12 Best Things to do in Fort Myers, Florida

Planning a trip to Fort Myers, Florida, and have no clue what to do while you’re there? You’re in the right place!

This sunny corner of southwest Florida is made for beach days, boat trips, and spending as much time outside as possible. But there’s plenty to tempt you away from your beach towel, too! Think historic waterfront homes, mangrove-lined waterways, and the chance to spot dolphins and manatees in the wild! 

We know nailing down your itinerary can be tricky. So to help you plan your trip, we’ve rounded up our favorite things to do in Fort Myers, plus our top three hotel picks if you still need somewhere to stay! Ready? Let’s get to it!

Fort Myers at a Glance

There’s plenty to keep you busy in Fort Myers, but with downtown and the beach in separate areas, a little planning will help you spend more time enjoying yourself and less time on the road.

Here are a few practical tips to know before you go: 

Important tip: Beat the beach traffic: Head to Fort Myers Beach early, especially during peak season, to avoid the crowds and traffic!

Stay central to avoid renting a car: If you stay in the River District or around Fort Myers Beach, you can walk to most places or use the trolleys and public transportation. 

Rent bikes and golf carts: This is such a fun and simple way to get around town! Just make sure to ask your rental provider where you can ride and which routes they recommend. 

Get organized for a winter getaway: December through April is a popular travel period, so we wouldn’t leave hotel bookings until the last minute. The same goes for any tours you’re especially excited about! 

How we Would Spend Three Days in Fort Myers

🌴Day 1: Biscuits, Dolphins, Lovers Key Beach Time & River District 
Start your first day in Fort Myers with a hearty breakfast, paddle through the mangroves, relax at Lovers Key Beach, and wrap up with sunset drinks and dinner in the River District.

🌿Day 2: Six Mile Cypress, Water Adventures or Everglades 
Ease into the morning with breakfast and a nature walk, choose between sailing, parasailing, or a shelling tour in the afternoon, then end with drinks and dinner by the water, or spend the day exploring the Everglades instead. 

🌅 Day 3: Edison & Ford, Beach Time & Sunset Sail 
Kick off Day 3 with coffee and a little history at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, spend the afternoon on the beach, then hop on a sunset sail and finish the day with a special dinner at an upscale restaurant. 

Things to Do in Fort Myers

1. Relax on a sunset sail

Watching the sunset over the Gulf is a pretty lovely way to end a day in Fort Myers. And if you’d like to make an evening of it, this catamaran sunset sail is well worth adding to your itinerary!

The cruise departs from Getaway Marina near Fort Myers Beach and spends around two hours out on the coastal waterways. You’ll have views toward Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel, with the captain sharing a little about the area as you go. Keep an eye on the water, too, as dolphins sometimes make an appearance!

What we especially like about this option is how little you need to organize. Water and soda are included, and you can buy beer or wine onboard if you’d like a drink while watching the sunset. Bring a card for any purchases, then settle in and enjoy the changing colors over the water.

We think this is a great pick for couples, but it also works well for anyone who wants a relaxed evening after a day of sightseeing. You don’t need to paddle, swim, or do anything more strenuous than find a comfortable spot on deck. And judging by the hundreds of glowing five-star reviews, we’re not the only ones who love this experience!

Plan to reach the docks at least 15 minutes before departure, with extra time for traffic and parking. We’d also bring a light layer for the breeze once you’re out on the water.

2. See dolphins and manatees on a paddleboard adventure

If we were choosing just one tour for a Fort Myers trip, this dolphin and manatee paddleboard adventure would be our top pick! We had so much fun getting out on the water, soaking up the beautiful coastal scenery, and keeping an eye out for some of Florida’s most incredible wildlife.

Our adventure took us around Big Hickory Island near Bonita Springs, just south of Fort Myers. For about two hours, we paddled through the waterways with our guide, looking for dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and shorebirds along the way. We even stopped at a beach to stretch our legs and hunt for seashells!

Of course, the animals are wild, so every outing is different. But that’s part of the fun! We loved exploring the mangrove-lined waterways, taking in the coastal views, and hearing interesting stories about the area from our guide.

And if you’ve never tried paddleboarding, don’t worry! Beginners are welcome, and you’ll get a quick introductory lesson before heading out. A limited number of kayaks are also available if you’d rather sit down, so be sure to ask about those when booking.

One of the things we loved most about this tour was that it packed so much into just two hours! It’s the perfect morning adventure, leaving you plenty of time to grab lunch and spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach.

