is cape coral yacht club beach open today

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Cape Coral Yacht Club beach to re-open Nov. 10

By staff | oct 31, 2023.

The Cape Coral Yacht Club beach will re-open next Friday.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have provided the city of Cape Coral with the regulatory permits required to reopen the Yacht Club Beach on Nov. 10, the city announced today.

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Live webcams, #myfortmyers moments, plan your trip, digital visitor guide, (updated: 9/03/2024), current beach status.

Check out our list of open beaches below. Please note that all parking fees are now through a mobile payment system.

Open Beaches

Fort myers / fort myers beach.

• Lynn Hall Memorial Park (Fort Myers Beach) - $2/hour 
• Bowditch Point Park (Fort Myers Beach) - $2/hour (parking may be unavailable due to construction around the area)
• Crescent Beach Family Park (Fort Myers Beach) 
• Fort Myers Beach Accesses #11-14; #16; #19-24; #27-28; #30 & #36 - $5/hour
• San Carlos Bay-Bunche Beach Preserve (Fort Myers)  -  $2/hour

Sanibel / Captiva Islands

• Lighthouse Beach Park (Sanibel Island) - $5/hour
• Blind Pass Beach (Sanibel Island) - $5/hour
• Bowman's Beach (Sanibel Island) - $5/hour 
• Gulf Side City Park (Sanibel Island) - $5/hour
• Tarpon Bay Road Beach (Sanibel Island) - $5/hour
• Turner Beach (Captiva Island) - $5/hour
• Alison Hagerup Beach Park (Captiva Island) - 1 hour - $15, 2 hours - $25, all day (dawn to dusk) - $40

Bonita Springs

• Dog Beach (Bonita Springs)
• Bonita Beach Park and Bonita Beach Accesses 1-10 (Bonita Springs) - $2/hour
• Lovers Key State Park (Bonita Springs) - $8/vehicle for the day
• Little Hickory Island Park (Bonita Springs) - $2/hour
• Yacht Club Beach (Cape Coral)

Boca Grande & Outer Islands

• Gasparilla Island State Park -$3/vehicle, $2/pedestrian or cyclist
• Boca Grande Beach Accesses
• Cayo Costa State Park (only accessible by private boat)

Currently Closed:

• Newton Park Beach (Fort Myers Beach)
• Causeway Island Parks (Sanibel Causeway)

For more information on additional openings and available amenities, use this  map .

Know Before You Go

• Some beaches and beach parks have not been restored to pre-Hurricane Ian conditions.
• Facilities and beach accesses may be limited (you may need to walk further than you used to).
• Some amenities such as restroom facilities, piers, and walkovers have not been repaired or replaced at this time. Many beaches have temporary restrooms available.
• Beach/water shoes are recommended.
• Closure signs are posted where necessary so we ask you to please adhere to these cautions.
• Please respect posted wildlife areas and dune vegetation.
• Swim at your own risk.

Explore Our Beaches

Learn more about the beaches in the Fort Myers area.

Beach Parking Fees

Most beaches require a fee to park and they must be paid through a mobile payment system. Payment stations are no longer offered at any of our beaches. Plan ahead and click the link below to learn more about parking at our beaches.

Red Drift Algae & Red Tide

It's important to know that red tide and red drift algae are two very different things. check out this graphic to learn more about the differences..

We highly advise that you use the additional Water Quality resources listed below on this page before planning to visit our beaches. Red Tide can affect your beach experience and it is important to know which beaches are being impacted prior to your visit. These conditions do change daily and we advise you to stay informed.

See a map where water quality samples were taken by clicking here . TIP: Click on a specific point on the map to see the date the sample was taken. We encourage all beachgoers review this daily sampling map prior to visiting their preferred beach park facility.

What is Red Tide?

In this video, learn about red tide's life cycle, what causes "blooms", what areas of Florida are affected by red tide, and more.

Beach Conditions & Water Quality

Beach Conditions Reporting System (Mote Marine Laboratory)  - Map displaying beach conditions reports from participating locations

Red Tide Current Sampling Map  - Updated bi-weekly by The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commissions (FWC)

Florida Healthy Beaches Program (Florida Department of Health)  - Map with beach samples & advisory status

Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) - A local foundation dedicated to the conservation of coastal habitats and aquatic resources on Sanibel and Captiva islands and in the surrounding watershed.

