First Timer- Location Recommendation

Question

Planning a trip for the last week of June this year, 3-4 adults that enjoy a laid-back beach town vibe. We have been down the Keys and have stayed in Islamorada/Marathon on past Florida trips but interested in staying in an area on the Southwest Gulf side this time.

Main points for trip are shelling! (only reason one of the adults is coming, ha!), good seafood restaurants, small shops, lazing on the beach, and paddleboarding. Bars, partying and nightlife not too important.

With minimal research, Naples looks like too big of a city for what we are looking for and maybe Marco Island is closer to our taste? Are there other towns or areas I should start looking that give us what we may be wanting?

For lodging, we will probably want to do an airbnb/condo because we will need at least 2 bedrooms and beachfront/somewhere with good ocean views are preferred.. but cant pay an arm and a leg. Also planning on renting a car for the trip, so we dont mind taking day trips from our home base as needed.

Thank you in advance!

Answer

For a first-time visit to Florida’s Southwest Gulf Coast with a focus on laid-back beach vibes, shelling, and good seafood, there are several towns that fit your criteria better than Naples, which can feel a bit more urban and busy. Marco Island is a solid choice, but there are a few other smaller towns and barrier islands that might suit your group even more.

Here are some options to consider:

Sanibel Island: Famous for its shelling beaches, Sanibel offers a relaxed, family-friendly vibe, excellent seafood spots, and small boutique shops. The beaches are wide and pristine, and paddleboarding is popular along the calmer waters near the canals. Airbnbs and condos along the beach or near Tarpon Bay are ideal for ocean views.
Captiva Island: Just north of Sanibel, Captiva is quieter and more secluded. Perfect for shelling and enjoying nature without large crowds. Dining is slightly more upscale but still offers casual seafood options. Great for paddleboarding and kayaking.
Fort Myers Beach: Offers a lively but still relatively laid-back beach town feel. There are plenty of beachfront condos with ocean views, easy access to small shops, and a good mix of casual seafood restaurants. The bay side also provides calm waters suitable for paddleboarding.
Naples Beach (North Naples area): While Naples city center can feel busy, the northern part of Naples Beach or areas like Vanderbilt Beach have more relaxed neighborhoods with condos and villas near the shore. Shelling is possible, especially on nearby small islands or via day trips, and seafood dining is abundant.
Marco Island: Marco is upscale but still offers quiet beaches, some boutique shopping, and good seafood. The island is also a good base for day trips to nearby islands or nature preserves.

For lodging, Airbnb or vacation condo rentals are ideal for your needs. Look for units labeled “beachfront” or “ocean view” to maximize your stay experience. Since you plan to rent a car, staying in Sanibel, Captiva, or Marco Island gives you flexibility to explore nearby beaches, nature reserves, and small towns along the coast.

Additional tips:

Check for properties with private beach access or that are walking distance to the water to minimize travel with gear.
Book early, especially for late June, as these smaller towns fill up quickly in summer.
For shelling, the early morning is best to avoid crowds and get the freshest finds.
Consider day trips to Lover’s Key or Bonita Beach if staying in Fort Myers Beach or Naples, as these spots are quieter and excellent for paddleboarding.

Overall, Sanibel and Captiva Islands are probably the best fit for your group’s preferences, followed by Marco Island and select parts of Fort Myers Beach. These areas combine relaxed beaches, charming small-town shops, plentiful seafood restaurants, and opportunities for shelling and paddleboarding, without the bustle of a larger city.