We recommend arriving around 30 minutes early so you have plenty of time to check in and get ready. And remember, the meeting point is near Bonita Springs rather than downtown Fort Myers, so be sure to factor the drive into your plans!

3. Explore the Edison and Ford Winter Estates

Fort Myers has long tempted people south for a winter escape, including Thomas Edison and Henry Ford! Their neighboring homes along the Caloosahatchee River are now part of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, and we’d definitely make time to visit.

The 20-acre (8-hectare) property includes gardens, Edison’s research laboratory, and a museum with antique cars and exhibits about the two men’s work. It’s a great change of pace if your trip has mostly involved beaches and boat tours.

Self-guided admission costs $28 USD for adults, with free audio content to give you some background as you wander. Historian-led guided tours are available, too, if you prefer to explore with someone who knows the estates inside and out. 

Plan on two to three hours so you have time for the museum and laboratory, as well as the gardens. Opening hours are generally 9 am to 5:30 pm, with last admission at 4:30 pm, although we’d arrive much earlier to avoid rushing.

Since the estates are close to downtown, this pairs nicely with lunch and an afternoon exploring the River District.

4. Take a day trip to the Everglades

If you’d like to see Florida beyond the beach towns, this full-day Everglades safari is a fantastic option. It’s a longer outing, but you get several different experiences in one day without having to organize the driving and individual tours yourself.

You’ll ride an airboat through the Western Everglades, explore Big Cypress National Preserve, and take a boat cruise through the mangroves around the Ten Thousand Islands. The itinerary also includes lunch, a nature walk, and a stop at the historic Smallwood Store.

What makes this tour especially appealing is having a naturalist guide with you throughout the day. They’ll help you spot wildlife and explain how these landscapes fit together, adding much more context than you’d get by driving through on your own.

We’d recommend this for nature lovers or anyone who wants a bigger adventure during their stay. The mix of walking, boat rides, and van travel keeps the day varied, and the small group gives you plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

This is a full-day adventure, so we’d recommend keeping your evening plans low-key. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and pack plenty of sun protection and bug spray (trust us, you’ll want it!).

5. Kayak through Estero Bay’s mangroves

There’s something so peaceful about kayaking through Florida’s beautiful mangroves, especially when you never know what wildlife might pop up along the way! We loved getting out on the water for this guided Estero Bay tour, and it was such a fun way to explore a quieter side of Fort Myers.

Our adventure started at Big Hickory Pass near Bonita Springs, where we followed our guide through the mangrove-lined waterways. Along the way, we kept our eyes peeled for osprey, pelicans, dolphins, and manatees while learning all about the bay’s unique ecosystem.

The mangrove tunnels were easily our favorite part! Paddling beneath the overhanging branches felt like exploring a hidden little world, and we loved seeing the coastline from a completely different perspective. We even stopped at a secluded island beach to stretch our legs and hunt for seashells before heading back.

We’d definitely recommend this tour if you want to combine kayaking, wildlife watching, and a little beachcombing in one adventure. All equipment is provided, including your kayak, paddle, life vest, and dry bag. You even get a mesh bag to carry any empty shells you find. With over 600 happy reviewers, it’s safe to say this experience has made quite a splash!

Since this tour and the paddleboard adventure explore a similar stretch of coastline, we’d suggest choosing whichever sounds more fun to you rather than booking both, especially if you’re only in Fort Myers for a few days!

6. Wander around the Fort Myers River District

For some retail therapy and tasty food, head to the Fort Myers River District! This is the city’s historic downtown, with brick-lined streets, galleries, restaurants, and the Caloosahatchee waterfront all close together.

We’d start with a stroll around Centennial Park and the waterfront before heading toward First Street. You can browse the independent shops, pop into galleries, or grab a bite to eat for lunch (we love Sip & Sizzle!). 

The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is worth checking for exhibitions and events. If your dates line up with an Art Walk or Music Walk, those can also be a fun reason to spend the evening downtown. 

Other restaurants we love in the River District are Ford’s Garage (great option for burgers) and Bruno’s of Brooklyn, which serves up some seriously delicious Italian food. We’d leave some time to browse menus as you wander, too, since finding somewhere that catches your eye is half the fun!

The district is compact enough to explore on foot and makes an easy addition to a visit to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. If you’re driving, make sure to check the signs where you park, as downtown parking charges apply during certain hours. 

