Location advise

Question

Hi, looking for advice on a new place to stay, we love crystal rivers, matlacha, fort myers beach, Marco Island,palm coast all places with sea inlets, thus rent a house backing on to said inlet. We like this so we can gaze at the wildlife passing by and do a bit of fishing. Based upon the above, any recommendations ? ( we were recommended matlacha on this forum years ago).

Thanks

BM66

Answer

Hi BM66,

Based on your preferences—houses backing onto sea inlets, access to wildlife, and the opportunity to fish—there are several areas in Florida that might be perfect for your next stay. Since you already like Crystal River, Matlacha, Fort Myers Beach, Marco Island, and Palm Coast, I’ll suggest both similar locations and a few new options that offer calm waters, natural beauty, and fishing opportunities.

Recommended Areas for Inlet-Backed Vacation Homes:

Matlacha: Known as the “Colorful Island,” this small fishing village is perfect for art lovers and nature watchers alike. Houses with dock access or along canals give you excellent wildlife viewing (manatees, birds) and fishing right from your backyard.
Sanibel & Captiva Islands: Quiet barrier islands with canals and inland waterways. Many vacation homes have docks, and you can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and abundant wildlife. Sanibel is slightly busier than Captiva, but both are very scenic.
Marco Island: Larger resort-style area, but there are quiet canals and intracoastal waterways. Waterfront homes often have boat docks and easy access to both backcountry and offshore fishing.
Fort Myers Beach & Estero Bay Area: Look for homes along the canals leading to Estero Bay. These areas offer peaceful waters, kayaking, and fishing for both saltwater species and birds.
Crystal River / Homosassa: If you like manatees, this area is unbeatable. Homes along the Crystal or Homosassa Rivers allow wildlife viewing and freshwater or saltwater fishing.

Other Considerations:

Pine Island: Near Matlacha, Pine Island is a quieter, less touristy area with waterfront homes and great fishing spots. You can easily explore Matlacha for restaurants and galleries.
Indian River Lagoon (around Vero Beach / Sebastian): Offers calm waters, wildlife like dolphins and manatees, and many vacation homes with docks. Good for kayaking and fishing.
Marathon or Islamorada (Florida Keys): If you’re open to the Keys, these towns have houses with direct ocean or bay access, excellent for fishing and snorkeling, and abundant wildlife.

Tips for Choosing a Rental:

Look for homes with private docks or kayaks included. This will allow you to enjoy the wildlife and fishing without needing to bring your own equipment.
Check reviews for mentions of wildlife sightings; this can indicate how much activity you’ll see from your home.
If you plan to fish, make sure the house is on navigable water, ideally with easy access to the ocean or bay.
Consider proximity to small towns for groceries and dining, so you can balance tranquility with convenience.

In summary, Matlacha, Pine Island, and Crystal River are excellent for peaceful, wildlife-rich experiences. Marco Island, Fort Myers Beach, and Sanibel/Captiva offer more amenities and still have canal or inlet homes perfect for fishing and relaxing. If you’re up for a longer trip, the Florida Keys offer beautiful waters and excellent fishing opportunities.

Happy planning!