a fun-filled and memorable vacation. The kiddos may be back in school, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a long weekend romantic getaway or unforgettable time with friends and loved ones. 

Here are 8 things to do in Florida for Labor Day Weekend:

1. Have a shell scavenger hunt 
2. Rent a boat
3. Visit Sun Splash Family Waterpark
4. Go to the beach and just relax
5. Take advantage of the Labor Day sales and go shopping
6. Visit the Naples Botanical Garden
7. Check out the Edison & Ford Winter Estates
8. Stay for a while and enjoy the September Hopper Songwriter Fest. This isn’t a Labor Day event, but if you plan on taking an extended vacation, you won’t want to miss this free 10-day festival. A few special performances require a ticket. Musicians perform in different locations around Fort Myers. There will also be performances on Fort Myers Beach and Captiva Island. It’s a lot of fun!  

What to Do on Labor Day Weekend in Southwest Florida

There are a variety of events throughout Southwest Florida, so whether you’re staying in Naples to the South or Fort Myers to the North, you should have no problem finding a variety of things to do for Labor Day Weekend.

Spend the day shopping at the Promenade at Bonita Bay, located at 26795 South Bay Drive in Bonita Springs. 

Get to know your history at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates. The homes are open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and children 12 and younger get in free for the self-guided audio tour. This is how it works: One child gets free admission per each paid adult ticket. The Edison & Ford Winter Estates are located at 3583 McGregor Boulevard in Fort Myers.

Visit the Bass Pro Shops Labor Day Festival at Gulf Coast Town Center. On Sept. 1 from noon to 5 p.m. and on Sept. 2, noon to 4 p.m., the retail store hosts a Labor Day celebration. The event features face painting, family activities, an archery challenge, bait toss, duck pond, free hot dogs from noon to 2 p.m. both days, free samples of funnel cake and cotton candy from 1-4 p.m. both days, crafts and workshops for the adults. 

What to Do on Labor Day Weekend in Florida

Luckily, Southwest Florida is so diverse; there are a variety of fun things to do on Labor Day no matter where you end up staying. For a truly Florida-style Labor Day Weekend, embrace the Sunshine State and all that it has to offer.

Look for Seashells Down by the Sea Shore

Is it really a Florida vacation if you don’t go shelling? The types of shells you’ll find depend on the beach’s location, the tide and whether or not there was a storm the night before. You may not be able to find the same shells on the same day at the same beach, but that’s part of the magic and allure of collecting seashells. Sanibel and Captiva Island are some of the best shelling destinations in the world. This is because Sanibel and Captiva’s southern currents help a variety of shells wash up on the shore. Sanibel’s east-west torque of its eastern end also works as a spoon to scoop up shells from deeper Gulf of Mexico waters. The gentle surf then deposits them on Sanibel’s coastline for shellers to find.

Rent a Boat and Enjoy a Gorgeous Sunset

Florida is known for its picturesque sunsets and they are even better when they’re experienced on the water in the company of your loved ones. Any of our Vacation Planning Advisors can tell you where to find Southwest Florida boat rentals. Go on the water for a day and end it with a sunset, explore the islands around you and take in the area’s natural surroundings and breathe a sigh of relief—because you’re on vacation! If you prefer to let someone else take the wheel, you may choose from a variety of cruises leaving the docks of area marinas. Relax while you take in the views and learn about dolphins, manatees, alligators and other denizens of the deep.

Visit a Water Park to Cool Off

If you have younger children and teenagers with you, they’d love a day at the local waterpark. Sun Splash Family Waterpark in Cape Coral, FL is a great family-friendly option if you’re looking for things to do in Florida for Labor Day Weekend. There is a gift shop, a few options for food, a lazy river, 14 acres of waterslides and a kids’ play area. 

Go to the Beach. Try Lovers Key State Park

Lovers Key State Park is more than just a beach. There is a picnic area, canoe and kayak rentals, and restroom facilities. There are also three barrier islands to explore, whether you embark on a tour with a park ranger or you decide to rent a watercraft yourself. Or you can enjoy five miles of trails on your own by bicycle or on foot.  

Have a Great Labor Day Weekend in a Royal Shell Rental Home

For many people, Labor Day Weekend is the last hurrah before fall begins. There are so many things to do in Florida for Labor Day weekend to keep you occupied. Book a last minute holiday getaway today with Royal Shell today. Call us today.

Visit Southwest Florida and stay in any of our breathtaking vacation rental homes. There are a variety of things to do in Florida for Labor Day Weekend, and now that you have this guide, we hope you’ll take advantage of as many Labor Day activities as you can. Our Vacation Planning Advisors can help you plan the ultimate vacation so you have the perfect time! Grab a craft beer or a glass of wine and relax. Don’t forget to enjoy the sunset, too.

Best Restaurants on Captiva Island  

Captiva Island is an even more relaxed version of its sister island, Sanibel. Time seems to stand still here and many remark that the island is frozen in time. However, its restaurants aren’t and there is plenty of islands dines to take advantage of while you’re here. They are always serving up delicious meals in a great atmosphere, so what’s not to love?

Here are some of the best restaurants on Captiva Island (in no particular order) so you know where to go for a memorable meal:

• Keylime Bistro
• The Mucky Duck
• Bubble Room
• Old Captiva House
• The Green Flash
• RC Otter’s
• Sunshine Seafood Café
• Cantina Captiva
• Latte Da Coffee Shop & Deli
• Mad Hatter
• Sunset Grill
  • There are also two excellent restaurants just over the bridge on Sanibel Island. Check out The Mad Hatter and Sunset Grille. In the evening, they both have excellent views of the sunset. You won’t be disappointed!

