Looking for a relaxing vacation that combines nature, history and yet a bit of luxury?  Look no further than Southwest Florida.  There’s plenty of flora and fauna to discover and interesting historical attractions, not to mention comfortable accommodations where you can rest your head (and feet!) after a full day of exploration.  Here are a few suggestions of how to spend your time:

Barefoot Beach Preserve Park – Come see why Forbes magazine ranked this park’s beach as the 6^th best in the U.S. in 2013.  One of Southwest Florida’s last undeveloped barrier islands, this is 342 acres of pure beach bliss.  The park and beach are located on the border between Lee and Collier Counties in Bonita Springs.  Enjoy the natural surroundings, tropical landscape, nesting sea turtles and gopher tortoises.  There’s easy beach access, plenty of fishing opportunities and educational guided tours.

Edison & Ford Winter Estates – Take a trip back in time at Southwest Florida’s most popular historical attraction.  Visit the winter estate compound of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.  The historic homes and other structures are located close to the Caloosahatchee River and are filled with period furnishings and accessories.  Enjoy Edison’s Botanic Research Laboratory, stroll through 20 acres of botanical gardens and the 15,000 square foot Edison Ford Museum. Educational tours are available. Located in Fort Myers.

Koreshan State Historic Site – Observe a variety of flora and fauna in this lovely state park and former home of a religious colony. Go fishing, camping, canoeing and boating along the Estero River and the Gulf.  The park is home to assorted wildlife: bobcats, gray foxes, bobwhites, river otters, hawks, bald eagles, gopher tortoises and American alligators.  A wide selection of imported plants and trees are found here, like the sausage trees from Africa, the False Monkey Puzzle tree from Australia and assorted fruit bearing trees.  Located in Estero on U.S. 41.

When deciding where to stay, consider Hyatt Coconut Plantation, a deluxe Hyatt Residence Club resort located in Bonita Springs and close to all Southwest Florida attractions.  One of the finest resorts in Bonita Springs with comfortable accommodations, fully equipped kitchens, concierge services, lush landscaping, and private balconies overlooking the golf course. Enjoy a 1000 foot river pool, four swimming pools, hot tubs and even a ferry to the resort’s own private island.  On-site dining is available at The Veranda Bar and Grille, Coconuts Tiki Bar and the Plantation Provision Company.  There’s also a fitness center, sauna, basketball, children’s playground, beach, tennis and bike rentals at this Hyatt Vacation Club property. Enjoy 18 holes of golf at the Raptor Bay Golf Club next door. Plenty of dining and shopping can be found in Bonita Springs, Estero and the Fort Myers areas.

If you are interested in purchasing vacation ownership at Hyatt Coconut Plantation, we recommend Don Heisler, Broker at Key West TimeShare Sales  www.keywestfltimeshare.com or call Don directly at  1-239-542-2010

 

Contributed by Chris Golden