Southwest Florida Summer Staycation

Where To Staycation in SWFL

Vacationers come to Southwest Florida every year, so why not enjoy your hometown for yourself? A SWFL Staycation might be just what you need. The end of Summer is usually a quieter time for visitors and tourism, so now’s the time to a mini getaway. 

Photo courtesy of Flickr user: Don Johnson

South Seas Island Resort

You can drive or boat to the very tip of Captiva Island and stay at one of the area's most beautiful beach resorts, the South Seas Island Resort.

They have a marina where you can keep your boat for easy access to the Gulf and bay, and a 9-hole golf course surrounded by lush palm trees and lovely greenery. Best of all, regardless of where you stay within the resort, you are walking distance to the beach! 

Not to mention, they are offering a summer discount program. Click here to check it out. 

Babcock Ranch

Here’s something a little different. Instead of heading towards the shoreline, head out to explore the countryside of Florida. Babcock Ranch is the first solar-powered town in the country, located north of Fort Myers.

Your journey will begin at the Discovery Center in Founder's Square, where you can learn more about the town. While the town does not have an official hotel, you might be able to score a vacation rental on VRBO, or stay just outside the town in a nearby hotel. Enjoy horseback riding, eco-tours, and simple living, just like the early days of SWFL. Click here to read more about Babcock Ranch. 

Photo courtesy of Babcock Ranch Facebook Page

Cabbage Key

Speaking of unplugged, if you really want to get away, take the ferry out to Cabbage Key and stay off-the-grid for the weekend. Cabbage Key is a tiny island up past North Captiva, near Cayo Costa.

Book a cottage from the Cabbage Key Inn, and enjoy a hike up to the water tower and along the island trail. You won’t be checking your email, so leave the laptop behind. Instead, bring some lettuce to feed the resident gopher tortoises. Learn more about Cabbage Key by clicking here. 

Sanibel, Naples, Fort Myers Beach

If you don’t want too much hassle, keep your plans simple and book a local vacation rental home. Wouldn’t it be nice to be walking distance to the beach?

Check out the Naples area, Sanibel Island or Fort Myers Beach. Each city has its own charm and personality, as you very well know, and the Summertime prices and availability should be easier to swing than during peak season.

Perks of SWFL Living

Even if it’s just for the weekend, escaping to a slice of paradise in your own backyard is a great perk of living in SWFL!