Discover Cape Coral: The Canal City Outranking Venice as a Premier Summer Airbnb Spot

If you’re craving a lazy gondola ride down Venetian canals but can’t fly to Italy this summer, consider Cape Coral, Florida, instead. This charming Florida city boasts more canals than anywhere else in the world—including Venice. Consequently, it’s affectionately known by locals as “Waterfront Wonderland.” With a population of fewer than 200,000 residents, Cape Coral has been recognized as a top summer destination, ranking No. 6 in Airbnb’s latest travel trends report—only behind other popular Florida spots.

Exploring Cape Coral’s Canals

With over 400 miles of navigable waterways, Cape Coral offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the Caloosahatchee River, Matlacha Pass, and the Gulf of Mexico. Moreover, adventurous travelers can navigate the canalways to reach the bustling downtown district. If you don’t have your own boat, charters are easily available, or you might even make a local friend who can take you out on the water.

A Vibrant Downtown Experience

Cape Coral’s downtown area, although relatively new (the city was founded approximately 60 years ago), is already thriving. Forbes recognized Cape Coral as the fastest growing city in America in 2017. In downtown Cape Coral, you’ll find amenities typical of larger cities, including diverse dining options, lively bars, shopping venues, and even an art gallery as well as a history museum.

Despite its urban amenities, Cape Coral retains a quaint, small-town charm. A popular local attraction is the farmers market, where visitors can engage with locals and enjoy fresh produce, homemade jams, and even freshly made guacamole. Alternatively, consider visiting the nearby Wicked Dolphin Rum Distillery to sample local spirits.

Nature and Wildlife Adventures

However, what truly sets Cape Coral apart is its incredible access to nature and wildlife. Located on the Florida coast and just across the Calooshatchee River from Fort Myers, this area features a remarkable ecosystem, enriched with rivers, bays, and estuaries. For an immersive experience, consider kayaking along the coastline for intimate glimpses of mangrove islands, oyster bars, and seagrass flats.

Don’t miss an opportunity to visit Matlacha Pass National Wildlife Refuge, where you may spot threatened and endangered species such as the West Indian manatee, the eastern indigo snake, or even a bald eagle. Alternatively, the 97-acre Rotary Park Environmental Center offers beautiful wetlands, salt marshes, and scenic boardwalks. The local favorite, Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve, provides a perfect spot to relax at sunset while keeping an eye out for dolphins in the water. Just a gentle reminder to bring along bug spray, as this is the balmy southern Florida coast.