Shopping & Spa Escape

Mega malls, trendy shopping areas and serene spas: the Fort Myers Sanibel area has all the makings of a refreshing girls-only getaway.

By Melissa Bartalos

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Coconut Point in Estero

Shopping at Coconut Point

A relaxing getaway doesn’t always require sand, surf and sun. Sometimes the best way to unwind involves some shopping with the girls and a dose of spa pampering.

The Fort Myers Sanibel area is the heart of Southwest Florida’s retail scene and one of the state’s most popular shopping destinations, hands-down. And it’s no surprise that this area known for relaxation has an abundance of spas and salons with a long list of soothing services. Combine the two and you have a girlfriends day trip or weekend getaway that’s good for the mind, body, soul and wardrobe. Here are some shopping and spa ideas the girls will go ga-ga for:

> SHOPPING HOTSPOTS

Coconut Point

Just south of Fort Myers off Interstate 75, Coconut Point in Estero is part of a retail-centric community that has something to satisfy the fashionista, foodie, beauty buff and bargain shopper in all of us. “Mall” is an understatement: There are more than 100 stores (everything from major clothing labels to high-end furniture), 25+ restaurants and a movie theater. The Main Street-style complex takes design cues from Mediterranean Revival-style architecture and incorporates lakes, palm trees and boardwalks. Here’s a taste of what’s in store:

> COOL SPAS

Follow your retail therapy with some real therapy – think facials, pedicures, massages and more. You can find sublime spa services all over town, with many convenient to Coconut Point. Be sure to ask about special packages.

At Coconut Point: Check out Massage Envy, Felix Andrew Salon (their nearby Bonita Springs location offers AVEDA facials) and Avalon, The Lifestyle Nail Salon.

SONU Aesthetic Day Spa, Estero: This chic luxury day spa has a full range of beauty treatments and spa services. Treat yourself to a custom massage or try their 50-minute signature facial, which uses warm seawater spray and gentle massage to rejuvenate skin.

Oasis Salon & Spa, Bonita Springs: This beach-inspired spa has a huge menu of services, including the Beachcombers Spa Pedicure or Skin Renewal Facial (organic products available).

Stillwater Spa at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, Bonita Springs: This is the ultimate resort-style spa retreat if you’re looking to indulge. Try the Sun Repair Facial or the Warm Shells Massage, a beachy version of the hot stone massage.

The Spa at ‘Tween Waters Inn, Captiva Island: Heading to Sanibel or Captiva? Make the trip even more sublime with a stop at this island resort’s spa, which recently had a makeover of its own. Treatments use products with lemongrass, lavender, citrus fruit extracts and marine botanicals to restore and re-energize.

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Comments

Submitted by Anonymous on November 23, 2010.

I will be visiting in Feb w friend. Never been there!!

Submitted by Anonymous on November 10, 2010.

I always take advantage everytime department store have sales and beat shopping rush so that I can save and have great discounts. Visit www.fastppt.org where I get many shopping tips to save when shopping. To maximize your benefits and get best deals, make a plan and then hit the market for you to get the most sales.