Return to maritime Florida of the mid 19th century. Two hours north of Sanibel you’ll find Cortez, Florida, home to the state’s oldest surviving fishing village.
Maritime traditions run deep through this historic community where you’ll find restored boats proudly displayed. Modest bungalows from the 1920s with sandy yards pack the narrow streets of the village, and salt permeates the air.
Meander down to Burton’s store – a relic of the area’s earliest years – or grab a fresh bite at the Seafood Shack or the Star Fish Company Market and Restaurant, where incredible local seafood literally jumps from hook to fork.
And don’t miss Cortez’s Florida Maritime Museum, housed in a restored historic 1912 schoolhouse, itself located on the park-like grounds of the Cortez Nature Preserve.
Cortez is a living remnant of Old Florida and definitely a day trip to consider!
We hope you’ve enjoyed all of the day trip ideas we’ve featured this week. There’s still many more ideas to share, so we’ll try to do another series on “day trippin'” places soon!