Algal Bloom Sampling Status  - Interactive dashboard allows public to see where algal blooms were occurring in Florida. It features real-time updates, photos and information. Users can search by specific address, ZIP code, city or place. The tool includes quick links to other resources such as public health information. 

Gulf of Mexico Coastal Ocean Observing System (GCOOS)  - This is an experimental forecast of potential respiratory irritation that may occur because of airborne toxins produced by the red tide organism Karenia brevis. It indicates a greater or lesser likelihood of negative conditions based on predicted wind and ocean currents. Please NOTE: This experimental forecast is currently being tested for efficacy and is not yet an official forecast. Daily availability of the product cannot be assured.

 Lee County's Water Quality Information

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Cape Coral Yacht Club Beach Reopens: Your Guide to Paradise

Cape Coral, Florida, is a beautiful coastal destination adorned by tourists from all around the world. This lively community is famous for its breathtaking waterfront views, pristine beaches, and delicious dining options. Unfortunately, the beloved Cape Coral Yacht Club Beach had to temporarily close due to the aftermath of Hurricane Ian. It’s a place known for its scenic beauty, waterfront dining and a variety of beach activities, and its absence has been deeply felt. On November 11 th , 2023, the Cape Coral Yacht Club Beach reopened, allowing both locals and tourists to enjoy all that the Yacht Club has to offer. With this beachfront gem now open once more, let’s explore what this reopening means for those visiting Cape Coral, Florida.

Enjoy a Cape Coral Beach Day

With the Cape Coral Yacht Club Beach now open again, visitors can enjoy a fun day at the beach. There is nothing quite like a Cape Coral Beach Day! Spend your time on the sand, soaking in the sun, and cooling off in the refreshing water. It’s the perfect setting for building sandcastles, reading a good book, or simply relaxing and enjoying the peaceful beach atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a day of leisure, the Cape Coral Yacht Club Beach provides an ideal backdrop for a memorable day where you can create cherished memories.

Indulge with Waterfront Dining

With this reopening, guests can also treat themselves to a delightful waterfront dining experience at The Boathouse Tiki Bar and Grill . This local’s favorite is the perfect way to spend an evening, capturing the breathtaking sunset, sipping on delectable cocktails, and savoring a delicious meal. As the sun dips below the horizon, the tranquil waterfront setting at The Boathouse creates a captivating ambiance, making it an ideal spot to unwind and create lasting memories with family and friends.

Stay by the Cape Coral Yacht Club Beach

For an immersive Cape Coral Yacht Club experience, consider staying in the vicinity. Luckily, Roelens Vacations offers a range of options within walking distance! Whether you opt for the charming Villa Nana and Papa’s Beach House or the delightful Villa Beachside Bliss , you’ll be right in the heart of the Cape Coral action. These wonderful accommodations provide high-end comfort and private pool and spas, allowing you to not just visit but become a part of the vibrant pulse of this coastal paradise. With the Yacht Club’s exciting amenities and the stunning beach on your doorstep, your Cape Coral Vacation promises to be truly unforgettable.

Villa Nana and Papa’s Beach House

Villa Beachside Bliss

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TRENDING LOCALLY

Cape coral yacht club beach reopens for public use.

Cape Coral aiming to reopen the Yacht Club beach area by Veterans Day

After a year-long closure because of Hurricane Ian, Cape Coral officials say they hope to open the Yacht Club Community Park's beach in the next 10 days.

Here's what you need to know.

When is the beach opening?

Cape Coral Spokesperson Melissa Mickey said the Yacht Club beach is to reopen in mid-November.

A city news release announced a news conference on Nov. 9, for the opening Nov. 10.

"We know there's a lot of work ahead with the Yacht Club, but we thought it was important at least for the residents to get the beach reopened," Councilmember Tom Hayden said "Which is still the plan at least so it would give the community, I think, a little bit of normalization that the club is there for use, at least the beach part of it."

