Countless day trips and fun family activities are within a few short hours of Sanibel and Captiva Islands. From theme parks, mini-golf, waterparks, nature preserves, it's all just a quick trip away. Below are our top suggestions.
5. Estero Bay Preserve

10,000-acre aquatic preserve offering miles of walking trails, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, biking as well as diverse wildlife, including Bald Eagles, fiddler crabs, birds and gopher tortoises. Website
4. LEGOLAND

LEGOLAND® is a 150-acre interactive Lego-themed family fun park with over 50+ rides, entertainment shows, attractions and more, serving as the world's largest LEGOLAND park. They have super neat rides and exhibits, including MiniLand USA which features detailed replicas of famous cities built entirely out of Lego bricks, Ford Driving School, where kids can drive little LEGO cars, and, of course, the famous Conquer The Dragon roller coaster! The park is geared more for kids between the ages of 2-12 so it makes a nice family day trip for younger families. 1 LEGOLAND Way Winter Haven, FL Website
3. Captain Bob's Excellent Adventure Eco Tour

Full-day and half-day eco-tours through the majestic Everglades. On each tour, patrons experience an airboat ride, boat cruise, wildlife drive within the Big Cypress Preserve, nature walk and lunch. Seeing alligators is a definite on this tour! Website
2. Sun Splash Family Waterpark Cape Coral

Sun Splash Family Waterpark in Cape Coral is the largest waterpark in SWFL. It features water slides, a lazy river, a speed slide, and plenty of more fun water activities. The park is about 30 minutes north of Sanibel Island and makes for a fantastic fun-filled family trip, especially for younger kids. You can even put your lounge chairs in the pool if you like! 400 Santa Barbara Blvd. Cape Coral, FL Website
1. Coya Costa State Park

Located in Boca Grande, this 2400 acre state park is a recreational paradise. Swimming, snorkeling, off-road biking, hiking, fishing, the occasional dolphin, and much more. Coya Costa State Park is surrounded by stunning pine forests, mangrove swamps, over nine miles of beautiful beaches, and makes for a fulfilling day trip and a splendid place to camp. Primitive cabins available for overnight stays in addition to regular tent camping. Accessible by ferry and private boat only. Reservations required. Please call ahead. 880 Belcher Rd. Boca Grande, FL (941) 964-0375
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