CAPE CORAL, FLORIDA

Cape Coral, Florida,  is a city located on the north bank of the Caloosahatchee River across from Fort Myers in Southwest Florida. Its major access highways are US-41 and I-75.

Cape Coral, Florida, Aerial View

Its population according to the 2020 U.S. Census is 194,016, making it the eighth largest city in Florida.

The city had its beginning in 1957 on a tract of land known as Redfish Point on the north side of the Caloosahatchee River across from Fort Myers in Lee County.

The land is bounded on the west by Matlacha Pass that separates the mainland from from Pine Island and Pine Island Sound.

Beyond Pine Island Sound is Sanibel Island and the Gulf of Mexico.

Real estate developers and brothers Leonard and Jack Rosen bought the land for $678,000 and began developing it as a planned community.

The Rosen brothers formed Gulf American Land Corporation to do the development work and sales programs.

Their first task was to plat the thousands of lots and excavate the miles of canals that are the earmark of today's City of Cape Coral.

Other early features they built was the Cape Coral Yacht Club and a few model homes.

Gulf American became one of the largest companies in the United States and lots were sold to investors all over the world, and to people who dreamed of retiring some day to Florida.

This was the boom era of Florida Mail Order Lot Sales. 

Cape Coral's Link to the Philadelphia Athletics

One of the Rosen's earliest employees was Connie Mack, Jr., the son of famous Philadelphia Athletics owner and manager Connie Mack (whose real name was Cornelius McGillicuddy).

The Macks were already familiar with the area because they had been bringing their baseball team to Fort Myers for spring training since 1925.

The 1905 Philadelphia Athletics with Connie Mack

Mr. Mack, Jr., was one of the most important figures in developing Cape Coral until his retirement in 1969.  He and his family were residents of Cape Coral from the earliest years of its history.

His son, Connie Mack, III, became a United States Senator from Florida.  His grandson, Connie Mack, IV, became a Florida congressman.

The community grew quickly and was incorporated in 1970.  The population growth was rapid, and in 2023 was nearly 200,000. 

Many of the lots in Cape Coral are still vacant,  and the city will probably continue on its path as one of the fastest growing cities in the United States.

Cape Coral is currently the eight largest city in Florida by population, and many sources consider it a great place for retirees. 

A distinctive feature of Cape Coral is its canal system.  The city has more than 400 miles of navigable waterways, more than any other city in the world. 

It has the unofficial slogan of "Waterfront Wonderland".

Most of the homes in Cape Coral are on one of these canals and have direct access to the Gulf of Mexico.  The total land area of Cape Coral is almost 120 square miles.

The Cape Coral Yacht Club was badly damaged by Hurricane Ian and may take up to four years to be rebuilt. 

It has been a popular place with a yacht basin, tennis courts, and other amenities that have made it a popular gathering place over the years.

Cape Coral Canal

Boating and fishing are a way of life for many Cape Coral residents and visitors. 

Most of the canals are navigable, and a large percentage of Cape Coral homes have boats in their back yards. 

One of the largest marinas in Florida is located between Cape Coral and Punta Gorda on Burnt Store Road.

There are also several golf courses in Cape Coral and Fort Myers for those that want to supplement their boating lives. 

Although Cape Coral does not have many beautiful beaches, it is only a short drive away from Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel, and Captiva, all with beautiful white sandy beaches.

Cape Coral has several nature preserves, including the Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve and the Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve on the Caloosahatchee River.

Cape Coral is also the entry point to Pine Island by way of the fishing and artistic community of Matlacha.

Cape Coral Yacht Basin

Pine Island is at the west end of Pine Island Road and is the best place on the Gulf coast to see some rural old Florida the way it used to be.

Cape Coral is connected to Fort Myers and other areas south of the Caloosahatchee River by several bridges, most of them built since the development of the city.

The Cape Coral Bridge is the southernmost bridge from Fort Myers.  When it enters Cape Coral, it becomes Cape Coral Parkway.

Downtown Cape Coral

The Rosen brothers were not too interested in creating a real town.  Their focus was on selling lots and moving on.  As a result, they didn't leave a lot of land available for commercial use.

In recent years, however, the community has created a genuine downtown Cape Coral.  It is in the southern section of the city on Del Prado Boulevard not far north of Cape Coral Parkway.

It is not as large a downtown as most cities of this size enjoy, but it has a drug store, grocery store, restaurants, bars, a coffee shop, and parks.

Other businesses are scattered about at various locations through out the sprawling city.

THINGS TO DO IN CAPE CORAL, FLORIDA

Rotary Park Environmental Center
5505 Rose Garden Rd, Cape Coral, FL 33914 | (239) 549-4606

Rotary Park Environmental Center is a nature lover's paradise with 97 acres of preserved land. We enjoy walking the trails and boardwalks that wind through wetlands and upland areas, providing perfect opportunities to spot wildlife and native plants.

