For a great Fort Myers experience, try the Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island. The Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge is comprised of over 5,200 acres of preserved mangrove ecosystems. The area is famous for the migratory bird patterns and the wide open, undeveloped areas. The Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge is a treasure of the Fort Myers and Sanibel Island area which will make a great experience for the whole family. Here are 3 reasons to visit the Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge.

1. Education Center

The mission of the Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge is to support environmental preservation, services and land conservation at the Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge. When planning your visit, make sure to start at the Ding Darling Education Center. The center is over 4,000 square feet and has exhibits and more information for the whole family. There are lifelike reproductions of the animals that are in the refuge along with a state-of-the-art projection system and more. You can also get pair of loaner binoculars, maps and information on the area. The center is open most days except for Federal holidays and is free to visit.

2. Bike or Drive

The Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge is a terrific area to either bike or drive through. Visitors can make stops through the refuge and can take time to experience the area and the wildlife. Pack some bug spray and take a walk on the boardwalks in select areas while looking for wildlife. The refuge is committed to preserving the undeveloped area for the animals so make sure to take care of the area around you.

3. Hiking

The wildlife drive is open Saturday through Thursday and is closed on Fridays. Dogs are allowed on the drive as long as they are leashed. The cost is $5 for vehicles and $1 for hikers and bikers. If you are looking for hiking trails, there is a four mile hike on the Indigo Trail which visitors may be able to see alligators, birds and more. Visitors to the refuge can also go fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing and more.

Tours can be arranged by Tarpon Bay Explorers and also do kayak and canoe tours in the Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge.

If you are looking to visit the Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge, make sure you have booked a rental home from Sun Palace Vacations. Many of our are fully furnished, have a functional kitchen, and come with fresh linens. Vacationing on any budget is a breeze with a wide variety of vacation homes available. If you’re vacationing on a budget, consider going bare bones or split the cost with friends so that you’ll have extra money for beach fun. On the other hand, if you wish to go for a luxury rental, you’ll enjoy some wonderful amenities like hot tubs, gourmet kitchens, and private pools. In either case, you’ll see that Fort Myers Beach really is a great place to enjoy your vacation this summer and there are plenty of easy ways to reach the city.

The Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge is a great treasure and must be visited while in Fort Myers!

Sun Palace Vacations
877-217-0099 – Toll free
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