Extended Weekend Getaways Sanibel Island’s newest resident: a giant Pacific octopus
What has eight arms, three hearts and blue blood? And calls The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium its new home?
The newest resident, a giant Pacific octopus, is a popular addition to the Sanibel Island museum. And he’s already feeling right at home.
Much larger than the two-spot octopus and Caribbean two-spot octopus also on exhibit, the new addition is expected to enhance visitors’ experience as they learn more about the diverse mollusks, shells, and marine life in the Living Gallery of Aquariums.
Keeper Chats are presented daily at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. during which aquarists share fun facts about the octopuses and other marine life. Visit shellmuseum.org for information and make plans to visit the new star attraction.
Breakfast with the birds
On Nov. 16, Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers is partnering with the Audubon of Southwest Florida to offer a unique tour experience for anyone interested in learning more about birds. The Estates’ plant curator and an experienced birding guide from Audubon will lead visitors through the property, where a variety of bird species may be found.
Edison and Ford families’ interest in wildlife, their excursions into Florida’s swamps and forests, and how Mina Edison fought to protect wild birds and what she did to attract birds to her own property. Following the tour, participants will be provided with a pastry and beverage from the on-site Banyan Café and have an opportunity to talk with fellow birders and guides. Check details and reservations at edisonfordwinterestates.org/events/breakfast-with-the-birds
Roxie featured in Partner Spotlight video
Check out our latest video and learn about Roxie, a vintage Airstream trailer that has been retrofitted to serve as a colorful welcome center for the Town of Fort Myers Beach. Managed by the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce, Roxie has become a beloved member of the community. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7eGeQx-yawA
Accommodations news
Sundial Beach Resort & Spa on Sanibel Island is currently accepting reservations for stays beginning this fall. Daycation resort passes are available for a limited time. Turtles Tiki Bar, Shima Sushi Bar and Sea Breeze Bar are open. Visit sundialresort.com/play/sundial-daycation for the latest details and check out the latest opening information.
Glamping at Koreshan State Park in Estero
It’s camping that everyone can enjoy in air-conditioned tents at this state park along the Estero River. Explore the Koreshan Unity Settlement. Kayak, canoe, paddle board. And dogs are welcome. ftmyers.tlglamping.com
Sanibel Historical Museum and Village opens
The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village is open each Tuesday through Saturday and a special $10 adult admission available through Jan. 4, 2025.
Founded in 1984, the Village welcomes visitors during its 40th year of preserving, sharing, and celebrating Sanibel’s history. The tour experience includes an orientation video and historic buildings displaying numerous artifacts. The story of Sanibel Island is told from the Calusa and Spanish eras to the early pioneer families who settled on the island in the 1800s. Nine historic buildings were moved from their original sites and each has been restored. sanibelmuseum.org
Azaleas on the Corner opens in downtown Fort Myers
Painting classes, garden workshops, wine tastings, and more are to be discovered at this this new art and garden shop. The botanical-inspired gallery and gift shop is owned by a local artist and a busy calendar of activities is scheduled. azaleasonthecorner.com
Take a look around with area webcams: Check out what’s happening around the area with live webcam views. Zoom in to spot native butterfly species in Cape Coral. Do some birdwatching from an observation tower at J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Explore botanical gardens and wildlife at Wonder Gardens in Bonita Springs. Discover North Shore Park on the river’s edge in North Fort Myers and catch views of downtown Fort Myers and the Caloosahatchee Bridge. Find these and more with easy navigation instructions at visitfortmyers.com/webcams
And enjoy our recently added webcams at Fort Myers Beach Town Square, Sanibel Lighthouse Park, Lovers Key Discovery Center and Prairie Pines Preserve in North Fort Myers.
Visit six Florida state parks in Lee County. Each one is a treasure to explore.
