6 Must-Do Experiences in Fort Myers Beach for Your Itinerary
Sandy beaches, dolphin tours, historic estates, fishing trips, and fresh seafood feasts make Fort Myers Beach a fun and flavorful getaway.
Every vacation becomes better when you experience the things you can’t miss at your destination. Be it Colorado, Montana, North Carolina, or sunny Florida, knowing the top experiences to add to your bucket list is the key to making the most of your visit.
Thinking about Fort Myers Beach as your next vacation destination? Lucky you!
It’s hard to think of a place that embodies the quintessential Florida vibes as well as Fort Myers Beach: a historical town famous for its beach life, nature, and wildlife watching. From strolling the old brick streets of the picturesque downtown to exploring shell-covered beaches and relaxing near blue waters, there’s so much to do in Fort Myers Beach. The hard part is deciding what to do.
Here’s a little something to get you started:
Beach Time Bliss: Soft white sand, calm turquoise waters, swimming, shelling, and easy access to shops and eats.
Nature Parks: Trails, kayaking, birdwatching, dolphins, manatees, and hands-on learning for families.
Water Expeditions: Guided boat tours with dolphins, manatees, schools of fish, and plenty of marine magic.
Edison & Ford Winter Estates: Historic homes, gardens, inventions, and a glimpse into the lives of two great minds.
Fishing Fun: Cast from piers or charter a boat for deep-sea adventures; a favorite local pastime.
Local Culinary Delights: Fresh seafood, global flavors, waterfront dining, cozy bistros, and must-try dishes like grouper and Key lime pie.
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 post, I’ll share a list of the top 6 things you can’t miss on a visit to Fort Myers Beach, helping you make the most of your time in this Florida treasure.
Ready? Let’s uncover these Fort Myers Beach wonders!
1. Melt your stress away on the beach.
Let’s start with a classic activity. Fort Myers Beach boasts sugary white sand that feels soft between your toes and stretches for miles. The water itself is typically calm and clear, with a beautiful turquoise hue. It’s perfect for wading in, taking a refreshing swim, or just bobbing around and enjoying the sunshine.
👌 Why You’ll Love It
Miles of soft, white sand and calm turquoise waters.
Great for swimming, wading, or just floating in the sun.
Kids can build epic sandcastles along the shore.
Seashells galore for a family stroll or personal collection.
Clean, calm beaches ideal for families with little ones.
Easy access to nearby restaurants and shops for a quick bite or souvenirs.
2. Unwind and unplug as you explore a thriving nature park.
While Fort Myers Beach might be known for its stunning beaches, venturing a little further inland to explore a nature park can be an equally rewarding experience. Nature parks offer something for everyone: hike or bike through lush landscapes, kayak through serene waterways, or simply relax by a tranquil pond and soak up the natural beauty.
👌 Why You’ll Love It
Hike or bike scenic trails through lush landscapes.
Paddle a kayak along calm creeks and mangroves.
Spot dolphins in the bays and birds soaring overhead.
See reptiles sunning on the banks.
Teach kids about Florida’s ecosystems in a hands-on way.
A fun place for families to bond and unplug.
Must-visit nature parks in and around Fort Myers Beach
- Lovers Key State Park.
- Bunche Beach Preserve.
- Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve.
- J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
- Bowditch Point Park.
3. Explore the wonders below on a water expedition.
Embarking on a water expedition in Fort Myers Beach is truly magical. You can choose from a variety of tours catering to different preferences. Your expert guide will navigate you to prime wildlife viewing spots, where you can witness playful dolphins leaping through the waves, gentle manatees, aka “the sea cows,” grazing on seagrass meadows, and a dazzling array of fish flitting through coral reefs.
👌 Why You’ll Love It
Guided boat tours with local experts.
Dolphin sightings as they play in the waves.
Manatees, aka “sea cows,” grazing in seagrass meadows.
Schools of fish and other marine life swimming by.
Family-friendly experience perfect for creating lasting memories.
4. Journey through time at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates.
Fort Myers has long been a source of inspiration, even for great minds like Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, who escaped northern winters here. At the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, you’ll walk through history, explore lush gardens, and step into the world of invention that shaped modern life.
👌 Why You’ll Love It
Grand historic homes with wide verandas capturing the 1920s charm.
Museum exhibits featuring Edison’s and Ford’s groundbreaking inventions.
Acres of vibrant gardens with plants from six continents.
Majestic ficus trees planted by Edison and Ford themselves.
A fun, educational outing for history fans, nature lovers, and families alike.
5. Get hooked on Fort Myers fishing.
Fishing here is more than just casting a line; it’s part of the local way of life. From piers and bridges to deep-sea adventures, you’ll find plenty of ways to reel in memories with family or chase big catches offshore. With calm backwaters, vibrant Gulf waters, and year-round sunshine, it’s an angler’s dream spot for both pros and first-timers.
