Family Vacation Days on the Water

Paddling and Powerboating: Day 1

Paddling magazines hail The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel for its first-rate kayaking, so don't miss out. Catch the birds and other local wildlife as they and you awaken on an early-morning kayak adventure into Pine Island's aquatic preserves. Contact Gulf Coast Kayak Company for rentals and tours.

Then rent a powerboat for a half-day from Pine Island's Four Winds Marina for a family excursion to Boca Grande or Gasparilla Island to the north. Stop for fishing in the bay or Boca Grande Pass, known for its remarkable tarpon catches in summer. Dock at Uncle Henry's Marina, which can arrange golf cart rentals for exploring the island's restaurants, shops, beaches and lighthouse museum. Stop for homemade ice cream downtown at Loose Caboose.

Sea Life on Sanibel: Day 2

Adventures in Paradise’s Sea Life Encounter power-catamaran excursion is perfect for families. Learn about local marine ecology from a trained biologist, who drags a seine net to gather specimens to identify and explain. Snorkeling and shelling trips are also scheduled.

Devote the evening to water-bound luxury aboard Sanibel Harbour Resort’s 100-foot Princess yacht. Sunset cruises serve hors d'oeuvres and dinner.

Canoeing the Calusa: Day 3

Canoe or kayak part or all of the 190-mile Great Calusa Blueway, named for the Native Americans who once paddled along these shores. It takes you past Mound Key State Archaeological Site, where the shell mounds and canal systems of the Calusa remain, and Lovers Key State Park (known for its family-friendly beaches) with food concessions to provide the makings of an impromptu picnic.

Rent your vessel at Estero River Outfitters on U.S. 41 or Lovers Key State Park. To tour Mound Key without paddling, contact the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa.

Manatees and Sails: Day 4 add-on

Consider a sail aboard New Moon on Captiva Island, which holds sailing classes for children and families, as does Offshore Sailing School at South Seas Resort.