Exploring the Best of Fort Myers, Florida: From Beaches to Local Eats

My husband and I have recently returned from a delightful three-night stay in beautiful Fort Myers, Florida. We decided to book this quick getaway as a special celebration of our 26th wedding anniversary, a milestone that we wanted to commemorate with some sunshine, relaxation, and quality time together. With that being said, we packed our bags, boarded our flight and within a matter of a few hours, we were landing at Southwest Florida International Airport. Once we gathered our bags, we picked up our rental car and off we went!

In hopes of making your trip to Fort Myers both enjoyable and efficient, I want to share some insights and recommendations based on our experiences. First and foremost, planning your itinerary is essential. With so many activities and sights to see, having a rough plan can help you make the most of your time.

Margaritaville Beach Resort was approximately a thirty minute drive from the airport, which is partly why we rented a car. The second reason is that we love to get out and explore while we are on vacation. Just a heads-up, self parking is not an option at this resort. You must pay to have valet parking. I didn't mind paying for valet parking, as I prefer this convenience any time it is available. Check-in is located on the 2nd floor. The check-in process was efficient and we were even offered a free margarita. This resort is relatively new, well maintained and is very clean. However, I was disappointed with our view. We had a room with a balcony, but it was located on the side of the building and we could not see the beach very well. Otherwise, I have no complaints about this resort at all.

Fort Myers is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history, offered the perfect backdrop for a romantic escape. During our stay, we immersed ourselves in the local attractions and activities that Fort Myers has to offer. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted by the warm, inviting climate that Florida is famous for. The outdoor temperature was consistently in the mid-70s each day and felt incredible, especially since it was only 12 degrees when we departed from Kentucky. The gentle sea breeze and the sound of waves lapping against the shore instantly put us in vacation mode. The resort was conveniently located across the street from the beach, allowing us easy access the stunning coastline and giving us a breathtaking view of the sunsets that Fort Myers is known for.

While in Fort Myers, my husband and I started our days early, taking advantage of the cooler morning temperatures to explore the local parks and nature preserves. We spent one day driving around, looking for some fun things to do in the local area. One highlight was when we visited the Six Mile Cypress Preserve. This was an easy 1.2 mile stroll along a well maintained boardwalk through the slough. It was a great day to be out soaking up some sunshine and searching for local wildlife. We saw a few turtles, a couple small lizards and a few red headed woodpeckers. We were hoping to see some alligators, snakes and otters, but didn't. Previous visitors had posted pictures of seeing many different creatures while there. Parking was very limited, so arrive as early as possible! After leaving Six Mile Cypress Preserve my husband and I drove down to Bonita Springs and visited the Wonder Garden, This was a family friendly roadside attraction that houses birds and reptiles that are rescued and non-releasable. Here, we saw lots of beautiful birds, alligators, turtles and flowers. We spent our last day in Fort Myers relaxing on the beautiful white sandy beach. Our trip was in February, so the water was way too cold for me to get in, but we saw a few people swimming.

In addition to nature, Fort Myers boasts a rich historical heritage. In the past, we have taken time to visit the beautiful Edison and Ford Winter Estates. There we learned about the fascinating lives of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. The guided tour provided us with an insight into their inventions and the beautiful gardens that surround their winter homes. This visit was not only educational but was also a wonderful way to appreciate the history that has helped shape our wonderful country. The Edison and Ford Winter Estates are family friendly.

The Margaritaville Resort was walking distance to many waterfront restaurants and food trucks! Some were located along Crescent Street and many more restaurants and shops were located on Old San Carlos Blvd. Dining by the water was a magical experience! We were able to savor fresh seafood dishes while enjoying the picturesque view of the sunset over the "Gulf of America." The combination of delicious food, a romantic atmosphere, and the soothing sounds of the ocean made for some unforgettable evening meals. Some of our favorite restaurants were Nervous Nellie's, The Yucatan Beach Stand and La De Dah Beach Bar and Grill. If you have a rental car and feel comfortable taking a short road trip, The Boathouse Tiki Bar & Grill in Fort Myers was fantastic. You must try the grouper bites! The next time we are in the area, I would love to try dining at Wahoo Willie's, Snug Harbor and Doc Ford's Rum Bar.

To ensure that your trip is as enjoyable as ours, I recommend packing sunscreen and staying hydrated, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors. The Florida sun can be intense, and it's crucial to protect your skin while enjoying all that the area has to offer. Additionally, consider renting bicycles to explore the scenic pathways along the beach; this is a fun and active way to discover the local sights at your own pace.

In conclusion, our three-night stay in Fort Myers was a wonderful way to celebrate our 26th wedding anniversary. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and delightful dining options, Fort Myers made for an ideal getaway that we will cherish for years to come. I hope that by sharing our experiences and tips, your trip to Fort Myers will be both fun and efficient, allowing you to create your own memorable moments in this charming Florida destination.