Fort Myers Beach is a lively barrier island destination with wide sandy shores, gentle waves, and a fun laid-back vibe. It’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, boating, parasailing, or simply strolling along the beach at sunset. The nearby Times Square area features shops, restaurants, and nightlife. The beach is also a launch point for dolphin cruises and fishing charters.

Manatee Park (often near the Olga / Fort Myers area) is a warm-water refuge where rescued manatees often gather during cooler months. Visitors can enjoy riverside boardwalks, birdwatching, picnic shelters, and scenic views along the Caloosahatchee River. It’s a peaceful spot for nature lovers to observe wildlife and enjoy a quiet riverside walk.

For an adventurous day trip, the Key West Express offers high-speed ferry service from Fort Myers Beach to Key West, Florida. You can leave early in the morning and return by evening, making it ideal for a full-day coastal escape without a multi-night stay. Along the way, you’ll spot dolphins, seabirds, and the scenic Florida Keys archipelago.

Captiva Island is a picturesque barrier island accessible via the Sanibel Causeway, offering quiet beaches, scenic shelling, and lush mangrove preserves. Visitors can explore art galleries, casual restaurants, and the iconic Bubble Room restaurant. The island’s tranquil Gulf views, abundant birdlife, and historic charm make it a favorite for nature lovers and island-escape seekers.

This nature preserve is a peaceful wetland walkway and habitat for a variety of birds, turtles, alligators, and native plants. Elevated boardwalks and trails wind through cypress swamps, offering opportunities for wildlife observation, nature photography, and birdwatching. It’s a calm escape into Florida’s subtropical ecosystem just a short drive from Fort Myers.

The historic Edison and Ford Winter Estates preserve the winter homes, lush gardens, laboratory, and museum of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. Visitors can tour the restored residences, see Edison’s botanical experiments (including banyan trees), and explore exhibits on innovation and history.

Snug Harbor Waterfront Restaurant offers scenic dining along the Matanzas Pass harbor in Fort Myers Beach. The menu highlights fresh Gulf seafood, craft cocktails, and locally inspired dishes served in a relaxed, open-air setting. Guests can enjoy live music and sunset views while sampling favorites like grouper sandwiches and shrimp tacos, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

Located in the heart of Fort Myers Beach, Yucatan Beach Stand Bar & Grill serves Caribbean-inspired dishes and tropical drinks in a lively, colorful atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its open-air setting, friendly service, and live entertainment. Signature dishes include jerk chicken, seafood platters, and fish tacos, all paired perfectly with a cold island cocktail under the Florida sun.

SOB, short for Smokin’ Oyster Brewery, is a longtime Fort Myers Beach favorite known for its oysters, seafood baskets, and relaxed island vibe. Guests can enjoy live music daily, fresh catches, and cold drinks on the outdoor patio. While it’s not a full brewery, its upbeat energy and beachy charm make it a go-to gathering spot for locals and vacationers alike.

The Whale offers two levels of waterfront dining overlooking Estero Boulevard and the Gulf of Mexico. Specializing in fresh seafood, burgers, and tropical cocktails, it’s known for its rooftop views and friendly beach-bar atmosphere. Visitors often stop by for mahi-mahi tacos, grouper sandwiches, and sunset drinks after a day on the sand.

Mom’s Restaurant is a cozy Fort Myers Beach diner known for its hearty breakfasts, friendly service, and welcoming, family-style atmosphere. The menu features classic comfort dishes like pancakes, omelets, and homemade biscuits served with generous portions. A favorite among locals and returning visitors, Mom’s combines old-fashioned hospitality with delicious, freshly prepared meals just minutes from the shoreline.

Bruno’s of Brooklyn is a family-owned Italian restaurant located in Fort Myers’ historic River District, offering classic and creative dishes in an intimate, upscale setting. You’ll find handmade pastas, fresh seafood, wood-fired pizzas, and classic entrees like chicken parm or lasagna. The restaurant emphasizes warm hospitality, an extensive wine list, and an ambiance blending Brooklyn nostalgia with Italian tradition.

Fresh Catch Bistro provides an upscale yet relaxed beachfront dining experience with panoramic Gulf views. The menu emphasizes fine seafood, steaks, and creative appetizers complemented by a curated wine list. Guests often dine outdoors at sunset while enjoying dishes like blackened snapper or crab-stuffed grouper, paired with attentive service and a calm coastal setting.

Parrot Key Caribbean Grill brings a tropical flair to Fort Myers Beach with waterfront dining along the harbor. The colorful, open-air restaurant serves island-inspired seafood, burgers, and specialty cocktails. Guests can arrive by car or boat and enjoy live entertainment in a laid-back atmosphere. Popular menu items include coconut shrimp, conch fritters, and Caribbean jerk chicken, all served with stunning marina views.