Sarasota, Fort Myers, Or Naples: The Honest Comparison You Need!

Florida – the famous Sunshine State. Wherever you go, we’re sure you won’t be disappointed by the pearly white beaches, azure waters at your toes, and shopping malls galore.

But, within Florida, how do you choose between destinations as popular – and beautiful – as Sarasota, Fort Myers and Naples?

Well that decision is important because all three are actually quite different from each other…

That’s because while these towns are hard to separate when it comes to beaches, their vibes are quite different. For example, Sarasota has a fun mix of everything, Naples feels upmarket yet quiet, and Fort Myers is laid-back with plenty of history.

But that’s just the start when it comes to how different these destinations can be…

Luckily we know and love Sarasota, Fort Myers and Naples! So to help you decide which one’s right for you, we’ll be sharing our thoughts right here.

We will show you the best of what each location has to offer, the excursions on offer, as well as the atmosphere, vibe and nightlife in each. All so you can get the most out of your vacation!

Sarasota, Fort Myers, Or Naples: A Quick Overview & Comparison

Sarasota: A Quick Overview

It’s a self-proclaimed ‘ultimate beach destination’, but Sarasota backs this up with their famous Siesta Key Beach and it’s lively atmosphere. In fact this beach has even been named the number 1 beach in America in the past!

The beaches at Sarasota have all the usual beach activities you’d hope for – kayaking, snorkeling, swimming – but also some quirky ones too. As we show you in the next section!

But alongside those idyllic beaches, you’ll be able to find many restaurant options. From luxurious dining experiences to independent seafood restaurants on the coast.

While all that sounds great, Sarasota offers so much more too. It’s known as Florida’s Cultural Coast, so if you’re looking to get in touch with history and culture you can enjoy the theatre, local art galleries and live entertainment here.

Some must-visit places include the Sarasota Ballet, Florida Studio Theatre, and Sarasota Opera.

All these elements combined create the makings of a truly unforgettable holiday with a bit of everything for everyone. And that’s what Sarasota really offers. A fantastic beach vacation but with many options away from the coast too.

Fort Myers: A Quick Overview

Fort Myers is another gem on Florida’s Southern Gulf coast. Again, stunning beaches are the norm here, as are shopping outlets left, right and centre.

Fort Myers offers great fishing opportunities too, but is also known for their famed inventors and creative minds.

A recommendation for anyone going to Fort Myers is to check out the Thomas Edison and Henry Ford winter estates that are now museums. They’re situated next to each other after Ford decided to buy land next to his mentor Edison back in 1916.

If scientific appreciation is less your thing, rest assured there are many eating options here, as well as sporting attractions to get the whole family involved.

In general this destination can be a little quieter and more peaceful than the other two. Especially if you head out to the stunning islands and beaches lying off the Fort Myers coast. More on those later…..

Naples: A Quick Overview

Naples once again, has it all, but perhaps one-ups the other two locations when it comes to a more upmarket vacation.

This is a place with world-class fine dining, golf courses, high-end shopping retailers, and some of the most exquisite beaches Florida has to offer. Simply put, it’s easy to treat yourself during a holiday in Naples!

That said, for those looking to take the whole family on vacation there are plenty of more affordable activities for all age and experience ranges, as well as the relaxing appeal of the beach.

With golf courses for all abilities here, along with the Everglades and hiking trails only a stone’s throw away, there are so many things to choose from in Naples. This is a place enjoy the beach, shop and eat out (we’ll explain why next).

It’s definitely not a Spring Break vacation, but more of a golf with a glass of wine at the clubhouse sort of place.

Which Has The Better Beaches & Activities?

If you’re after sun, sand and sea, you’re in the right place for sure!

But are you after a more relaxing beach vacation? Or are you looking for water sports and action? The answer to that may be what influences your decision between Sarasota, Fort Myers, or Naples

Sarasota: The Beaches & Activities

In terms of beaches and marine life, it doesn’t get much better than Sarasota.

We could tell you all about the top-tier beaches, but we’re sure you can imagine them (just imagine that perfect beach you’ve been picturing all year while sat in the office).

However what really sets Sarasota apart from the other two is the wide range of interesting and quirky activities to do while at the beach. Activities that you can’t really find anywhere else in Florida.

Our personal favorite has to be hunting for prehistoric shark teeth on Venice Beach! It’s possible to find these amazing natural relics on the beach, and while you might not be lucky enough to find out, even the search itself is good fun – especially for children.

While you’re at Venice Beach, we also recommend grabbing some fishing gear and testing your skills, or renting a bike to explore the gorgeous Sarasota County Trail.

And if heights don’t scare you, there’s also the Myakka River State Park Canopy Walk which will allow you to walk amongst the trees and immerse yourself in stunning views and surroundings.