• If you decide to explore Sanibel Island even further, here are our guides for the best breakfast and lunch restaurants on Sanibel Island and the best dinner restaurants on Sanibel.

Keylime Bistro

One of Captiva Island’s most well-known restaurants, the Keylime Bistro is located right in the heart of Captiva Village. If you are staying in a Captiva Island vacation rental off Andy Rosse Lane, Keylime Bistro sits at the end of the street where it intersects with Captiva Drive. It serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, so you can dine there for all three meals if you’d like.

Why Plan a Visit:

• The meals from Keylime Bistro on Captiva are delicious, especially if you love seafood. However, they have other options if that’s not your thing. You can dine inside and appreciate its laid-back, tropical décor. Or you can enjoy the Florida sunshine and sit outside. There’s also a full-service bar and live music daily, making this low-key bistro rank among the best restaurants on Captiva Island.

What to Order:

• For breakfast, we recommend the crab cake benedict. It’s a nice seafood twist on the most important meal of the day. If you’re visiting for lunch, the grouper sandwich is a must-try entrée. We also love the key lime pasta. And for dessert, it’s got to be key lime pie.

Visit the Keylime Bistro at 11509 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva, Florida, 33924.

The Mucky Duck

This longtime Captiva establishment is one of the best restaurants on Captiva Island and it’s loved by locals and visitors alike. It’s located near the beach in between Andy Rosse and Wightman Lanes. You’ll usually find residents and visitors at the Mucky Duck to watch the sunset. It’s an island tradition. Inside you’ll find old photos and island memorabilia. It’s cozy and warm and perfect for the whole family to enjoy.

Why Plan a Visit:

• The Mucky Duck is just one of those places you have to check out when you’re on Captiva. It’s also one of the best places to go to grab a bite to eat and watch the sunset. And if you like seafood, even better. The Mucky Duck’s entrees are delicious. It’s also a great place to top off a good day at the beach.

What to Order:

• Online reviewers praised the surf and turf and the barbeque bacon-wrapped shrimp. The scallops are also a hot ticket item.

Visit The Mucky Duck at 11546 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva, Florida, 33924.

Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille – Captiva Island

Doc Ford’s on Captiva is located on the South Seas Island Resort’s property, but it is open to the public. Like the Mucky Duck on Captiva, Doc Ford’s is also an island staple and it’s easy to see why it’s among the best restaurants on Captiva Island. There is a spacious inside and breezy outdoor patio. Photos of Captiva hang on the wall and paint a picture of the island’s history. The restaurant’s Caribbean fare is also delicious and well worth a try.

Why Plan a Visit:

• Doc Ford’s has a fun, casual and upbeat atmosphere. It’s the ultimate dining destination for people looking to enjoy a low-key island vacation. They also have an excellent rum selection to help get you in the island mood.

What to Order:

• Practically anyone you ask will tell you to try the Yucatan shrimp. They have the perfect combination of key lime flavors and Caribbean goodness. The paella and lobster rolls are also popular choices.

Visit Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille – Captiva Island at 5400 South Seas Plantation Road, Captiva, Florida, 33924.

Bubble Room

People drive from all over Southwest Florida just to visit the Bubble Room on Captiva. Not only is the food amazing, but the inside of the Bubble Room will shock and delight you in the best way possible. The walls are covered with kitschy knickknacks and antiques to pay homage to the Bubble Room’s multiple themes. It’s Hollywood, Christmas and a toy store all rolled into one. It’s bright and fun and it’ll take all of your worries away. The Bubble Room is the best place to either kick off your vacation—or end it on a high note.

Why Plan a Visit:

• The Bubble Room is a great place to bring the entire family. The kids will especially love the décor. Some items are from the 1930s, so they’re almost a century old. The moving trains are one of the biggest attractions for kids, and now they’re on all three floors.

What to Order:

• Almost all of the desserts are worth ordering. The portions are big, too! The Bubble Room is also known for its Bubble Bread.

Visit the Bubble Room at 15001 Captiva Drive, Captiva, Florida, 33924.

Old Captiva House Restaurant

The Old Captiva House is steeped in island history. The whole restaurant is bright and open and has a very “Southern Belle” feel to it. It’s charming and it’ll captivate the whole family, so feel free to bring the kids along. The Old Captiva House was first built to be a one-room school, and then a fishing camp. In 1931, it became a restaurant for guests of the Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa. Most of its architecture and art has been preserved, so you’ll feel like you’re going back in time. It truly is an experience and a great Captiva Island restaurant.

Why Plan a Visit:

• The atmosphere is dreamy and the food and service is suburb. There’s also tons of history here. If you’re a history buff, we highly recommend Old Captiva House as one of the best restaurants on Captiva Island.

What to Order:

• Reviewers on TripAdvisor praised the Chilean sea bass, scallops stuffed with lobster, shrimp cocktail appetizer and seafood lasagna.

Visit the Old Captiva House at 15951 Captiva Drive, Captiva, Florida, 33924.

The Green Flash

The Green Flash is a part of Captiva Island history and because of that, some would argue that it’s one of the best restaurants on Captiva Island. The Green Flash was constructed on top of Timmy’s Nook, a popular local gathering hole established in 1950. When the new owners took over, their goal was to preserve the spirit of Timmy’s Nook. The legendary Captiva restaurant features views of the Intracoastal Waterway, the Pine Island Sound and Buck Key. It’s located southwest of marker 38, so if you want to come by boat, you can! There’s a dock out back, too.

