by Jessica Howell

It’s a different world here – a kitschy blend of vibrantly painted buildings, local-infested hole-in-the-wall hideouts and blindingly white beaches – situated on the 7.5 mile long stretch of Estero Island, which separates its namesake bay from the cerulean-hued depths of the Gulf of Mexico.

A different world perhaps, but one not so far away. A quick drive over the bridge on Florida’s San Carlos Boulevard and the mainland disappears behind you as you’re deposited into the island’s funky hub, dubbed Times Square – an accurate title for the pedestrian friendly city’s center and an ideal first glimpse into island life.

Bright yellow and red stucco shops splatter the scenery, neon signs in cluttered windows advertising piercings, henna tattoos and cheap bikinis. A tourist zone? Most certainly. But if you turned around here, you’d be missing out on the best of what the island has to offer. Instead, make a left and head north along the island’s main drag, Estero Avenue. Scenery changes quickly as the gaps between hotels and resorts offer stunning glimpses of the Gulf.

Halfway along your trail you’ll find DiamondHead Resort, the island’s only full-service, all-suite hotel ocean side. Twelve stories high, the hotel seems to be a hit among Fort Myers Beach frequenters who are likely addicted to the unbelievably vast views that accompany every suite.

Stay for a night or stay for a week. I dropped my bags in a beachfront suite -- one of the 124 one-bedroom suites offered at DiamondHead. A quick stroll through the accommodations and I let loose a long sigh of relief. This would be the perfect sanction for my most necessary vacation need: relaxation.

Each suite is comprised of a sitting room (which includes an efficiency kitchenette and pull-out queen sofa), a bedroom with king size bed, bathroom, and walk-out, screened-in patio. Classic, comfortable furnishings beckon weary bodies at day’s end and lure tired beach-goers into peaceful sleep. I couldn’t resist falling asleep with my bedroom door wall cracked open – the gentle crashing of Gulf waves lulling me to sleep.

(CONTINUE...)