The butterfly garden is a highlight, showcasing a variety of colorful butterflies. Visitors like the nature center, which offers educational programs and workshops to learn more about the local ecosystem and conservation efforts.

It’s a peaceful place to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors. There is a dog run / dog park, and wildlife observation towers.

Cape Coral Farmers Market
SE 47th Terrace & SE 10th Pl, Cape Coral, FL 33904 | (239) 549-6900

The Cape Coral Farmers Market is a bustling hub where locals and tourists alike come to buy fresh, local produce, handmade crafts, and delicious baked goods. We enjoy sampling the different foods, from tropical fruits to artisan cheeses, and chatting with the vendors about their products.

The market also features live music and cooking demonstrations, making it a lively and entertaining place to visit on a Saturday morning. Visitors appreciate the friendly atmosphere and the wide variety of items available.

Sun Splash Family Waterpark
500 W Lake Kennedy Dr, Cape Coral, FL 33991 | (239) 574-0558

Sun Splash Family Waterpark is the largest waterpark in Southwest Florida and a favorite destination for families during the hot summer months. We love the thrilling water slides, the lazy river, and the interactive aquatic play areas designed for younger kids.

The park also offers cabanas for rent for a more relaxing experience. Visitors like the well-maintained facilities and the variety of attractions that cater to all ages. There is a restaurant on site. It’s 14 acres of fun!

Cape Coral Yacht Club Community Park (Yacht Club Beach)
5819 Driftwood Pkwy, Cape Coral, FL 33904 | (239) 574-0806

Cape Coral Yacht Club Community Park is a scenic waterfront facility that offers a wide range of activities. We enjoy the public beach, fishing pier, and tennis courts. The park’s boat ramps provide easy access to the Caloosahatchee River and the Gulf of Mexico.

Visitors love the beautiful sunsets from the beach and the laid-back atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a family outing or a relaxing day by the water. Dogs are allowed, and picnic tables are available.

Cape Coral Museum of History
544 Cultural Park Blvd, Cape Coral, FL 33990 | (239) 772-7037

The Cape Coral Museum of History offers an in-depth look at the history of Cape Coral and the surrounding area. We enjoy exploring the exhibits that detail the development of this planned community and the lives of its early settlers.

The museum's rose garden and the restored homestead buildings give a glimpse into the past. Visitors appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the interesting artifacts on display.

Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve
2500 SE 24th St, Cape Coral, FL 33990 | (239) 549-4606

Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve, mentioned earlier, is one of the largest preserved green spaces in Cape Coral. We enjoy kayaking through the mangrove forests and walking along the boardwalk that offers stunning views of the Caloosahatchee River.

The preserve is a great place for bird watching and spotting other wildlife. Visitors like the serene environment and the opportunity to explore Florida’s natural beauty in a quiet setting.

Coral Oaks Golf Course
1800 NW 28th Ave, Cape Coral, FL 33993 | (239) 573-3100

Coral Oaks Golf Course is an 18-hole championship course known for its challenging layout and beautiful natural surroundings. Guests enjoy playing a round of golf here, with its wide fairways and large greens suitable for all skill levels.

The course also offers a driving range, putting green, and a pro shop. Visitors like the friendly staff and the excellent facilities that make for a perfect day of golf.

Sirenia Vista Park
3916 Ceitus Pkwy, Cape Coral, FL 33991 | (239) 573-3128

Sirenia Vista Park is an environmental park known for its excellent opportunities to observe manatees, especially during the cooler months. We enjoy the walking paths, kayak launch, and the chance to see these gentle giants up close.

The park also has a butterfly garden and picnic areas for a relaxing day out. Visitors appreciate the park’s efforts to protect local wildlife and provide a space for education and enjoyment. Dogs are allowed.

Cape Coral Art League
516 Cultural Park Blvd, Cape Coral, FL 33990 | (239) 772-5657

The Cape Coral Art League promotes the arts in the community with galleries, workshops, and art classes. We enjoy viewing the exhibitions that feature works by local artists in a variety of mediums.

The league also offers classes for all ages and skill levels, making it a great place to learn about and practice art. Visitors like the welcoming atmosphere and the chance to meet and interact with artists.

Tarpon Point Marina
6179 Black Marlin Ln, Cape Coral, FL 33914 | (239) 549-4900

Tarpon Point Marina is a beautiful waterfront destination with a variety of shops, restaurants, and water activities. We enjoy browsing the boutiques, dining at the waterfront restaurants, and taking a boat tour to explore the local waterways.

The marina is a luxurious spot with stunning views of the Caloosahatchee River and the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors appreciate the upscale atmosphere and the excellent customer service that make for a memorable experience.

Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve
12301 Burnt Store Rd, Punta Gorda, FL 33955 | (941) 575-5861

Here is the contact information for Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve, mentioned earlier on this page.