Why Plan a Visit:

• The Green Flash is part of Captiva Island history and is still known as a favorite local watering hole. You can pull up in your boat after a day exploring the waters around Captiva Island and enjoy a fantastic meal. After all, that’s what vacationing in Florida is all about.

What to Order:

• Reviewers on Yelp loved the steamed seafood pot, surf and turf, shrimp bisque and shrimp tacos. If you like seafood, this is the place to go!

Visit The Green Flash at 15183 Captiva Drive, Captiva Florida, 33924.

RC Otters Island Eats

RC Otters has a great atmosphere. It’s bright, fun and the inside features a Key West type of vibe. You can either sit inside or enjoy the weather and sit outside. There’s live music every day, too. RC Otters also has an expansive menu, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, there is a special children’s menu for little ones under 12 years old.

Why Plan a Visit:

• RC Otters is a fun place the whole family can enjoy and they serve up entrees for all three meals of the day. It’s a great place to take the kids and it’s just an all-around good time.

What to Order:

• For breakfast, we recommend trying the ultimate seafood omelet with shrimp and blue crab meat. Their traditional French toast, old-fashioned buttermilk pancakes and Belgian style waffles are also delicious. For lunch or dinner, there are plenty of seafood options like oysters on the half shell and grouper. If you’re looking for something else, try the chicken fingers or New York strip steak. Craving something sweet? Definitely try the key lime pie — we dare you to finish it.

Visit RC Otters Island Eats at 11506 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva Island, Florida, 33924.

Sunshine Seafood Café

The Sunshine Seafood Café is one of the best restaurants on Captiva Island and also one of its best-kept secrets. It’s a great option for fine dining and good wine. You can also sit inside or sit outside and enjoy being in the heart of the island. The Sunshine Seafood Café is known for its seafood fare, but it also has light options, like salads.

Why Plan a Visit:

• This is a great choice if you’re looking for an upscale dining option in the heart of Captiva Village. The interior is sleek and modern and the food is amazing. What other reasons do you need?

What to Order:

• There are a variety of seafood dishes to try, and we suggest you try them all. Start with the wood-grilled jumbo shrimp with an orange blossom honey sauce. The jumbo lump crab cakes are also delicious.

Visit Sunshine Seafood Café at 11508 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva, Florida, 33924.

Cantina Captiva

Like RC Otters, Cantina Captiva has a fun and funky vibe, like the types of restaurants you’d find in Key West. It also serves up some delicious Southwestern and Mexican fare.

Why Plan a Visit:

• The homemade guacamole is reason enough to visit this festive lunch and dinner restaurant. Made fresh daily, it comes with pico de gallo and warm tortilla chips. There are enough options on the menu for everyone, even if you don’t like Mexican food. The service is great and the ambiance is even better.

What to Order:

• Yelp reviewers praised the diablo shrimp and their burritos. You also can’t beat the fresh guacamole.

Visit Cantina Captiva at 14970 Captiva Drive, Captiva, Florida, 33924.

Latte Da Coffee Shop & Deli

Latte Da is the perfect place to go for your morning coffee or for a quick pick-me-up after dinner. There are colorful, island-themed decorations inside and out to get you in the island mood. Latte Da serves sandwiches and quick food items if you get hungry. They also serve Queenie’s Homemade Ice Cream. It’s local and many residents will tell you it’s their favorite. Try it for yourself and see what you think!

Why Plan a Visit:

• Visit in the morning to enjoy a coffee and watch the island wake up and come to life. This coffee shop is located in the heart of Captiva, so it’s an excellent spot if you like to people watch. Latte Da is a good option for a quick bite and it’s great for after dinner desserts, whether you’re choosing coffee, ice cream or both.

What to Order:

• Latte Da serves coffee from Seattle’s Best and also offers milkshakes, smoothies, homemade ice cream, books, gifts and delicious old-fashioned candies.

Visit Latte Da Coffee Shop & Deli at 11506 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva, Florida, 33924.

Stay in Featured Royal Shell Vacation Rentals Near Some of the Best Restaurants on Captiva Island

Most of these restaurants are on Captiva’s main thoroughfare, Andy Rosse Lane, in the heart of Captiva Village. Royal Shell has a variety of vacation rentals on or near Andy Rosse Lane, but Captiva is such a small island, you won’t be far from some of the best restaurants on Captiva Island no matter where you stay. They are all a quick walk or bike ride away! Just a short drive away are also fantastic eatery options, including the best restaurants in Naples.

Now that you have everything you need to plan your Captiva Island dining experiences on your vacation, all that’s left to do is a book a Royal Shell vacation today. Connect with a Royal Shell real estate agent to help you find the perfect Captiva Island vacation rentals today.

When you’re planning a trip to Southwest Florida, picking the perfect beach spot can be one of the most important parts of your vacation. While we have you covered there, it’s also important to have everything you need to look like you’re a beach bum pro.

Southwest Florida beaches are the best beaches in the country. We also offer the best beach accessories to make sure your Florida vacation and your beach time are enjoyable and as effortless as possible. Here are some of the best beach accessory ideas we can offer to make sure you get the most out of your Southwest Florida beach experience.

