What to expect: Best Western Coral Bridge Inn and Suites is located off College Parkway in the shadow of the Coral Bridge and within one mile of the Caloosahatchee River. As part of an expansive business area that includes grocery stores, restaurants, and retail outlets, it’s popular with leisure guests.

Amenity highlights: An outdoor freeform pool and a spa tub overlook a small pond with a fountain. Stationary bikes, treadmills, and stair machines are available in the fitness room. A business center has computer terminals and complimentary high-speed Internet access. A video library (surcharge) provides in-room movies. Wireless Internet access in the lobby is complimentary.

Insider tip: Six miles from the hotel are the original homes of inventor Thomas Edison and industrialist Henry Ford, who wintered in Fort Myers during the early 1900s. Edison’s laboratory, the Ford and Edison homes, tropical gardens, and the museum are open daily to the public (surcharge).

What to expect: Located three miles from Sanibel Beach, this four-story hotel has a country feel with a green tin roof, white fence, and flowering gardens. Leisure travelers and families gather in a living-room-style lobby with wood floors, a pile of board games, and a crackling fireplace.

Amenity highlights: Complimentary Continental breakfast is served each morning, and complimentary juice, coffee, and cookies are available 24 hours a day. Recreation options include an outdoor splash pool and small fitness room. Guests enjoy discount privileges at the Shell Point Golf Club, a half-mile away.

Insider tip: Seven miles from the hotel on Sanibel Island, the 2,825-acre J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is home to several threatened and endangered species, including American alligators, bald eagles, Florida manatees, and Atlantic loggerhead turtles. Nature walks, bird watching, fishing, canoeing, and other outdoor activities are available (fees may apply). An entrance fee is charged.