Vacation Rentals by Owner

Overview of Florida South West Vacation Rentals

Southwest Florida's Natural Wonderland

To some people, Southwest Florida still seems somewhat wild. With the many reserves, island coves and large everglades area, it's a region dedicated to nature conservation and a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Because of the large wetland areas, many visitors to Southwest Florida vacation rentals are enthusiastic birders who will tell you there's no better way to spend a vacation than to have the pleasure of watching feathered friends go about their daily life. The area also attracts a great number of fishermen and is reputed to have the best backwater fishing in the state. The extensive network of bays, mangroves and tidal creeks make the area a fishing haven that can be enjoyed in every season.

The Benefits of Staying in Southwest Florida Vacation Rentals

Because of the many attractions in Southwest Florida, staying at a vacation home in the area allows you a great deal of flexibility. You have ample space to store your fishing tackle, bicycles or other sports equipment that you've brought along on your vacation. Ranging from Fort Myers condos and apartments to large Naples beachfront homes, vacation rentals are an affordable way to stay a little longer without blowing your vacation budget. The nice thing about vacation rentals is that you can come and go as you please. There are no set meal times and you have privacy equivalent to being in your own home.

Miles of Beautiful Beaches to Explore

Southwest Florida has a spectacularly beautiful coastline. Sandy white beaches overlook the deep blue waters of the gulf and that in itself is attraction enough. Many Southwest Florida beach rentals offer spectacular views. Many have terraces or decks where you can sit out and watch the waves gently lapping on the shoreline. Occasionally, you may be fortunate to spot a pod of dolphins swimming by. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach or have a giggle building sandcastles with the kids.

Summer Explorations in Southwest Florida

Join one of the many organized tour operators in the area on a wildlife excursion. Here, you can come face to face with alligators, bison and a range of other wildlife. Most of these tours operate in the Everglades, a large swamp area that is a wildlife sanctuary. You can join a kayaking or boat trip where you can see dolphins, manatees and rays. If you prefer to do your own thing, you can rent a boat or bicycle to do some exploring. Be sure to have a map of the area and know where you are going. The many channels can get confusing if you venture too far out on your own. Because of the warm climate, golf is a popular pastime for Florida vacations and the southwest is no exception. There are many top quality championship golf courses to choose from. If you are the only golfer in your family, a quick call to the golf club will see you set up with a four ball according to your handicap in no time so that you can enjoy a day out on the greens.

Getting to Southwest Florida

Southwest Florida incorporates the counties of Collier, Lee and Charlotte. The three major cities are Port Charlotte, Fort Meyers and Naples. Southwest Florida International Airport is just outside of Ft. Meyers, three miles off the Interstate 75. This provides easy access to the Everglades, Charlotte Harbor condos and the Gulf Islands. When you stay in Southwest Florida lodging, it's nice to have a vehicle to get around. If you are not driving to the area from home, you can hire a car or use the local bus transportation system to visit the various sights.