7. Enjoy an afternoon of sailing

We’ve already included a sunset sail, but you don’t have to wait until evening to enjoy those gorgeous coastal views! We had such a lovely afternoon on this two-hour catamaran cruise, soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the ocean breeze. Plus, we still had the whole evening free for dinner and a beach sunset!

Our adventure started at Getaway Marina near Fort Myers Beach, where we set sail through the beautiful waterways around Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel. Along the way, our captain shared interesting stories about the area while we admired the coastline and kept our eyes peeled for dolphins and other wildlife.

What we loved most about this tour was how relaxing it was! We could simply sit back, enjoy the breeze, and take in the incredible views without having to lift a finger. Sometimes that’s exactly what you want on vacation!

Bottled water and soda are included, and you can buy beer and wine onboard by card if you fancy a drink. Just make sure to bring your own sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat that won’t fly away with the first gust of wind!

Before booking, keep in mind that boarding involves a few steps and the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible. If anyone in your group has mobility concerns, we’d check with the operator so you know what to expect before booking.

8. Go parasailing above Fort Myers Beach

If you’re ready to take your beach day to new heights, this Fort Myers Beach parasailing adventure will have you flying high (literally!).

You’ll head out with the crew, get fitted with your equipment, and take turns flying above the Gulf. Takeoff and landing happen directly from the boat, so you don’t have to launch yourself off the sand or figure out anything technical.

Once you’re in the air, you’ll have a spectacular view of the shoreline stretching into the distance, the beach below, and all that open water around you. The boat ride is part of the outing, too, so the listed hour covers the overall experience rather than a full hour in the air.

We’d recommend this for anyone who wants a memorable activity without giving up an entire beach day. You can book a departure, enjoy your flight, and still have time for lunch and lounging afterward.

Before you head off for your adventure, plan to arrive 20 to 30 minutes early to get checked in. And if you’re hoping to fly with someone else, check with the crew beforehand, as flight arrangements depend on conditions and your combined weight.

9. Explore Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve

If you want a taste of Florida’s wetlands without a big excursion, Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve has an accessible boardwalk that takes you through the habitat. 

The preserve protects more than 3,500 acres (1,416 hectares), with a 1.2-mile (1.9-kilometer) boardwalk, observation areas, and benches for taking a break. Watch for turtles, wading birds, and alligators as you wander. River otters live here, too, although spotting one takes a little luck!

We think this is a lovely nature outing between busier activities, especially if a rugged hike doesn’t suit your group. Give yourself an hour or two to wander, or join a free naturalist walk to get a little more insight into what you’re seeing. 

The boardwalk is generally open daily from dawn to dusk. Entry is free, while parking costs $1 USD per hour, capped at $5 USD per day. We recommend checking the preserve’s website before visiting, especially after heavy weather, as access and scheduled walks may be affected. 

10. Cast a line on a private fishing charter

There’s nothing quite like the excitement of reeling in a big catch, especially with Florida’s beautiful coastline as your backdrop! Whether you’re an experienced angler or trying fishing for the first time, this private Fort Myers fishing charter is a fantastic way to get out on the water and see what bites!

You can choose a back-bay or offshore outing, depending on the available options, conditions, and what you’d like to catch. Back-bay fishing may focus on species such as snook, redfish, and trout, while offshore trips can offer opportunities for snapper, grouper, or mackerel.

The captain provides the rods and bait, so you don’t need to pack your own fishing gear. They’ll also help choose fishing spots and explain what you can catch and keep that day, with seasons and local rules shaping the outing.

We especially like that the charter is private. You’ll have the boat for your booking group, making it a nice option for friends or families who want a more personal experience. If you’re new to fishing, let the captain know when booking so you can discuss the most suitable trip.

Departure is from Lovers Key Boat Ramp, on the Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Springs side of the region. Bring snacks, a hat, and sun protection, and make sure to give yourself plenty of travel time if you’re staying in downtown Fort Myers.

11. Go shelling

If you’re anything like me and can’t resist looking for shells every time you’re at the beach, this private shelling cruise around Big Hickory Island will be right up your alley! We had such a fun time exploring the beautiful coastline and hunting for unique seashells.

Our adventure started at Lovers Key Boat Ramp, where we hopped aboard and cruised out toward the island beaches, keeping our eyes peeled for dolphins and manatees along the way. Once we reached the beach, we had time to wander along the sand, search for shells, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

What we loved most about this tour was getting to combine a scenic boat ride with some relaxing beach time, without having to paddle there ourselves! It’s also a private experience for up to six guests, making it a fantastic option for families or a group of friends.