Beach Cup Holders

No one likes a cold drink that’s covered in sticky, white sand. Make sure you take a long beach cup holder that anchors into the sand and allows you to pick up your beach drink without receiving a hand full of wet sand. Make sure the beach you are visiting allows beverages before you break out the beach drinks!

It’s also a good idea to bring along plenty of beach koozies to keep your drinks cold. Juice boxes for the kids and plenty of waters and beverages for the adults are important, too.

Beach Folding Tables are the Real Deal

Do you have little ones that make messes? Add the beach and watch that mess multiply by mixing in wet and dry sand to the equation! The only thing worse than beach messes is kids trying to eat lunches on the beach with a towel. Avoid the mess and the loss of another beach towel by bringing a folding beach table that’s perfect for juice boxes, snacks and lunches!

If you have a table that’s sturdy enough, you can even play a game of beach poker under the tent to cool off and get a break from the sun’s rays.

Beach Carts

Beach carts are a necessity for families heading to the beach. No one wants to be that mom or dad lugging everything from umbrellas to towels and kids over their shoulders. Find yourself a nice, collapsible beach cart that you can pull through the sand with ease. Beach carts ensure you only have to make one hands-free trip from the car to your beach spot.

Beach Tents

A beach tent for adults and kids is a must-have beach item. Whether you are on the beach all day, or for a few hours, a beach tent provides much-needed relief from the sun during a snack, nap or even just for a breather while you reapply your suntan lotion. Make sure it’s an easy-to-pack-and-fold item that isn’t too bulky for your beach cart or vehicle.

Beach Blankets Have Come a Long Way

Gone are the days when a regular terry cloth beach blanket on the sand would suffice. Beachgoers today can do better. In today’s beach world, you can find beach blankets that repel sand and are water-resistant. Many of them also have pockets to hold belongings like phones and keys you’ll want to keep clean from the elements. Microfiber beach blankets also work to create a plush environment for sunbathers and act as a quick-drying towel. Many of these fancy, new beach towels can also work as a yoga mat or exercise towel.

Favorite Tunes for the Beach

We realize the days of bringing a boombox to the beach are over. But that doesn’t mean the beach jams have to stop! Make a fresh beach playlist for summer or any other time of the year and make sure it’s available to play for friends on a portable Bluetooth speaker that’s charged up for your beach trip. Bring along a pair of headphones, too, for when it’s time to meditate in the sand and get lost in your own world.

Pick the Perfect Beach Bag

Beach bags are all the rage right now. Big, bulky mesh bags that you can toss everything in, from beach towels to buckets and shovels for the kids, are not hip anymore. The perfect beach bag for a day at the beach is waterproof, has containers to hold and protect valuables, and looks good doing it with cute designs, tassels and monogrammed options.

Use a Beach Umbrella that Works for You

A good beach umbrella that can handle and buffer a good Gulf of Mexico rain shower is very important. Beach umbrellas with aluminum poles that are adjustable are the best choice. Tilt adjustments are also a must because they allow you to angle the umbrella to protect yourself as the sun changes position.

Umbrellas should also have:

• Fiberglass ribs for durability
• UV-coated fabric to protect you from harmful UVB rays
• Vents with zipper pockets to allow strong winds to go through the umbrella instead of knocking it over
• A good sand anchor system to drill the umbrella deep into the sand for proper anchoring

Picking the Best Beach Chair

Beach chairs have come a long way in the last 10 years. These days, it’s easy to select an affordable beach chair that offers the following perks:

• Lightweight
• Rear storage compartments
• Cupholders
• Comfortable armrests
• Attached cooler
• Available towel drying bar

Beach Toys for the Kiddos

If you have kids, you cannot forget to take a good variety of sand toys to the beach to keep them busy throughout the day.

Other kid-friendly toys to bring include:

• Dump trucks to move the sand
• Sand baking sets for the kids
• Water guns for the teenagers
• A volleyball or football for the water or the sand
• A kite during windy beach days

Use Sunscreen

Whether you are sitting on the dock of the bay or on the beach, you need ultimate sun protection all day long! Make sure you select a sunscreen that you can use on both your face and your body. You should also look for a non-greasy formula and one that is water-resistant if you know you’ll be spending time in the water. Choose a sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher for ultimate protection from harmful UVB rays and reapply often!

Hydrate Often with a Good Water Bottle

You have to drink plenty of water during a trip to the beach, especially on hot and humid days. Choose a reusable water bottle that can keep drinks cold for 24 hours and keep hot drinks warm, if you’re heading to see a Southwest Florida sunset on a cool and breezy winter night.

A Beach Cooler Can Be Your Friend

Whether you are packing a lunch, bringing drinks or need a place to keep things cool, a beach cooler is your friend. Soft coolers are all the rage right now, especially ones that have straps so you can walk onto the beach with the cooler on your back like a backpack. Coolers with wheels also get the job done for a family that needs a big cooler to hold everything for a long day at the beach.

Make Your Naples Beach Reservation Today!

You have everything you need now for the perfect beach experience in Southwest Florida. We also have the tips you need for shelling and vacation home rental tips for families.

The only thing left to do now is enjoy the beach and your Florida vacation. Are you looking to head to Naples, Bonita Springs, Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Fort Myers Beach or Sanibel or Captiva islands? Why limit yourself? Book a longer Florida beach stay and explore all the beaches in the area because each one of them has something unique. The agents at Royal Shell can help you plan your perfect beach getaway vacation today.

