Spring Break in Southwest Florida: A Local Family Guide
The Christmas rush is over, routines are settling back in, and the next break to look forward to is Spring Break!
Whether you’re a Southwest Florida local planning a stay-cation or visiting from out of state for our incredible beaches and laid-back coastal charm, SWFL is full of hidden gems that are perfect for families with kids.
From charming places to stay, to kid-friendly beaches, restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. Here’s our curated guide to doing Spring Break the SWFL way.
Favorite Places to Stay in SWFL
Viva La Casa
A cozy, thoughtfully designed vacation rental perfect for families who want comfort and convenience while staying close to everything Fort Myers has to offer. www.visitvivalacasa.com
Palm Leaf Getaway
A laid-back Cape Coral retreat with space to unwind — ideal for families who want a relaxed home base with easy access to water activities. www.Airbnb.com/h/palm-leaf-getaway
South Seas Island Resort
A classic Captiva resort experience with beaches, pools, activities, and plenty of room for kids to explore. www.southseasislandresortcaptiva.com
Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa
Old Florida charm meets family-friendly fun. Great for multigenerational trips with pools, beach access, and on-site dining. www.tween-waters.com
Tarpon Lodge
One of our all-time favorites. Peaceful, historic, and full of Old Florida soul — perfect for slowing down and making memories. www.tarponlodge.com
Cabbage Key Inn and Cottages
A true hidden gem only accessible by boat. Rustic cottages, wildlife, and unforgettable island adventures for families. www.cabbagekey.com
Margaritaville Beach Resort
Bright, fun, and beach-forward — ideal for families who want walkability, beach time, and entertainment all in one spot. www.margaritaville.com
Hyatt Regency Coconut Point
A family favorite with lazy rivers, waterslides, and resort-style amenities that keep kids entertained all day. www.hyatt.com/hyatt-regency
Luminary Hotel & Co.
Perfect for families who want an elevated stay close to downtown dining, river views, and walkable entertainment. www.luminaryhotel.com
Family-Friendly Beaches
Fort Myers Beach
Wide beaches, gentle waves, and plenty of dining and activities nearby.
Lovers Key State Park
A more natural beach experience with calm waters, wildlife sightings, and space for kids to roam.
Captiva Island
Shelling, sunsets, and that dreamy island pace families fall in love with.
Sanibel Lighthouse Beach
Iconic views, calm water, and great shelling — especially for younger kids.
Bowditch Point Park
A quieter beach option with nature trails and fewer crowds.
Where to Eat
Sugar Shack
Casual, fun, and perfect for breakfast or lunch with kids.
Cristof's
A local favorite for Italian comfort food in a welcoming atmosphere.
McGregor Cafe
Easygoing dining with options everyone in the family will enjoy.
Harold's
A longtime Fort Myers staple — great for relaxed family dinners.
Slipaway
Waterfront vibes, open-air seating, and casual eats kids love.
Local Shops
Dolly Archer English Antiques – Beautifully curated antiques and timeless finds
Ive’s Curated Gifts – Thoughtful gifts and coastal treasures
Duckberry – Unique local goods with charm
Nanny’s – Classic island shopping for children
Cabbage Key Outfitters – Souvenirs with true Old Florida character
Simply Golden Boutique – Trendy finds for moms
Wallflower Shops – Home décor and gifts
Cottage Under the Oaks – A destination-worthy shopping experience
Family Friendly Entertainment
Edison and Ford Winter Estates
Educational, beautiful, and surprisingly kid-friendly.
Lakes Park
Playgrounds, walking paths, bike rentals, and picnic spots.
Bent Brush
A fun, creative stop for kids to paint and unwind.
Everglades Wonder Gardens
A must-see for animal lovers and curious kids.
PopStroke
Mini-golf meets family fun — great for all ages.
What to Pack for a SWFL Spring Break (Family Edition)
Packing for Spring Break doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Think sun protection, comfort, and pieces that let kids move freely from beach days to late-night ice cream runs. Here’s our go-to list for Southwest Florida trips:
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
The Florida sun is no joke. Pack a high-SPF sunscreen and reapply often, especially after swimming and long beach days.
SPF 50 Swimsuits (you can find ours here: 2025 Summer Swim – Brittany Hartt Designs)
Sun-safe swimsuits are a must for long days outdoors. Our SPF 50 swim styles are designed to protect little skin while staying comfortable enough for all-day wear.
Beach Toys
Buckets, shovels, nets, and floats. Simple toys go a long way when you’ve got sand and imagination.
Breathable Pajamas (you can find ours here: Dockside Daydreams – Brittany Hartt Designs
After salty days and sun-soaked adventures, breathable bamboo pajamas are essential. Soft, temperature-regulating, and perfect for winding down after busy days.
Sunglasses (Sunnies)
Protect little eyes while adding a bit of fun. Bonus points if they’re durable enough for sandy hands.
Bug Spray (No-See-Um Protection)
Evenings near the water can bring tiny bugs. A good no-see-um spray makes sunset dinners and dock walks much more enjoyable.
Aloe Vera Gel
Just in case of extra sun exposure. Soothing aloe is always good to have on hand.
Flip Flops
Easy on, easy off. Perfect for beach walks, pool days, and quick trips out the door.
Beach Cover-Up
Lightweight cover-ups make transitions from beach to lunch effortless.
Sun Hats
Wide-brim or bucket hats help keep faces shaded and comfortable during long outdoor days.
Spring Break isn’t just about the destination — it’s about the in-between moments that become core memories. Barefoot mornings, sun-kissed cheeks, sandy car seats, and kids who fall asleep on the way home tired, salty, and happy. The kind of days you wish you could bottle up and keep forever. If you’re packing for your trip (or planning a stay-cation close to home), our Dockside Daydreams collection was created for exactly these moments — soft, breathable bamboo pieces inspired by coastal days, boat rides, and carefree childhoods. Clothes meant to be lived in, loved hard, and remembered long after the suitcases are unpacked. Shop outfits for the trip: Dockside Daydreams – Brittany Hartt Designs