Shortly after we found out that we were pregnant we made a list of the places that we love, places that we hoped to return to before the baby comes. Places that are not only dear to our hearts, but also are relaxing and pampering and fit our “babymoon” criteria. The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel area was at the top of that list.
Since we were first introduced to this hidden gem of a spot back in 2016, we’ve been obsessed. (If you’ve been following us for awhile, you probably already knew that!) We’ve always said it would be the perfect place for a babymoon - and now that we’ve babymooned there, we can confidently say that it TRULY is. Here’s why this Floridian oasis should be at the top of your list, too:
IT’S EASY TO GET TO & EASY TO EXPLORE
Key word here, “easy”.
No matter how far along in your pregnancy you are, or how good you’re feeling, you want your babymoon to be as uncomplicated and trouble-free as possible. Long travel days are hard on your aching body, and dealing with crowds and delays is not ideal. Thankfully, no matter where you are in the US, chances are it’s an easy flight (or two) away.
We flew from our local airport, John Wayne (SNA) in Orange County to Dallas (DFW). We had a short layover (but enough time to hit the fame Centurion Lounge), and then headed to Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW). It’s our favorite kind of airport, busy enough that getting flights in/out aren’t a problem, but small enough where going through security is hassle-free and (usually) very quick. (Plus, if you’re like me and craving bagels during your pregnancy, they have a great bagel shop right after security!)
It’s just about an hour drive from the airport to the Fort Myers/Sanibel area. We actually look forward to the drive - it’s jaw-droppingly scenic, especially as you near Sanibel (we spent the majority of our babymoon in the Sanibel/Captiva area). Once in town, the speed limits are between 25 - 35 MPH throughout the whole island - making every outing and activity perfectly leisurely. Why rush when you’re on vacation?! (And trust us - you’ll never have to deal with traffic!)
Smiling because we’re back in paradise! It feels great to slow down and get on “island time”.
IT’S LUSH & TROPICAL & OFF THE BEATEN PATH
If you’re on the hunt for a tropical babymoon destination, this is it. Turquoise water, white sandy beaches, neon sunsets… it’s absolutely picture-perfect.
But what we love most about the Sanibel/Captiva area specifically is how remote it feels. You won’t find the big crowds or the inflated prices that you would at a resort in Maui or in the Caribbean. Instead you’ll find family-owned establishments, calm streets, and scenic beaches that aren’t heavily populated. You might even have the beach to yourself!
We had this beach to ourselves most days, with the occasional people scouring the sand for shells.
YOU CAN EAT FOR TWO - THE FOOD IS THAT GOOD
One of my favorite excuses since I’ve been pregnant is that I am now eating for two - and what baby wants, baby gets! I’ve always been a foodie (it’s a lifestyle) but with heightened hunger pains and a growing appetite, my food obsession has reached a whole new level.
If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to pick a babymoon destination that has plenty of culinary options - and that’s exactly what you’ll find here! From mouth-watering seafood to decadent key lime pie, you’ll be able to satisfy your every craving. I can proudly say that I ate my way around Sanibel and Captiva. (See more about where we ate in Sanibel/Captiva here.)
Bobby wanted to eat at Key Lime Bistro daily
Bobby’s new obsession for 2019 has been oysters - and he was loving them at the Green Flash Restaurant
Deciding if we were going to take down all the cake at The Bubble Room
Brunching hard at RC Otters :)
Mexican culinary delights at Cantina Captiva
IT CAN BE AS RELAXING OR ADVENTUROUS AS YOU WANT IT TO BE
Planning a babymoon weeks (or months) in advance can feel daunting, because you really have no idea how you’ll be feeling when the time comes. Whether you’re thriving living an active lifestyle or your pace is slowing down drastically, the Sanibel/Captiva area can truly meet your needs.
We had days where all we did was eat, lay by the beach, eat, play cards, and eat some more. On the days where we wanted to be more active, we’d go for bike rides, on a day trip to Boca Grande, walk the beaches, and more. It’s the kind of place where time moves slowly, and you’ll never feel the need to rush or “see it all” - but there IS a lot to do!
Bobby gets restless, so he plays in the sand. Maybe he needs a child to entertain?
What’s a trip to the beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel without some shelling
Mucky Duck sunset views are always glorious!
Exploring Boca Grande. We found some stunning hotels!
Boca Grande from the sky!
IT’S AFFORDABLE
Because the Sanibel/Captiva area is off the beaten path, you’ll be able to have the tropical getaway you’ve been dreaming of for a fraction of the price at other more popular destinations.
Saving money on resort fees and expensive plane flights means you can order that extra slice of pie or indulge in a longer prenatal massage… and all my mama’s said “AMEN”! We think that couples should treat their babymoon like a honeymoon, and here you can do exactly that - guilt-free!
Since we’re saving money, we decided we may as well indulge in a couples massage!
And of course cake at The Bubble Room!
The best way to end a relaxing day… sunsets on the beach!
Our tagline has always been, “Who says the honeymoon has to end?” In this new stage of life we’re in, we really should change that to babymoons! And while this season WILL end inevitably (in about three months), we’re embracing every moment that we can just the two of us. Though we spent the majority of our babymoon in the Sanibel/Captiva area specifically, we can’t recommend the entire Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel area enough. If you have any questions about our time there, leave a comment and let us know. We’ll do our best to answer!
Look at those colors!