Fort Myers: Some of the best Shelling in the World
- Emily Miner
- 6 hours ago
- 4 min read
Fort Myers, Florida, has been my favorite stop in Florida so far. We spent two weeks here in our RV where we really felt like we were on vacation. I'm going over the best activities we did including:
Fort Myers Beach: Sun, Sand, and Vibrant Atmosphere
Fort Myers Beach is a popular destination known for its wide sandy shores and lively atmosphere. The beach stretches for miles along the Gulf of Mexico, offering plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The warm, clear waters make it ideal for families and solo travelers alike.
We visited this beach almost daily since we were only 10min away. We were able to find free parking in the same little lot but this was further away from the main attractions. We don't eat or drink out so being close to the bars was not important to us. However, there is a Margaritaville right on the beach. (I do love Margaritaville). There are several beach clubs and ice cream and even bicycles for rent.
I would rand the sand as 9/10 it was pretty soft and I didn't have much trouble walking without shoes expect the occasionally shell.
Even though this beach isn't known for shelling, our dog Bella, dug a hole while we were relaxing and we found the coolest shells in her hole!
It was very chill at sunset, and it wasn't even that busy during the day during the week. For reference we went the first two weeks of January. There's a bit of traffic coming home but nothing bad at all. We didn't mind.
Sanibel Island: A Shell Collector’s Paradise and Wildlife Haven
Technically part the Cape-Coral greater area, Sanibel Island is just a short 40 minute drive from Fort Myers. Sanibel Island is famous for its natural beauty and shell-covered shores. Its one of the best places in the world for shelling! This was my favorite day in Fort Myers.
Biking: How to get the most out of Sanibel
The best way to experience the island hands down, is to bring your own, or rent bicycles. The island have nice paved bike trails all throughout.
We rented from Billy's Rentals for about $40 for two geared bikes.
Now that you got your bike here's where you want to go:
Sanibel Farmers Market
If you're visiting on Sunday you can't miss the Farmers Markets. They had so many food vendors that all looked so tasty! As well as fresh fruits and vegetables. Parking was limited so this would be perfect to bike to as its only 10min from the rental company.
If visiting on any other day, you can visit Sanibel Historical Museum and Village.
J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
This refuge covers over 6,000 acres and offers trails, kayaking, and birdwatching. It’s home to many species, including roseate spoonbills, herons, and alligators.
Before you go: They are closed on Fridays!! We didn't know this so we didn't get to go because we happened to visit on Friday.
Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium
On your way to Ding Darling, you'll pass the National Shell Museum. We didn't end up going because it was $25 per person, and we wanted to opt for free activities. We did stop in to use the restroom and it looked so cool! Its completed dedicated to seashells and conchology.
Shelling on the Beaches
Sanibel’s beaches are covered with a variety of shells, including conchs, scallops, and whelks. Early morning or during low tide is the best time. We visited:
Bowman's Beach (this one is too far to bike to): Bluest water and my favorite so far
Lighthouse beach park: We saw dolphins off in the distance!
These are the most popular, but we also visited Sanibel Beach and Periwinkle beach which were nice and less busy. Sanibel Beach had more waves.
All will require water shoes or sandals because you'll be walking completely on shells!
Practical Advice for Sanibel Island Visitors
Bring a strainer if you really want to search for shark teeth or shells.
Always throw back live shells! And starfish can only hold their breath for 30 secs so leave them in the water!
Respect wildlife. Bring a camera! We saw a starfish, tortoise, iguana, and dolphins!
Consider visiting during the off-season for a quieter experience. We visited in January and we thought it was busy, I can't imagine going in peak season!
Manatee Park: Up Close with Florida’s Gentle Giants
Manatee Park in Fort Myers is one of the coolest experience where you can get up close and personal with some majestic sea cows in their natural habitat! The park is especially popular during the cooler months when manatees seek warm waters. We visited in January so when ocean temperature drops, manatees flock to the warm water that the shallow waterways offer. You can do this activity in an afternoon.
What Makes Manatee Park Special
Manatee Viewing
The park features a warm water canal where manatees gather. Viewing platforms and boardwalks provide excellent vantage points to see these large, slow-moving mammals.
Kayaking and Canoeing
Visitors can rent kayaks or canoes to explore the Caloosahatchee River and surrounding waterways, increasing chances of spotting manatees and other wildlife. They also offer guided tours. We brought our own and it was super easy to launch and the manatees were literally right under us!! The are constantly coming up out of the water to get a breath. There must've been 100 that day, even moms with babies.
Picnic and Playground Areas
Manatee Park is family-friendly with picnic tables and a playground, making it a great spot for a day trip.
Tips for Enjoying Manatee Park
Visit during the winter months (November to March) for the best chance to see manatees.
Keep a respectful distance from the animals; touching, disturbing, or giving water to manatees is highly illegal.
Bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens for better viewing if you're not kayaking.
I hope you get to visit Fort Myers one day! :)
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