Beaches in Cape Coral, FL
Searching for the best beaches in Cape Coral, FL for your next day trip or vacation? Well, you are in the right place! I think that Cape Coral’s beaches capture the easygoing spirit of Southwest Florida. Soft sands here are a dream, along with warm Gulf breezes, and endless sunshine. Trust me, you quickly get inspired to kick back and join in on the laid-back coastal living along with the locals. With tranquil waters perfect for swimming, and breathtaking sunsets over the horizon, Cape Coral offers a slice of paradise. Here are the beaches that we absolutely loved on our two week trip, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
1. Lovers Key
This is one of my favorite beach destinations for a weekend getaway on the Gulf Coast. I love how it feels both wild and romantic, with natural beauty all around and fewer crowds than some of Florida’s busier beaches.
We left Naples in the morning and drove just under an hour north, the Gulf glimmering between high-rises and mangroves until the road narrowed onto Estero Island.
My favorite part is the pristine stretch of sand, where dolphins often play offshore and the sunsets are some of the most magical I’ve ever seen.
I found Lovers Key State Park to be one of the best places for outdoor adventure, with kayaking trails winding through mangroves and lagoons full of wildlife.
For families, the gentle surf and wide beach make it safe and fun for kids, while nature trails add another layer of exploration.
Couples will love how romantic this spot is—it’s no surprise it has long been considered one of Florida’s most romantic beaches.
I loved biking through the park and spotting manatees and wading birds along the way—it was my favorite way to enjoy the natural side of Florida.
Picnic areas and pavilions make it easy to spend the whole day here, combining beach time with relaxing meals in the shade.
- Location: On Florida’s southwest Gulf Coast near Fort Myers Beach, within Lovers Key State Park and situated between Estero Island and Big Carlos Pass
- Drive time from Cape Coral: ~45 minutes
- Address: Lovers Key, 8700 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL
What I loved best:
The mix of tranquility and adventure—it feels unspoiled yet offers so much to do.
2. Captiva Beach
This is one of my favorite places for a peaceful weekend getaway, and it always feels like an escape into paradise.
I think it’s one of the best spots in Southwest Florida for watching sunsets—the horizon seems endless, and the colors are absolutely stunning.
We left Sanibel in the afternoon, driving across the short bridge at Blind Pass where the water shimmered turquoise on both sides.
The drive to Captiva felt like a slow exhale, past sea-worn cottages, narrow roads framed in hibiscus, and palm fronds swaying like they had nowhere better to be. I parked near the end of Andy Rosse Lane, where it all felt one step removed from a postcard.
What I love most is the calm and uncrowded atmosphere, which makes it perfect for a romantic stroll or a quiet family afternoon by the water.
My favorite thing to do here is to hunt for seashells along the shoreline, and I always end up finding unique treasures to take home.
The water is gentle and warm, making it ideal for swimming, paddle boarding, or simply floating while soaking up the sun.
Captiva Beach feels underrated compared to the more popular Sanibel spots, which makes it even more special to me.
If I’m on a romantic weekend, nothing beats sitting on a blanket with a glass of wine while the sky turns shades of pink and orange.
For a family getaway, the wide sandy shore gives kids plenty of space to play, while parents can relax under an umbrella.
- Location: On Florida’s southwest Gulf Coast on Captiva Island, north of Sanibel Island, featuring Gulf-facing beaches within the barrier island chain
- Drive time from Cape Coral: ~1 hour 15 minutes
- Address: End of Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva Island, FL
- Food Nearby: A few walkable restaurants and beach cafés with island charm
What I loved best:
I love how the charming village of Captiva is just steps away, with cozy restaurants and shops to explore after a day on the sand.
3. Barefoot Beach
We left Captiva in the late morning, driving about an hour south through Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Springs. The traffic thinned as we turned into Barefoot Beach Preserve, where mangroves hugged the road and the air smelled of salt and pine.
I love this beach so much because it felt like it had kept its secrets. Tucked between Naples and Bonita Springs, it sat quiet and wide, like it knew it didn’t have to shout to be heard.
- Location: On Florida’s southwest Gulf Coast in Bonita Springs, within Barefoot Beach County Preserve along the northern end of Hickory Island
- Drive time from Cape Coral: ~1 hour
- Address: Barefoot Beach Blvd, Bonita Springs, FL
- Facilities: Restrooms, showers, picnic areas, small nature center
What I loved best:
The sand was soft and wonderful, the water pale and clear, and the breeze constant, a soft shuffle through the sea grapes that completely won me over.
4. Sanibel Island
These beaches are some of the best I’ve ever experienced, and they always feel like my perfect weekend escape.
I love how the soft white sand stretches for miles, creating a romantic backdrop for sunset walks and family-friendly space for kids to play.
We left Lovers Key in the late morning and drove about an hour south, crossing the causeway that seemed to float above the Gulf.
What makes these beaches my favorite is the incredible seashell hunting—Sanibel is world-famous for its shells, and every visit feels like uncovering hidden treasures.
I think Bowman’s Beach is the best for a quiet and underrated getaway, since it offers fewer crowds and plenty of natural beauty.
Lighthouse Beach, with its historic lighthouse and fishing pier, is my favorite spot when I want a mix of history, scenery, and relaxation.
If I’m planning a romantic weekend, nothing beats watching the sun dip below the horizon with gentle waves crashing at my feet.
For a family getaway, the calm Gulf waters make it perfect for swimming, paddle boarding, and building sandcastles all day long.
I find Tarpon Bay Beach to be one of the most underrated—its peaceful charm and spacious shoreline always win me over.
- Location: Off Florida’s southwest Gulf Coast near Fort Myer
- Drive time from Cape Coral: ~1 hour
- Address: Bowman’s Beach Rd, Sanibel, FL
What I loved best:
Every time I visit, I feel like Sanibel’s beaches strike the best balance between laid-back island vibes and unforgettable natural beauty.
5. Lynn Hall Memorial Park
This is one of my favorite beach spots when I want an easy and relaxing weekend getaway.
Located right next to Fort Myers Beach Pier, it has one of the best family-friendly atmospheres on the Gulf Coast.
We left Sanibel in the morning and drove less than an hour north, crossing the Matanzas Pass Bridge into Fort Myers Beach.
I love that there are picnic tables, grills, and shaded areas, which make it perfect for a casual lunch after swimming or shelling.
The park has clean restrooms, outdoor showers, and plenty of parking, which makes it one of the most convenient and underrated beaches in the area.
My favorite thing to do here is to walk along the pier at sunset, where the views over the Gulf of Mexico are truly unforgettable.
If I’m on a romantic weekend trip, nothing beats sitting by the water with a picnic and watching dolphins play in the distance.
For a a family getaway, kids can enjoy the sandy shoreline and calm waves while parents appreciate the park’s easy amenities.
I find the lively energy around Lynn Hall Memorial Park fun and welcoming—it’s one of the best places for people-watching and soaking in the local vibe.
- Location: On Florida’s southwest Gulf Coast on Estero Island
- Drive time from Cape Coral: ~45 minutes
- Address: 950 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays or sunrise for a quieter view
What I loved best:
Being right in the heart of Fort Myers Beach means I can easily stroll to restaurants and shops after a day in the sun.
Conclusion
What I love most is the neighborhood feel. I keep watching boats glide by while the shoreline stays peaceful and friendly.
Do like the locals do and seek out small sandy coves and riverside parks for a more underrated experience. Those cozy corners often become my favorite parts of the day.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
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4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
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