Top 8 Activities to Do in Fort Myers Beach FL
Curious about the best things to do in Fort Myers Beach, FL? Here’s your guide to the top experiences this year!
Fort Myers Beach, a lively barrier island on Florida’s Southwest Gulf Coast, has long been a favorite for travelers who want equal parts sunshine, relaxation, and fun.
With its sugar-sand beaches, history, and nature preserves, this destination offers more than just a pretty shoreline; it’s a place where adventures unfold, from kayaking mangrove trails to strolling a bustling pier at sunset.
So, what makes Fort Myers Beach a must-visit? Let’s take a look.
| Experience | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Lovers Key State Park | Kayaking, trails, wildlife, unspoiled beaches |
| Fort Myers Beach | White sand, calm Gulf waters, watersports, sunsets |
| Key West Express | High-speed ferry, Gulf views, Key West day trips |
| Mound House | Ancient Calusa shell mound, exhibits, history tours |
| Bowditch Point Park | Birdwatching, trails, peaceful Gulf & bay views |
| Times Square | Dining, shopping, live music, people-watching |
| Dog Beach | Off-leash fun, sunsets, pet-friendly community vibe |
| Bay Oaks Recreation Center | Sports fields, gym, pool, family-friendly events |
At Sun Palace Vacations, we offer stunning vacation homes in Fort Myers Beach. 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, we’ll share the top 8 activities to enjoy in Fort Myers Beach, FL.
Let’s dive in!
1. Lovers Key State Park
Where Even the Dolphins Seem More Romantic Than You
Fort Myers Beach’s natural treasure, Lovers Key, is a playground for explorers and beach lovers alike. With kayaking, biking, and hiking trails through mangroves and maritime forests, this park balances adventure with tranquility. The unspoiled beaches are some of the prettiest in Florida, perfect for romantic strolls or wildlife watching. Spend an afternoon here and you’ll realize nature’s idea of “date night” is way more memorable than dinner and a movie. Even the manatees look like they’re holding hands.
Highlights
Paddle mangrove waterways and spot dolphins or manatees
Explore scenic trails by foot or bike
Relax on pristine, powder-soft beaches
Prime birdwatching and photography opportunities
2. Fort Myers Beach
A Beach So Big You Could Lose Your In-Laws in It
The island’s namesake stretch is the heart of local life, where families, couples, and sun-seekers gather. Powdery sand and calm Gulf waters make it ideal for both swimming and sandcastle building.
Beyond the shoreline, you’ll find jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding for a thrill, plus beachside festivals that keep the vibe lively.
You can walk for miles without realizing it, partly because the view is distracting, partly because flip-flops weren’t designed for marathons. And if you’re lucky, a dolphin might upstage you mid-photo.
Highlights
Family-friendly shallow waters for swimming
Watersports like parasailing and jet skiing
Sunset strolls with dolphin sightings
Beachfront dining and lively community events
3. Key West Express
A Boat Ride That Makes Air Travel Look Medieval
Craving a bigger adventure? The Key West Express ferry makes it easy. Departing from Fort Myers Beach, this high-speed catamaran takes you straight to the famous island city for a full day of exploration.
Whether you’re sipping mojitos on Duval Street or watching the sun set at Mallory Square, the journey itself is part of the fun. Onboard, you can actually stretch your legs, order a drink, and not worry about overhead bins.
Plus, dolphins sometimes escort you; try getting that on Delta.
Highlights
Comfortable, scenic ride across the Gulf
Convenient day trip option to Key West
Air-conditioned interior and sundeck seating
World-class dining, nightlife, and history on arrival
4. Mound House
Where Shells Were Currency Long Before Etsy
Step back in time at the Mound House, built atop a 2,000-year-old Calusa Indian shell mound. This museum combines archaeology, history, and nature, offering visitors an in-depth look at the island’s past. Interactive exhibits and guided tours bring the ancient Calusa culture—and the pioneers who followed—vividly to life.
Standing on the mound, you’ll realize these shells built more than homes—they built an entire civilization. It’s humbling, and also a reminder that humans have always been very good at making piles.
Highlights
Explore Southwest Florida’s oldest standing structure
Learn about the Calusa Indians and their legacy
Walk atop an ancient shell mound with bay views
Interactive programs for all ages
5. Bowditch Point Park
The Park That Thinks It’s a Spa Retreat
For a quieter experience, Bowditch Point Park at the island’s north end offers a blend of pristine beach and bayfront nature trails. Spread across 17 acres, it’s perfect for a laid-back day of sunbathing, birdwatching, or simply soaking in panoramic Gulf views.
Even at its busiest, the park feels like a well-kept secret. The only “crowd” you’ll compete with here is the pelicans, and frankly, they’re better behaved than most tourists.
Highlights
Peaceful sandy beaches with dolphin sightings
Trails through mangroves and coastal habitats
Part of the Great Florida Birding Trail
Convenient amenities like parking, showers, and restrooms
6. Times Square
Because Sometimes You Want a Margarita with Your Flip-Flops
This vibrant hub near the pier is Fort Myers Beach’s lively core. With open-air restaurants, quirky shops, live music, and street performers, Times Square buzzes from morning coffee to evening cocktails. It’s also the best spot for people-watching, where locals and visitors come together under glowing string lights.
At night, the square feels like a block party you didn’t know you were invited to, but you’re glad you showed up. Order ice cream, find a bench, and prepare for some top-tier people-watching.
Highlights
Dining with Gulf views and fresh local seafood
Colorful boutiques and beach shops
Live music and street performers
Bustling atmosphere day and night
7. Dog Beach
Where Dogs Run Free and Humans Pretend They’re in Charge
A paradise for pets and their owners, Dog Beach is where pups run free in the surf. This off-leash haven is full of wagging tails, happy owners, and some of the prettiest sunsets you’ll see. With nearby pet-friendly cafes, it’s a community as much as a beach.
Watching twenty dogs simultaneously chase one tennis ball is pure comedy. And let’s be honest: your dog will probably make more friends here than you do.
Highlights
Off-leash beach fun for dogs of all sizes
Safe, welcoming space with amenities
Friendly, social atmosphere for pet owners
Gorgeous sunrise and sunset views
8. Bay Oaks Recreation Center
The Place Locals Go When They’re Sunburned
Looking for more than beach time? Bay Oaks Recreation Center offers sports, fitness, and family fun. From baseball fields to tennis courts, a full gym, and even an aquatic center, it’s a hub of community life and a great way to mix up your vacation routine.
The pool is especially popular, not least because it lets you cool off without swallowing saltwater. And the pickup basketball games? They’re more competitive than you’d expect from people wearing sunscreen.
Highlights
Sports fields for soccer, baseball, and softball
Tennis and basketball courts for all ages
Full gym and group exercise classes
Family-friendly pool and aquatic programs
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 enjoyable and relaxing vacation ever!