Family Activities

Things to Do with Children in the Paradise Coast of Southwest Florida

The Paradise Coast of Southwest Florida is a haven for families seeking adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. Welcome to Paradise Coast SWFL defined as the regions of Venice, Englewood, Fort Myers, Lee County, and Collier County—including Naples, Marco Island, and Everglades City—this slice of paradise offers endless opportunities for families traveling with children under 12. Whether you’re exploring natural wonders, engaging in educational activities, or simply soaking up the sun, the Paradise Coast offers a wide variety of attractions, events, and activities you and your children will love! Here’s your ultimate guide to family-friendly activities in the Southwest Florida region known as “the Paradise Coast”.

Animal Encounters: A Wild Adventure

Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens

• Nestled in the heart of Naples, the Naples Zoo is a family favorite. The zoo features exotic animals such as giraffes, lions, and lemurs, as well as native Florida species like alligators. Take the Primate Expedition Cruise to see monkeys on their island habitats or let your kids burn off energy at the zoo’s splash pad.
• Location: 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd, Naples, FL
• Highlights: Giraffe feeding, keeper talks, and the lush botanical garden setting.

Everglades Wonder Gardens

• In Bonita Springs, this historic attraction showcases Florida wildlife, including flamingos, alligators, and turtles, in a beautifully landscaped garden.
• Location: 27180 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, FL

Shy Wolf Sanctuary

• Introduce your children to rescued wolves, foxes, and other exotic animals at this unique sanctuary. Tours must be booked in advance, but the experience is well worth it.
• Location: Naples, FL | Visit Shy Wolf Sanctuary for more details.

Parks and Outdoor Adventures

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park

• This pristine beach park in Naples is perfect for a family day out. With calm waters for swimming, picnic areas, and opportunities to spot dolphins, it’s a hit with kids and parents alike.
• Location: 11135 Gulfshore Dr, Naples, FL
• Activities: Beachcombing, swimming, and wildlife observation.

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

• Walk the 2.5-mile boardwalk through ancient cypress forests teeming with wildlife. Look out for alligators, otters, and colorful birds along the way.
• Location: 375 Sanctuary Rd W, Naples, FL

Koreshan State Park

• Explore history and nature at this Estero park, featuring the preserved settlement of the Koreshan Unity and trails along the Estero River. Canoe rentals are available for family paddling adventures.
• Location: 3800 Corkscrew Rd, Estero, FL

Lowdermilk Beach Park

• This family-friendly beach in Naples features two kids’ playgrounds, picnic areas, and a gradual sandy beach perfect for young children.
• Location: 1301 Gulf Shore Blvd N, Naples, FL

Donna Fiala Eagle Lakes Community Park

• A fantastic destination with playgrounds, lighted sports fields, walking and biking trails, and ample parking and restrooms.
• Location: 11565 Tamiami Trail E, Naples, FL

Sports and Active Fun

Spring Training Baseball

• The Paradise Coast is home to MLB spring training for the Boston Red Sox and the Minnesota Twins. Catch a game at one of these iconic stadiums:
  • JetBlue Park at Fenway South (Red Sox)
    • Location: 11500 Fenway South Dr, Fort Myers, FL
  • Hammond Stadium (Twins)
    • Location: 14100 Six Mile Cypress Pkwy, Fort Myers, FL
  • CoolToday Park (Atlanta Braves)
    • Location: 18800 W Villages Pkwy, Northport, FL
• All parks feature kid-friendly activities like bounce houses and mascot meet-and-greets. Read about Spring Training Baseball in Florida.

