Fort Myers Itinerary
If you're dreaming of a Florida getaway filled with coastal charm, turquoise waters, and wildlife right outside your window, look no further than Fort Myers. Our recent trip was nothing short of magical—anchored by a luxurious stay at the stunning Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa, with adventures spanning nearby islands and the vibrant streets of Downtown Fort Myers. Here’s everything we loved about this unforgettable escape.
See my Fort Myers adventures here: The Honest Passport
A Room with a View (and Dolphins, too!)
The moment we checked into Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa, we were greeted by sweeping Gulf Coast views from our private balcony. You could see nearby islands dotting the horizon and, best of all, we spotted dolphins almost daily—RIGHT FROM OUR BALCONY! It felt like nature's own welcome committee. We’ve stayed at many Marriott resorts, but this was the most memorable resort we’ve stayed at to date! You can see some captures from our trip here.
This resort truly has it all:
Three sparkling outdoor pools
One indoor pool and a relaxing whirlpool
Tennis, Pickleball and Basketball courts
Spa and Fitness Center
Jogging and walking trail
Courtside Steakhouse
On-site café, bar and two excellent restaurants
Private beach access
Right next to the main pool is a laid-back bar serving the most delicious pina coladas—a must-try. We rented poolside cabanas and spent countless hours lounging poolside, sipping drinks, and watching the palms sway under the Florida sun.
Island Hopping to Sanibel & Captiva
One of the biggest highlights of staying at Sanibel Harbour is the easy access to the islands of Sanibel and Captiva—just minutes away by car.
Sanibel Island is known for its peaceful beaches and famous shelling spots. We wandered along Lighthouse Beach Park, collected shells, and admired the natural, unspoiled beauty. The island is perfect for a relaxing bike ride or a picnic near the waves. It was here that we witnessed the most stunning sunsets! The dining on the island is also a must, so many wonderful restaurants and ice cream shops here!
Further up the coast is Captiva Island, where we rented kayaks to explore the calm coastal inlets and spotted seabirds and even a few manatees. The island’s tranquil energy makes it a perfect afternoon getaway.
Downtown Fort Myers: Coffee, Culture & Charm
Back on the mainland, we took time to explore Downtown Fort Myers, and it was one of the most unexpectedly delightful parts of our trip. The streets are lined with historic architecture, cozy boutiques, and friendly locals.
We started our day at Summer Moon, a charming coffee shop with seriously good wood‑fire‑roasted espresso. It had that perfect cozy-yet-hip vibe that makes you want to linger longer. After coffee, we explored local art galleries and shops, soaking in the charm of this underrated little city.
Relaxation, Recharging, and Reconnecting
When we weren’t out exploring, we were recharging at the resort. Whether it was a morning massage at the on-site spa, a quiet moment in the whirlpool, or just lounging on our balcony with a glass of wine, the atmosphere was pure peace.
Every evening, we watched the sunset over the Gulf, often spotting dolphins leaping just beyond the waves. It's hard to describe just how serene and awe-inspiring those moments were—truly the kind that make you fall in love with a place.
Final Thoughts
From the resort’s luxury amenities to the natural beauty of nearby islands and the local flavor of Fort Myers, this trip had everything we could’ve asked for. Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa made for the perfect home base—relaxing, scenic, and full of thoughtful details that made us feel pampered yet connected to nature.
If you're considering a trip to Florida's Gulf Coast, Fort Myers should be at the top of your list. Whether you're a beach bum, a foodie, a wildlife lover, or just in need of a reset—you’ll find your place here. You can find a full highlight of our trip on my instagram page: The Honest Passport.
Already counting down the days until we return!
