In Southwest Florida, we know how to take life easy. We enjoy the simple pleasures, like an afternoon by the Gulf or a night looking up at the stars. This attitude is called Islandology – and we live it every day. It's easy, too. Here on The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel, you won't find high-rises and big crowds, just wide-open beaches and white-sand islands.

Islands dot our coast like shells on the beach. Each has an ecosystem all its own, with wildlife just waiting to be discovered. On Sanibel Island, the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge is home to hundreds of species of exotic birds and sea life. You can walk, drive or even bike on paved paths and take it all in. However, much of the adventure is out at sea. So we make it easy to get on a boat, kayak or ferry and go island-hopping for the day.

Water is essential to Islandology. And in Southwest Florida, we have the warm Gulf of Mexico, which brings thousands of seashells to shore every day. You're bound to see them everywhere. They come in countless shapes and colors, especially on Sanibel Island, known as the Seashell Capital of the World. Everyone grabs a handful or two of their favorites before heading home.

For an inventive activity, head to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. This 20-acre property houses the winter residences of iconic inventors Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. The lab, garden and artifacts make these among the most visited historic homes in America. For a different kind of deep dive, try the Sun Splash Family Waterpark in Cape Coral. Dozens of water slides, a children's play pool and a lazy river help you squeeze every drop out of vacation.

With so many ways to explore Islandology on The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel, it's worth staying awhile to do it right. Families and couples will appreciate the charming cottages, hotels, resorts and motels. Or check out vacation rentals for something a little closer to home. All are widely available and often found on some of the area's best beaches.

To start planning your trip, visit FortMyers-Sanibel.com.