Fort Myers Beach is a beautiful coastal town located in the southwest of Florida. It is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world, thanks to its stunning beaches, rich history, and diverse culture. If you are planning a trip to Fort Myers Beach, this comprehensive travel guide will help you make the most of your visit.
Top Attractions
Fort Myers Beach
The most obvious attraction in Fort Myers Beach is, of course, the beach itself. With miles of pristine white sand and crystal-clear water, this is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. You can swim, snorkel, or simply take a relaxing walk along the shore.
Sanibel Island
A short drive from Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel Island is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. It is home to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, where you can see a wide variety of birds, reptiles, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. You can also explore the island’s many hiking trails and bike paths.
Hidden Gems
Lovers Key State Park
If you are looking for a quieter, more secluded beach experience, head to Lovers Key State Park. This beautiful park features miles of unspoiled beach, as well as hiking trails, picnic areas, and kayak rentals.
Mound House
The Mound House is a fascinating historical landmark that dates back to the Calusa Indians. It is a great place to learn about the history of Fort Myers Beach and the surrounding area, and to explore the many artifacts and exhibits on display.
Food Scene
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grill
If you are looking for a great meal and a fun atmosphere, head to Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grill. This popular restaurant serves up delicious seafood and Caribbean-inspired dishes, as well as a wide variety of tropical cocktails.
The Beached Whale
Another great restaurant option is The Beached Whale. This casual beachfront eatery serves up classic American fare, as well as a variety of craft beers and cocktails. Don’t miss their famous fish tacos!
Budget-Friendly Tips
Visit in the Off-Season
If you are looking to save money on your trip to Fort Myers Beach, consider visiting in the off-season (typically September through December). You can often find great deals on hotels and other accommodations during this time.
Take Advantage of Free Activities
There are plenty of free activities to enjoy in Fort Myers Beach, including walking along the beach, hiking in the state parks, and exploring the local markets.
Outdoor Adventures
Kayaking
One of the best ways to explore the natural beauty of Fort Myers Beach is by kayak. You can rent a kayak from one of the local outfitters and explore the many waterways and mangrove forests in the area.
Fishing
Fort Myers Beach is also a great destination for fishing enthusiasts. You can take a charter boat out into the Gulf of Mexico and try your luck catching a variety of fish, including snapper, grouper, and tarpon.
Family-Friendly Activities
Zoomers Amusement Park
If you are traveling with kids, be sure to check out Zoomers Amusement Park. This family-friendly park features go-karts, mini-golf, bumper boats, and more.
Imaginarium Science Center
The Imaginarium Science Center is another great option for families. This interactive museum features exhibits on science, technology, and the natural world, as well as a hands-on play area for younger children.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
While Sanibel Island is a popular destination for nature lovers, the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is a lesser-known gem. This beautiful refuge is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including alligators, manatees, and more than 200 species of birds.
Matlacha
The colorful fishing village of Matlacha is another off-the-beaten-path destination worth exploring. This quirky town is home to a variety of art galleries, restaurants, and shops.
Natural Wonders
Estero Bay Preserve State Park
Estero Bay Preserve State Park is a beautiful natural area that features miles of hiking trails, as well as opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching. You can also take a guided tour of the park’s many ecosystems, including mangrove swamps and salt marshes.
Caloosahatchee Regional Park
Caloosahatchee Regional Park is another great destination for nature lovers. This park features hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for fishing and kayaking. You can also explore the park’s many wetlands, which are home to a wide variety of birds and other wildlife.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Cottage Bar
The Cottage Bar is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. This cozy bar features live music, craft cocktails, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Yucatan Beach Stand
If you are looking for a more lively nightlife scene, head to Yucatan Beach Stand. This beachfront bar features live music, karaoke, and a party atmosphere.
Local Markets
Sanibel Island Farmers Market
If you are looking for fresh, local produce and handmade crafts, be sure to visit the Sanibel Island Farmers Market. This market is held every Sunday from October through May.
Lovers Key Art and Farmers Market
Another great option is the Lovers Key Art and Farmers Market, which is held every other Friday from November through April. This market features a variety of local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade jewelry.
Beaches and Mountains
Bowditch Point Park
Bowditch Point Park is a beautiful beachfront park that features miles of hiking trails, as well as opportunities for fishing and birdwatching. You can also take a guided tour of the park’s many ecosystems, including mangrove swamps and salt marshes.
The Great Calusa Blueway
If you are looking for a more challenging outdoor adventure, consider hiking the Great Calusa Blueway. This 190-mile trail takes you through some of the most beautiful and remote areas of Fort Myers Beach, including mangrove forests, wetlands, and open water.
Cultural Immersion
Edison and Ford Winter Estates
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates are a must-visit destination for history and culture buffs. This beautiful estate features the winter homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, as well as a museum and botanical gardens.
Lee County Black History Society Museum
The Lee County Black History Society Museum is another great destination for those interested in history and culture. This museum features exhibits on the history of African Americans in the Fort Myers area, as well as a variety of cultural events and programs.
Art and Music Scene
Art Walk
The Art Walk is a monthly event held in downtown Fort Myers, where you can explore the many galleries, shops, and restaurants in the area. This event also features live music and street performers.
Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall
The Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall is a great destination for music and theater lovers. This beautiful venue features a variety of performances throughout the year, including Broadway shows, concerts, and plays.
Walking Tours
Historic Downtown Fort Myers
One of the best ways to explore the history and architecture of Fort Myers is by taking a walking tour of the historic downtown area. This area features a variety of historic buildings and landmarks, including the Edison and Ford Winter Estates.
Matlacha Walking Tour
If you are looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, consider taking a walking tour of Matlacha. This quirky town is home to a variety of colorful buildings, art galleries, and shops.
Architectural Marvels
The Burroughs Home and Gardens
The Burroughs Home and Gardens is a beautiful historic home that dates back to the turn of the 20th century. This home features a variety of architectural styles, including Victorian and Colonial Revival.
The Heitman House
The Heitman House is another beautiful historic home that dates back to the early 1900s. This home features a variety of architectural styles, including Colonial Revival and Mediterranean Revival.
Historical Sites
Map Of Fort Myers Beach Florida Printable Maps from printablemapforyou.com