Previous Coverage Cape Coral Yacht Club project moving forward as beach opening is slated mid-November

More Cape Coral news Cape Coral's cost of living: City ranks in top 6 in U.S. for most-burdened renters

Background for closure

The city had planned to close the area for two years for renovations that included replacing the seawalls and marina wet slips, replacing the harbormaster building and boat ramp, and building a three-story parking garage and beach restrooms.

The beach would also be expanded, and utilities relocated.

Then Hurricane Ian struck on Sept. 28, 2022, delaying plans, and shuttering the beach.

What work is being done?

Cape Coral announced it received the OK to move forward with beach nourishment at the Yacht Club last week, and has begun the process.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection also approved sand renourishment permits for the beach.

Workers with heavy machinery combed through the beach Tuesday morning, adding sand in areas that are lacking.

Temporary restrooms will be delivered to the area; the city removed the existing bathrooms in September.

Once all the conditions have been satisfied, the temporary perimeter fence at the beach will be removed.

The Cape Coral Yacht Club Boat Ramp remains closed.

What's open?

While the main Yacht Club Ballroom building is closed, alongside the surrounding buildings and amenities, The Boathouse Tiki Bar & Grill Restaurant is open.

The restaurant opened in July and, along with it, the surrounding parking lot.

What about the rest of the Yacht Club?

The city also plans to adjust the original renovation plans, which could include a two-story ballroom, removing the tennis courts, and rearranging the area to accommodate a parking garage and restaurant.

Many residents opposed this plan and, despite strong opposition, the city intends to move forward  with a complete demolition by early 2024.

Kimley-Horn will present the Yacht Club master plan and concepts from earlier this year to the city council on Nov. 8.

In advance of the opening, Cape Coral Mayor John Gunter, District 1 Councilmember Bill Steinke, and City Manager Michael Ilczyszyn will discuss the reopening of the Yacht Club Community Park Beach area at noon on Nov. 9.

May we recommend

Live webcams, #myfortmyers moments, plan your trip, digital visitor guide, yacht club beach.

Located on the Caloosahatchee River in Cape Coral, the Yacht Club Community Park Beach is now open with limited amenities. The Boathouse Restaurant sits right next to the beach and is open. The pier and Yacht Club facilities remain closed due to damage from Hurricane Ian.

Note:   Pardon the dust. Demolition of the main ballroom building, the Tony Rotino Center, tennis courts, pool, and Harbormaster's building...

Note:   Pardon the dust. Demolition of the main ballroom building, the Tony Rotino Center, tennis courts, pool, and Harbormaster's building is underway. 

26.5423669, -81.9538707

(386 Google Reviews)

5819 Driftwood Pkwy Cape Coral , FL 33904 United States

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ADA Accessible

Pet Friendly

Annual Parking Sticker Accepted

Portable toilet, picnic areas, sheltered pavilion, paddlecraft launch/landing, charcoal grills, sand volleyball court, hiking trails, food/concessions, ada-accessible amenities.

Designated disability parking; ADA-accessible restrooms

Lifeguard on duty

Hours of operation.

Dawn to dusk

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Yacht Club: The One that Started it All

The Yacht Club is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Cape Coral. Many of the homes available in this area have access to deep channel canals - several boast a private dock as well. Located just south of Bimini Basin and right off of the Caloosahatchee River, the Yacht Club is surrounded by water, giving you plenty of opportunities to find a home with waterfront access !

The Only Beach in Cape Coral

The Yacht Club is home to the only beach in Cape Coral, 634 feet of beach to be exact. They measured it. When there’s only so much of it in an entire city of 150K+ people, it’s kind of a big deal. Residents of the Yacht Club enjoy access to this beach, along with:

• Fishing Pier
• Boathouse Restaurant
• Picnic Shelters
• Racquetball Court
• Shuffleboard Court
• Horseshoe Pits
• Public Boat Ramp
• Tennis Courts
• Olympic Sized Swimming Pool

Did We Mention That There’s A Ballroom?