Sun-N-Fun Lagoon

• Cool off at this waterpark in Naples, featuring slides, a lazy river, and a toddler-friendly splash area.
• Location: 15000 Livingston Rd, Naples, FL

Family-Friendly Beaches

• The soft sands and gentle waves of the Gulf Coast make it ideal for families. Popular spots include:
  • Vanderbilt Beach (Naples)
  • Bonita Beach (Bonita Springs)
  • Lovers Key State Park (Fort Myers Beach)

Educational and Creative Experiences

Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (C’mon)

• This interactive museum is a paradise for curious young minds. With exhibits like a kid-sized grocery store, an art studio, and outdoor play areas, it’s easy to spend an entire day here.
• Location: 15080 Livingston Rd, Naples, FL

IMAG History & Science Center

• Located in Fort Myers, this museum combines hands-on science exhibits with historical displays. Highlights include a virtual reality experience and a chance to meet sea creatures in the touch tank.
• Location: 2000 Cranford Ave, Fort Myers, FL

Naples Botanical Garden

• A stunning garden featuring vibrant landscapes, a butterfly house, and a children’s garden designed for exploration and learning.
• Location: 4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples, FL

Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center

• Introduce your kids to marine life at this hands-on center, which features aquariums, interactive exhibits, and walking trails.
• Location: 300 Tower Rd, Naples, FL

Adventures on the Water

Sunset Cruise aboard the Marco Island Princess

• Set sail on the Marco Island Princess for a family-friendly cruise. Choose a sunset dinner or sightseeing cruise to admire the breathtaking Gulf Coast views.
• Location: Rose Marina, 951 Bald Eagle Dr, Marco Island, FL
• Highlights: Spacious decks, narrated tours, and plenty of photo opportunities.

Shelling Adventure with Sunshine Tours

• Take a family-friendly shelling adventure with Sunshine Tours. These guided boat trips offer opportunities to collect unique shells and learn about the local marine ecosystem.
• Location: Marco Island, FL
• Highlights: Expert guides, shallow-water exploration, and hands-on fun for kids.

Manatee Sightseeing Eco-Tour

• Take a boat ride to see gentle manatees in their natural habitat. These tours are especially popular in winter when manatees congregate in warm waters.
• Location: Goodland, FL

Seasonal Events and Festivals

Swamp Buggy Races

• A unique Naples tradition, these races are an exciting spectacle for all ages.
• Location: Florida Sports Park, Naples, FL

Florida Renaissance Festival

• Held annually in Fort Myers, this festival offers jousting, live entertainment, and activities tailored for kids.

Dining with Kids

The Dock at Crayton Cove

• This waterfront restaurant offers casual dining with a menu kids will love. Plus, the views are unbeatable.
• Location: 845 12th Ave S, Naples, FL

Pinchers Crab Shack

• Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and delicious seafood, Pinchers has multiple locations across the Paradise Coast.

Sweet Treats

• Royal Scoop Homemade Ice Cream (Bonita Springs)
• Kilwins Chocolates (Naples)

Tips for a Stress-Free Family Vacation

• Stay Central: Consider family-friendly resorts like the JW Marriott Marco Island or The Ritz-Carlton, Naples for easy access to amenities and attractions.
• Plan Ahead: Many attractions, like the Naples Zoo and spring training games, require advance tickets during peak seasons.
• Pack Smart: Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water to stay comfortable in Florida’s sunshine.
• Use Apps: Download local guide apps for up-to-date information on events and activities.

The Paradise Coast of Southwest Florida offers endless possibilities for family fun, from wildlife encounters and outdoor adventures to cultural and educational experiences. Whether your kids are animal lovers, budding scientists, or little beach bums, you’ll find activities to keep them entertained and engaged. Start planning your trip today and make memories that will last a lifetime!

For updated information about the Paradise Coast, bookmark Paradise Coast Living.

Outer Island SW Florida Hotels, Vacation Homes, and Condo Rentals

Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort, a cozy beachfront cottage, or a budget-friendly motel, Siesta Key offers a range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. Many properties are located just steps away from the beach, allowing you to wake up to the sound of waves crashing against the shore. Browse the interactive FL Vacation Map below to find current Siesta Key Beach Hotel Specials and nearby Airbnb and VRBO Vacation Rentals.

