Florida's Waterfront Wonderland Full Of Canals And Wildlife Is Known As The 'Venice Of America'

When it comes to having fun in the sun — and on the water — there are few places like Southwest Florida. One particular destination in the Sunshine State, Cape Coral, stands out from the rest of the region as the "Venice of America" due to over 400 miles of canals running through the city. The "Waterfront Wonderland" was first planned and developed in the 1950s as a city on the water, growing into a popular travel destination with an incredible variety of local seafood, gorgeous sunsets, and of course, miles of white sandy beaches. Whether you're on the beach, or a boat, don't forget your sunglasses (and don't break them in your luggage).

Cape Coral's intricate network of canals as a means of transportation, irrigation, and drainage make the city unique amongst others in the United States. Instead of driving everywhere, you can cruise through much of the city on a boat and experience the Florida Dream of life on the water. However, one caveat: If you were born after January 1, 1988, you need a Florida Boating Safety Identification Card in addition to your driver's license to operate a boat. You can find more information about the state's boat operator requirements here.

Visitors to Cape Coral will also find themselves surrounded by incredible wildlife on land or water, or in the sky. Cape Coral's "official city bird," the burrowing owl, is a common sight around town and beloved by locals. On the more dangerous side, note that bull sharks and alligators both can live within the city's canals as well. Be careful where you swim and play in the water!

In Cape Coral, you'd be hard-pressed to find a beach that won't take your breath away. Although the small Yacht Club beach in town is well-known, some of the best beaches are a bit further out in the gulf on Sanibel and Captiva Islands. Both barrier islands have everything you need for a relaxing or romantic beach vacation including restaurants, accommodation, parking (boat and car), and plenty of activities and entertainment. However, note that some businesses may still be closed due to the damage from Hurricane Ian in 2022.

Both Sanibel and Captiva islands are also world-famous for bird habitat. The J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge makes it possible for you to get up close and watch wading birds catch fish in their natural habitat. Viewing is the best during the winter months and early spring. The refuge is a key piece of the largest underdeveloped mangrove in the United States. Spend the day leisurely biking along the trails and snapping incredible photos of over 245 species of birds, or tie together a trip to the free visitors center with a thrilling adventure trip kayaking or paddleboarding as you learn about the local ecosystem in Southwest Florida. Some local species are endangered, such as the manatees.

Back on the peninsula, Cape Coral's 365-acre Four Mile Cove Eco Preserve is also a popular spot to watch birds and throw a line in the water. The 1.8-mile boardwalk is stroller-friendly, and a great place for a morning or evening stroll. If you're willing to venture out, there are both kayaks and canoes available for rent to get up close to your environment. Don't forget sunscreen and bug spray!

While making the most of trips to Disney World and other theme parks are often high on families' bucket lists, tickets, meals, and accommodation can cost much more than a pretty penny. Cape Coral may not have the Magic Kingdom, but it does have plenty of family fun on a smaller budget. Families and kids of all ages will love splashing the day away and flying down a five-story water slide at Sunsplash Waterpark, Southwest Florida's largest. Gator Mike's Family Fun Park will get your adrenaline pumping during a game of paintball, ziplining, or speeding down the go-kart track. For a more low-key evening, the city is also home to the iconic and locally acclaimed Cultural Park Theatre that produces and directs plays and musicals, as well as hosts concerts from local and national artists during the summer months.

It's no surprise that Southwest Florida has a delectable variety of fresh seafood. Whether you are craving fish, lobster, mussels, shrimp, or crab you can have it all at the end of a perfect day of exploring. Many of Cape Coral's best restaurants and bars feature live music and are right on the water, where you can drink in the incredible views along with your favorite beverage. If you're in the mood for an adult drink, Cape Coral's breweries and distilleries put a local spin on classics, and the city's German community even hosts a traditional Oktoberfest in the fall!

Unlike South Beach or Daytona, Cape Coral is largely not a party destination. However, If Cape Coral's beaches and food scene are too crowded, head north to Manasota Kay, a low-key peaceful paradise with similar activities and equally beautiful scenery to boot.