It’s a favorite for those who want to have their wedding, private party, business seminar, or club meeting at this beautiful location. Classes are also held at the Community Park. You can learn or brush up on skills such as gardening, fishing, cooking, and everything in between. The “Sunset Celebration on the Pier” is an event you don’t want to miss, and is held on the first Wednesday of each month. Life in the Yacht Club tends to feel like a life-long vacation.

Why Are You Reading This!?

You should be contacting the Florida Future Realty  team to scoop up your  Yacht Club property  right away. Yours is waiting.

Seeking to Sell Your Cape Coral Home?

We’ll put you in touch with the buyer who’s just read the lines above and who can’t wait to own your home. And, we can help determine the value of your home  to price it competitively in the Cape Coral real estate market. List with Florida Future Realty  for the results you deserve. Give  Susan Milner  a call. 

Latest Yacht Club Listings

614 Coral Drive, Cape Coral

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Best Cape Coral Beaches and  Best Beaches Near Cape Coral Florida

Cape Coral Beaches - so much fun fun fun in the sun at some of the best Southwest Florida beaches!

I'm dying to tell you about all of our favorite beaches in Cape Coral and nearby.

We have everything from small family beaches to out-of-the-way island retreats to party time beaches, either on the Gulf of Mexico or the Caloosahatchee River.

Some of the nicest beaches in the world are in SW Florida. Do you love stretches of white sand, with palm trees and pretty blue-green water?  How about gentle waves and lots of beautiful shells?!

Well, you won't have a problem because there are several beaches to choose from. To start with, Cape Coral has Yacht Club Beach and Four Freedoms Park Beach .......... and within 45 minutes are Ft Myers Beach, Lovers Key, Sanibel, and Bonita Springs.  Just a bit further away, about an hour's drive, are Naples, Captiva, and North Captiva.

The Cape does not have gulf beaches because we are surrounded by the waters of the Caloosahatchee River and Matlacha Pass.

These estuary waters are protected, our coastline is part of a preserve of mangrove forests that teem with aquatic life, and that's what gives us such great fishing in our area!

Cape Coral Beaches

Yacht club beach - yacht club community park.

Yacht Club Beach in Cape Coral, is on the Caloosahatchee River and it is a nice little family beach with a playground, fishing pier, and tikis for picnics.

A ballroom is available for parties and the monthly Sunset Celebration craft shows.

The beach's restaurant, The Boathouse, has good food and sometimes features live music.

Also part of The Yacht Club complex are a pool, tennis and racquet ball courts, and a marina. Parking is free.

From Cape Coral Pkwy, go south on Coronado Pkwy, it turns into Driftwood Pkwy, take it to the end.

Four Freedoms Park Beach

Four Freedoms Park is the location of Cape Coral's newest beach.

The white-sand sunbathe only beach fronts Bimini Basin and is right off of Cape Coral Pkwy.

You will also find a playground, picnic shelters, grassy play area and recreation center.

Fort Myers Beaches are a totally different scene from Cape Coral.

Shops, restaurants, playground, crowds, and lots of activity are at the beach right off the bridge.

Hang a right when you get off the bridge and go all the way to the end to go to Bowditch Point for a less crowded beach.

Paying for parking is easy with self-service machines.

Or go the other way and get to the beach from access points all along Estero Blvd.

Lovers Key State Park

If you keep heading south on Estero Blvd, you will come to Lovers Key State Park Beach.

There are 2 beaches, the first has walking trails and the second one, a little further south, has a tram that you take to the water.

Public restrooms are available at both ends of the trolley.

Pay $8 for parking at the entrance.

What I like about these beaches is that they are in a more natural state, are less crowded, and have lots of shells for collecting.

Lovers Key Adventures offers bike, canoe and kayak rentals.

Sanibel Island

I love to go to any of the Sanibel Beaches!

Blue green water, white sand and lots of shells, big sky, and gulf breezes ... what can be better?

Quaint shopping areas, beautiful homes, and sandy lanes make Sanibel Island so attractive.

The five public beaches are Lighthouse, Gulf Side, Tarpon Bay, Bowmans, and Turners Beaches, all on the gulf side from one end to the other.

Turners Beach is just before you head over the bridge onto Captiva and you can park on the Captiva side.

