Top 6 Must-Do Experiences in Fort Myers Beach, FL
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.
If you’re overwhelmed with choices, this blog is for you. Here, we bring you a list of the top 6 things you can’t miss on a visit to Fort Myers Beach, FL.
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.
The little ones can test their engineering skills by building sandcastles that rival medieval fortresses, or the whole family can go on a leisurely stroll along the water’s edge, collecting seashells as you go. Beaches are usually spotless, beautiful, and calm, perfect for families with young children because of the shallow waters and soft sand. It’s also very convenient that they are close to restaurants and shops, allowing you to grab a bite or souvenirs without straying far from the beach.
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.
These parks are teeming with life! From playful dolphins frolicking in the bays to majestic birds soaring overhead and fascinating reptiles basking in the sun. For kids, it’s a great way to learn about the unique ecosystems of Florida and the fascinating creatures that call them home. Most families find it a great way to bond and create lasting memories, a place to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature as a family.
Here’s a list of just a few of the best nature parks you can visit 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 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.
The opportunity to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, especially the chance to see dolphins and manatees up close will fascinate the little ones. Many people would say this is the highlight of their trip, an unforgettable experience for families that creates lasting memories.
4. Journey through time at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates.
Fort Myers is also about history — it’s been considered an inspiring place for the geniuses of our past. Thomas Edison and Henry Ford sought relief from the harsh northern winters in Florida’s balmy weather. Compared to the hustle and bustle of their work lives, Fort Myers offered a setting to relax, recharge, and find inspiration for new ideas.
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates offer a captivating glimpse into the past. Grand houses adorned with expansive verandas evoke the vibe of the 1920s. Within the museum walls, fascinating exhibits showcase the groundbreaking inventions of Edison and Ford.
The place is a blend of history, nature, and invention. Acres of meticulously maintained gardens create a vibrant tapestry of flora hailing from six continents. Towering ficus trees, planted by the visionary minds themselves, stand as living testaments to their legacy. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a fun and educational family outing, this is a must-do!
5. Get hooked on Fort Myers fishing.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just looking for a fun family outing, fishing is one of the top things to do in Fort Myers Beach. Fort Myers is an angler’s haven. You can cast your line from a pier, beach, or bridge and enjoy quality time with loved ones. Beach fishing is a favorite pastime, and you know what? It’s a fantastic way to teach kids about patience!
You can also venture further out on a chartered fishing trip and experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing, targeting prized catches like amberjack, grouper, mahi-mahi, and even sailfish depending on the season. Besides the abundance and variety of fishing options, the knowledgeable fishing guides available for charter trips will make your fishing expedition a lot more interesting.
Fort Myers boasts both calm inshore and vibrant offshore ecosystems, offering a variety of fishing experiences, and Florida’s mild climate allows for year-round fishing opportunities.
6. Tantalize your taste buds with local culinary delights.
All this talk about fish makes one hungry, doesn’t it? Luckily, Fort Myers is a haven for foodies too, a place where you can tantalize your taste buds with a vibrant culinary scene that blends fresh, local flavors with international influences.
Fort Myers’ unique location and history contribute to its rich cuisine. Early settlers brought their own culinary traditions, while the influx of immigrants from various countries added their own flavors to the mix. The abundance of fresh seafood and local produce further enriches the culinary landscape.
The dining scene caters to all tastes and budgets. You can enjoy a romantic sunset dinner with breathtaking waterfront views or grab a casual bite with the whole family at a charming bistro.
Freshness is really the first thing that comes to mind, and there are also stunning waterfront dining experiences that showcase the local culture and hospitality in the best way possible.
Here are some of the main dishes you should look for when exploring Fort Myers’ culinary scene:
- 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
Wondering where to head for some superb food? We’ve written a whole blog about it. Head to Our Favorite Restaurants in Fort Myers Beach, FL and find out more!
Here’s an extra tip: Don’t forget to explore Fort Myers’ thriving farmers’ markets, bursting with fresh produce, local honey, and artisan treats.
Bonus: unwind like a local at your short-term rental.
Do you know what else is nice about a holiday visit to Fort Myers? Settling in and relaxing at your vacation rental. Fort Myers isn’t just about beaches and activities; it’s also a haven for relaxation and reconnection. Whether it’s a cozy condo with a balcony view or a spacious beach house, it’s fantastic to unwind in a space that feels like your own haven.
Alternatively, you can have some Family Fun in the Kitchen: whip up a delicious meal together, sharing laughter and stories.
Are you craving some “me time”? Find a quiet corner on the balcony, under a swaying palm tree, or curled up on a comfy couch. Dive into a captivating book. Not sure what to read? We have tips for that too.
Short-term rentals often offer more space than hotel rooms, including living areas, kitchens, and potentially private yards or balconies. They also have a more relaxed and homely feel, like a home away from home.
At Sun Palace Vacations, we have a variety of vacation rentals in Fort Myers, including some properties with private pools, luxury beachfront options, and, if you’re traveling with Fido in tow, many pet-friendly rentals. This is truly the option for your Fort Myers getaway!
Top 5 Must-Do Experiences in Fort Myers Beach, FL
There’s so much to do in Fort Myers, from chilling at the beach to explore history and pristine nature, or simply relaxing like a local at a great short-term rental. Whatever you decide to do, you’ll get a sense of what brought great minds like Thomas Edison and Henry Ford to spend their winters here — and perhaps you’ll also come up with an idea to change the world.
Want more tips on Fort Myers Beach? Head to our blog, where we’ve written about several topics, including where to go for some retail therapy and a complete guide to fishing and hunting around Fort Myers Beach.
We also have a dedicated page on things to do in and around Fort Myers Beach. So there’s a lot of information you might want to check out to make your trip a one-of-a-kind!
Wondering where to stay during your visit to Fort Myers Beach?
Our resort-style vacation rentals in Fort Myers Beach cater to all tastes and budgets. Whether you choose to explore the sights or stay indoors, you’ll find everything you need to make yourself feel right at home.
And guess what? You can bring your dog along! We offer beautiful pet-friendly homes on 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 enjoyable and relaxing vacation ever!