Gasparilla Island State Park, Boca Grande
The centerpiece of Gasparilla is the restored Port Boca Grande Lighthouse built in 1890. It houses a museum that is open to the public. Swimming, snorkeling, fishing and viewing nature are popular activities along with shelling beautiful beaches. Beach wheelchairs are available. Details: visitfortmyers.com/beaches/gasparilla-island-state-park
Koreshan State Park, Estero
The Koreshan Unity Settlement, a nationally registered historic district, offers an opportunity to learn about these interesting and idealistic pioneers. Guided tours are available throughout the year of the landscaped grounds and 11 restored buildings. Nature trails meander along the Estero River for fishing, boating, canoeing. The campground’s 60 secluded sites have water, power hook-ups. Twelve sites by the Estero River are designated tent camping. ADA campsites are available. Glamping is available in luxury safari tents. Details: visitfortmyers.com/listing/koreshan-state-park/42037
Mound Key Archaeological State Park, Estero
Native Americans known as the Calusa were a non-agricultural hunting and gathering chiefdom that dominated the waters of Southwest Florida. Located in Estero Bay, the park is accessible only by boat and there are no facilities. Interpretive displays along the trail crossing the island help visitors discover the history of the island. Check details and boat launch locations: floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/mound-key-archaeological-state-park
Lovers Key State Park, Fort Myers Beach
Once a collection of secluded barrier islands, Lovers Key is a destination for wildlife viewing and outdoor recreation. The two-mile stretch of beach is popular for shelling, picnicking, fishing, and swimming. The Welcome and Discovery Center is an educational hub for curious park goers to learn more about the ecosystems, history, and recreational opportunities available at the park. Check for times, current openings and activities: visitfortmyers.com/beaches/lovers-key-state-park
Cayo Costa State Park, Cayo Costa
Accessible only by boat or kayak, this former fishing ground of the Calusa features nine miles of undeveloped, pristine shoreline for swimming, snorkeling, shelling, fishing and birdwatching. Shorebirds are numerous, and you may also spot manatees, dolphins, and sea turtles offshore. Details: visitfortmyers.com/beaches/cayo-costa-state-park
Estero Bay Preserve State Park, Estero
Enjoy miles of hiking trails through the preserve and viewing the variety of wildlife and native vegetation that the park protects. The bay is home to the bald eagle, gopher tortoise and fiddler crab and more. The trails are rugged and seasonally flood in some areas. Sturdy footwear, insect repellent, sunscreen and plenty of water are recommended. The preserve is accessible from two land locations: the Winkler Point entrance at 17981 Winkler Road in Fort Myers and the Estero River Scrub entrance at 4940 Broadway Ave. W. in Estero. Details: visitfortmyers.com/listing/estero-bay-preserve-state-park/39904
Neighborhood Mural Program
Highlighting what makes each area of the destination special, visitors are enjoying the experience of a neighborhood mural program. The placemaking initiative by the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau is done in partnership with the Fort Myers Mural Society. The project gives visitors a chance to interact with the murals’ designs by taking and sharing photos.
The locations of this latest mural project include:
- The side of Eagle’s Nest Restaurant on Pine Island
- A double mural on both sides of the entrance doors into the North Fort Myers Recreation Center
- Lakes Park in Fort Myers for a series of murals in the children’s garden
- The side of the Community Redevelopment Agency building at 1231 Lafayette St., Cape Coral
- The side of the Sanibel-Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce building on Sanibel Island
Learn more about the mural program in the Fort Myers area: visitfortmyers.com/murals
Calusa Blueway Challenge
Take the Calusa Blueway Challenge and celebrate 20 years of the Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail by checking in at locations along the trail for a chance to win prizes. Earn points as you paddle and check in at attractions, restaurants, parks and nature spots along the trail. Paddle on your own, experience a guided tour, shop at a local business or grab a bite to eat as you explore the 200-mile marked trail that meanders through the back-bay estuaries, rivers, and shorelines of Fort Myers Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods. Complete a certain number of check-ins on the pass to be entered to win a Body Glove iSUP Performer 11’ or a two-night stay at Tarpon Lodge. Details and sign up: visitfortmyers.com/CalusaBluewayChallenge
Sun Saver Passport: Dine, Play, Shop, Sip
This popular, digital savings pass provides instant access to a variety of deals and experiences from area attractions, restaurants and more across four categories: Dine, Play, Shop and Sip. Sign up is simple and free. Passports are instantly delivered to phones via text and email. And there is an option for users to save the pass on their home screen for one-tap access. Sign up now to start saving. visitfortmyers.com/sun-saver-passport
Cape Coral Quest 2.0: Win prizes and explore through Dec. 1
Start exploring with the latest pass to earn discounts and rewards in Cape Coral. Known for its unique shopping opportunities, restaurants, and more than 400 miles of canal waterways, the area is full of vibrant culture. Each participating location has a four-digit code somewhere on the property. Answer 20 riddles to be entered to win the grand prize: a two-night stay at The Westin Cape Coral at Marina Village with daily breakfast. Enter all 30 codes and you’ll earn a 2024 Sunsplash Season Pass! Through Dec. 1, 2024, get your pass, check out details and tips at visitfortmyers.com/cape-coral-quest and start participating on any mobile device.