Apple pie, family get-togethers and the American flag all make us think of the Fourth of July because they symbolize independence. Spending the holiday on the beach in Southwest Florida, or at least in warm, sunny temperatures, makes 4th of July Florida events even better for your holiday vacation getaway. 

Whether you’ve already been to Southwest Florida’s Sanibel Island or Captiva Island or the mainland, it doesn’t hurt to revisit special memories and make new ones. The best 4th of July Florida events are truly made on the beach. There’s nothing like fireworks on the beach to get you in a patriotic state of mind. 

Know your Fourth of July History

The Fourth of July has officially been a federal holiday since 1941, but the holiday has been celebrated since the American Revolution. On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress officially adopted the Declaration of Independence from Great Britain.

Patriotic fervor became even more prevalent after the War of 1812, in which the United States again squared off against Great Britain. In 1870, Congress made the Fourth of July a federal holiday; in 1941, the provision was extended to grant all federal employees a paid holiday.

Florida Fourth of Julys Belong on the Beach

Celebrate America’s Independence Day in sunny Southwest Florida and relax on the beach before heading to one of the area’s hotspots to view one of the stunning fireworks shows.

Whether you’re looking for a Fourth of July parade or the largest fireworks display, this post will tell you all you need to know about 4th of July Florida events in Naples, Bonita Springs, Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel Island.

Best 4th of July Vacations in Florida to Experience

Southwest Florida is a big area, so there’s a lot of ground to cover for America’s birthday bash. Regardless of where you’re staying or what you’re looking for, there are plenty of options for you to find something to do.

Florida Fireworks

Most people celebrate Independence Day by watching a firework display, and Southwest Florida has plenty of options to choose from. If you’re watching the firework spectacle from the beach, don’t forget to bring a towel, folding chairs, sunscreen, water and bug spray.

Naples Pier

Fireworks at The Naples Pier begin 9 p.m. Wednesday, July 4 from a barge 1,000 feet away from the pier

The Naples Police Department will strictly enforce parking and pay special attention to “No Parking” areas with a focus on the entire length of Gulf Shore Boulevard, fire hydrants and blocked intersections.

A good rule of thumb for viewing fireworks at the Naples Pier is to get there early so you can snag a parking space. Traffic is also always backed up after this event. Make sure you plan accordingly.

Star-Spangled Bonita

Located in the heart of downtown historic Bonita Springs, Riverside Park will feature kid-friendly events and July 4-themed activities. There will also be a firework and laser-light display at night for a star-spangled spectacular.

Downtown Fort Myers Freedom Fest

If you haven’t had an opportunity to visit downtown Fort Myers, now’s your chance. The WINK Freedom Fest starts in the afternoon and the downtown Fort Myers firework display begins at 9:30 p.m. It’s free and it boasts live entertainment and food trucks. If you’re staying in or near Fort Myers for the 4th of July, this is an ideal option.

Red, White and Boom in Cape Coral

Think red, white and blue but it’s really about the boom in Cape Coral. This is one of the best Fourth of July celebrations in Southwest Florida, and also one of the area’s most talked about. Singer-songwriter Chase Bryant will headline the annual Cape Coral fireworks Independence Day celebration at 8 p.m.

From 5 to 10 p.m., expect vendors, kids park with rides, kids activities and of course, a firework display at 9:30 p.m. Guests must purchase a wristband to enjoy the rides. Each session lasts one hour and 15 minutes, and there are a limited number of wristbands available.

Red, White and Boom is free and located at the foot of the Cape Coral Bridge in downtown Cape Coral, just east of Del Prado Boulevard.

Parking for Red, White and Boom is also free and parking lot locations include Club Square, Iguana Mia, the Veterans Museum or Big John’s Pizza. There will also be free parking and trolley service. For more information, you can call 239-573-3128.

If you are staying on Cape Coral or don’t mind a bit of a drive, there is also a Freedom 5k at the foot of the Cape Coral Bridge at 7:30 a.m. Registration for the Cape Coral Fourth of July 5K, begins at 6 a.m. and runners can register for the Cape Coral 4th of July 5k at the Fort Myers Track Club website, freedom5kcc.com.

If you’re staying in the area for a while, there is also the Cape Coral Mango Fest on June 14 and 15. The 22nd annual Cape Coral Mango Mania features everything mango with food and recipe contests, music, food and drinks, and tropical plants and trees for sale.

Sanibel Island Fireworks

A firework display starts at 9 p.m. from a barge off the end of Bailey Road. The best spot to view July fireworks is from the Sanibel Island Causeway.

4th of July Parades in Florida

It wouldn’t be a major holiday without a parade, and these options will help put you in the patriotic spirit.

Downtown Naples

The Fourth of July parade will take place on July 4 from 10 a.m. to noon. Grab a spot near the start of the event on Broad Avenue South or wait for the parade to finish on Third Street South. Don’t forget to bring water and folding chairs.

Bonita Springs

Head over to Riverside Park at 9 a.m. for a Fourth of July parade and stay all day for fun-filled activities the whole family can enjoy. It’s a family-friendly event everyone can enjoy.

Fort Myers Beach

The parade begins at 10 a.m. at the Bay Oaks Recreation Center and travels along Estero Boulevard to Times Square. Stick around Times Square near the clock until 2 p.m. for patriotic crafts, a watermelon-eating contest and a dunk tank. The event is free and parking is limited. However, free trolley service is available all day. Fireworks start at 8:45 p.m. at Times Square. Bringing your own beach chairs is encouraged. Also, keep in mind that the Matanzas Pass Bridge will be closed from 9:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. to oncoming traffic

Sanibel Island

Start the Fourth of July festivities at 9:30 a.m. with a parade that travels along the main thoroughfare, Periwinkle Way, from Tarpon Bay Road to Casa Ybel Road. There will be an after-parade celebration at Jerry’s Shopping Center at 10:30 a.m. and the 39th-annual San-Cap Optimist’s Club Road Rally also starts at noon at Timbers Restaurant.

