The Perfect Day Trip to Southwest Florida

From the pristine, sugar sand beaches of Lovers Key to the small town of Fort Myers Beach, come along for the perfect day trip to Southwest Florida.

This article lays out the steps we took to discover a beautiful corner of Florida few people know about. By the end of the post, you’ll have a good idea of a potential itinerary on where to go and what to do on a day trip to Southwest Florida, Fort Myers Beach, and Lovers Key State Park.

The need for a trip to the beach

Seemingly, it’s been a century. It sure seems like it, at least. Our psyche is worn, tired, and we’re desperately seeking a reprieve from the strict stay-at-home orders in south Florida. I know we can’t be alone.

It’s been nearly two months since the COVID-19 outbreak has ravaged the United States and we’re still stuck at home in Fort Lauderdale and Miami; and rightfully so. After all, the region was the hardest hit in the state of Florida in terms of cases.

Although necessary, it’s still a tough pill to swallow for ocean lovers like ourselves: no beaches, no sunshine, no boat trips, no diving. Ugh, when is this going to end?

As a result, my sweet girlfriend, Laura, like so many others, was on the verge of a breakdown. And I quote, “my scales are starting to dry up”, she said. She must think she’s a mermaid?

We had to do something quick.

Day Trip to Southwest Florida: Lovers Key to Fort Myers Beach

Not nearly as infected as the Miami area, the rest of the state has started to reopen their parks, beaches, and economies. Makes sense. Especially since social distancing is likely best done in the great outdoors.

We were in luck: the secluded shores of Southwest Florida are not far off. Lush mangrove forests; sugar-white beaches; clear, turquoise water; and small, yet lively cities are all within a short drive from Southeast Florida.

And besides, we always wanted to go. It’s so close. And so beautiful. It only took a pandemic for us to actually make the trip.

And wow. Was it worth it.

Driving through the Everglades to a morning sunrise

The morning begins on the 100 mile stretch of interstate straight through the Everglades. It’s a peculiar sight, the Everglades don’t look like much other than sawgrass and water for as far as the eye can see. However, millions of creatures actually call the river of grass home: alligators, rare birds, deer, and even invasive snakes.

It’s a two hour drive to southwest Florida and our departure time was 6 AM. It’s early but the black coffee in my Yeti tumbler should do the trick. Early bird gets the worm, as they say.

At least we have a beautiful sight to enjoy; the rising sun in the rearview mirror looks like a tequila sunrise on a Friday night – I guess that’s where they got the name.

Finding the right beach in Southwest Florida

We decided to go beyond the first few cities we encounter in Southwest Florida: Marco Island and Naples. Surely, they’re worth visiting but maybe on another day. Exit 116 is where we’re headed: Bonita Beach Road toward Bonita Springs.

Here’s the important part after taking the exit: drive until you see the ocean and take a right. Down the road and over a bridge is where the preferred destination awaits: Lovers Key State Park.

RELATED: 9 Reasons to Visit Lovers Key State Park

Exploring Lovers Key State Park

Lovers Key and the surrounding waters’ only inhabitants are animals – bald eagles, gopher tortoises, great blue herons, manatees, and bottle nose dolphins roam freely. Additionally, the protected beaches and mangrove forests are blissful scenes for any Florida nature lover (perhaps that’s how they decided on a name?)

The 712 acre park has it all: hiking and biking trails, paddling routes, wildlife encounters, a boat ramp, and stunning scenery straight from a postcard. Admission fees are minimal:

• $2 for pedestrian, biker, runner, or walker entering.
• $4 for single occupant car.
• $6 group in car (max 8)
• Or consider getting the Florida State Park Annual Pass.

A morning hike amongst lush mangrove forests

The best start to the day is a brisk hike through the mangrove islands before the blazing Florida sun makes its presence known in the afternoon. We took the Black Island Trail, a 2.5 mile trek through winding tropical hammocks and estuary banks.

The mangroves lining the islands filter the water running through the channels – creating a vibrant blue backdrop to the abundant sea grapes and palm trees on the island. A tropical paradise.

Lunch on a tailgate (or picnic table)

After your morning hike, it’s time for a late breakfast/early lunch before departing to the beach. Since the coronavirus was raging, picnic tables and pavilions were shut down to deter large groups from forming. Fortunately, we had a truck tailgate to use. It’s almost like I was back in college before a football game (War Eagle!).

Turkey sandwiches and chips & salsa are our go-to assortment for beach picnics. What’s yours?

Eyes peeled and ears perked for wildlife encounters on your way to the beach

Typically, a tram takes visitors along the boardwalk to the beach – a ride best suited for elderly and those with small children (this was shut down for the pandemic, anyway). If able, the walk itself is worthwhile, though.

A bridge spans over a channel; look below for dolphins, manatees, and schools of fish. On dry land, perk your ears up for gopher tortoises. I heard one digging his burrow only to spot him just beyond the tree line! Pretty cool, seeming how they’re rare to see!

Spend the afternoon on the pristine and secluded beach

The few hundred yard stroll to the beach is well worth it as you approach the end of the boardwalk: a view suitable for your next desktop background.

Who knew? A slice of a tropical paradise right here in our backyard.

Enjoy the day snorkeling, finding sand dollars, encountering both dolphins and manatees, and soaking up the sun!

And don’t worry. We socially distanced, of course.

Explore town for dinner and some entertainment

The sunburn is setting in and your face literally hurts. It’s time to pack up and head into town.

Six miles north (a 15 minute drive) is Fort Myers Beach. The small town is quaint, yet has the right amount of a tourist vibe to it.

We parked at Lynn Hall Beach Park – next to the fishing pier. A block away is Fort Myers Beach’s own rendition of “Times Square”: a multi-block shopping center filled with beach bars, live music, swanky restaurants, and plenty of beach outfitters.

We can’t give you a specific recommendation on where to eat, unfortunately. Thank coronavirus for that one. So we just settled for a beer.

Watch the sunset over the Gulf

What’s a trip to Florida’s west coast without watching a beautiful sunset over the Gulf? We live on the east coast – we’re all too used to waking at the crack of dawn to experience an equally as beautiful sunrise (usually it’s too early for me).

Most of the time, anywhere on the beach makes for a good spot to watch the sunset in Fort Myers Beach.

NOTE: Depending on time of year you may have to play with the angles. Meaning, the sun sets too far north with Sanibel Island blocking your view. No worries. Just drive a little further south back to Lovers Key and you’ll be sure to encounter a great spot.

Day trip to Southwest Florida

This itinerary isn’t all encompassing. Other state parks, city parks, and beaches are in the vicinity and we encourage you to find them! That’s the great thing – Southwest Florida is so massive and so natural.

It seems there’s a whole different world to explore on this side of Florida. And after coronavirus, we can’t wait to explore it all!

In the mean time, we’ll settle for the perfect day trip to Southwest Florida, Fort Myers Beach, and Lovers Key State Park.

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Planning more than a day trip to Southwest Florida?

Fort Myers Beach and Southwest Florida are a great place for a family vacation or an international trip. Here are some money saving resources when planning your travels: