As a wedding photographer and videographer duo, based in Southwest Florida, we know exactly where to go to have a good time. Which is why we put together this list of things to do in Southwest Florida.
We want you and your partner to have the best guide on fun things to do in Southwest Florida. Regardless of whether you’re visiting for a 2-day trip or a 7-day vacation, we aim to provide useful information to enhance your experience!
Best Restaurants in Southwest Florida
As many of you know, a lot of people come to FL for the beautiful scenery. Though there are more things to do in Southwest Florida that add to the experience. Its cuisine is a must-experience. And as avid food enthusiasts, we’ve made it our mission to discover some of the region’s finest restaurants.
Fort Myers
- Backyard Social: Backyard social is an indoor/outdoor venue that hosts 8 local food trucks. In addition to the food trucks, they have their own bar, tons of seating, and the perfect space for a casual date or event.
- San Matteo: If you want authentic and fresh Italian cuisine, this is one of the best restaurants in Southwest Florida. Their daily house-made pasta is exceptional and stands out as some of the finest available.
- Tacos + Tequila: This Mexican restaurant takes funky to a whole new level. They serve Tex-mex with a unique Americana twist, creating a novel American-Mexican fusion cuisine unmatched by any other restaurant.
- Naples Flatbread: The owner of Naples Flatbread, Ralph Desiano, is committed to serving unique food. Instead of using fryers and char-boilers, Naples Flatbread cooks with roasting and air-frying. This twist on traditional cooking makes their flatbread really stand out against their competitors.
Naples
- Namba: Namba offers an adventurous dining experience with shareable Japanese comfort food and unique creations. While known for expertly crafted ramen and fresh sushi, the menu features impressive specialty dishes. Dishes such as Whole Tiger Prawn, Prime Rib Eye, and Alaskan King Crab, catering to both familiar and adventurous palates.
- True Food Kitchen: This restaurant prioritizes nutritious, anti-inflammatory ingredients in every dish. Their culinary team has expertly crafted a menu focused on the well-being of their customers. While their dedication to healthy and delicious food is evident, the best way to understand their success is to experience it firsthand.
- Lake Park Diner: Lake Park Diner is another standout restaurant prioritizing nutritious and delicious options. Their commitment to well-being ensures you can feel good about your meal, and with a diverse menu, there’s something to please everyone in your group.
- Warren: If you’re in the mood for a unique, sultry dining experience, look no farther! Warren boasts the largest whiskey library in Southwest Florida as well as offering incredible cocktails alongside their American cuisine.
Fun Things to do in Southwest Florida
Florida boasts an abundance of beaches and parks. This can make it quite difficult to choose the best things to do in Southwest Florida. While it’s convenient to have all the options, it doesn’t always make the decision-making process easier. Let us take a little stress off your plate and let you know which ones are worth your time!
The Best Beaches in Southwest Florida
- Bonita Beach: Bonita beach is known for its incredible sunsets and peaceful environment. It also offers fantastic swimming, volleyball courts and sheltered picnic areas.
- Vanderbilt Beach: Vanderbilt Beach is a popular spot near Naples. With soft white sand, nearby dining options, and a long boardwalk perfect for sunset strolls.
- 5th Avenue Beach and Shopping: The beach is just steps from the high-end boutiques and restaurants of 5th Avenue South. It offers a unique blend of laid-back relaxation and luxury shopping.
- Seagate Beach: A quiet local favorite, Seagate Beach offers stunning sunsets, gentle waves, and a peaceful vibe away from the more crowded beaches.
- Lovers Key: Once accessible only by boat, Lovers Key is now a serene state park beach. It boats nature trails, kayaking, and frequent dolphin sightings.
Our Favorite Parks in Southwest Florida
As photographers, one of our favorite things to do in Southwest Florida is explore the many parks. We love scouting out new areas and discovering hidden gems for future photoshoots!
- Baker Park: Overlooking the Gordon River, Baker Park features walking trails, kayak launches, and a pedestrian bridge connecting it to the Gordon River Greenway.
- Three Oaks Park: This family-friendly park includes tennis courts, a skate park, splash pad and plenty of open space for playing and picnicking.
- Six Mile Cypress Slough: A lush nature preserve with a mile-long boardwalk through wetlands, offering wildlife sightings and a peaceful escape into nature.
- Naples Botanical Garden: This 170-acre tropical paradise showcases themed gardens from around the world, beautiful walking trails, and rotating art exhibits.
- Lakes Park: A versatile park with biking trails, pedal boats, playgrounds, and a scenic miniature train ride that’s fun for all ages.
Great Places to Shop in Southwest Florida
While we definitely love our parks and activities, shopping is another big favorite for things to do in Southwest Florida! And there are plenty of different options here in SWFL.
- Miromar Outlets: A premier outlet destination with major brand names at discount prices, plus a beautiful outdoor setting and dining options.
- Waterside Shops: This high-end shopping center features luxury brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton in a tropical, open-air setting.
- Mercato: A lively hub in North Naples with trendy boutiques, restaurants, nightlife, and regular outdoor events and live music.
- 3rd Street Naples: Known for its charming ambiance and upscale shops, 3rd Street offers a blend of art galleries, fashion, and gourmet eateries.
- 5th Avenue South: A vibrant downtown area perfect for strolling, shopping, and dining, with boutiques, galleries, and top-rated restaurants.
- Downtown Fort Myers: Rich in history and character, this riverfront district offers unique shops, craft breweries, and art walks in a revitalized urban setting.
What to Do in Southwest Florida
- Popstroke: A fun twist on mini-golf, Popstroke features Tiger Woods-designed courses, a rooftop bar, and casual eats in a modern setting.
- Topgolf: Perfect for date nights or group outings, Topgolf blends tech-driven driving range fun with food, drinks, and lively vibes.
- Headpins: More than just bowling—Headpins offers arcade games, live music, and a full-service restaurant and bar for all-around entertainment.
- Pickleball: With Southwest Florida’s love of the sport, you’ll find plenty of public and private courts—great for couples or groups looking to stay active.
- Paddle Boarding: Rent a board and explore calm waterways, mangroves, and coastal areas—an adventurous and photo-worthy activity.
- Biking: From beachside trails to scenic preserves, the area is full of bike-friendly paths that are perfect for couples who love to explore outdoors. (Feel free to borrow ours if you ever need to!)
- Walk Around Lakes Park Farmers Market: Held seasonally, this market offers fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and a chance to support local vendors while enjoying the park.
Southwest Florida Coffee Spots
This wouldn’t be a complete guide of things to do in Southwest Florida without including the best roasters in town. While SWFL offers a plethora of options, these are the ones that stick out above the rest!
- Summer Moon: Started by close-knit family and friends in Texas, they’ve always had a single goal in mind, striving to create “a distinctive, out-of-this-world experience” (“About Summer Moon Coffee”). In our opinion, they nailed this!
- Narrative Roaster: At Narrative Roaster, they’re all about their values – people first, high quality, and seasonal coffee. They cultivate strong relationships with their farmers and ensure fair labor, which is huge to us! They don’t just stop there though, they pride themselves in roasting high quality, seasonal drinks. The end result is a magical cup of coffee.
- Wolfmoon Bakery: Wolfmoon doesn’t just serve great coffee. They also specialize in fresh croissants that are absolutely to-die-for! Guests are able to sit in the outdoor garden space drinking exceptional beverages, paired with a fresh croissant. Wolfmoon knows what’s up when it comes to the coffee experience.
- Kaleidoscope Garden Club: If you’re looking for a unique coffee spot, this is THE place to go in Southwest Florida. Wolfmoon bakery teamed up with Kaleidoscope Floral and together they’ve created a combination coffee and flower shop. Even if you’re just here visiting for a day or two this place is a *must* in our opinion. The experience itself just makes it all worth it!
- Bad Ass Coffee on 3rd: At Bad Ass Coffee, they’re known for bringing the spirit of Hawaii to Southwest Florida through their rich, authentic Hawaiian coffee. While you’re there, be sure to explore their popular blended drinks, teas, island-inspired food, and branded merchandise. All their food is crafted with the goal of bringing a taste of Hawaii to you.
Get Our Full Guide on Things to do in Southwest Florida
Southwest Florida is more than just a beautiful beach destination, it’s a place full of vibrant culture, outdoor adventures, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, we hope this guide on things to do in Southwest Florida helps you make the most of your time and capture a few photo-worthy memories along the way.
Capture Your Time in Southwest Florida
Now that you know all the best things to do in Southwest Florida, let us be the ones to capture the magic! Specializing in couples, engagement, and wedding photography, we are passionate about capturing timeless moments you’ll cherish and share with generations to come.
Sources: “About Summer Moon Coffee.” Summer Moon Coffee, https://summermooncoffee.com/pages/about. Accessed 18 June 2025.
