One of the best parts of staying at Laguna Caribe isn’t just the resort itself — it’s everything within easy reach. From world-famous Sanibel Island attractions and shelling beaches to quiet island sunsets and a beach town rebuilding better than ever, Southwest Florida gives owners and renters a new place to explore practically every day of their stay.
Here’s a guide to the best things to do near Fort Myers and Laguna Caribe, from Sanibel and Captiva to Fort Myers Beach and beyond.
Quick Answer: What’s Worth Visiting Near Laguna Caribe?
Laguna Caribe sits close to some of Southwest Florida’s best-known destinations: the shelling beaches and wildlife refuge on Sanibel Island, the quiet beaches and sunset cruises of Captiva, and the beaches and dining scene of Fort Myers Beach. Add in golf, outlet shopping, and Everglades access, and there’s enough nearby to fill an entire season.
Sanibel Island Attractions: Shelling, Wildlife & a Historic Lighthouse
Known as the “Seashell Capital of the World,” Sanibel Island draws visitors who spend hours doing the famous “Sanibel Stoop” along Bowman’s Beach and Lighthouse Beach in search of rare shells. Lighthouse Beach is also home to the island’s 1880s lighthouse, still standing at the island’s eastern tip alongside a popular fishing pier.
At the top of most lists of Sanibel Island things to do is the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, a sprawling preserve where herons, egrets, pelicans, manatees, and dolphins are regular sightings along the Wildlife Drive and paddling trails. Back in town, the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum and Sanibel Historical Museum are easy add-ons, and more than 25 miles of shared-use paths make the whole island bike-friendly.
Captiva Island: Quiet Beaches, Sunset Cruises & Old Florida Charm
Just over the bridge from Sanibel, Captiva Island moves at a slower pace. Turner Beach is a favorite for shelling and fishing right where the Gulf meets Pine Island Sound, while Captiva Beach and Alison Hagerup Beach Park are known for some of the best sunsets on the coast.
One of the most popular Captiva Island things to do is getting out on the water: Captiva Cruises runs dolphin-watching trips, sunset sails, and ferries out to nearby islands. Afterward, save room for The Bubble Room’s famously eclectic decor and desserts, or grab waterfront seafood at The Green Flash or The Mucky Duck.
Fort Myers Beach: Beaches, Bay Views & a Neighborhood on the Rebound
Fort Myers Beach continues to rebuild since Hurricane Ian, and there’s already plenty worth the drive. Freshly renourished sand has restored wide, clean beaches island-wide, and Bowditch Point Park and Lovers Key State Park remain favorites for walking trails, kayaking, and birdwatching. For history buffs, top Fort Myers Beach attractions include the Mound House, built atop a 2,000-year-old Calusa shell mound, and the Ostego Bay Foundation Marine Science Center.
The dining scene is very much open for business, with beachfront spots like Lah De Dah and JWB Grill at Margaritaville Resort, bay views at Fresh Catch Bistro, and long-running favorites like Nervous Nellie’s and Wahoo Willie’s. The island’s iconic pier and Times Square commercial district are still under construction — the pier’s rebuild is targeting completion in 2027 — so expect some detours and work zones near the heart of the island in the meantime.
Beyond the Beaches: Golf, Outlet Shopping & the Everglades
Southwest Florida offers plenty beyond its beaches. Golfers have their pick of courses across the Fort Myers area, and baseball fans can catch Boston Red Sox spring training games at JetBlue Park when the season rolls around each February and March. Miromar Outlets, one of the region’s largest outlet shopping centers, is a short drive away for anyone looking to shop between beach days. And for a completely different landscape, guided tours and boat trips into the Everglades put alligators, wading birds, and mangrove tunnels within reach of a day trip.
Your Home Base for Exploring Southwest Florida
Whether you’re renting a lot for a season or considering RV resort ownership at Laguna Caribe, this Fort Myers RV resort puts all of this within a short drive — then lets you come home to RV resort amenities like the Coral Club’s pool, tiki bar, and restaurant to unwind. It’s the kind of setup that turns a single trip into a whole season of day trips.
What’s Happening at Laguna Caribe This Season
The fun doesn’t stop when you get back from a day on the islands. Starting this fall, Laguna Caribe’s seasonal lineup of social events gives owners and renters an easy way to meet neighbors, grab a bite, and settle into resort life:
- Bingo: Every Monday, October 12 through April 19, starting at 6:00 PM
- Burgers & Old Fashioneds: Every Wednesday, November 4 through April 21
- Asian Station: Select Sundays, November 22 through April 11
Whether you’re here for a few weeks or the whole season, it’s an easy way to feel like part of the Laguna Caribe community from day one — and a fun way to wrap up a day spent exploring Sanibel, Captiva, or Fort Myers Beach.
Key Takeaways
- Top Sanibel Island attractions include its famous shelling beaches, historic lighthouse, and the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
- Captiva Island offers quieter beaches, sunset cruises, and Old Florida dining like The Bubble Room.
- Fort Myers Beach’s beaches and restaurants are open now, even as the pier and Times Square continue rebuilding.
- Golf, Miromar Outlets, spring training at JetBlue Park, and Everglades tours round out the area.
- Laguna Caribe’s Fort Myers location puts all of it within easy reach, whether you’re renting or own a lot.
- Back at the resort, Bingo, Burgers & Old Fashioneds, and Asian Station events keep the Laguna Caribe social calendar full from October through April.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Sanibel Island from Laguna Caribe?
Sanibel Island is roughly a 30-40 minute drive from Laguna Caribe in Fort Myers, making it an easy day trip to Sanibel Island attractions like the shelling beaches, the wildlife refuge, or the lighthouse.
Is Fort Myers Beach open to visitors right now?
Yes. Beaches, restaurants, and most attractions on Fort Myers Beach are open and operating normally, though the pier and parts of the Times Square district remain under construction as rebuilding continues.
What is Captiva Island known for?
Captiva is known for its quieter beaches, standout Gulf sunsets, sunset and dolphin-watching cruises, and Old Florida-style restaurants like The Bubble Room.
Do I need a car to explore the area from Laguna Caribe?
A car makes it easiest to reach Sanibel, Captiva, and Fort Myers Beach, though many of the islands themselves are also very bike- and golf-cart-friendly once you arrive.
Can I rent an RV lot at Laguna Caribe just for a season?
Yes. Laguna Caribe offers rental options for owners and visitors who want a home base for a season, in addition to lots available for full ownership.
What events does Laguna Caribe host during the season?
Laguna Caribe hosts recurring social events throughout the season, including Bingo every Monday at 6:00 PM (October 12 through April 19), Burgers & Old Fashioneds every Wednesday (November 4 through April 21), and an Asian Station on select Sundays (November 22 through April 11).
Explore Southwest Florida From Laguna Caribe
From island beaches to Everglades day trips, Southwest Florida rewards owners and renters who want more than just a place to park. Explore rental options or RV resort ownership at Laguna Caribe and start planning your next season nearby.
