Cape Coral Coastal Cruise: RVing in Southwest Florida

Cape Coral, a city in Southwest Florida, is a paradise for RVers and boaters alike. With over 400 miles of waterways, it is a great destination to explore on a coastal cruise. From stunning sunsets to delicious seafood, Cape Coral offers a wide range of activities and experiences that will make your coastal cruise unforgettable.

Discovering Cape Coral is an adventure in itself. With a variety of parks, beaches, and nature preserves, there is no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy. Planning your coastal cruise is easy with the help of local tour operators who offer a range of options, from private charters to group tours. On the water adventures include fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, while exploring the surrounding islands will take you to hidden gems like Cayo Costa and Cabbage Key.

Key Takeaways

• Cape Coral is a paradise for RVers and boaters with over 400 miles of waterways to explore.

• Planning your coastal cruise is easy with the help of local tour operators who offer a range of options.

• On the water adventures and exploring the surrounding islands are just some of the many memorable experiences Cape Coral has to offer.

Discovering Cape Coral

Cape Coral is a city in Southwest Florida, located on the Gulf of Mexico and the Caloosahatchee River. It is known for its beautiful beaches, water activities, and leisurely lifestyle. RVers can enjoy the best of both worlds in Cape Coral, with access to the beach and the city's many attractions.

History and Geography

Cape Coral was founded in the 1950s as a planned community. It was designed to be a waterfront paradise, with over 400 miles of navigable waterways and access to the Gulf of Mexico. Today, Cape Coral is one of the fastest-growing cities in Florida, with a population of over 180,000.

The city is located on a peninsula, bordered by the Caloosahatchee River to the east and the Gulf of Mexico to the west. It is home to several parks and nature preserves, including the Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve and the Rotary Park Environmental Center.

Local Attractions and Landmarks

Cape Coral has plenty to offer RVers, from water activities to local attractions. Tarpon Point Marina is a popular spot for boating and fishing, with a yacht basin and access to the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can also take a sunset cruise or dolphin watching tour from the marina.

For those interested in history, the Cape Coral Historical Museum offers a glimpse into the city's past. The museum features exhibits on the city's founding, as well as artifacts and photographs from the early days of Cape Coral.

Other local attractions include the Sun Splash Family Waterpark, the Cape Coral Arts & Music Festival, and the Cape Coral Farmers Market. RVers can also enjoy the many restaurants, shops, and galleries in downtown Cape Coral.

Overall, Cape Coral is a great destination for RVers looking to explore Southwest Florida. With its beautiful beaches, water activities, and local attractions, there's something for everyone in this waterfront paradise.

Planning Your Coastal Cruise

When planning a coastal cruise in Cape Coral, it is important to consider several factors to ensure a memorable and enjoyable trip. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when planning your Cape Coral coastal cruise.

Choosing the Right Time of Year

The best time to enjoy a leisurely cruise in Cape Coral is between November and April when the weather is mild and sunny. During this period, you can enjoy a comfortable trip with clear skies and calm waters. However, if you prefer a sunset cruise, it is recommended to book a trip during the summer months when the sun sets later in the evening.

Selecting a Cruise Type

Cape Coral offers a variety of cruise types to suit different preferences. For a relaxed and eco-friendly experience, consider a dolphin or sightseeing cruise. If you want to enjoy the beauty of the sunset, then a sunset cruise is the perfect choice. For those who prefer a more adventurous experience, a sailing trip might be the best option.

Booking and Reservations

It is advisable to book your Cape Coral coastal cruise in advance to secure your preferred date and cruise type. Most cruise operators offer online booking options, making it easy to reserve your spot. When booking, make sure to check the cancellation policy and any restrictions that may apply.

Overall, planning your Cape Coral coastal cruise requires careful consideration of several factors. By selecting the right time of year, cruise type, and booking in advance, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable trip.

On the Water Adventures

Cape Coral is a great destination for RVers who love water activities. The Caloosahatchee River is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and wildlife watching. There are many boat rental companies in the area that offer a variety of different boats, including pontoons, fishing charters, and sailboats.

Wildlife and Eco Tours

One of the most popular activities in Cape Coral is wildlife and eco tours. Visitors can take a boat tour and observe dolphins, manatees, and other marine life in their natural habitat. On these tours, visitors can also learn about the local ecosystem and the importance of preserving it. Some of the best companies that offer wildlife and eco tours include On The Water Florida, Coastal Breeze Tours, and Dolphin Boat Tours.

Fishing and Boating

Cape Coral is also a great destination for fishing enthusiasts. Visitors can rent a boat or book a fishing charter to explore the waters and catch a variety of fish species, including snook, redfish, and tarpon. Some of the best companies that offer fishing charters in the area include On The Water Florida and Dolphin Boat Tours. Visitors can also rent a pontoon or fishing boat from Cape Coral Boat Rentals or Fish Tale Marina.

Overall, Cape Coral is a great destination for RVers who love water activities. With a variety of boat rental companies and fishing charters, visitors can explore the Caloosahatchee River and observe wildlife in their natural habitat.

