The shallow waters of Fort Myers make it a gathering place for natural shells; more varieties than anywhere on this continent ensure it’s a go-to for shell collectors. And of course, shallow beaches are perfect for safe paddling. Thomas Edison and Henry Ford had winter homes here, both of which can be seen (Seminole Lodge and The Mangoes respectively). Fishing and shopping are popular pursuits in this safe city and you can explore the Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge. With a tropical savanna climate, Fort Myers is a temperate year-round getaway for sun-seekers.
Luminary Hotel & Co., Autograph Collection
Stay downtown at this AAA Four-Diamond resort perched on the Caloosahatchee River. The 12-storey building was completed in 2020 and is just a couple of blocks from the beach with views across the marina. Terraces house the fourth-floor pool and a bar, while 243 rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows and urban chic decor, with artistic nods to the city’s illustrious “luminaries”. There are five places to eat and drink on-site; a seafood restaurant, a coffee shop, an American diner, a top-floor river-view cocktail bar and the latest addition, Oxbow Bar & Grill. The Luminary also accommodates a culinary theatre and indoor and outdoor fitness areas.