 Best Fourth of July Celebrations in Southwest Florida

Whether you decide to spend the Fourth of July holiday week in Naples, Bonita, Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Sanibel or Captiva Island, there are plenty of things to do for members of the entire family.

It just depends on what type of Fourth of July vacation you’re looking for. Try a laid back vacation rental in Bonita Springs or a Cape Coral vacation rental. Perhaps you’d like to try a Naples vacation rental and enjoy its high-end eateries and fancy boutiques. Whatever kind of trip you’re planning, our Royal Shell vacation planners can help make it happen.

Come for July 4th celebration week and enjoy some of the best Fourth of July celebrations in Southwest Florida. You might like it so much; you’ll want to stay for a lifetime.

Find a Rental Home Near the Best Fourth of July Events in Florida

There are so many different Fourth of July Florida events. You can’t go wrong whether you spend the holiday in Naples, Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, Fort Myers Beach, Cape Coral, Ocala, Sanibel Island, or Captiva Island. Each area has something unique to offer. Bonita Springs and Cape Coral are located in the middle of everything. Naples is known for its food and arts scenes. It’s also near the Everglades if you’re looking for an adventure. Sanibel and Captiva Islands have beautiful beaches and the destinations truly feel like you’re on vacation. Let us know what kind of trip you’re thinking about taking and our Royal Shell Vacation Planners will make it happen.

If you are thinking about becoming a Florida regular, any of our agents will be more than happy to take you around to see our beautiful Southwest Florida homes. We can also help you plan a last minute holiday getaway! If you’re considering selling your home and buying a place in the Sunshine State, our agents know Southwest Florida like the backs of our hands. We can answer all of your questions, point you to the best beaches and show you some of the area’s best hotspots. Helping people find their dream home or vacation rental is what we do best. Contact Royal Shell today!

When you get out the suitcase and start packing for a vacation, your pets naturally become excited because they see that everyone is getting ready to do something and they want to know what’s going on and if pet friendly travel is in their future.

Your furry friends are a member of your family; too, so it’s no wonder they always think they get to go everywhere you do. You don’t like going anywhere without your pets either, huh? So, why not bring them along so they can have some fun? After all, Fido deserves a vacation, too, right?

Royal Shell Makes Pet-Friendly Vacation Travel Easy

• Royal Shell vacation rentals mostly only allow dogs. However, very few select properties allow cats.
• Royal Shell charges an additional pet fee, which is used as additional rent to the owner of the property.
• Royal Shell currently has over 100 pet friendly properties.
• Breed or weight restrictions vary from property to property, but most properties are ok with one or two pets that are less than 25 pounds. Although, there are a select few properties that offer more relaxed standards.
• We ask that you please notify Royal Shell at time of booking and pay additional pet fee

Top 7 Tips for Pet-Friendly Vacation Travel

These tips will help pet owners and their companions get the most out of their Southwest Florida vacation.

Have you tried any of these tips? Let us know in the comment section below this post!

1. Check the Pet Policy When Making Reservations

First things first, make sure Fido is going to be allowed to stay at your vacation rental with you before you book accommodations for your next trip.

Some pet-friendly vacation rental homes require an additional, non-refundable fee to cover the cost of cleaning up after your furry friends. According to Royal Shell Vacations Director of Operations, Nykkie Rizley, pet fees are also used as additional rent to the property owner.

If you are considering a vacation rental property, and pet-friendly is not specified, it’s a good idea to call and inquire anyway, just to be safe. If you assume a property is pet-friendly and don’t learn otherwise until you arrive, that type of thing has the potential to ruin your entire vacation.

Always check the vacation rental property’s pet policy before you make reservations. You can also contact our vacation planners as well. If they’re not sure, they’ll work to get you an answer as soon as possible, so you can plan your vacation accordingly.

2. Proper Pet Identification

Remember, your pet can’t speak for itself. It can’t tell anyone its name or yours. So, if something were to happen to your pet while you’re on vacation, it’s vital to have your fur baby outfitted with proper identification, whether it’s via a tag or a microchip. Your furry friend could wander off and get lost and you never know when an unexpected event like a car accident or natural disaster could occur.

Even if you are super careful, something could catch you and your pet off guard and cause you to become separated. Making sure your pet has some type of identification ensures a much higher chance of them finding their way back to you safe and sound.

You also never know when you may need to take your pet to the vet. Or worse, you and Fido could become separated. If the worst case scenario does happen, it’s much easier to be reunited with your furry loved one if it has proper identification to find its way back to you.

3. Update Pet Vaccinations and Medical Records

Before you travel, it’s always a good rule of thumb to make sure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date. Sometimes, owners are asked to provide medical records for their pet before they make the vacation rental reservation. If that’s the case, you don’t want to scramble to make a last minute appointment.

Also, keep in mind that medical records for your pet can play a vital role in the event of an emergency visit to a local veterinarian while you’re on vacation. Some pet vaccines are considered vital and they’re based on how severe a disease is, risk exposure to it and the chance of the disease being passed on to humans.

