wildlife in fort myers beach Archives - Luxury Vacation Rentals

If you’re a nature lover who needs a getaway, point your compass to Florida. The state’s unique ecosystem of seashore, everglades, and everything in between allows visitors a unique experience. Florida’s year-round comfortable temperatures and sunny weather makes it hard to choose just where to go. Choosing Fort Myers Beach offers sand, sun, fun, and an experience of Florida’s nature like no other. Plan a day of wildlife spotting and you’re sure to see some of Florida’s wilder residents. Make sure to bring your binoculars, camera, hiking gear, and other necessities for the trip and remember the best way to keep everyone safe is to keep your distance. Below are the top things to see in Fort Myers Beach on a wildlife spotting adventure!

Lovers Key State Park

The 712-acre park is made up of four islands, including Lovers Key, Inner Key, Long Key and Black Island. The beaches are perfect for shelling and hiking – and wildlife spotting. Spot marine life like snook, tarpon, dolphins, and manatees gliding through the waters. If you train your eyes toward the sky, you might see roseate spoonbills – the “real” pink birds of Florida, woodpeckers, osprey, bald eagles, and more. Watch for the animals that leave their footsteps on the ground like gopher tortoises or American alligators. Stop at the visitors center for more information about the area’s residents.

Cayo Costa State Park

Wander through the native jungle areas of the of the barrier island’s park for a glimpse of some of interesting Florida wildlife. You’ll want to have your camera at the ready for capturing photos of feral pigs, alligators, tortoises, turtles, shorebirds, and even “living shells” like horse conches and lightning whelks. This is definitely one of the best things to see in Fort Myers Beach!

J. N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge

Located on Sanibel Island, the refuge is home to a myriad of land-dwelling and water-dwelling wildlife. Spot starfish, seahorses, crab, manatees, and more. Winged residents include egrets, herons, white ibises, osprey, and anhinga. Keep a lookout for other residents like bobcat, alligators, and river otters playing in the mangroves of the area.

Dolphin Tours

High on the list for every nature lover that finds their way to Florida is dolphin spotting. Bottlenose dolphins can often be found frolicking in the waves of the Gulf, and there are several charter boats and companies that will take you out during prime spotting times – including sunset – so you can get a peek at some of Florida’s most well-known residents.

Wildlife Spotting Getaway to Fort Myers Beach

Make sure your home-away-from-home is fit for you just as the natural surroundings of Fort Myers Beach are perfect for the wildlife by booking a vacation rental with Luxury Vacation Rentals. When you’re not out spotting area wildlife, prepare a tasty meal in the fully equipped kitchen and enjoy it in the comfort of your rental. Afterward, spread out in the open living area for some TV or a movie. We have units as small as one bedroom for your small family all the way up to six bedrooms for your wildlife spotting group! Choose a premium unit for upgrades like stainless steel appliances, granite counters, hardwood floors, flat screen TVs and more!