Fort Myers Beach City Guide
Fort Myers Beach is a popular vacation destination located on the Southwestern coast of Florida. It’s located on Estero Island, a small barrier island, on the Gulf of Mexico. Much of the popularity of Fort Myers Beach can be attributed to the seven miles of white sand beach, family-friendly resorts, excellent seafood restaurants, and Old Florida charm. If you’re looking for a place to relax and have fun on one of the best beaches in the country, Fort Myers Beach is the place to be! Keep reading for more information as well as tips and suggestions for making your visit to the island one to remember!
Fun Facts About Fort Myers Beach
Estero Island
Fort Myers Beach is located on Estero Island. Estero is the Spanish word for estuary, a place where salt water and fresh water meet.
400 Varieties of Seashells
Lee County, the county in which Fort Myers Beach is located, is known for having over 400 varieties of shells – more than anywhere else in the U.S.!
Lovers Key
Lover’s Key earned its name in the early 1900s when lovers seeking seclusion would go to the island because it was only accessible by boat.
Shrimp Festival
Approximately 30,000 people attend the annual Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival each year.
Fort Myers Beach Population
The population of Fort Myers Beach is around 7,000. The population of Fort Myers is more than 10 times that at 80,000+.
Mound House
The Mound House is an active archaeological dig site in Fort Myers Beach. It features a museum that was built atop an ancient Calusa Indian shell mound.
Getting Around
Fort Myers Beach is seven miles of pure paradise. Its small size makes it an easy place to explore from top to bottom. Keep in mind that parking can be difficult to find, and some places charge to park, so renting a car isn’t always the best idea. Plus, because there is so much to see in such a small area you really don’t need a car to see everything.
The best way to make the most of your time and experience all that the island has to offer is to book a golf cart, scooter, Scoot Coupe, bicycle, or ebike. At Fort Myers Beach Sun-N-Fun Sport Rentals, you can rent for as long as you need – from two hours to two weeks, or more if you want to. Plus, gas refills are included in the price of your scooter, scoot coupe, or golf cart. Enjoy seeing the sites in a fun new way – skip the car and book a rental with Fort Myers Beach Sun-N-Fun Sport Rentals.
Eat, Drink, and Be Merry
Fort Myers Beach may be known for its beaches, but it’s also a food lover’s paradise! Whether you enjoy comfort food favorites in a relaxed, casual atmosphere, or prefer upscale dining with an elegant touch, Marco Island has something for everyone! Check out some of these local favorites:
Coffee/Breakfast
Waterfront Location
Casual Lunch
Elegant Dining
Bar & Grill
Stay
Looking to book a stay in Fort Myers Beach? First, consider whether you prefer to be in the popular South Beach area, or the quieter, historic district in the North End. You’ll be closest to all of the main attractions in South Marco, but if peace and quiet are what you’re looking for, consider booking your stay in Old San Marco.
Top Attractions
Fort Myers Beach Island may be small, but there’s a LOT to see! Check out some of these “must-see” attractions while you’re here.
- Lovers Key State Park
- Newton Beach Park
- Edison/Ford Estates
- Mound House
- Trico Shrimp Company
- Times Square
Fort Myers Beach
The top attraction in Fort Myers Beach is definitely the beach. Here are some favorite activities that can be enjoyed on or near the water.
- Go shelling! Our beaches are known for them!
- Take a boat tour
- Rent a jet ski
- Go parasailing
- Go on a dolphin tour
- Go deep sea fishing
- Take a pirate cruise
FAQs About Fort Myers Beach
What is Fort Myers Beach known for?
Fort Myers Beach is known for its stunning, seven-mile stretch of pristine white sand and warm Gulf waters, making it a favorite vacation destination among sunbathers, lovers of water sports, and families alike.
When is the best time of year to visit?
Many people like to visit Fort Myers Beach in the winter and early spring to get a break from colder temperatures in other parts of the country. At this time of year, the average highs range from a very comfortable mid-70s to mid-80s. Because December through mid-April is the high season in Fort Myers Beach, you can expect hotels and vacation rentals to be busier and more expensive.
If you want to visit when there are fewer people and better hotel prices, consider coming in the summer or fall. Just keep in mind that summers can get quite hot and humid and fall is hurricane season. Although chances are slim that you’ll get caught in a hurricane, there is an increased chance of rain on most days.
Is Fort Myers Beach a good place for a family vacation?
Yes! Fort Myers Beach is the perfect vacation destination for families with kids of all ages. It has great beaches, rich history, and plenty of family fun activities.
What is the closest airport to Fort Myers Beach?
The closest airport is Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), located right in Fort Myers. It’s about 20 miles away from Fort Myers Beach, but the drive can take upwards of 30 minutes or more, depending on traffic.