4. Pack Pet Carrier & Other Supplies

Sometimes, we’re so excited to get to our sunny vacation destination that packing our pets’ essentials can seem like an afterthought. When packing for a vacation that’s going to include pets, don’t forget their carriers, food, toys, leash, doggy bags, litterbox, litter and other necessary pet supplies.

Your dog or cat may also appreciate blankets and seat covers so they have a comfortable ride down to the Sunshine State and a comfortable place to lie on once they get here. If your pet is used to sleeping on a certain bed or a particular sheet, bring that with you, too; unless you want them sleeping on the guest bedroom.

While you may want to bring your furry loved one everywhere you go, there likely will be times when you need to leave them alone for a few hours. Putting them in their carriers is going to be the safest option, or you could opt for a local pet sitter.

Find a pet sitter in Southwest Florida

A pet sitter will feed and walk your dog as well as spend quality time with them so they don’t feel lonely while you’re gone.

Here are some pet sitter options:

• Call the local humane society and domestic animal services for recommendations
  • Naples Humane Society, 239-643-1555
  • Fort Myers (Gulf Coast) Humane Society, 239-332-0364
  • Lee County Domestic Animal Services, 239-533-7387
• If you’re staying in Fort Myers, you can try local a local pet services company, called Pawsotively Purrfect.
• Visit the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters website and enter your information and see what your options are.
• Browse www.Rover.com for pet sittings and dog walkers.

5. Play with Fido at the Dog Park or on the Beach

Fido is just as excited as you are to explore a new spot. Visit a local dog park near your pet-friendly vacation rental, or any other public park or beach where dogs are allowed.

You’ll get to enjoy the Florida sunshine and fresh air and you can soak up the sun and not feel guilty for leaving Fido behind. Your dog may also want to dip a paw in the water, too!

Here is a list of dog-friendly beaches in Southwest Florida, according to BringFido.com:

• Keewaydin Island in Naples
• Algiers Beach on Sanibel
• Bonita Beach Dog Park

The Naples Daily News offers these pet-friendly options:

• Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park in Naples
• Fort Myers Beach or any of the beaches on Sanibel. According to the Daily News, Lee County Parks and Recreation lets pet owners walk their dogs on the beach provided they pick up after their furry friend and put them on a leash.

6. Pet-Friendly Restaurants

A night out on the town can be fun for the whole family, and maybe your four-legged members want to come, too. Depending on the area—from the islands of Sanibel and Captiva, to Fort Myers or Fort Myers Beach, Bonita Springs, Cape Coral or Naples—many restaurants welcome pets in an open air setting.

Check out our list of options, and make sure to call the restaurant ahead of time to confirm. The Naples Daily News recommends the following:

• The Dock at Crayton Cove in Naples
• Restaurants along Fifth Avenue South in Naples
• Bonita Bill’s Waterfront Café in Bonita Springs
• Some restaurants in Coconut Point Mall in Estero between Bonita Springs and Fort Myers
• Miromar Outlet shopping mall in Estero between Bonita Springs and Fort Myers

When you do decide to dine with Fido, make sure to bring a treat and bowl of water for your pooch, so they behave themselves and don’t seek out food from the table.

7. Good Pet Etiquette is Key

Let’s face it, not everyone enjoys pets. However, practicing good pet etiquette is important while you’re on vacation. If you’re planning on staying in a resort condo, keeping your dog quiet will be much appreciated by the building’s other guests.

The atmosphere can be exciting for pets because everything is exhilarating and new. It’s helpful to keep them on a leash and close by, so they don’t disturb others. While a beach house will afford you a little more privacy, pet owners will still need to focus on pet etiquette to ensure, for example, that a barking dog cannot be heard by neighbors at the next property over.

Make sure you and Fido have the vacation of a lifetime

If you’re getting ready to go on the vacation of a lifetime and you can’t stand not being able to bring along your furry family member, the professional staff at Royal Shell can help you find a pet-friendly vacation rental property that suits all of your needs. Whether you choose Sanibel, Captiva, Fort Myers Beach, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs or Naples vacation rentals, we want to make sure the entire family has the vacation of a lifetime, including Fido with a variety of pet friendly rentals! Connect with Royal Shell today.

Do you have other tips for pet-friendly travel on vacation? Share your comments here on your experiences with pet-friendly vacation rentals, or connect with us on social media. We look forward to hearing about your pet-friendly traveling adventures!

Whether you’re looking for a small one-bedroom cottage for a romantic getaway or a three-bedroom home for the entire family, booking vacation rentals online is quickly becoming a popular trend.

Secure your spot in paradise by opening up a few tabs of vacation rentals websites. No need to pick up the phone or slip out of your comfortable sweatpants. You can book your trip to Florida from the comfort of your own living room.

But where should you stay? At an Airbnb, a hotel or with Royal Shell?

Royal Shell is the largest regional real estate company in Southwest Florida. We have been in business for more than 21 years and we have over 300,000 guests stay with us each year.

Book your trip online, over the phone or in-person at one of our offices

With Royal Shell, you can make your Florida vacation rental online. Unlike sites like Airbnb, HomeAway or VRBO, you can also chat with a vacation planner on the phone and lock down your vacation spot the old-fashioned way. If you love where you’re staying now, you can visit any of our 16 offices in Lee and Collier counties and reserve your vacation rental for next year.