Exploring the Surrounding Islands

Cape Coral is an excellent starting point to explore the surrounding islands of Southwest Florida. Visitors can take a day trip or an overnight excursion to explore the unique natural beauty of the area. Here are some of the must-visit islands in the region:

Sanibel and Captiva

Sanibel and Captiva are two of the most popular barrier islands located off the coast of Cape Coral. These islands are well-known for their pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and excellent shelling opportunities. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the beach, collect seashells, or watch dolphins play in the waves. Sanibel and Captiva are also home to several restaurants, shops, and galleries, making them a great destination for a day trip.

Cayo Costa and Cabbage Key

Cayo Costa and Cabbage Key are two other must-visit islands located near Cape Coral. Cayo Costa is a barrier island that is only accessible by boat. Visitors can hike the trails, kayak the waters, or simply relax on the beach. Cabbage Key, on the other hand, is a small island known for its charming Old Florida atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a meal at the famous Cabbage Key Inn or take a stroll around the island's nature trails.

Overall, exploring the surrounding islands is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Cape Coral. With so much natural beauty and unique experiences to be had, visitors are sure to have a memorable trip.

Culinary Delights and Dining

Waterfront Restaurants

Cape Coral is home to an array of waterfront restaurants that offer stunning views of the Caloosahatchee River, making it a perfect destination for RVers looking for a unique dining experience. One such restaurant is Marker 92 Waterfront Bar & Bistro, which is nestled at the Westin Cape Coral Resort. Their menu boasts a wide range of culinary delights, from seafood to gourmet burgers. You can savor your meal while gazing at the calm waters and occasional dolphin sightings.

Another must-try waterfront restaurant in Cape Coral is The Boathouse Tiki Bar & Grill, located at Yacht Club Community Park. The Boathouse is an American restaurant and bar that serves some of the best seafood, wings, burgers, and cocktails. You can chill at The Boathouse with a sunset drink and watch the boats cruise by.

Picnic and Catering Options

For RVers looking for a more relaxed dining experience, Cape Coral offers several picnic and catering options. One such option is the Cape Coral Farmers' Market, which is held every Saturday from October to May. Here, you can find a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and other local delicacies. RVers can stock up on picnic supplies and enjoy a meal in one of the many parks in Cape Coral.

For those looking for a more upscale picnic experience, Crave Culinaire offers catering services that include picnic baskets filled with gourmet food and drinks. RVers can choose from a variety of baskets, each with its own unique theme. Crave Culinaire also offers custom catering services, allowing RVers to create their own personalized menu.

Overall, Cape Coral offers a diverse range of dining options for RVers, from waterfront restaurants to picnic and catering services. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch or an upscale dining experience, Cape Coral has something for everyone.

Entertainment and Nightlife

Cape Coral is a vibrant city with a lively entertainment and nightlife scene. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from sunset and dinner cruises to parties and private events.

Sunset and Dinner Cruises

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Cape Coral is by taking a sunset or dinner cruise. There are several companies that offer these types of cruises, such as JC River Cruises and Tropical Breeze Fun Park. These cruises typically last a few hours and include a delicious dinner, live music, and stunning views of the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.

Parties and Private Events

Cape Coral is also a popular destination for parties and private events. There are several venues that offer event spaces, such as the Cape Coral Yacht Club and the Westin Cape Coral Resort. These venues can accommodate a variety of events, from corporate parties to weddings and other special occasions.

For those looking for a more unique experience, there are also several companies that offer private sunset cruises and other custom events. These companies can create a personalized experience for their guests, complete with music, dining, and other fun activities.

Overall, Cape Coral offers a diverse range of entertainment and nightlife options for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a relaxing sunset cruise or a lively party, there's something for everyone in this beautiful coastal city.

Accommodations and Amenities

When it comes to accommodations in Cape Coral, visitors have plenty of options to choose from. The city offers an array of resorts, hotels, RV parks, and marinas that cater to different budgets and preferences. In this section, we will explore the different types of accommodations available in Cape Coral and the amenities they offer.

Resorts and Hotels

Cape Coral has a variety of resorts and hotels that offer waterfront views, luxurious amenities, and excellent service. Some of the popular resorts and hotels in the area include Hideaway Waterfront Resort & Hotel, The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village, and Dolphin Key Resort. These resorts and hotels offer spacious rooms, swimming pools, fitness centers, and restaurants. They are perfect for visitors who want to enjoy a comfortable stay with easy access to the beach and other attractions.

RV Parks and Marinas

For visitors who prefer to stay in an RV or on a boat, Cape Coral has several RV parks and marinas that offer excellent facilities and amenities. Some of the popular RV parks in the area include Sun-N-Fun RV Resort, Gulf Waters RV Resort, and Encore RV Resort. These RV parks offer spacious sites, swimming pools, laundry facilities, and other amenities. They are perfect for visitors who want to enjoy the freedom and flexibility of RVing.

