Where to Shop in and Around Fort Myers Beach for the Ultimate Retail Therapy

Breezy boardwalks, tropical pottery, fresh-off-the-boat seafood, and stylish malls: retail therapy on Fort Myers Beach comes with a salt-air vibe.

Adventures are great, but let’s be honest: a vacation isn’t complete without some shopping bags in hand. No matter if you’re in the mountains of Colorado or the beaches of Florida, a little shopping spree is always part of the fun.

Planning a trip to Fort Myers Beach? Beyond the white sand beaches and endless outdoor fun, the area,  including nearby Fort Myers, aka The City of Palms, serves up unique shopping experiences. From world-class shopping complexes to artsy boutiques and community-focused spots, the scene is diverse, catering to all tastes and budgets. And the best part? You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy it.

Here’s a sneak peek just for you: 

1. Discover Local Finds at Beach Pottery Etc.: Colorful Mexican and Vietnamese pottery, coastal décor, and unique gifts.
2. Stock Up at Erickson & Jensen Shrimp Sales: Family-run dockside market with fresh, chemical-free shrimp frozen right on the boat.
3. Shop Big at Gulf Coast Town Center: Sprawling outdoor complex with major retailers, specialty shops, dining, and a movie theater.
4. Stroll and Shop at Edison Mall: Fort Myers’ only enclosed mall featuring 160+ stores, a food court, and family fun.
5. Unwind in Style at Bell Tower Shops: Open-air plaza with fountains, boutiques, restaurants, and pet-friendly vibes.
6. Gear Up Coastal-Style at Tunaskin: Local brand for stylish apparel, activewear, hats, and beach-inspired gear.
7. Browse & Dine at Coconut Point: Bustling outdoor shopping hub with fashion boutiques, shoe stores, and great restaurants.

At Sun Palace Vacations, we offer stunning vacation homes in Fort Myers Beach. Whether you’re looking for a beachfront escape or a cozy retreat, we have the perfect place for you. We consider ourselves Fort Myers Beach experts, and from the best shopping spots and top-notch restaurants to a comprehensive guide on fishing and hunting in the area, we’ve got you covered in our blog.

In this blog, I’ll guide you through our favorite shopping spots in and around Fort Myers Beach for a fun and delightful dose of retail therapy.

Ready? Let’s jump into the details!

1. Beach Pottery Etc.

Local arts and crafts.

Housed in a charming wooden structure and exuding beachy vibes, Beach Pottery, Etc. sells local arts and crafts, Talavera Mexican pottery, Vietnamese pottery, and much more. They have everything you can imagine that’s pottery-related, and their pieces come in all shapes and sizes, suitable for homes, offices, indoors, and outdoors. All pieces are crafted in durable, high-temperature-fired clay with baked-in vibrant colors that won’t fade.

Here’s a tip: their clearance section has some great finds at bargain prices!

😉 Highlights

• Wide selection of Talavera Mexican and Vietnamese pottery in vibrant, fade-resistant colors.

• Durable clay pieces for both indoor and outdoor spaces.

• Coastal décor accents to bring the beach vibe home.

• Jewelry, beachwear, and original local art.

• Quality gifts and souvenirs at fair prices.

2. Erickson and Jensen Shrimp Sales

Chemical-free, unprocessed shrimp, frozen right on the boat.

Erickson and Jensen Shrimp Sales is one of those rare local gems,  a family-owned business that has been operating since 1950, with a fleet of shrimp boats and a seafood market in Fort Myers Beach, FL. Interestingly, they freeze the shrimp right on the boat, so you can still get it fresh. Needless to say, their shrimp is also chemical-free and unprocessed.

😉 Highlights

• Family-owned business operating since 1950, now in its fourth generation.

• Shrimp frozen right on the boat to lock in freshness.

• Chemical-free, unprocessed shrimp in small, medium, or large sizes.

• Wholesale giant pink shrimp and smaller portions available to the public.

• Dockside market with friendly service and that true Florida coastal feel.

3. Gulf Coast Town Center

Outdoor shopping home to twenty anchor stores and countless specialty shops.

For those who enjoy outdoor shopping (and what better place to do it than Florida?), Gulf Coast Town Center is a great space in Fort Myers. With about twenty anchor stores and countless specialty shops spanning fashion, sports, electronics, and more, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for.

😉 Highlights

• Big names like Bass Pro Shops, Bath & Body Works, Best Buy, Kay Jewelers, Marshall’s, and Petco.

• Surf vibes at Ron Jon Surf Shop and plenty of trendy finds at Zumiez and GameStop.

• The World Famous Cigar Bar for a unique local stop.

• Regal Cinema to catch a movie after shopping.

• Casual to upscale dining options to suit any craving.

• Sweet treats for kids at the candy shop or ice cream shop.

• Outdoor play area that keeps little ones entertained.

4. Edison Mall

Only enclosed, super-regional mall in Fort Myers.

