If you’re in the mood to explore, Cape Coral has plenty of exciting nearby getaways.

If you love the water, Fort Myers is just a short drive away and offers an array of water sports, including jet skiing, parasailing, and paddle boarding. Make sure to stay safe to avoid an injury that might take you to a dentist in Cape Coral, as that’s probably not the getaway you were thinking of finding!

Explore Fort Myers

Fort Myers is a hotspot for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and nature fans alike!

You can start your day by strolling the historic River District, where you can find captivating art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Next, head to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, which offer insight into the lives of famous inventors Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.

If you want to enjoy the water, consider a day filled with activities from jet skiing and kayaking to collecting seashells by the seashore. But whether you wish to get wet or not, check out the stunning beaches, including Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel Island, before you leave.

 Take a Stroll Through the Rotary Park Environmental Center

This 97-acre park includes hiking trails, an observation tower, butterfly gardens, and a playground, making it an excellent spot for a family outing.

The park has five trails that vary in length and difficulty, so you can pick the one that suits you best. While strolling, you may spot various bird species, alligators, and other wildlife.

The butterfly gardens and observation tower are also worth exploring, especially if you want to learn about Florida’s ecosystem.

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Bask in the Beauty of the Tom Allen Memorial Butterfly Garden

The Tom Allen Memorial Butterfly Garden is a hidden gem just a few minutes from Cape Coral.

This garden is an oasis for butterflies and bird enthusiasts, spanning over three acres and home to dozens of butterfly species, including the Monarch butterfly.

You can stroll along raised walkways through the butterfly habitats, observe different birds, and enjoy serene surroundings.

The garden is open seven days a week, and admission is free, making it an affordable day trip destination.

Enjoy the Yacht Club Community Park

The Yacht Club Community Park is a great place to visit to experience beach life.

Located on the banks of the Caloosahatchee River, this park features white sandy beaches, a fishing pier, a marina, and a swimming pool.

You can spend your day floating in the turquoise waters, fishing off the pier, or dining at the on-site restaurant overlooking the river. As the sun sets, you can catch breathtaking views of the sky painted in bright, bold colors.

Put on your Learning Hat at the Southwest Florida Military Museum & Library

The Southwest Florida Military Museum & Library has many artifacts, documents, and photographs of Florida’s military history.

You’ll find exhibits with memorabilia focusing on various aspects of military life, like uniforms, weapons, and vehicles. The museum has many books and publications covering conflicts, wars, and military strategies, too.

As you can see, Cape Coral’s surrounding areas offer a wealth of vacation spots that cater to different interests and preferences.

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, beachgoer, or curious learner, you’ll find something to enjoy in these five getaways. And remember, should a paddleboard accident ruin one of your teeth, local dentists can set you up quickly with dental veneers so you can return to your adventures.

Plenty of getaways near Cape Coral are worth exploring—this list is just the start.