School’s out for summer, and the sun in Southwest Florida is out for hours. Almost every afternoon promises a summer storm, which brings us beautiful sunsets and cooler evenings.
With longer days, warmer temperatures, and the kids out of school, there’s a lot to do with all the extra time.
From indoor activities to outdoor excursions, there’s no shortage of excitement in Southwest Florida at any time of the year.
While summer promises some heat and humidity, there are definite advantages to being here this time of year.
With the snowbirds up north for the summer, you’ll have a lot more beach to yourself and an easier time getting that six o’clock dinner reservation.
In this blog, we curated a Southwest Florida Summer To Do List, full of our favorite places. Take it from the locals, you’re going to love summer in sunny SWFL!
Beat the heat with these family-friendly Southwest Florida summer adventures.
The Ultimate Southwest Florida Summer To-Do List
Create your own SWFL summer bucket list and start checking off these excursions, activities, and adventures from your list.
Southwest Florida is home to 150+ golf courses, but do you know about the new and unique golf experiences that have opened up in recent years?
Check out these family-friendly golf outings in Southwest Florida:
Topgolf of Fort Myers
Looking for something to do on a rainy day in SWFL? The new Topgolf in Fort Myers is protected from the elements and even features climate-controlled hitting bays for those hot summer days.
This golf experience is inclusive of all ages, and there are multiple games you can choose from. Bring your family, friends or even your co-workers to enjoy some light & fun competition. Hungry? There’s a restaurant on-site so you can stay a while.
At McMurray & Members, we love Topgolf so much we’ve actually hosted our team outings here!
PopStroke in Fort Myers, FL
Designed by the golf legend himself, this Tiger Woods imagined putting facility is the first of its kind. Featuring 36 holes that welcome the beginner but also challenge the experienced golfer, this Fort Myers favorite is conveniently located on Six Mile Cypress Parkway.
From local craft beer to milkshakes made with homemade ice cream, there’s something for everyone at PopStroke.
Enjoy the Beaches of Sanibel & Captiva Islands
What’s the number one best way to cool off on a hot summer day? Visit the best beaches in Southwest Florida!
Some of our all-time favorite beaches are located throughout Sanibel & Captiva Islands. Enjoy world-class shelling on the beaches of Sanibel, hunt for shark teeth at Blind Pass Beach, and remember to look out for sea turtles while you’re on Captiva Island.
Stake an umbrella at any of these public beaches on Sanibel-Captiva:
- Lighthouse Beach on Sanibel
- Gulfside City Park Beach on Sanibel
- Bowman’s Beach on Sanibel
- Blind Pass on Sanibel-Captiva
- Alison Hagerup Beach on Captiva
While you’re on the islands, don’t forget to visit our favorite local businesses like the iconic Bubble Room on Captiva!
Take a Scenic Boat Ride to Cabbage Key
Have you ever had a cheeseburger in paradise? At Cabbage Key, you can!
With a quirky claim to fame, it's said that this special SW Florida destination is where Jimmy Buffet wrote his famous song “Cheeseburger in Paradise.”
If a burger isn’t what you’re craving, try ordering the shrimp salad – it’s also worth writing a song about.
But the food isn’t all Cabbage Key is known for. Upon arrival, you will fall in love with the island style ambience as well as the creatures that live there.
Gopher tortoises find refuge on the grounds, and each one is named after a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle. Remember to admire them from a distance – these special animals are protected under the Endangered Species Act.
After lunch, be sure to climb the water tower to a beautiful view of the surrounding islands.
Please note: Cabbage Key is only accessible by helicopter or boat. There’s a scenic water taxi that will take you to and from this SWFL gem.
Explore J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge
Tour pure Florida at the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge. You can hop on a trolley with a knowledgeable guide or take a self-guided cruise along Wildlife Drive.
Inside the refuge, you might find alligators, manatees, otters, and a wide variety of birds. Take your time, make stops, and be sure to explore.
For those of you who enjoy a leisurely hike, there are a couple short trails where you can stretch your legs. Want even more exercise? Try biking the road instead of driving it!
Make a Splash at SunSplash of Cape Coral
Did someone say waterpark? The kids’ ears will perk up when you suggest this family-friendly activity.
With cabanas for sunbathers, an electric slide for adrenaline junkies and a pirate splash park for younger waterpark enthusiasts, there truly is something for everyone at SunSplash. This Southwest Florida waterpark also features a lazy river, drop slide, tube slide, and more.
Bring your sunscreen and stay the whole day – there’s dining on site so you won’t go hungry.
Planning a celebration or a get-together? SunSplash of Cape Coral welcomes groups and even offers discounted rates for large parties.
Step Back in Time at Edison & Ford Winter Estates
Come see why Thomas Edison and Henry Ford chose Southwest Florida as their ultimate winter retreat.
Take a scenic drive down palm tree-lined McGregor Boulevard and pull into the Edison & Ford Winter Estates. Here you can explore the historic homes, which have been preserved over the years.
During your visit, be sure to wander the 20 acre gardens and marvel at more than 400 species of plants from six different continents.
Even on a rainy day, you can enjoy this SWFL favorite. Learn something new in the interactive museum and view the Edison Botanic Research Laboratory, which has been deemed a National Historic Chemical Landmark.
Experience the Ecosystem at Babcock Ranch
Inside one of Southwest Florida’s newer communities lies untouched wild Florida. Your 90-minute eco tour at Babcock Ranch takes you through authentic Florida, where you have the opportunity to see wild hogs, turkeys, alligators, Sandhill cranes and more.
The memorable experience takes place on a swamp buggy, which easily traverses land and water. You will feel a world away while you learn about the swamp and its diverse ecosystem.
Did all the adventure work up an appetite? There’s an excellent barbecue joint right on site. Stick around for a no-frills, delicious home-cooked meal.
Discover SWFL Real Estate Opportunities
After days filled with exploring Southwest Florida, now it’s time to go home and get cozy on the couch or hang out by the pool.
From beachfront estates on Sanibel & Captiva to historic hideaways on McGregor Boulevard, Southwest Florida is home to some of the most beautiful properties in the country.
Even Thomas Edison and Henry Ford thought so!
Whether you’re looking for a seasonal residence or thinking about buying a new forever home here in Southwest Florida, McMurray & Members is your go-to resource for SWFL real estate.
Ready to see what’s available right now?