Fully equipped kitchen, more space and more privacy

There are also more options available if you choose a vacation rental over a hotel room. For one, you’re staying in a home instead of a room, and that alone is a huge plus. There’s more space, privacy and you can come and go as you please. Besides, you can also take advantage of the fully-equipped kitchen that comes standard in most of our vacation rental properties. Host a family dinner or just save a few bucks and cook dinner at home.

Let a local vacation planner help plan your trip

Our vacation planning advisers live and work in Southwest Florida, so if you have any questions about where to go, what to do, or where to eat, they’ll be able to give you all the information you need to know. We don’t want to just get you down here. We want to make sure you have the vacation of a lifetime.

Forbes.com uses 3 things to determine if a vacation rental website is credible:

1. An established business that has longevity. How long a brand has been in business is significant because roughly half of new start-up companies flop within their first 18 months, and, according to Forbes, only about 4 percent of businesses make it to the 10-year mark and beyond. Additionally, if a business has been around for a while, it also means the company knows the area well and can give accurate recommendations on where to go and what to do.
2. A relevant rental footprint. When a vacation rental website has a substantial rental footprint in a significant area, like Southwest Florida, it means they have enough homes to serve their existing client base, and can likely accommodate even more guests.
3. Amenities and services. These two things and vacation rentals go hand-in-hand. When people spend thousands of dollars on a vacation, they typically expect some type of personalized services, and each vacation rental company offers their own set of exclusive perks.

What Royal Shell Can Do that Other Rental Companies Cannot

1. Royal Shell has demonstrated knowledge of the local area. We know the best places to stay and we’ll work to help find you the perfect vacation home.
2. Whether you’re looking for hidden gems or typical tourist hot spots, we can tell you where to go and what to see. If you’re visiting Sanibel Island and you want to know where all the best beaches are, you’re in luck because we’ve got the scoop.
3. Royal Shell has its own state-of-the-art laundry facility. We also have our own vacation planning center, maintenance, housekeeping, guest services, IT and photography departments.
4. Our vacation planning call center is open seven days a week and guests can book a vacation rental online 24 hours a day. Royal Shell also has 24-hour, seven days a week emergency guest services.
5. You don’t have to spend time comparing tons of other sites for the best deal. With Royal Shell, you’re already getting a great deal. If you want to call and confirm that everything is good to go with your vacation rental before you get here, our call center is always open.
6. If you do need to talk with someone, we’re not only a phone call away. We have offices throughout Southwest Florida in Sanibel, Captiva, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs and Naples. If you want to talk to a person, we’re a short drive away, or we could even arrange for someone to come out and meet you at your vacation rental property. Delivering legendary customer service is very important to us, and we take it seriously.

Vacation Rentals with Royal Shell vs. Airbnb

Looking for an Airbnb accommodation is a popular way to find a place to stay while you’re on vacation; however, some people still have reservations about it. If you choose to rent out a room, you may also end up staying with fellow travelers you don’t know who are also renting out the home’s other rooms. Or you may end up crashing with the home’s host while they’re staying in another room on the property. If you’re looking for privacy and amenities, this is probably not going to be your best option.
You may also end up paying additional fees to book your stay. According to VRMintel.com, Airbnb charges an additional 6 to 12 percent of the cost of the rental. The site also says that same fee can be even higher on VRBO.com. According to VRMintel, “The service fee is between 5 to 12 percent for most bookings, but can be above or below, based on the reservation.”

Vacation Rentals with Royal Shell vs. Staying at a Hotel

When most people think about traveling, they consider staying at a hotel. There’s normally free breakfast or some sort of special if you book early or during a certain time of the year. But is a hotel room really the best choice if you want to feel more integrated into the city you’re visiting?
Tausha from The Globe Getter points out that you don’t get the same feeling when you have to walk down a hallway, use an elevator and take a bunch of extra steps to get to the city’s center. If you stay in a vacation rental property, it’ll already feel homier and less sterile right off the bat. And besides, you won’t feel so much like an outsider in your new temporary city when you can walk out the front door and be steps away from beaches, shops, restaurants and things to do.

The Takeaway on the Best Vacation Rentals Websites

The good news is that you’ve already decided when and where you want to go. The hardest part is over. Whether you’re coming to Southwest Florida for a week, a month, or longer, Royal Shell offers plenty of vacation rental options in a variety of different types of breathtaking locations.
We provide you with the type of luxury and customer service you’ll find at a hotel, but you get the space and privacy of a vacation home or resort rental. Vacation rentals with a company like Royal Shell also have other advantages over booking with a hotel or Airbnb.
These include:

1. More space. According to OwnerDirect.com, on average, a vacation home offers more than 1,300 square feet, while a hotel room has an average of just 325 square feet.
2. Fully-equipped kitchen. This means you not only save money on going out to eat because you can cook at home; you can also have family dinners while you’re away from your home base. How nice does it sound to sit around the dinner table together and talk about how much fun you’re having on your trip?
3. Home away from home. Vacation rentals have all of the comforts of a home. The top perk is privacy. You can use the pool and exercise equipment at your leisure. You can also have breakfast whenever you want, not during a hotel’s scheduled breakfast buffet times.

Check-In With Us

Let us know what you think of your stay with us in sunny Southwest Florida. Many people come here and never leave. We can help you find condos and cottages in Sanibel Island. If you’re thinking about buying or renting in the Sunshine State, any of our agents will be more than happy to show you around and give you the lay of the land.

Helping people find their dream home or vacation rental is what we do best. Come for a visit, maybe you’ll end up staying for a lifetime. Contact us at Royal Shell today to book a Sanibel vacation rental.