And of course, Sarasota has all the more traditional water sports to get involved in too. With kayaking, paddle boarding and sailing other great ways to explore the deep blue waters here.

Let’s not forget the award winning Siesta Beach though. Once named the best in the USA, and also widely considered as one of the best in the world, if you’re after the perfect beach holiday that will earn you bragging rights and Instagrammable photos, you can’t beat it.

A sunbather’s paradise by day, and party scene by night, make sure Siesta Beach is on your bucket list.

In fact Siesta Beach sums up Sarasota well. This place has a mix of daytime activities to keep the curious and adventurous happy, but also plenty of lively evening action to keep the fun going too.

Fort Myers: The Beaches & Activities

Noticing a common theme? The beaches at Fort Myers are picture-perfect too, no doubt about that. However, what sets this destination apart are the opportunities for shell combing, and island hopping.

In fact those island hopping adventures make Fort Myers a perfect place for someone who’s looking for some adventure.

One of those nearby islands, Mound Key Archeological State Park, has a fascinating story behind it.

With a landscape partly formed from shells deposited by the Calusa Indians more than 2,000 years ago, this 125-acre island is a look into the past, and still has incredible canals and ancient water systems preserved from so long ago! It’s a wonderful natural and cultural excursion.

As with many of the other nearby islands, it’s only accessible by water, but fully worth the boat ride which you can get from Lover’s Key State Park.

Bowman’s Beach, situated on Sanibel Island, is also mostly untouched and stunning. More quiet and secluded than the more well-known beaches, this is a must-visit for anyone who wants a relaxing beach holiday. It’s a place you can truly enjoy the sunshine in peace. 

But if you want a bit more action then head to Fort Myers Beach itself!

Windsailing, windsurfing, jetskiing, parasailing… you name it, you can do it there. You can also enjoy calmer options such as sailing or just swimming around in the crystal-clear waters.

In many ways that’s the advantage of Fort Myers. You can be in the middle of the action on Fort Myers beach in the morning, but exploring historical and cultural sights on secluded islands in the afternoon.

Naples: The Beaches & Activities

And then we have Naples, with its world-renowned, highly ranked beaches. Striking avenues lined with tall shadowy palm trees overlook the impressive beaches there, creating a beautiful relaxed atmosphere, perfect for families or those looking for romance.

With 16 miles of shoreline there are an abundance of beaches to choose from, but the standout recommendation has to be enjoying the 1,000 foot long Naples Pier – a true icon of the city. It’s also less crowded than other famous American piers.

The well-loved sunshine in Florida can become a bit much for some at the peak of the day, but the Pier comes in handy providing some much-wanted shelter and shade.

For a more secluded beach, try Naples Municipal Beach, which we often find to be less crowded than you may expect. Then head to Seagate in the evenings for a mesmerizing sunset view.

Aside from the beaches themselves, Naples has over 700 restaurants for you to choose from, able to satisfy any potential cravings you may have. From truly luxurious high-end dining options to classic seafood gems and food trucks, this is another selling point for Naples. 

In fact if restaurants are high up on your priority list when deciding between Sarasota, Fort Myers, and Naples, then the latter is probably your best choice.

Which Has The Better Nightlife?

So you know the beaches won’t disappoint wherever you go, and you know the activities each destination provides.

But what about when the sun sets and the party animal within us comes out to play?

Sarasota: The Nightlife

It’s not quite Miami at spring break, but Sarasota has a fun vibe of its own when the sun goes down.

With live music, exotic cocktails all night long, and a generally classy yet funky feel, there’s plenty to do come night in this town.

Fort Myers: The Nightlife

Nightlife in Fort Myers ranges from chill and casual with a wine in hand, to parties at Times Square and Fort Myers Beach itself.

Regardless of how hard you do or don’t want to party, Fort Myer’s nightlife caters to all tastes, from funky, and vibey to clubbing and crowds.

Naples: The Nightlife

Of the three destinations, Naples’ nightlife is probably the least established, and is better described as ‘up-and-coming’ for the time being.

Where To Stay According To Your Budget

Sarasota, Fort Myers, or Naples: Which Is The Better Choice?

It’s Florida. We said it at the start, but it’s hard to separate Sarasota, Fort Myers, and Naples when it comes to beaches.

Shopping and restaurants also won’t disappoint in either destination, so it’s the general atmosphere and activities on offer that will distinguish which is best for you.

If you want that perfect mix of everything – with culture, history, water sports, and more – then Sarasota truly does have it all. From daytime activities to keep the curious and adventurous happy, to nighttime parties to keep spirits high.

If you want to visit the homes of some of the most ingenious minds of the last century, while also relaxing along a peaceful coast with plenty of nearby islands, we suggest Fort Myers.

And lastly, if you’re looking for a more luxurious feel, with plenty of daytime entertainment options and restaurant, and you’re less concerned about a lively nightlife scene, then Naples will be a good fit.