Best Summer Activities for Families in SW Florida
With summer around the corner and school on break, now is the ideal time to start making your vacation plans. This year, why not consider stretching your summer fun by swapping one big trip for a few relaxing staycations or day trips. Luckily, in Southwest Florida, you don’t have to travel far to find amazing places to explore.
Sanibel/Captiva
These two stunning Gulf Coast islands are renowned for their world-class shelling, abundant wildlife, and an enticing mix of boutique shopping and seafood-focused fine dining. Whether you're drawn to a quiet, beachside retreat or prefer the upscale comforts of a resort-style condo with sweeping Gulf views, these pristine tropical islands offer the ideal setting for an unforgettable Florida escape. There’s no shortage of things to do, from renting bicycles to explore the islands to setting out on a boat excursion across sparkling Gulf waters. And be sure to make time for a visit to the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, internationally renowned for its exceptional migratory bird populations.
Margaritaville, Fort Myers Beach
Opened in December 2023, Margaritaville Beach Resort is a $200 million tropical retreat spanning 7.25 acres in the heart of downtown Fort Myers Beach. Perfectly positioned between the Gulf of Mexico and Matanzas Bay, this vibrant destination features 254 guest rooms, six on-site restaurants, flexible indoor and outdoor event spaces, and an array of leisure amenities—including the lively Fins Up! Beach Club, a heated lagoon-style pool, and the Sunset Terrace, where live music and unforgettable views come standard. Spend a sun-soaked day on the beach, browse island-inspired finds at the Margaritaville Store, or sip tropical cocktails at the lively 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill.
Great Wolf Lodge, Naples
Boasting 500 family-friendly suites and a sprawling 100,000-square-foot indoor water park, Great Wolf Lodge promises endless adventure for visitors of all ages. After swimming and splashing in the huge water park, head to the adventure park where you’ll enjoy exciting attractions like the interactive MagiQuest game, arcade challenges, and much more. Kids will love the assortment of entertainment included in your stay—from yoga and arts & crafts projects to a dance party and story time that wrap up the day. Great Wolf Lodge features eight unique dining options, offering a variety of delicious meals from breakfast to dinner, along with irresistible desserts. Whether you're planning a special occasion or just need a quick escape, Great Wolf Lodge resort provides top-notch service that creates memories of a lifetime.
The Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens is a 43-acre zoo and historic botanical garden accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The zoo houses around 70 species, including African lions, Malayan tigers, giraffes, and Florida panthers. Visitors can enjoy exhibits like the Primate Expedition Cruise, Alligator Bay, and the Black Bear Hammock. Boasting a family-friendly day of entertainment and exploration, the Naples Zoo offers free admission to Collier County residents on the first Saturday of each month. The zoo is open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
The Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a 13,000-acre preserve established in 1954 and managed by the National Audubon Society. Visitors can explore a 2.25-mile boardwalk that winds through diverse ecosystems, including pine flatwoods, wet prairies, marshes, and cypress forests. The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, such as alligators, otters, white-tailed deer, and red-bellied turtles. Bird enthusiasts may spot wading birds, songbirds, and raptors. Serving as the gateway to the sanctuary, the Blair Audubon Visitor Center offers exhibits, artwork, and a family-friendly discovery area. The sanctuary is located about 30 minutes northeast of Naples and is open daily from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
The Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium is the perfect venue for a day packed with adventure and hands-on learning, offering something to delight visitors of all ages. Kids can meet rescued wildlife, such as turtles, snakes, owls, and alligators up close, while the whole family can sit back and enjoy star shows, learn about the planets, and even watch laser light shows set to music. In addition, there are two nature trails where visitors can spot wildlife, as well as interactive exhibits and discovery zones. Special programs for kids include Science Sundays, home school programs, and summer camps that offer interactive learning experiences. Located just off I-75 in Fort Myers, the facility is open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Tuesday through Sunday.