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Cape Coral is a large city on Florida's Gulf Coast, across the Caloosahatchee River from Fort Myers. Developed from the late 1950s as a planned waterfront community, it is famous for its network of canals, longer than that of any other city in the world, which gives thousands of homes direct boat access to the Gulf of Mexico.
Life here centers on the water. Boaters head out from Cape Harbour and Tarpon Point marinas, kayakers explore the mangroves of Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve, and visitors watch sunsets over the river from Jaycee Park and the Yacht Club Community Park. The city is also known for its population of burrowing owls, celebrated each February at a local festival.
Families enjoy the Sun Splash Family Waterpark and the Rotary Park Environmental Center, and the Cape Coral Museum of History tells the story of the city's rapid growth. Sanibel Island, Fort Myers Beach and the fishing village of Matlacha are all nearby.
A city park on the Caloosahatchee River with a small sandy beach, a fishing pier, picnic areas and a historic clubhouse that has been rebuilt after hurricane damage. It is a favorite spot for watching the sunset. Facilities have changed during the rebuilding, so check what is open before you go.
A city-owned waterpark with body and tube slides, a lazy river, wave and activity pools and splash areas for young children. It is open from spring through early fall. Bring sunscreen and water shoes, rent a shaded cabana on hot weekends, and arrive at opening for the shortest slide lines.
A preserve on the Caloosahatchee River with a boardwalk winding through red and black mangroves, a butterfly garden and a kayak launch. Watch for wading birds, crabs and sometimes manatees. Kayak rentals are available seasonally; go early or late in the day for cooler temperatures and more wildlife.
A nature park in south Cape Coral with walking trails, butterfly and native plant gardens, a boardwalk and an environmental center with exhibits and guided walks. It is a quiet spot to learn about local plants and wildlife. Check the center's calendar for nature programs and kayak tours.
A Mediterranean-style marina village near the mouth of the Caloosahatchee, with waterfront restaurants, shops and boats coming and going from the Gulf. Charter fishing trips, sunset cruises and boat rentals start here. It is pleasant for an evening meal on the water; reserve dinner on winter weekends.
A resort marina on the river with a waterfront hotel, restaurants and boat slips, plus charters and rentals for exploring the Gulf and nearby islands. Its waterfront walkways are a fine place to watch dolphins and pelicans. Book boat tours in advance during the busy winter season.
A small museum telling how a swampy peninsula became one of Florida's largest cities, with exhibits on the original developers, early homes, the canal system and local natural history. A garden and a historic structure sit on the grounds. Entry is inexpensive and an hour is plenty.
A waterfront park on the Caloosahatchee River with a seawall promenade, a fishing pier, shaded picnic shelters and a playground. It is one of the best free places in the city for sunset views across the river. Parking is limited at sunset on weekends, so arrive a little early.
An annual festival held in February by local wildlife volunteers to celebrate Cape Coral's burrowing owls, with bus and walking tours to owl burrows, nature exhibits and family activities. The rest of the year, you can see owls near marked burrows on empty lots; watch from a distance and do not disturb them.
A weekly market held on Saturday mornings in the South Cape downtown area during the cooler months, with local produce, baked goods, seafood, plants and crafts. It is a relaxed way to meet locals and grab breakfast. Go early for the best choice, and check the season dates, as it pauses in summer.
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