Fort Myers Beach is a beautiful place on Florida’s southwest coast, right by the Gulf of Mexico. The soft, white sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and fun things to do make it a great vacation spot. Whether you love swimming, eating delicious food, or just relaxing by the ocean, Fort Myers Beach has something for everyone.
A Strong Comeback After Hurricane Ian
In 2022, Hurricane Ian caused a lot of damage to Fort Myers Beach. Many buildings, restaurants, and famous landmarks were destroyed. But the people here are strong, and they worked hard to rebuild their community. Today, the area is looking better than ever, with new restaurants, shops, and a fresh, lively atmosphere.
One of the biggest improvements is in Times Square, the heart of Fort Myers Beach. This area is full of restaurants, ice cream shops, and fun places to explore. The Fort Myers Beach Pier, which was damaged in the storm, has been repaired, and visitors can once again enjoy fishing or watching the sunset over the ocean.
The Perfect Beach Day
The main reason people visit Fort Myers Beach is, of course, the beach itself! Here’s how you can have the perfect day:
- Start your morning with a walk: The sand is soft, and the ocean waves are peaceful. If you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins swimming nearby!
- Go swimming or paddleboarding: The water here is usually warm and calm, making it great for all kinds of water activities. You can also rent a kayak or jet ski for more adventure.
- Build sandcastles and look for seashells: Fort Myers Beach has amazing shells washed up on the shore, especially after a high tide.
- Relax under an umbrella: If you just want to chill, rent a beach chair and umbrella and enjoy the sound of the waves.
- Try some beachside snacks: Food trucks and small stands sell ice cream, smoothies, and fresh fruit, perfect for a quick treat!
The Best Places to Eat in Fort Myers Beach
Food lovers will be happy here because there are so many great places to eat. Whether you want fresh seafood, a juicy burger, or something sweet, you’ll find it all. Here are some top restaurants to check out:
- Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille – Famous for its Yucatan shrimp, this restaurant has a cool island vibe and delicious seafood dishes.
- Wahoo Willy’s – A new restaurant with outdoor seating, great seafood, and a fun, laid-back atmosphere.
- Heavenly Biscuit – If you love breakfast, this small and cozy spot serves the best biscuits and cinnamon rolls in town!
- The Whale – A perfect place to enjoy fresh fish tacos and a great view of the beach.
- Pinchers – A casual seafood restaurant where you can try Florida’s famous stone crab claws and other fresh seafood dishes.
- Yo! Taco – A simple taco stand that serves amazing, fresh tacos perfect for a quick lunch before heading back to the beach.
Exciting Things to Do
Aside from enjoying the beach and food, there’s a lot more to explore in and around Fort Myers Beach.
Visit Sanibel and Captiva Islands
These islands are a short drive away and are famous for their beautiful beaches and amazing seashells. You can also visit the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, where you might see manatees, alligators, and all kinds of birds.
Go on a Dolphin Tour
Many boat companies offer tours where you can see dolphins swimming in the wild. Some tours even let you snorkel and explore small islands along the way.
Check Out the Everglades
If you want a real Florida adventure, take a day trip to the Everglades, where you can ride an airboat through the swamps and see alligators up close!
Where to Stay
There are many great places to stay in Fort Myers Beach, from big resorts to small beach houses. Here are a few options:
- Margaritaville Resort – A brand-new beachfront resort with a tropical theme, fancy pools, and great restaurants.
- Lighthouse Resort Inn & Suites – A fun and affordable place with a cool pool and tiki bar.
- Vacation Rentals – Many people rent out condos and beach houses, which are perfect for families or groups of friends.
How to Get Around
Parking can be tricky, especially during busy seasons, so here are some better ways to get around:
- Trolley Service – There’s a free trolley that runs along the beach, making it easy to visit different spots without driving.
- Bikes & Golf Carts – Renting a bike or a small golf cart is a fun and easy way to explore the area.
- Walking – Many restaurants, shops, and attractions are close to each other, so walking is a great option.
Events and Festivals
Fort Myers Beach hosts many fun events throughout the year. If you’re planning a visit, check out what’s happening while you’re there!
- Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival (March) – A celebration of delicious shrimp with a parade, contests, and lots of food.
- Sand Sculpting Championship (November) – Talented artists create huge, detailed sand sculptures on the beach.
- Fourth of July Fireworks – A beautiful fireworks show over the Gulf of Mexico.
Final Thoughts
Fort Myers Beach is a special place full of fun, adventure, and delicious food. Whether you’re coming for the beaches, the amazing restaurants, or the exciting activities, there’s something for everyone. The community has worked hard to rebuild after the hurricane, and now it’s better than ever.
So pack your swimsuit, grab some sunscreen, and get ready to enjoy everything this beautiful Florida destination has to offer!
Also Visit :- Fort Myers Wildlife Watching Tips
