Your Cape Coral Getaway
Cape Coral sits on Florida’s Gulf Coast, just across the Caloosahatchee River from Fort Myers. Here’s everything you need to plan your trip, from flights and weather to where to stay.
Getting here
By air: Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers is about 12 miles away, roughly a 30-minute drive. Punta Gorda Airport (PGD) is about 25 miles north, close to an hour’s drive, and is served by low-cost carriers. Tampa International (TPA) is about 2 hours 45 minutes away.
By car: From I-75, take exit 143 (Bayshore Rd / SR 78), exit 136 (Colonial Blvd to the Midpoint Bridge) or exit 131 (Daniels Pkwy). From the east coast, cross the state on I-75 “Alligator Alley.” Two bridges connect Cape Coral to Fort Myers: the Cape Coral Bridge and the Midpoint Bridge.
Getting around
Cape Coral is spread out, so a car is the easiest way to get around. Rental cars are available at RSW. Rideshare services operate throughout the city, and LeeTran runs public bus routes. Many visitors also get around by boat, since rental homes often have a private dock.
When to visit
Cape Coral is warm all year. Most visitors come in winter and spring, when days are sunny and dry.
| Season | Average high / low | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | 74–76°F / 56–59°F | Driest months, peak season, manatees in the canals. Book early. |
| Spring (Mar–May) | 79–87°F / 61–70°F | Warm and mostly dry. Great for boating and fishing. |
| Summer (Jun–Sep) | 89–90°F / 74–76°F | Hot and humid, with short afternoon storms. Best rates of the year. |
| Fall (Oct–Nov) | 80–85°F / 64–70°F | Crowds are light and the weather cools. A local favorite. |
Hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30. If you travel then, consider travel insurance and watch forecasts from the National Hurricane Center.
Where to stay
- Waterfront resorts and hotels: full-service stays with marinas, pools and restaurants
- Vacation rental homes: canal-front homes, many with private pools and boat docks
- Seasonal rentals: monthly stays for winter visitors
- RV resorts and campgrounds
Beaches nearby
- Yacht Club Beach: Cape Coral’s own public beach on the river, open daily from sunrise to sunset
- Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel and Captiva: classic Gulf beaches for shelling and sunsets, a short drive away
- Pine Island and Matlacha: colorful fishing villages with art galleries, seafood and great paddling
Don’t miss
- Burrowing owls: Cape Coral has more burrowing owls than any other city in Florida, about 5,000 of them. Look for their roped-off burrows in empty lots, and keep your distance.
- Florida’s tallest flagpole: the 250-foot flag at Bernice Braden Park, at the foot of the Cape Coral Bridge
- Sunset on the water: from a cruise, a waterfront restaurant or the Yacht Club beach
- Events: festivals, farmers markets and live music year-round
Frequently asked questions
What’s the best time to visit Cape Coral?
Late October to early May has the most comfortable weather. Summer brings lower rates and fewer crowds.
Does Cape Coral have a beach?
Yes. Yacht Club Beach is the city’s public beach. The Gulf beaches of Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel are a short drive away.
Do I need a license to drive a rental boat?
Anyone born on or after January 1, 1988 needs a Florida boating safety credential. Rental companies can help with a temporary certificate.
Do I need a fishing license?
Most visitors do. Buy one online at myfwc.com. Licensed charters usually cover their passengers.
Is Cape Coral good for families?
Yes. Families enjoy boating, kayaking, nature parks, wildlife watching and the many vacation homes with private pools.
Visit the Welcome Center
The Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral Welcome Center, in Bernice Braden Park, has maps, brochures and friendly local advice.
2051 Cape Coral Parkway E, Cape Coral, FL 33904 · 239-549-6900 · Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.