Thomas Edison said, “There is only one Fort Myers, and 90 million people are going to find it”. How right he was! Located about 65 miles south of Sarasota, Fort Myers retains much of the “Old Florida” charm it had when Edison lived here. The tree lined streets make this town warm and friendly. If you’d like to shop, see a play, or just relax on one of the nearby awarding winning beaches, we invite you to visit Fort Myers beach and see for yourself what Edison meant and why he was correct.
Things to do in Fort Myers
Fort Myers is a place for people who love the outdoors. There are many trails, both in and out of the water, to follow and explore. The wildlife and bird population in Fort Myers makes for some great picture taking. So if you’re into hiking, biking, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, water skiing or simply relaxing on a white sand beach, Fort Myers is the place for you!
Fort Myers Beach
Emerald green waters and sugar-white sand make up the main attraction to the island of Fort Myers Beach. Dubbed ‘the world’s safest beach’ because of the gentle waters, this area is known for small waves and calm seas; it also has gentle slopes and sand bars in the waters near shore. The community of Fort Myers Beach is made up of Estero Island and its sister island, San Carlos. It used to be a remote stretch of green, edged with sand and accessible only by boat. Today, there are more than 30 beach access points that are marked with colorful beach access signs that take you to developed, as well as secluded, pristine stretches of shoreline, many of which are near restaurants and outdoor cafes.
Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island is a beautiful little place located on the west coast of Florida, near Fort Myers. Sanibel is actually made up of two Islands, Captiva and Sanibel. These two islands are the perfect place for either a romantic or family vacation. The Sanibel and Captiva Islands have over 20 miles of bike paths, 15 miles of white sand beaches to explore and shell on, some 50 types of fish to try and catch and a multitude of birds to try and capture a picture of. Being islands and surrounded by water, it’s easy to get caught up in the activities on the beaches. Shelling is what Sanibel Island is especially known for because of all the wonderful shells that wash up on shore there.
Edison & Henry Ford Winter Estates
The winter home of Thomas A. Edison, beautifully poised along the Caloosahatchee River, is one of the greatest historic treasures within Lee County. Edison’s tropical botanical garden, one of the most complete in America, contains more than a thousand varieties of plants imported from all over the world, including African sausage trees and a Banyan tree, which was a gift from Harvey Firestone in 1925. The close friendship between Henry Ford and Thomas Edison brought Mr. and Mrs. Ford to Fort Myers in 1915 as guests in the Edison’s home. The following year, Mr. Ford purchased the house next door to his good friend; and for 15 years, the Fords came to their home in Fort Myers every winter to spend time with the Edisons.
Lovers Key
Lovers Key is a pristine barrier island and a state park, which gives it solitary beaches and long nature trails. For years the only way to get there was by boat, which kept it remote and a great place to steal away and spend some time with your significant other. It hasn’t been developed, so there are still a lot of secluded romantic places to relax and unwind, for just the two of you.
Places to Stay in Ft. Myers
When you’re looking for places to stay in Fort Myers here are a few places to consider. The Ocean Front Neptune Inn in Fort Myers Beach is close to Times Square where you can fish or shop or rent a charter fishing boat. The rooms have a tropical feel and patios or a balcony if you prefer along with all the regular amenities, as well as access to a private beach. If you’re more the resort type guest try the Lighthouse Resort Inn & Suites also in Fort Myers Beach. The hotel is only a mile from the Suncoast Yacht Charters and The Key West Shuttle. They have a Lighthouse Tiki bar poolside and live entertainment.
On a private peninsula overlooking beautiful Sanibel and Captiva Islands you’ll find The Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa. This 85-Acre Seaside Resort offers its guests three restaurants, a cabana bar, poolside bar and grille and a romantic sunset dinner cruise. Catering services are available for corporate functions, receptions and banquets. You can also enjoy one or more of over 60 beauty and body care treatments. Sanibel and Captiva are known for their excellent shelling opportunities and the resort offers daily shelling excursions. Dolphin sightseeing cruises and eco-tours are also available. There are also family and budget friendly chain hotels such as Comfort Inn, Best Western, Howard Johnson’s and a Courtyard by Marriott in the area.