Parking for Sanibel and Captiva beaches are paid with self-service machines.

Captiva Island and North Captiva Beach

Just on the other side of the bridge from Sanibel are the Captiva Beaches, starting with the Captiva side of Turner Beach.

Restrooms are available, parking is limited, and stores are nearby.

We also like to go to Captiva Beach, just beyond the village, it's one of my most favorite beaches.

The village is so cute, with terrific restaurants and little shops.

North Captiva Island,  is only accessible by boat or small plane.   About 300+ vacation homes dot half of the island, the other half is a state park.

Beautiful beaches, resort amenities, plus plenty of Florida wildlife and nature, a few restaurants and shops characterize this island paradise.

Barefoot Beach - Bonita Springs

Barefoot Beach is located in a preserve and park on one of the many barrier islands along SWFL's coast.

Although it is a natural and wild beach, to get there, you have to drive through a mile stretch of some of the most luxurious homes in the area.

Once you get to into the park there is a nature trail where you see wildlife, public restrooms, showers, a concession stand ... and the most beautiful beach!

Hours run from 8AM-Sundown.   It costs $10 to get into the park and beach, regardless of how many hours you spend there.  Barefoot Beach is located off of Bonita Beach Rd.

Dog Beach Park - Bonita Beach Dog Park

If you’re looking for the perfect destination for you and your four-legged friend, Bonita Beach Dog Park in Bonita Springs, Florida is the ideal spot for you.  

The Bonita Beach Dog Park is located on a tidal flat, so it's crucial to plan your trip accordingly. During mid to high tides, the beach can only be accessed by wading through water . However, once you arrive, you'll be greeted by breathtaking views and a spacious area for your dog to run free.

One thing to keep in mind is that this park does not have restrooms, but a portable toilet is available. Additionally, a dog rinse-off shower station is provided by a private donor to rinse your dog before leaving the park. It's also important to read and follow the park rules, which include no glass containers or alcohol allowed. Remember, this is an unsupervised facility, so it's up to you to ensure your dog's safety and behavior.

Bonita Beach Dog Park is the perfect place for travelers to come and bring their furry friend to enjoy a beautiful day at the beach.

One of my favorite beaches is Lowdermilk Park Beach in Naples.

You will find metered and unmetered parking spaces, public restrooms and showers, a concession stand, picnic tables, playgrounds, sand volleyball courts, and two gazebos for rent.  The beach has powdery white sand, plenty of shells, and views of the gulf that go for miles. If you're lucky, you can set up under one of the several tiki huts along the back of the beach!

Sunsets at all the beaches are magnificent, and I love how close to nature many of them they are.

You will love exploring all these Southwest Florida and Cape Coral beaches!

Related Pages to Cape Coral Beaches

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Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

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30 Hidden Gems In Cape Coral

Published: September 17, 2024

by Elly Traynor

Cape Coral, Florida, often gets overshadowed by its more famous neighbors. However, this charming city has plenty to offer. Ever wondered what makes Cape Coral special? From serene parks to unique dining spots, there are many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a nature lover, foodie, or history buff, Cape Coral has something for everyone. Imagine kayaking through mangrove tunnels or enjoying a meal at a waterfront restaurant. These lesser-known attractions provide a fresh perspective on a city that deserves more attention. Ready to uncover the secrets of Cape Coral? Let's dive into the best-kept secrets of this underrated destination.

Natural Wonders

Cape Coral, known for its stunning waterways and lush landscapes, offers numerous hidden gems for nature lovers. Here are some must-visit spots:

Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve A serene escape with walking trails, kayak rentals, and abundant wildlife. Perfect for birdwatching and peaceful strolls.

Rotary Park Environmental Center This park features butterfly gardens, walking trails, and a dog park. Ideal for a family outing or a quiet afternoon.

Sirenia Vista Park A great place to spot manatees and enjoy fishing. The park also has kayak launches and picnic areas.

Glover Bight Trail A boardwalk trail offering breathtaking views of the Caloosahatchee River and surrounding mangroves. Great for a leisurely walk.

Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve Explore this aquatic preserve by kayak or boat. The area is teeming with marine life and offers excellent fishing opportunities.

