Fort Myers Information
History, culture and scenic beauty all combine to make the Fort Myers region a peaceful yet fascinating place to unwind. Planning restrictions on the resort islands of Sanibel, Captiva and Bonita Beach
ensure that no buildings are taller than the surrounding palm trees, making this leafy area feel very low-rise and relaxed. The area is also popular with the local wildlife, especially the endangered Florida manatees. These gentle, lumbering ‘sea cows’ can be encountered at Manatee Park, where it’s even possible to kayak amongst them in their natural habitat.
Fort Myers Beach is lively with lots of family restaurants and bars along Estero Boulevard. There are also attractions such as boat cruises, mini-golf courses, factory outlet shopping and the house of Thomas Edison (he liked it so much here he brought his house down from New England and rebuilt it!). Of course, it's only a 5-10 min drive between Sanibel and Fort Myers, so wherever you choose to stay, its easy to explore the very different charms of the other. Between November and March you have the added pleasure of manatee spotting, and you can spy dolphins year-round. Please note: access to Sanibel Island is via a causeway for which a toll applies (currently $3 per car).