Cape Coral also has several marinas that offer dockage, fuel, and other amenities for boaters. Some of the popular marinas in the area include Tarpon Point Marina, Cape Coral Yacht Club, and Four Winds Marina. These marinas offer easy access to the Gulf of Mexico and other waterways, making them perfect for boaters who want to explore the area.

Overall, Cape Coral offers a wide range of accommodations and amenities that cater to different preferences and budgets. Visitors can choose from luxurious resorts and hotels, spacious RV parks, and convenient marinas to enjoy a comfortable and memorable stay in Southwest Florida.

Travel Tips and Resources

Getting to Cape Coral

Cape Coral is easily accessible by air, with Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) located just 25 miles south of the city. Visitors can find direct flights to RSW from major cities across the United States, making it a convenient destination for travelers. Car rentals are available at the airport, and visitors can also arrange for shuttle service or taxi service to reach their destination.

Navigating the Area

Cape Coral is located in Southwest Florida, and visitors can easily explore the surrounding areas by car. Many of the top attractions in the region, including Sanibel Island and Fort Myers Beach, are within a short drive of Cape Coral. Visitors can also explore the area by boat, with many marinas and boat rental companies located throughout the region.

When planning a trip to Cape Coral, visitors should consider their proximity to the attractions they wish to visit. While many of the top attractions in the area are within a short drive of Cape Coral, visitors may want to consider staying in a different location if they plan to spend most of their time in a specific area.

Visitors can find more information about the area, including a map of the region, on the official Cape Coral website. The website also includes a search function for finding local attractions, as well as contact information for local businesses and organizations.

Reviews and Contact Information

Before booking a trip to Cape Coral, visitors may want to read reviews from other travelers to get an idea of what to expect. Many travel websites, including TripAdvisor and Yelp, offer reviews of local attractions, restaurants, and accommodations.

Visitors can also find contact information for local businesses and organizations on the Cape Coral website. For specific questions or concerns, visitors may want to contact the organization directly to get more information.

Overall, Cape Coral is a great destination for travelers looking to explore the beauty of Southwest Florida. With its convenient location, visitors can easily explore the surrounding areas and enjoy all that the region has to offer.

Memorable Experiences

Customer Stories and Reviews

Cape Coral Coastal Cruise offers a unique experience that is sure to create lasting memories. Customers have raved about their amazing day on the water with friends and family, and have left glowing reviews on various platforms such as Tripadvisor and Coastal Breeze Tours.

One satisfied customer shared that "The sunset cruise was absolutely amazing! The crew were knowledgeable and friendly, and the views were breathtaking. It was the perfect way to end a day in Southwest Florida." Another reviewer said, "We had a fantastic time on the Tiki Boat Tour. The relaxed atmosphere and beautiful scenery made for a perfect day with friends."

Capturing the Moments

Cape Coral Coastal Cruise provides ample opportunities to capture the moments of your amazing day on the water. Whether you're looking to snap a photo of the stunning sunset or capture the excitement of spotting dolphins and other marine life, there are plenty of photo opportunities on board.

For those looking to take their photography to the next level, the crew is happy to offer tips and tricks for capturing the perfect shot. With the beautiful scenery and friendly crew, you're sure to leave with memories that will last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of boat tours are available in Cape Coral?

Cape Coral is a great place to explore by boat. There are several boat tours available in the area, ranging from sunset dolphin cruises to fishing charters. Some of the popular boat tours in Cape Coral include Gulf Coast Family Charters, JC River Cruises, and Southwest Florida Yachts. Visitors can also rent a boat and explore the waterways on their own.

Are there long-term RV parks in the Fort Myers area?

Yes, there are several long-term RV parks in the Fort Myers area. Some of the popular RV parks in the area include Cypress Woods RV Resort, Gulf Waters RV Resort, and Fort Myers Beach RV Resort. These parks offer a range of amenities, including full hookups, laundry facilities, and swimming pools.

Can you recommend an Everglades tour operator near Cape Coral?

Yes, there are several Everglades tour operators near Cape Coral. Some of the popular tour operators include Everglades Day Safari, Everglades Adventure Tours, and Captain Jack's Airboat Tours. Visitors can explore the Everglades by airboat, kayak, or on foot.

What options are there for RV storage in Cape Coral?

There are several options for RV storage in Cape Coral. Some of the popular RV storage facilities in the area include CubeSmart Self Storage, Extra Space Storage, and Public Storage. These facilities offer a range of storage options, including indoor and outdoor storage.

Where can I find a sunset dolphin cruise in Cape Coral?

There are several companies that offer sunset dolphin cruises in Cape Coral. Some of the popular companies include Gulf Coast Family Charters, JC River Cruises, and Captain Jack's Boat Tours. Visitors can enjoy a sunset cruise while watching dolphins play in the water.

Is it possible to swim with dolphins in Cape Coral?

While it is not possible to swim with dolphins in Cape Coral, visitors can still enjoy watching dolphins play in the water. There are several companies that offer dolphin watching tours, including Gulf Coast Family Charters, JC River Cruises, and Captain Jack's Boat Tours. These tours offer a unique opportunity to see dolphins up close in their natural habitat.