Florida's Lee Island Coast Overview & History

Lee Island Coast is actually named for Lee County which hosts most of the beach areas commonly associated with this inviting section of Florida coastline.  This county includes the islands of Sanibel and Captiva, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Estero Island/Fort Beach, Bonita Springs, and more than 100 smaller coastal islands off the mainland.

With some 50 miles of beaches, award-winning state parks and wildlife preserves, It is the barrier islands that dot the coastline which are the most popular destinations for boaters and beachcombers alike.  Sanibel Island captured the best shelling location for the fifth year in a row and has coined the phrase "the Sanibel Stoop" for the position so many find themselves in during their visit.  Shortly after arriving at Sanibel Island, you will probably find yourself appreciating this title first hand.

Awards are nothing new for Florida's Lee Island Coast. In its December 2002 issue, Islands magazine chose Captiva Island to its esteemed list of "50 perfect island getaways" and describes the list as "dream destinations".  Six-Mile Cypress Slough Preserve in Fort Myers took three awards for best nature center, best guided tour, and best place to watch birds.  It is no surprise that Florida's Lee Island Coast walks away with so many awards considering its wealth of natural resources.