Ft. Myers Overview

Located along the Caloosahatchee River, Fort Myers is the heart of Southwest Florida. A paradise with a lovely Southern pace and in harmony with nature, it is bordered by white seashell beaches, tropical island sanctuaries and crystal waters.

Districts

As a desirable vacation destination, an average annual temperature of 76 degrees F, and 50 miles of white sandy beaches along the Gulf of Mexico, Fort Myers and its neighboring cities attract thousands of visitors annually, both landlubbers and waterway travelers. One of the fastest growing areas in Florida, Lee County includes Cape Coral, Pine Island, Sanibel and Captiva Islands, Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Springs.

A step back in time, much remains as it was hundreds of years ago, serene and unspoiled. Mangrove forests, saltwater wetlands, estuaries, wildlife refuges, tropical gardens, nature trails, miles of winding canals and waterways, and hundreds of islands, some inhabited, some not, provide a magical retreat from a fast-paced world.

The wide Caloosahatchee River diagonally divides the city of Fort Meyers from Cape Coral to the west, and North Fort Myers just across the Edison Bridge. US Interstate Highway 75 runs north to Tampa and south to Naples on the east side of the city. The Southwest Florida International Airport is only ten miles southeast of the city.

Southwest of Fort Myers is the popular island of Sanibel, 12 miles long and 5 miles wide, connected at a narrow point. 2500 years ago, the island was inhabited by Calusa Indians who created the islands from mounds of discarded seashells, used for food, weapons, tools and building materials. With a reputation for great fishing, windsurfing, shell collecting, bird watching and other outdoor pursuits, the best way to get around the island is by bicycle.

Entertainment

You’ll never be bored here. Beachcombing for exotic seashells, swimming in clear, tropical waters, discovering secluded coves and inlets by kayak or pleasure boat, to high-spirited sport fishing provide abundant choices for recreation or relaxation. You can also do nothing at all, lying under shady palms, listening to the peaceful sounds of breaking waves on ground shell beaches. Life is casual, laid back, and slow paced. There is no reason to hurry here.

Fort Myers offers the avid golfer dozens of public and private courses and clubs to practice his swing. Museums, historic buildings, science, art and culture centers, and professional sport complexes also offer many opportunities for education and enjoyment. Fort Myers is the winter home for the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins.

Dining and Drinking

In and around the Fort Myers area, and on the neighboring islands, there are many wonderful restaurants, cafes and eateries that will satisfy any taste, from simple country cooking to sophisticated continental, and from sandals and shorts casual to dressy with reservations. Whether you get there by car, bicycle, on foot, or as an adventure by water taxi, you will not be disappointed. If you’re going on an expedition to explore, or just relax under the sun, many establishments will pack a picnic or takeout meals.

Where To Stay

There are many great choices for accommodations and lodging in and around Fort Myers. From quaint bed and breakfast inns in the downtown historic district, comfortable and convenient chain hotels near the airport, or unconventional outpost style guest cottages, some accessible only by boat, you’ll find whatever you need or want, and all within your budget.

Waterway travelers will also find many excellent marinas to dock overnight or for a few days, as well as for fuel and supplies. Some marinas are full service and offer repairs and maintenance.

Did You Know?

At the Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers spring training is held for a few of the major league baseball teams such as the Minnesota Twins and the Boston Red Sox. Families are welcomed to purchase tickets and watch some of their favorite baseball players practice.

Orientation/Geography

Fort Myers is located southwest of Florida's Gulf coast between Naples and Sarasota.


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