Fort Myers is famous for its sunsets, where the sky puts on a show and the colors reflect off the Gulf of Mexico. Whether you live here or are visiting, watching a sunset in Fort Myers is a must do. From beaches to nature preserves, there are plenty of places to see the sunset in Fort Myers. Here’s where to find the best sunsets in and around Fort Myers, each with its own special charm and views.
Bowditch Point Park
Located at the north end of Estero Island, Bowditch Point Park is a secret spot for a peaceful sunset. The park is 17 acres and a mix of sandy beach and natural vegetation. One of the best things about this spot is the quiet atmosphere, so sunset watchers can have a more private and peaceful experience. The view of the Gulf of Mexico is perfect for watching the colors of the sky as the sun sets. Bowditch Point Park is for those who want to get away from the crowds, so it’s one of the best places to watch the sunset in Fort Myers.
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Fort Myers Beach Pier and Times Square
If you want a more lively sunset experience, the Fort Myers Beach Pier is the place. Located in the heart of Times Square, the pier has great views of the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. This is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, with restaurants, shops and entertainment in the area. The pier stretches out into the water so you have a front row seat to the sunset. Times Square comes alive after the sun sets with street performers and local musicians so it’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset and have a fun evening out.
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Lighthouse Beach Park – Sanibel Island
Just a short drive from Fort Myers, Lighthouse Beach Park on Sanibel Island is a sunset lover’s favorite. The historic lighthouse at the south end of the island adds to the already beautiful view of the sunset. The white sand and calm water is a photographer’s dream, so it’s a top spot for those who want to capture the colors of the sunset. As the sun sets, the sky turns orange, pink and purple and reflects off the water. Lighthouse Beach Park is great for sunset watching and an evening walk on the beach, one of the best sunset spots near Fort Myers.
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Bunche Beach Preserve
If you want a more natural and secluded spot to watch the sunset, Bunche Beach Preserve is the way to go. Just outside of Fort Myers this preserve has an untouched, peaceful environment with a beautiful view of the sunset over the water. The undeveloped beach is surrounded by mangroves so you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere. Bunche Beach is less crowded than other sunset spots so if you prefer a more quiet, intimate sunset experience this is the place to be. The calm water reflects the colors of the sky perfectly, Bunche Beach Preserve is a hidden gem for sunset watching near Fort Myers.
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Crescent Beach Family Park
Crescent Beach Family Park in Fort Myers Beach is another great spot to watch the sunset. This park has a more relaxed and family oriented atmosphere, with wide open beach and amenities nearby. Not as crowded as the Fort Myers Beach Pier but still has great views of the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. The calm water, open beach and palm trees make Crescent Beach Family Park a great place to unwind and enjoy the end of the day. Whether you’re with family or friends this is a peaceful spot to watch the sunset colors unfold.
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Captiva Island – Turner Beach
A little further from Fort Myers but worth the drive, Captiva Island has one of the most beautiful sunsets on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Turner Beach on the west side of the island is known for its quiet and stunning sunsets. The isolated nature of this beach makes it perfect for those who want to watch the sunset in peace. As the sun sets over the horizon the sky lights up with colors that reflect on the calm Gulf water. Turner Beach’s location and natural beauty make it one of the best places to watch the sunset near Fort Myers if you want a more peaceful and intimate experience.
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Snell Family Park
For a change of pace Snell Family Park in downtown Fort Myers has a peaceful spot to watch the sunset without going to the beach. The park has a pond surrounded by old banyan trees, a unique urban setting to watch the sunset. As the sun sets its colors reflect beautifully in the still water of the pond, a peaceful and pretty scene. Snell Family Park is a great option if you prefer a quieter, more contemplative atmosphere away from the beach crowds. It’s also a local’s spot to enjoy the sunset without having to travel too far.
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Bowman’s Beach – Sanibel Island
Bowman’s Beach on Sanibel Island is another great spot to watch the sunset. It’s more secluded than some of the other beaches so it’s a more peaceful sunset experience. No buildings or commercial activity means unobstructed views of the sunset over the Gulf. Bowman’s is favorite among those who like a more natural setting where the only sounds you’ll hear are the waves and the occasional bird. It’s one of the best spots on Sanibel to have a quiet evening and watch the sunset.
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Tips for Watching Sunsets in Fort Myers
When watching sunsets in Fort Myers be sure to follow these tips. Arrive early to get a good spot especially at the popular spots like the Fort Myers Beach Pier or Sanibel Island. The best views are claimed early by the sunset enthusiasts. Check the weather beforehand to make sure it’s clear skies for optimal sunset viewing. Even partly cloudy skies can make for a more dramatic sunset but make sure there’s no rain in the forecast. And don’t leave as soon as the sun dips below the horizon – the afterglow can be just as beautiful and paint the sky with soft pinks and purples for a great ending to the day.
So there you have it, Fort Myers and surrounding areas have many beautiful spots to watch the sunset, each one different. From the lively Fort Myers Beach Pier to the peaceful Sanibel and Captiva Islands there’s a sunset for every kind of sunset lover. Whether you like a social scene or a quiet evening by the water, sunsets in Fort Myers never disappoint.