Get up and Go to the Cape

Cape Coral is well known for having a preponderance of canals, earning its nickname “Waterfront Wonderland.” Indeed, Cape Coral offers visitors and residents many amenities, including shopping and dining choices—all just steps away.

Anyone who has been to Cape Harbour knows how nice it is to walk by the marina and mosey from shop to shop such as Islands, which features unique clothing, accessories, and gifts including colorful beach bags and sandals. Many people check out the work of local artists at the Harbour View Gallery, where visitors can find handmade jewelry by Bev Fox, tropical paintings by Kay Foote, unique storm photographs by Quinn Sedam, and more.

Before or after the shopping experience, you can choose from waterfront restaurants such as Fathoms Restaurant and Bar, serving hand-crafted pizzas, bar food, and fine-dining choices; Rumrunners, offering everything from hamburgers to full-course fine dining; or the French Press, with fresh coffee, sandwiches, pastries, gelato, and coffee-themed gifts. “Many sit out on the marina-side covered patio in the morning and enjoy fresh organic local coffee and freshly baked pastries,” says marketing director Valeria Zanella Voisin.

To have so many options, all within walking distance, makes for a great day by the marina.

Cape Harbour, Cape Harbour Drive, Cape Coral, capeharbor.net

 Right in the heart of Cape Coral, on Cape Coral Parkway, you can dine at many of the restaurants located near each other, such as Two Meatballs in the Kitchen, serving Italian favorites; or BARunch, where local ingredients are incorporated into dishes such as the Farm Fresh Omelet. Afterward, it’s hard to beat strolling along the pedestrian-friendly parkway and checking out unique shops such as Razzle Dazzle women’s clothing or browsing through the record store, Revolution Records. You can also enjoy the art and gift gallery, Karma and Coconuts, or the nearby Art in the Cape gallery, both located right behind the parkway. Coffee lovers can pick up freshly roasted coffee at Java D’oro Gourmet Coffee Roasters—just off the parkway.

“Cape Coral Parkway and SE 47th Terrace are vibrant destinations that offer something for everyone, making it a fantastic place to shop, dine, and explore,” says Kaitlyn Mullen, the city of Cape Coral’s senior public information specialist. “Food lovers are spoiled for choice with an array of dining options, from fine-dining establishments to cozy cafés and casual eateries. Plus, the area is home to an eclectic mix of stores, from boutique shops to unique specialty stores,” adds Mullen. This time of year, festive decorations and blinking lights brighten up Cape Coral Parkway and make the holiday experience all the livelier.

Check the City of Cape Coral’s online calendar for special events at capecoral.gov.