BEACH GIFTS

Southwest Florida Beach Hotel Packages and VRBO Vacation Rentals Special Rates

PIRATE BOOKS & ATTIRES

Contact Us


Paradise Coast Living

Avi's Water Sports Jet Ski Adventure Tours, Caxambas Park, 909 Collier Ct., Marco Island, FL 34145 | 239-777-9873
Avi's is a family-owned business that offers some of the most exciting dolphin jet ski tours and jet ski rental adventures on Marco Island. You are invited to take an exciting journey with Avi "The Dolphin Whisperer" and take home a complimentary flash drive of photos from your adventure. Bring the family and make lasting memories. Contact us to book your dolphin Jet Ski tour.
Avi's Water Sports & Jet Ski Adventure Tours - Marco Island, FL

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Sunshine Tours and Fishing Charters, Rose Marina, 951 Bald Eagle Dr., Marco Island, FL | 239-642-5415
Sunshine Tours. Fish the 10,000 islands, the best in Off Shore, Back Water, and Near Coastal Fishing Charters. We know where the fish are. Also offering Marco Island Shelling Trips, and Sightseeing aboard one of our four fishing boats. Since 1984, Sunshine Tours has provided unsurpassed fishing charters, and on-the-water experiences for locals and visitors alike. Shared and private charters available. Contact us to book your Marco Island fishing charter.
Sunshine Tours & Charters - Marco Island, FL

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Everglades City Fishing Charters, currently leaving from Everglades Bait and Tackle, Everglades City, FL | 239-253-9926
Experience the wonder of the 10,000 islands of SWFL. Fish the protected bays and rivers of the Islands and Everglades National Park. Fish among the mysteries of wrecks, hard bottom reefs, and offshore towers. Seek some of the most exciting game fish that call the Florida Everglades Home.
Everglades City Fishing Charters - Everglades City, FL

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Marco Island Princess / Sunshine Tours, Rose Marina, 951 Bald Eagle Dr., Marco Island FL 34145 | 239-642-5415
The Marco Island Princess is a 90' luxury yacht offering daily Sightseeing, Lunch and Sunset Dinner Cruises. All of our delicious meals are prepared fresh on board for your enjoyment. Our professional and friendly crew will attend to your every need. Two full service cash bars serving up all of your favorite drinks! Also available for Weddings and Private Charters. Marco Island's most unique dining experience!
Visit The Marco Island Princess - Marco Island, FL

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Island Bike Shops (2 Locations) 1095 Bald Eagle Dr., Marco Island, FL 34145 | 239-394-8400 & 4342 Thomasson Dr., Naples, FL 34112 | 239-732-8400
At Island Bike Shops we make your visit fun. Reserve your rental online. Check our selection of bicycle rentals, electric bikes, motor scooters, trailers, and more. Naples Bicycle Tours provides a unique opportunity for residents and visitors to experience the diversity of Southwest Florida. Our large or small group bicycle tours can accommodate all cycling levels as we personally escort you through Naples, Historic Old Naples, Marco Island, or the Natural Everglades.
Visit Island Bike Shops - Marco Island & Naples

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Naples Bicycle Tours, Naples, FL 34113 | 239-580-7960
Naples Bicycle Tours provides a unique opportunity for visitors and residents to experience the natural Florida Everglades, up close and personal. Connect with nature on this 3-hour historic & ecotour in the heart of the Glades. All tours include everything needed for the adventure: custom-fit cycle, helmet, drinks, snacks, and a certified FL naturalist guide.
Naples Bicycle Tours - Naples, FL

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Go Cats On The Water 2200 Tamiami Trail E, Collier Seminole State Park, Naples, FL | 239-748-4099
Marco and Naples Most Exciting Boat Tour. Explore the backwater and mangroves for an unforgettable adventure in Southwest Florida. Everglades Backwater Sightseeing Eco-Tours in our safe, and easy to drive boats. Choose a 75 minute or a 2.5 hour tour. Our custom Go-Cat boats are fun for all ages and can easily be operated by both younger adults and seniors. Kayak, and Canoe rentals now available.
GoCatsOnTheWater.com - Naples, FL

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