Fall events
Sanibel Island Writers Conference
Nov. 8-9 – Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Myers
Connect with fellow wordsmiths at this exciting in-person event. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, this conference is designed to inspire and ignite the passion for storytelling. Workshops, panels and thought-provoking discussions are led by industry experts. Free registration. fgcu.edu/siwc
Big Arts 2024 Fall Film Festival, Sanibel Island
Nov. 15-16 – Over two days, enjoy three documentaries by critically-acclaimed, Emmy-nominated filmmaker Andrew Rossi, showcased in the Christensen Performance Hall. Check schedule at bigarts.org/event/inaugural-fall-film-festival
34th annual American Sand Sculpting Championship, Fort Myers Beach
Nov. 21-24 – Showcasing the best of World Class Master Sand Sculptors, the celebration of art, community and family fun includes food, live music and shopping options. Location: DiamondHead Beach Resort. fmbsandsculpting.com
Annual festivals and events
Concerts in the Park, Cape Coral
Nov. 7 – Four Freedoms Park
capeconcerts.com
Sanibel Island Writers Conference
Nov. 8-9 – Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Myers
fgcu.edu/siwc
BIG ARTS 2024 Film Festival, Sanibel Island
Nov. 15-16 – bigarts.org/event/inaugural-fall-film-festival
34th annual American Sand Sculpting Championship, Fort Myers Beach
Nov. 21-24 – fmbsandsculpting.com
Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet
Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall, Fort Myers
Nov. 17 – tinyurl.com/bbmannholiday
Rocket Mortgage Fort Myers Tip-Off
Nov. 25-27 – Suncoast Credit Union Arena at Florida SouthWestern State College
fortmyerstipoff.com
Nov. 25 – 11 a.m.: Miami (OH) vs. Siena (Palms Division)
1:30 p.m.: Jacksonville vs. Mercer (Palms Division)
6 p.m.: Michigan vs. Virginia Tech (Beach Division)
8:30 p.m.: South Carolina vs. Xavier (Beach Division)
Nov. 26 – 11 a.m.: Third-place game, Palms Division
1:30 p.m.: Championship game, Palms Division
Nov. 27 – 6 p.m.: Third-place game, Beach Division
8:30 p.m.: Championship game, Palms Division
Elevance Health Women’s Fort Myers Tip-Off
Nov. 28-30 – Suncoast Credit Union Arena at Florida SouthWestern State College
womensfortmyerstipoff.com
Nov. 28 Island Division
Noon: South Carolina vs. Iowa State
3 p.m.: Purdue vs. Middle Tennessee
Nov. 29 Shell Division
2 p.m.: Michigan vs. Belmont
4:30 p.m.: Virginia Tech vs. Davidson
Nov. 30 – 11 a.m.: South Carolina vs. Purdue (Island Division)
1:30 p.m.: Middle Tennessee vs. Iowa State
5 p.m.: Third-place game, Shell Division
7:30 p.m.: Championship Game, Shell Division
Gulf Coast Showcase
Hertz Arena
gulfcoastshowcase.com
Men’s Tournament, Nov. 25-27
Nov. 25 – Noon: Ball State vs. Eastern Kentucky
3 p.m.: Southern Illinois vs. Louisiana Tech
6 p.m.: Richmond vs. Florida Tech
Nov. 26 – Noon: Eastern Kentucky vs. Southern Illinois
3 p.m.: Louisiana Tech vs. Richmond
6 p.m.: Florida Tech vs. Ball State
Nov. 27 – Noon: Eastern Kentucky vs. Louisiana Tech
3 p.m. Southern Illinois vs. Florida Tech
6 p.m.: Richmond vs. Ball State
Women’s Tournament, Nov. 29-Dec. 1
Nov. 29 – 11 a.m.: Boise State vs. Illinois State
1:30 p.m.: West Virginia vs. High Point
5 p.m.: Butler vs. Santa Clara
7:30 p.m.: Texas vs. New Mexico State
Nov. 30 – Consolation games at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
Semifinal games at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. tinyurl.com/capecoralboatalong
Plan ahead
J.N. “Ding” Darling Winter Lecture Series begins Jan. 9, 2025
The popular, free series kicks off Jan. 9, with celebrity photographers Clyde and Niki Butcher: Portraits of Real Florida. The series runs through March 20, 2025. Details: dingdarlingsociety.org/lecture-series
Also, the Refuge will host Niki Butcher’s “Daydreaming” exhibition in the Visitor & Education Center Auditorium Dec.14 through Feb. 27, 2025, with free admission Saturday through Thursday. Niki specializes in hand-painted black-and-white photography glorifying nature’s beauty and Florida’s history.
The Savannah Bananas are coming
If you haven’t heard, the Savannah Bananas are headed to Southwest Florida. Lee County has been selected to host the 2025 Banana Ball World Tour at JetBlue Park, Feb. 14-16, with two night games and one day game. The much-anticipated world tour destination announcement was made recently during a reveal celebration of selected venues that include Fort Myers.
The Savannah Bananas are known for their unique, family-affordable brand of baseball and fun. Tickets to their games are considered some of the hardest to get in sports and there is often a waiting list to purchase them. Tickets are a flat rate of $35 each and free for “little bananas” ages 3 and under. Check out details and ticket information along with a form to sign up for the ticket lottery list at thesavannahbananas.com