Historical Sites

Cape Coral's rich history is reflected in its various historical sites. These locations offer a glimpse into the past:

Cape Coral Historical Museum Learn about the city's history through exhibits and artifacts. The museum also has beautiful gardens to explore.

Burroughs Home & Gardens A historic mansion in nearby Fort Myers, offering guided tours and a look into early 20th-century life.

Edison and Ford Winter Estates Visit the winter homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. The estates feature museums, botanical gardens, and guided tours.

Koreshan State Park Discover the history of the Koreshan Unity Settlement. The park offers historic buildings, nature trails, and camping.

Seminole Gulf Railway Take a scenic train ride and enjoy a murder mystery dinner theater. A unique way to experience the area's history.

Outdoor Activities

For those who love outdoor adventures, Cape Coral has plenty to offer. Check out these exciting activities:

Sun Splash Family Waterpark A fun-filled waterpark with slides, pools, and a lazy river. Perfect for a day of family fun.

Cape Coral Yacht Club Enjoy the beach, fishing pier, and community pool. The yacht club also hosts events and offers boat rentals.

Mike Greenwell's Bat-A-Ball & Family Fun Park Mini-golf, go-karts, batting cages, and more. A great spot for family entertainment.

Cape Coral Farmers' Market Shop for fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious food . The market is open on Saturdays and offers a lively atmosphere.

Jaycee Park A beautiful park along the Caloosahatchee River. Features walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground.

Unique Experiences

Cape Coral has some unique experiences that you won't find anywhere else. These hidden gems are worth a visit:

Wicked Dolphin Rum Distillery Take a tour of this local distillery and sample some award-winning rum. Learn about the rum-making process and enjoy tastings.

Tom Allen Memorial Butterfly House Located in Rotary Park, this butterfly house offers guided tours and a chance to see various butterfly species up close.

Lovegrove Gallery & Gardens Visit the colorful gallery and gardens of artist Leoma Lovegrove. A vibrant and inspiring place to explore.

Cape Coral Art League Check out local art exhibits, take a class, or attend an event. The league supports local artists and offers a creative space.

Cultural Park Theatre Enjoy a live performance at this community theater. The theater hosts a variety of shows, including plays, musicals, and concerts.

Dining and Nightlife

Cape Coral's dining and nightlife scene is full of hidden gems. Here are some spots to check out:

Rumrunners A waterfront restaurant offering delicious seafood and stunning views. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a casual meal.

Fathoms Restaurant & Bar Located at Cape Harbour, this spot offers a diverse menu and live music. Enjoy a meal with a view of the marina.

The Dek Bar A laid-back bar with live music, great food, and a friendly atmosphere. A local favorite for a night out.

Point 57 Kitchen & Cocktails A trendy spot with creative dishes and craft cocktails. Ideal for a night out with friends or a special occasion.

Nevermind Awesome Bar & Eatery A quirky bar with a unique menu and eclectic decor. Known for its craft cocktails and lively atmosphere.

Family-Friendly Spots

Cape Coral has plenty of family-friendly spots that are perfect for a day out with the kids. Here are some top picks:

Eagle Skate Park A large skate park with ramps, rails, and bowls. Great for kids and teens who love skateboarding or BMX biking.

Cape Coral Public Library A wonderful place for kids to explore books, attend storytime, and participate in educational programs.

Veterans Park A spacious park with playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. Ideal for a family picnic or a game of soccer.

Lakes Park Located in nearby Fort Myers, this park offers walking trails, a playground, and a miniature train ride. Fun for the whole family.

Sunset Celebration at the Yacht Club Enjoy live music, food vendors, and a beautiful sunset. A great way to end the day with family and friends.

Discover Cape Coral's Hidden Treasures

Cape Coral offers more than just beautiful beaches. Its hidden gems include unique parks, cozy cafes, and vibrant art scenes. Exploring places like the Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve or the Cape Coral Farmers Market can make your trip special. Don't miss out on the local eateries serving fresh seafood and the charming shops filled with handmade crafts. Each spot has its own story, adding to the city's charm. Whether you're kayaking through mangroves or enjoying a sunset at the Yacht Club Community Park, Cape Coral has something for everyone. These lesser-known spots provide a deeper connection to the area, making your visit memorable. So next time you plan a trip , consider these hidden treasures. They offer a unique experience that goes beyond the usual tourist spots. Cape Coral's hidden gems are waiting to be explored.

