Eco travel in Fort Myers has so many options to get you into nature and reduce your footprint. From kayaking through waterways to sustainable dining and eco lodgings Fort Myers has it all. This guide goes into the top eco attractions, activities, dining and accommodations in the area so you can plan a vacation that’s fun and green.
1. Eco-Attractions and Activities in Fort Myers
Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail
One of the top eco-attractions in Fort Myers is the Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail. This 190 mile water trail runs along the Gulf Coast and inland waterways. Scenic kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding. Named after the indigenous Calusa tribe this trail is a great way to get into nature and enjoy the peace and quiet of the water. You can paddle through mangroves, see dolphins and manatees, and explore the area’s rivers and bays.Tips for eco-travelers: Rent kayaks or paddleboards from local outfitters like Lovers Key Adventures or Kayak Excursions. Many operators promote eco-tourism and offer guided tours that highlight the importance of preserving the natural environment.
Location On Google Maps
J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
For birders and wildlife lovers the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island is a must see. The 6,400 acre preserve has over 248 species of birds including the rare Mangrove Cuckoo and Reddish Egret. The refuge is critical to the conservation of endangered species and native Florida habitats.Eco-friendly tip: Bike or walk through the refuge to reduce your carbon footprint. Visitors can also use the “Discover Nature” app to learn more about the local wildlife and their habitats.
Location On Google Maps
Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
Another eco-attraction is the Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary which has the world’s largest remaining virgin bald cypress forest. Just an hour from Fort Myers this 13,000 acre sanctuary has a 2.25 mile boardwalk through wetlands where you can see wood storks, alligators and the famous ghost orchid when it’s in bloom.Eco-friendly tip: Bring reusable water bottles and don’t waste plastic when visiting these natural areas.
Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve
Just outside downtown Fort Myers the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve is a peaceful wetland that serves as a wildlife corridor. The 1.2 mile boardwalk trail allows you to see wading birds, otters and alligators without disturbing their environment. This preserve is also home to the first LEED certified green building in the area so you can feel good about being green.
2. Eco-Friendly Transportation
Fort Myers is a car city, but there are options for eco-conscious travelers.
- LeeTran Buses and Trolleys: LeeTran is an affordable and eco-friendly way to get around Fort Myers and the beaches. During peak season, trolleys also run in downtown so you don’t have to use your personal vehicle to get around.
- Bike Rentals: Fort Myers has several bike rental companies, many of which will deliver bikes to your hotel. Biking is a great way to get around and reduce your carbon footprint, especially in areas like Sanibel Island which has miles of bike paths.
- Electric Vehicle Charging Stations: If you’re driving an electric or hybrid vehicle, Fort Myers has many charging stations. Use Plugshare to find the nearest one and plan your eco-friendly road trip.
3. Sustainable Dining and Local Food
Supporting local farm-to-table dining is a great way to travel sustainably. Fort Myers and surrounding areas have several options for eco-conscious eaters.
- Buckingham Farms: One of the standouts is Buckingham Farms, a working farm that grows its own produce and serves it to customers at its on-site restaurant. Here you can enjoy fresh seasonal meals made with ingredients grown just feet away from your table.
- Local Seafood in Matlacha: The fishing village of Matlacha on Pine Island is famous for its fresh local seafood. Restaurants like Blue Dog Bar & Grill use sustainable seafood from local waters. Another popular spot is Dixie Fish Company, a historic fish market-turned-restaurant that serves Florida pink shrimp and catch-of-the-day specials.
- MangoMania: If you visit in the summer, don’t miss MangoMania, an annual festival on Pine Island that celebrates locally grown mangoes. The island also has several roadside fruit stands where you can pick up fresh organic produce.
4. Eco-Friendly Accommodations in Fort Myers
Staying in eco-friendly accommodations can make a big impact on your environmental footprint while traveling. Fort Myers has several green options that prioritize sustainability.
- Hyatt Coconut Plantation: The Hyatt Coconut Plantation overlooks Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve and is recognized for its sustainability efforts including recycling programs, water conservation and energy efficiency. The hotel is part of the Florida Green Lodging Program which promotes eco-friendly practices in the hospitality industry.
- Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina: Another great choice is Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina on Fort Myers Beach. This beachfront resort is committed to environmental sustainability through solar energy, water conservation and a comprehensive recycling program.
- Cayo Costa State Park: For a more extreme eco-experience, consider camping at Cayo Costa State Park which is only accessible by boat. The park has tent sites and rustic cabins where you can unplug and enjoy the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast.
5. Voluntourism and Conservation
Fort Myers has voluntourism opportunities too. ECHO Global Farm in North Fort Myers has volunteers to help with sustainable farming projects to end hunger worldwide. You can also volunteer with the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation to preserve coastal habitats and clean up local beaches. Or CROW (Clinic for Rehabilitation of Wildlife) on Sanibel Island where long-term volunteers help rehab injured wildlife including bald eagles and gopher tortoises.
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Fort Myers is the perfect spot for eco-conscious travelers to see Florida’s natural beauty while reducing their footprint. From kayaking the Great Calusa Blueway to farm-to-table restaurants and green hotels, there’s so many ways to have a sustainable vacation. By going green you’ll help Fort Myers stay a beautiful destination for years to come.This updated content has corrections and additional info to make it clearer while keeping the same tone for eco-travelers in Fort Myers.
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