So far we've talked about how to shell and what to do with kids in Fort Myers. I've gotten a few emails from parents asking where they should stay when they head to this Southwest Florida gateway.
Don't worry, we've got ya covered there too!
We stayed in a one-bedroom suite at the Pink Shell Resort. Fort Myers is known to be a bit of a spring break destination so I was anxious about offerings for families, but my mind was totally put at ease when I saw where Fort Myers opted to host us. This award-winning spot is tucked away into a fairly quiet end of the beach away from most of the bars so moms and dads can kick back, relax and listen to the waves lapping outside their balcony.
There was a kitchenette with a dishwasher, fridge and microwave as well as a pull-out couch. Nate and I love to book one-bedroom suites like this and plop the kids on the couch because it saves us a ton of money when compared with booking a two-bedroom, and we still get a little breathing room so everyone sleeps soundly. Speaking of pricing, I was really surprised by the values available at this popular destination. Most of the bookings I saw even included breakfast, internet, water, drinks, beach umbrella rental and a bunch of other bonuses.
Seating was plentiful, with both a front and back porch offering lots of room for families to spread out.
I was impressed by thoughtful details like towel hooks in the entryway, so mom and dad don't have to spend their time picking up everyone's stuff. It's the little things.
You bet your butt I took full advantage of the robes I found in the bathroom adjacent to my very own balcony hot tub. I think I was equally excited about the robes and the hot tub. There's just something nice about stepping out of a steamy shower into a crisp, clean, big piece of waffly cotton – especially in a humid environment like this where people are pretty much just running around in swimsuits all the time and nobody wants to pull clothes on right after bathing. I should really start packing my own robe when I travel just to make sure I have one everywhere I go.
Alternately, you could just step out of the shower and plop straight into the hot tub. When in Florida, you must eat key lime pie while sitting in a hot tub or pool. It's a rule.
If you're looking for kid-friendly water play, you'll find three heated pools including a zero-entry “Octopool” with waterfalls and a splash pad. The resort also has tons of activities including arts and crafts, adventure tours, gear rentals and a 5-day “fishing school” experience if you want to keep older kids occupied for the better part of the afternoon Monday through Friday. They also have sailing school for families and free stargazing, nature walks, yoga, a spa, multiple onsite dining options…this is definitely a full-service resort that can fill your entire day if you just want to hang in one place. I thoroughly enjoy trips like that, where I'm not running around coordinating everybody's schedule. They even have the option to rent a fire pit and have s'mores on the beach!
As far as location, this spot can't be beat. Amazing shelling opportunities are steps away from your room for easy cost-free entertainment, and Times Square is a quick half-mile walk down the shore with plenty of eats and sights. As I mentioned in our earlier family activity post, Fort Myers as a whole is pretty spread out but if you're looking for beach action and entertainment, this is the place to be!
Have you ever been to Fort Myers? What was your favorite sight?