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Cape Coral Councilmember Tom Hayden not running for reelection in 2024

Cape Coral Councilmember Tom Hayden, 66, announces he will not run for reelection in 2024.

He said he made the decision last summer and cited his age, his wife's retirement, and wanting to spend more time with his family.

"Serving a second term, had I been elected, would have been a tremendous honor, but as I've looked at my age and as I've looked at the fact that my wife retires; about the same time that my first term ends, life is precious, and as you get older, you start to look at things that you want to accomplish," Hayden said. "These are important years for us coming up to be able to accomplish all that, and I don't want to have any regrets about missing years that I'm going to treasure."

Hayden has served as the District 3 council member since 2020, and his term is set to expire in November.

He plans to spend his last month in office working on a 10-year sidewalk plan for the city, making progress on the city's transportation plan, and helping the city in collective bargaining with the unions.

"That goes to my vision of we are here to plan this city for the next 20 or 30 years, and this transportation plan will do that," Hayden said.

Recent Cape Coral news Lee County GOP will vote to condemn Cape Coral City Council's controversial stipends

For Subscribers Cape Coral man removed from meeting over Jaycee Park, now city faces 'legally shaky ground'

Who is Tom Hayden?

Hayden worked for The News-Press for more than 20 years in various roles, including sports editor, Cape Coral news editor, and opinion page editor, and has 41 years of experience as a journalist.

He moved to Cape Coral in 1996 after accepting a job with The News-Press and was struck by the more than 400 miles of canals and the potential growth that was ahead of it.

"The fact that it was mostly residential at that time, getting younger, then it was known as a bedroom community, but you knew that it probably wasn't going to stay that way, and I wanted to be a part of that," Hayden said.

When he came to the council role, he said he prioritized speaking and listening to the residents.

He said his experience as a journalist helped him learn how to talk with residents, address criticism, and deal with nonstop issues in the city.

What shocked Hayden about the role was the amount of information available to him, how caring and conscious the city staff is, and the hours it takes to prepare for a meeting.

During his term, he had to contend with COVID-19, decisions on parks and attractions such as the Yacht Club and Coral Oaks Golf Course, the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, and delivering needed infrastructure to the growing city of Cape Coral.

What are his proudest accomplishments?

As a council member, Hayden said he focused on getting more sidewalks near schools, preserving and improving environmental spaces, talking to developers to get more affordable and workforce housing, and improving traffic congestion.

"I think we've been able to stay on a path of sight that we're almost finished now getting sidewalks completed within 1 mile of schools, and now we move on to get them done within 2 miles of schools," Hayden said.

He also hopes to see a 10-year sidewalk plan developed for roads still in need.

Hayden touts Coviello Park and Yellow Fever Creek as areas that have their natural state of wetland preserved while undergoing improvements.

He said he led the charge on getting the planning development and engineered study for Pine Island Road done.

"So we could fast-track getting that road widened," Hayden said. "Not only because of all the development going on that road, we know it's heavily congested now, but also as a hurricane evacuation route for Pine Island and the city."

Hayden also helped complete a master plan for the Utility Extension Project and passed the water conservation ordinance , which requires certain standards to be met when installing new irrigation systems.

"Getting that passed was huge for me because I know how important it's going to be, not immediately but 20, 30 years from now," Hayden said. "If we don't start conserving water, we're not going to be in a very good place."

Hayden also served as the Cape Coral Youth Council liaison, and he said he was proud to help guide the members.

What about his controversial decisions?

The councilmember is not afraid of being an outlier against the majority opinion or even residents.

Hayden had voted against the budget during 2021 and 2022 as he didn't agree with going with the rollback rate, which is the tax rate that would produce the same amount of property tax revenue as the prior year, and wanted a budget that would invest more in hiring, programs, and maintenance.

