Cape Coral -
Get in
Since it is a "cape" most points of entry are by bridge. There are three points of entry for Cape Coral Florida: Veteran's Memorial parkway bridge, Cape Coral Parkway Bridge (both bridges have a toll, the toll is reduced by 50% if you have a LeeWay transponder and are enrolled in the discount program. In fact, with the discount, the toll is as little as 25 cents during off peak times), and by coming around Pine Island Parkway/ Bayshore Dr. from North Ft. Myers. If you are flying you will likely either fly in by Tampa International Airport or Ft. Myers International Airport.
Shopping
Shopping opportunities abound in nearby Fort Myers including the Tangers Outlet Mall. For unique opportunities there are multiple quirky and bohemian opportunities on Sanibel and Captiva which have boutiques and shops. For an enjoyable shopping experience spend time on Sanibel's Perriwinkle Way or for a mall experience go to the Edison Mall (SW Florida's largest) in Fort Myers.
Get around
Santa Barbara Boulevard divides the city into east and west, while Hancock Bridge Parkway (east of Santa Barbara) and Embers Parkway (west of Santa Barbara) divide the city into north and south. Thoroughfares going East to West are: Pine Island Parkway, Veterans Memorial Parkway, Cape Coral Parkway, and El Dorado Dr (listed from northernmost to southernmost). The North and South are Del Prado, Santa Barbara, and Chiquita (taken from easternmost to westernmost). The Cape is large and flat, areas are laid out far from one another; driving is a must. Cape Coral is the 2nd largest city in Florida by square mileage, so expect things to be spread out. The southernmost tip has the largest concentration of businesses and homes. A bike lane is provided and can be a handy way to navigate the SE and SW portions.
Within walking distance
• Cape Coral Yacht Club Park
Just a short drive away
• Sanibel Island
• Captiva Island
• Fort Myers Beach
• Lovers Key State Park
• Pine Island
• Cabbage Key (short boat ride required)
• Bonita Springs Beach
Activities
Multiple beach accesses are one of this community's strong points. This includes typical beach/tourist activities on Ft. Myers Beach, nature trails and sea kayaking opportunities on Black Island in Lovers Key State park, and sunsets from Captiva's uniquely West facing beach (a tourist must).
Dining
A number of small restaurants may be found anywhere in the Cape.
• Most locals would recommend Iguana Mia's Mexican restaurant. You can view Iguana Mia's menu on their website.
• Chains are also popping up around Cape Coral including: Ruby Tuesdays and Jason's Deli off Santa Barbara and Houlihans on Cape Coral Parkway.
But for the best SW Florida experience try to stick to the local hang-outs like:
• La Parilla Steak House: Some of the best steak on the planet can be found at La Parilla. This is an authentic Argentinian Steak house with an authentic Argentinian chef. The Chimichurri is outstanding.
• Leaping Lizards: The ambiance is pure SW Florida and the grouper sandwich is outstanding.
• Beatnik Coffee: The quintessential local hang-out. Great coffee, good pastries, fun staff, and nightly events. Thursday's Open mike is one of the best in the area.
Many more dining options can be found along Cleveland Ave. which is a short drive (15 min.) away in Fort Myers.
Links
Adapted from WikiTravel under the Wiki License
Home | Add/Modify Listing | Photo Gallery | Maps | Contact | About Us | Canada Privacy Statement
This site is operated by 2024 Cedar Lake Software
LastModified: Apr-12-10