Of course, shell hunting was the highlight for me! You might find conch shells, sand dollars, and all sorts of interesting treasures washed up along the shore. Just remember to check with your guide about what you can collect and always leave living creatures where they belong.

We recommend bringing plenty of sun protection and a bag for your shelling treasures. And if you’re staying inland, be sure to allow enough time to reach Lovers Key before departure!

12. Spend a day at the beach

No trip to Fort Myers is complete without a beach day! With soft white sand, warm Gulf waters, and gorgeous coastal views, the beaches here are perfect for swimming, shell hunting, or simply soaking up the Florida sunshine. Whether you’re after a lively beach with restaurants nearby or a quiet stretch of sand surrounded by nature, there’s something for everyone!

Here are our three favorites: 

• Lovers Key State Park is our pick for a more natural setting, with beachcombing, paddling, and wildlife watching to keep you busy. Standard admission is $8 USD per vehicle for two to eight people. The old tram no longer runs, so pack for the walk and check the park’s access information before visiting.

• Fort Myers Beach is ideal if you like having restaurants, shops, and activities nearby. Spend the morning swimming and relaxing on the sand, then head to Times Square for lunch or drinks. Stick around for sunset, too, because the views over the Gulf are gorgeous!

• Bonita Beach Park, farther south, is a lovely option for a relaxed afternoon by the Gulf. It’s a great spot for shell hunting, soaking up the sunshine, and watching the sunset. It pairs nicely with a morning paddling trip near Big Hickory Island, too!

As always, make sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection, and arrive early since beach parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Then all that’s left to do is settle in and enjoy doing very little. You’re on vacation, after all!

Where to Stay in Fort Myers, Florida

For a first trip, we’d recommend staying near Fort Myers Beach. You’ll have more hotels to choose from than downtown, plus easy access to the sand for beach days and sunset strolls! It’s around a 20- to 30-minute drive south of downtown Fort Myers, although beach traffic can make the journey longer.

To help you find the right fit, we’ve rounded up three hotel picks across different price points.

Luxury – $$$

For our top luxury pick, you can’t go wrong with Margaritaville Beach Resort Fort Myers Beach! This lively resort is located near Times Square, and it has onsite restaurants, live entertainment, a spa, and the iconic Fins Up! Beach Club, so you’ll have everything you need for a fun beach getaway!

One thing to check before booking is which building your room is in. The Beach Building sits directly on the sand, while the Main Building connects across Estero Boulevard by a pedestrian bridge. 

Rooms typically range from around $200 to $550 USD per night, depending on your dates and room choice, with peak-season stays potentially costing more. Check availability and book your stay here!

Mid-range – $$

For a mid-range pick, we’d look at Lani Kai Island Resort. This beachfront resort is close to Times Square, so you can easily spend the day on the sand and head out again for dinner or drinks. We also love the private Gulf-facing balconies, which give you a lovely spot to enjoy the view without leaving your room!

With dining, bars, and entertainment onsite, we think this is a particularly fun choice for couples or friends who want a social beach base. If you prefer early nights, though, ask about room location and entertainment hours before booking.

As for pricing, you can expect rooms to typically range from around $150 to $375+ USD per night. Book your stay at Lani Kai Island Resort here!

Budget – $

For something a little more budget-friendly, Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Myers Beach/Sanibel Gateway is a handy mainland base, especially if you’re renting a car.

Free hot breakfast and parking are two big reasons we like this hotel, as those extras can help keep your vacation budget in check. You’ll also have an outdoor pool and a fitness center. 

Even though you’ll have to drive to the beach, we think this location works really well if you’re planning to explore several parts of the region. Some suites also have kitchens, which is a useful bonus for families or longer stays. 

Rooms typically range from around $90 to $225 USD per night, which is such a steal for such a comfortable base. Secure this budget-friendly stay here!

Want more options? Check out more top-rated hotel listings for Fort Myers here!

Thanks for reading!

From spotting dolphins and manatees in the wild to exploring the Everglades and relaxing on beautiful beaches, Fort Myers has so much to offer! We loved spending time on the water, discovering the local wildlife, and soaking up that Florida sunshine. We hope this guide helps you plan an amazing trip and enjoy Fort Myers as much as we did!

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