"My vision for the city was you can't have a flat, no gross budget in a growing city," Hayden said. "There are certain things that have to be done, people have to be hired, programs need to be put in place, facilities need to be maintained or built, and you can't you can't do that on a flat budget."

He also pointed to the planned improvement of Jaycee Park as another example.

"We've heard a lot that we weren't listening to residents," Hayden said. "I told them during one meeting, 'I'm listening to you; I just don't agree with you.' I liked the changes to what is one of our few waterfront parks and what we're going to do there."

Though, he did change his mind in a few areas.

He initially was against any privatization of Cape Coral's city-owned Coral Oaks Golf Course but came around as he noticed the course deteriorate.

"I realized that we probably weren't the ones to be managing and running that golf course," Hayden said.

Hayden also stood as a dissenting voice against the demolition of the main building of the Cape Coral Yacht Club as he said it carried so much history for the city.

"It was important in some way to preserve that history and that memory and what that meant to the community," Hayden said.

The Cape Coral Yacht Club, which includes the yacht basin, tennis courts, a swimming pool, a ballroom, and a riverside beach, is the city's premier waterfront attraction and has served as a popular attraction and staple for the city since the 1960s.

Hurricane Ian, a Category 5 storm, devastated the city on Sept. 28, leading to the Yacht Club's closure.

The demolition of the yacht club's existing building has been contentious as residents and officials are mixed on the council's decision to take a "clean slate" approach in January to renovate the area and its facilities after Ian paused the initial renovation plans.

The majority opinion won out, and Hayden changed his strategy to preserve parts of the main building.

Hayden also disagreed with getting rid of volunteer committees such as the Community Redevelopment Agency.

"As soon as we started to eliminate them, we continued to separate government from the people, and I never wanted to do that, I wanted them to be a part of it," Hayden said.

More recently, Hayden and other council members came under fire after approving a monthly stipend.

The council approved monthly stipends for each member, doubling their annual salaries, on Dec. 14 despite heavy residential backlash.

It was a voting item listed on the consent agenda and approved without discussion in a 5-1 vote, with each council member receiving a monthly $3,333 and the mayor receiving a monthly $5,000.

Hayden said he understands that the stipends are controversial, but stands by his support of them.

He maintains that his family kept falling further into debt as the city's salary was not enough and he had to get a second job.

"This makes things easier financially for me," Hayden said. "It also now allows me to spend my last year in office, dedicating even more time to council, and getting things accomplished that I want to get accomplished this last year, or at least get the ball rolling on some projects that won't be finished this year."

What should the next council member look out for?

Hayden plans to spend the rest of his life in the city and says whoever wins the District 3 seat next must be someone who can look far ahead.

"I've said many times that I really believe a significant part of what we do is that future plan for our city, not only how we implemented a strategic plan, but how we move forward with other issues in the city," Hayden said.

He also encourages the next council member to be open to residents and the media.

"So I think whoever takes a seat has to know they have to be dedicated to their community, this job first," Hayden said.

Luis Zambrano is a Watchdog/Cape Coral reporter for The News-Press and the Naples Daily News. You can reach Luis at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter @Lz2official.

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May we recommend

Live webcams, #myfortmyers moments, plan your trip, digital visitor guide, yacht club beach.

Located on the Caloosahatchee River in Cape Coral, the Yacht Club Community Park Beach is now open with limited amenities. The Boathouse Restaurant sits right next to the beach and is open. The pier and Yacht Club facilities remain closed due to damage from Hurricane Ian.

Note:   Pardon the dust. Demolition of the main ballroom building, the Tony Rotino Center, tennis courts, pool, and Harbormaster's building...

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(386 Google Reviews)

5819 Driftwood Pkwy Cape Coral , FL 33904 United States

Good to know

ADA Accessible

Pet Friendly

Annual Parking Sticker Accepted

Portable toilet, picnic areas, sheltered pavilion, paddlecraft launch/landing, charcoal grills, sand volleyball court, hiking trails, food/concessions, ada-accessible amenities.

Designated disability parking; ADA-accessible restrooms

Lifeguard on duty

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Dawn to dusk

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