With anchors like Macy’s, Dillard’s, and JCPenney, Edison Mall is the only enclosed, super-regional mall in Fort Myers, and it has that old mall charm that some people love.

😉 Highlights

• 160+ specialty shops like American Eagle, Bath & Body Works, and Victoria’s Secret.

• Family perks: play area and kiddie rides.

• Food court with options for all cravings.

• The Twisted Crab nearby for post-shopping bites.

5. Bell Tower

Open-air mall dotted by lovely fountains and lots of specialty stores and restaurants.

Another refreshing place to shop, Bell Tower, is an open-air mall dotted by lovely fountains and lots of specialty stores and restaurants, as well as a movie theater. This option makes for a much less crowded shopping experience than elsewhere, and the offerings include flagship stores like Williams-Sonoma, Three Dog Bakery, Sunglass Hut, Talbots, and Bath and Body Works, along with more unique names such as Subtle & Chic, Oceanview & 7th, and The Cheshire Cat.

😉 Highlights

• Open-air mall with charming fountains and plenty of space to stroll.

• A mix of flagship stores like Williams-Sonoma, Talbots, Sunglass Hut, and Bath & Body Works.

• Dining options from sushi and pizza to seafood and Mexican flavors (DaRuMa, Grimaldi’s, Blue Pointe Oyster Bar, Cantina Laredo, Burntwood Tavern)

• Doggie Potty Stations and many shops welcoming pets (just ask before you walk in!)

• Movie theater for an extra dose of entertainment.

  
6. Tunaskin

Stylish, practical gear that captures the coastal vibe and keeps you comfy.

Since 2015, Tunaskin has been more than just a shop; it’s become part of the fabric of Fort Myers Beach life. Their store is packed with stylish, practical gear that captures the coastal vibe and keeps you comfy whether you’re on the water, at the gym, or just strolling around town. If you want to take home something that feels truly local, this is the place to go.

😉 Highlights

• A wide range of shirts: long sleeve, short sleeve, and tanks for all occasions.

• Lifestyle shorts and leggings that balance comfort and style.

• Cozy hoodies and outerwear for breezy Florida evenings.

• Iconic Fort Myers Beach hats like the FMB Snapback Mesh and TSK Trucker with the pier logo.

• Fun extras such as FMB Circle Stickers and other unique decals to take a little beach spirit home.

7. Coconut Point

Lively open-air shopping hub packed with stylish boutiques.

A trip to Southwest Florida feels even better with a stop at Coconut Point. This lively open-air shopping hub is where you can browse stylish boutiques, hunt for the perfect pair of shoes, and enjoy a great meal. From fashion finds to foodie treats, it’s a one-stop spot that keeps everyone in your vacation crew entertained and happy.

😉 Highlights

• Well-known brands like American Eagle Outfitters to shoe havens such as DSW.

• Trendy threads, classic staples, and plenty of new arrivals to update your look.

•  Refuel with casual bites or settle in for a full sit-down meal at one of the center’s restaurants.

• Daily drink and appetizer specials that make post-shopping toasts even sweeter.

Extra Tips for Making the Most of Your Shopping Experience in and Around Fort Myers Beach, FL

Fort Myers Beach and the whole region are becoming more dynamic every year, with new retail options popping up every season, bringing new concepts to locals and visitors alike. Here are some extra tips to make your shopping experience even better:

• Research Local Markets: Look for local markets or shopping districts known for unique items and cultural experiences.
  
  

• Ask Locals for Recommendations: Locals often know the best places to shop for authentic and reasonably priced goods. Strike up conversations with locals and ask for their recommendations.
  
  

• Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes to make the shopping experience more enjoyable.
  
  

• Choose Off-Peak Hours: Shop during weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds and long lines. Off-peak times can provide a more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.
  
  

• Engage with Store Staff: Don’t hesitate to ask store staff for assistance or recommendations. Building a positive interaction with staff can enhance your overall experience.
  
  

• Consider Sustainability: Look for eco-friendly and sustainable options when possible. Choose quality over quantity to reduce the environmental impact of your purchases.
  
  

• Take Advantage of Sales and Discounts: Keep an eye on sales, promotions, and discount programs. Consider using loyalty cards or joining reward programs for additional savings.
  
  

• Prioritize Local Businesses: Prioritizing local businesses over big chains can have several benefits, both for individuals and the community as a whole. You can contribute to the local economic growth, as well as find more personalized offerings, services, and products.
  
  

Remember that the goal is not just to buy items but to have a positive and fulfilling shopping experience, as well as a great local impact. That’s the best quality tourism there is! Enjoy the process and have fun exploring the stores! 👍

Wondering Where to Stay in Fort Myers Beach?

To experience the highest quality in amenities, decor, and cleanliness, book your stay with Sun Palace Vacations. We guarantee you’ll have the most authentic, enjoyable, and relaxing time ever!