Cape Coral History

Cape Coral belongs to Lee County and is a rapidly growing city that was founded around 60 years ago. It is a typical American city with European influence. In the 1950s, a boom began to emerge in this region. In 1957, the Gulf American Land Corporation was founded. The owners, Leonard and Jack Rosen, began transforming their lands north of the Caloosahatchee River into a true Venice of Florida. Throughout the Cape Coral area, a system of waterways, lakes, and streets was developed. Extensive construction work was carried out. At the end of the 1950s, construction of the first residential homes began. Today, Cape Coral has a vast network of waterways over 600 kilometers long. Many canals also have direct access to the Gulf of Mexico. A true paradise for people who love boats and water.

The Rosen brothers conducted intensive promotional and advertising campaigns. Cape Coral developed very quickly as a result. Although there was initial skepticism about the infrastructure, many new residents found their way to Cape Coral. Infrastructure development progressed at the same speed as the construction of the many houses and villas. In retrospect, the decision has more than paid off for many homeowners. The value of the land has increased massively over time. Cape Coral is now the largest city in Southwest Florida.

In 1964, the Cape Coral Bridge was built, connecting Cape Coral with Fort Myers. Due to the enormous population growth, an additional bridge had to be built. The Midpoint Bridge was put into operation in 1997. The Yacht Club is the oldest residential area of Cape Coral and is located in the southeasternmost part of the region. Cape Coral was officially recognized and incorporated as a city in 1970. Cape Coral has one of the lowest crime rates in Florida among cities with over 150,000 residents.

Cape Coral – Dream Vacation in Florida

Cape Coral – the Venice of Florida – is a vacation paradise like no other. Year-round sunshine with pleasantly warm daytime temperatures between 23 and 31 degrees Celsius. What makes Cape Coral unique are the many stunning vacation homes located directly on the water, most featuring their own pool and private boat dock. Thanks to a labyrinth of canals, there are numerous vacation homes with private docks in incomparably beautiful locations.

Boats and Water

As mentioned, Cape Coral offers a labyrinth of waterways and canals. With a boat, you can plan varied excursions in the surrounding area. In the USA, you do not need a license to operate a boat. However, it is important to be thoroughly briefed by an experienced skipper on local regulations and practices. A proper hands-on introduction to the specific boat should also be ensured.

Cape Coral Bridge

In 1964, the Cape Coral Bridge was built, connecting the city with Fort Myers. Due to significant population growth, another bridge was needed and completed in 1997. The "Midpoint Bridge" brought both cities even closer together.

The oldest part of Cape Coral, the "Yacht Club" in the southeastern tip, was established in the 1960s. Other areas followed: the so-called "Gold Coast" in the east, the "Pelican Area" in the south.

In 1970, Cape Coral was officially incorporated as a city. Today (2007) the city has nearly 170,000 residents, and in winter, thanks to tourists and "snowbirds" (Americans from the north fleeing the snow to Florida), about 20,000 more.