Zap! Navigating Lightning Safety During SW Florida's Rainy Season What's up, everyone? As the rainy season takes center stage in SW Florida, it's super important to stay safe when those thunderstorms roll in. Lightning isn’t just a spectacular light show—it’s seriously risky. Here’s how you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe from the zaps! 1. Chill Indoors When the sky growls, the best spot to be is inside. Keep off the electronics, and steer clear of windows and doors to stay snug and safe. 2. Skip the Shower Hold off on showers or baths during a storm. Lightning loves plumbing, so it’s best to wait it out. 3. Power Down Unplug your gadgets to protect them from unexpected power surges. Better safe than sorry! 4. Dodge the Tall Stuff Caught outside? Stay low and avoid anything tall like trees or poles. Feel a tingly hair-raising feeling? Crouch down—it’s lightning close by! 5. The 30/30 Rule Spot a flash? Start counting to 30. If thunder booms before you hit 30, hustle indoors. Stay there until 30 minutes after the last thunderclap. 6. Car Cover No building in sight? A hard-topped car can give you some shelter. Keep those windows up and avoid touching any metal. 7. Postpone Outdoor Fun Save the swimming and boating for a clearer day. Thunderstorms and outdoor activities don’t mix. 8. Emergency Ready Keep a stash of essentials like flashlights and batteries handy, just in case the power goes out. Got Any Storm Safety Tricks? We’re all about keeping safe but still having fun during SW Florida's stormy season. Hit us up with your thunderstorm safety tips on Facebook or tag us in your storm prep posts. Let’s keep it safe and keep the summer vibes going, even when the skies are grumpy!

Culinary Delights: Best Seafood Restaurants in SW Florida Hey everyone! If you're a seafood lover, SW Florida has some fantastic restaurants that serve up the freshest catches in delightful and unique ways. Here are three of the best seafood restaurants outside of Naples that you should definitely check out. 1. Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille (Sanibel Island) Location: 2500 Island Inn Rd, Sanibel, FL 33957 Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille on Sanibel Island offers a vibrant atmosphere with a menu that highlights fresh, local seafood. The restaurant is named after the fictional character Doc Ford from Randy Wayne White’s novels, adding a bit of literary flair to your dining experience. Must-Try Dishes: Yucatan Shrimp: Steamed shrimp in a signature sauce with butter, garlic, Colombian chilies, and fresh cilantro. Grouper: Prepared in various styles, including grilled, blackened, or fried, served with delicious sides. The open-air seating and waterfront views make it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal. 2. The Clam Shack (Fort Myers) Location: 9891 Gulf Coast Main St, Fort Myers, FL 33913 The Clam Shack in Fort Myers brings a bit of New England charm to SW Florida. Known for its casual, friendly atmosphere and classic seafood dishes, it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Must-Try Dishes: Lobster Roll: Fresh lobster meat served on a toasted roll, just like you’d find in Maine. Fried Clams: Crispy, golden-fried clams served with tartar sauce and fries. The Clam Shack’s commitment to fresh ingredients and traditional recipes makes it a standout. 3. The Fish House (Bonita Springs) Location: 4685 Bonita Beach Rd SW, Bonita Springs, FL 34134 The Fish House in Bonita Springs offers a laid-back dining experience with a focus on fresh, locally sourced seafood. The casual setting and friendly service make it a great spot for families and groups. Must-Try Dishes: Fish Tacos: Grilled or blackened fish served in soft tortillas with a zesty slaw. Seafood Platter: A combination of fried or grilled seafood, including shrimp, scallops, and fish, perfect for sharing. With its waterfront location, you can enjoy beautiful views while savoring your meal. Share Your Seafood Adventures! We’d love to see your seafood dining experiences in SW Florida! Share your photos with us!

Splash into Summer: SW Florida's Must-Try Water Sports! What’s up, everyone? Summer’s here and it’s time to dive into the best water sports SW Florida has to offer. Whether you’re into chilling on a kayak or speeding on a jet ski, we’ve got the scoop on where to go for an epic summer splash! Kayaking and Canoeing Everglades National Park: Grab a paddle and explore the wild, winding waterways of the Everglades. Glide past mangrove tunnels and sawgrass marshes, and keep your eyes peeled for alligators, manatees, and tons of birds. Top spots? Check out the Nine Mile Pond Canoe Trail or brave the twists of Hell’s Bay Canoe Trail. Estero Bay: For a more laid-back paddle, hit the serene waters of Estero Bay. Kayak by mangroves and along the shore, where dolphins and manatees might just make a cameo! Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) Naples Beach: Stand-up paddleboarding here is as chill as it gets. Rent a board and cruise along the coast. Who knows? You might spot some dolphins or sea turtles! Lovers Key State Park: Perfect for paddleboard newbies or pros. The calm waters and beautiful scenery make it a top pick for a peaceful paddle. Jet Skiing Fort Myers Beach: Crank up the adrenaline with jet skiing at Fort Myers Beach. Race the waves and feel the wind whip your hair – pure thrill! Marco Island: Zip around Marco Island and explore the Ten Thousand Islands. Fast, fun, and filled with gorgeous views, it’s a must for speed lovers. Parasailing Sanibel Island: Fly high above Sanibel Island and take in the breathtaking views from a parasail. Go tandem and share the thrill! Captiva Island: Take off from Captiva Island for stunning aerial views and maybe a dolphin sighting or two! Snorkeling and Scuba Diving Egmont Key State Park: Dive into the clear waters of Egmont Key for snorkeling or scuba diving. Explore vibrant marine life and historic shipwrecks – it’s an underwater treasure trove! Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park: A snorkeler’s paradise in Naples, with clear waters and diverse marine life ready for your underwater selfie! Fishing Charlotte Harbor: Anglers, get ready! Whether it’s inshore or offshore, Charlotte Harbor is teeming with fish. Bring your gear and cast a line! Naples Pier: Drop a line off Naples Pier and fish until the sun sets. The perfect end to a perfect day. Sailing Naples Bay: Sail the tranquil waters of Naples Bay. Rent a boat or join a tour and let the breeze guide you. Pine Island Sound: Set sail in Pine Island Sound’s protected waters. It’s peaceful, picturesque, and perfect for a day on the water. Boating and Island Hopping Ten Thousand Islands: Navigate the maze of islands with a rented boat or a guided tour. Discover secluded beaches and hidden spots – an adventurer’s dream! Cabbage Key: Escape to Cabbage Key for a taste of old Florida charm. Dock your boat, grab a bite at the historic inn, and enjoy the laid-back vibe. Stay Safe on the Water Suit up with a Life Jacket: Always wear one, no matter your water sport choice. Stay Hydrated: Keep water handy, especially under the hot Florida sun. Sun Safe: Slather on the sunscreen and don your coolest shades. Local Laws Matter: Know and follow all local water sport rules. Know Your Limits: Pick activities that suit your skills and always ask for help if needed. Share Your Water Sport Wins! Hit us up with your SW Florida water adventures! Share your pics on Facebook or tag us in your posts. Whether you’re navigating the Everglades or catching waves at Fort Myers Beach, show us how you make a splash!