👌 Why You’ll Love It
Cast from piers, beaches, or bridges, and enjoy relaxed fishing with family.
Great way to teach kids patience and connect with nature.
Charter boats available for deep-sea fishing adventures.
Target seasonal favorites like amberjack, grouper, mahi-mahi, and sailfish.
Knowledgeable local guides make trips fun and easy for all skill levels.
Inshore calm waters and offshore action provide variety for anglers.
Year-round fishing thanks to Florida’s mild climate.
6. Tantalize your taste buds with local culinary delights.
All this talk about fish makes one hungry, doesn’t it? Luckily, Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach are a haven for foodies, too. These two cities are home to places where you can tantalize your taste buds with a vibrant culinary scene that blends fresh, local flavors with international influences.
👌 Why You’ll Love It
Fresh seafood straight from the Gulf paired with local produce.
Global flavors mixed with classic Florida tastes.
Romantic sunset dinners with waterfront views.
Cozy bistros perfect for family meals.
A culinary culture rooted in history and community hospitality.
Must-try Restaurants
- Pinchers
- Harold’s
- Ford’s Garage Ft. Myers
- Farmer’s Market Restaurant
- The Standard Restaurant Downtown
- Bruno’s of Brooklyn
- Oasis Restaurant
- 10 Twenty Five
- Connors Steak & Seafood
- Capone’s Coal Fired Pizza
Must-try dishes
- Stone Crab (if the season allows)
- Grouper
- Shrimp
- Oysters
- Florida Keys-Style Key Lime Pie
- Gator Bites
- Cuban Sandwich
- Florida Spiced Mahi Mahi
- Jerk Chicken
- Fresh Spring Rolls
- Ceviche
Bonus tip: unwind like a local at your short-term rental.
Do you know what else is nice about a holiday visit to Fort Myers Beach? Settling in and relaxing at your vacation rental. This coastal gem isn’t just about beaches and activities; it’s also a haven for relaxation and reconnection. It could be a cozy condo with a balcony view or a spacious beach house, and either way, it’s fantastic to unwind in a space that feels like your own haven.
Family Fun in the Kitchen
Cook together, share stories, and make memories over a homemade meal. Vacation rentals give you the space (and kitchen) to make it happen.
Me Time, Your Way
Craving quiet moments? Find a corner on the balcony, under a palm, or on the couch. Yoy can also curl up with a good book; don’t worry, we’ve got reading tips too.
More Space, More Comfort
Unlike hotel rooms, rentals often come with living areas, kitchens, and even private yards or balconies. It feels more like home, just in paradise. If you’re traveling with your furry companion, you can also find incredible pet-friendly rentals for a memorable vacation.
FAQ: Planning Your Fort Myers Beach Adventure
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Fort Myers Beach?
A: The most pleasant months are November through April, when the weather is warm but not overly hot. Summer is great too, but it can be humid with afternoon showers.
Q: Is Fort Myers Beach family-friendly?
A: Absolutely! The calm waters, sandy beaches, and plenty of activities like nature parks, fishing, and dolphin tours make it perfect for families with kids.
Q: Can I spot dolphins and manatees year-round?
A: Dolphins are spotted year-round in Fort Myers Beach. Manatees are more likely to be seen in the cooler months when they gather in warmer waters.
Q: Do I need to book fishing charters or wildlife tours in advance?
A: Yes, it’s a good idea, especially during peak season (winter and spring). Local charters and tours can fill up quickly, so booking ahead ensures your spot.
Q: Are there any historical attractions worth visiting in Fort Myers?
A: Definitely! The Edison & Ford Winter Estates is a must-see, with historic homes, lush gardens, and exhibits on two of America’s greatest inventors. The River District in downtown Fort Myers is also full of historic charm.
Q: What local dishes should I try in Fort Myers?
A: Don’t miss out on stone crab (in season), grouper sandwiches, Key lime pie, and fresh Gulf shrimp. For something adventurous, try gator bites or jerk chicken.
Q: Are the beaches in Fort Myers crowded?
A: It depends on the season. Winter and spring tend to be busier, while summer and early fall are less crowded. For a quieter vibe, head to Lovers Key State Park or Bunche Beach Preserve.
Q: Can I bring my dog to Fort Myers Beach?
A: Dogs are welcome at certain spots, including Bonita Beach Dog Park and many pet-friendly vacation rentals. Just be sure to follow leash laws and clean up after your pup.
Q: What’s a good way to end the day in Fort Myers Beach?
A: A sunset dinner at a waterfront restaurant is hard to beat. Or, unwind in your vacation rental with a home-cooked meal, a good book, or some stargazing from the balcony.
Wondering where to stay during your visit to 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!