Pier at Fort Myers Beach in Florida

Updated: October 27, 2026

How to Spend THREE Days in Fort Myers, Florida: 3-Day Itinerary

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Heading to Fort Myers, Florida? I’ve got the perfect three-day itinerary for you!

Three days might not sound like much, but you’d be surprised how much adventure you can squeeze into a Fort Myers getaway! We ate a LOT of fresh seafood, wandered barefoot along beautiful beaches, paddled through mangroves, and spent more time on the water than we ever expected. Along the way, we spotted dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and even a few alligators lurking in the water!

This itinerary includes our favorite breakfast spots, nature walks, shell-collecting tips, beach stops, and even a sunset sail. It’s based on staying in Fort Myers Beach, so you’ll have an easy starting point for exploring the area. Let’s get to it!

Don’t miss out!

Our Top Choice

Bailey-SUPs-stand-up-paddleboard-on-a-tour-from-Fort-Myers-Florida

The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!

Our FAVORITE thing we did in Fort Myers was this paddleboarding adventure through the mangroves! We spotted dolphins, manatees, and tons of wildlife before stopping at a beautiful secluded beach. It’s the perfect mix of wildlife, adventure, and Florida sunshine!

Check the 3,000+ reviews and book this tour here.

Itinerary Overview

Edison Bridge over the Caloosahatchee River in Fort Myers
There is so much to explore here
Daniel kayaks on a tour from Fort Myers, florida
Get ready to hit the water!

🌴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. 

Day 1 

Breakfast – Heavenly Biscuits

Cinnamon roll eaten for breakfast in Fort Myer, Florida
They have the best cinnamon buns
Two-coffees-on-a-wooden-table-in-Fort-Myers-Florida
Fueling up for the day!

Ease into your first morning in Fort Myers with breakfast at Heavenly Biscuits, a food truck located on Estero Blvd, just steps from the sand. It’s small and casual, best known for its made-to-order biscuit sandwiches, cinnamon rolls, and biscuits with gravy, hence the name!

You can’t go wrong with a pecan roll or a fried chicken biscuit, but we wanted to try a bit of everything! I’m not usually much of a breakfast person, but I ended up with scrambled eggs, fried potatoes, bacon, and a biscuit smothered in sausage gravy. Yum! And the affordable prices made it even better.

This place is popular, so don’t be surprised if there’s a line. We’d recommend arriving early to beat the crowds, although it’s definitely worth the wait! Remember to bring cash, as they don’t accept cards, but there’s an on-site ATM if you forget.

Heavenly Biscuits opens at 7:30 am, leaving plenty of time for a leisurely breakfast before your morning tour. Just keep in mind that it’s closed on Mondays, so you’ll need a backup breakfast spot if that’s when you’re visiting.

Morning – See dolphins and manatees on a paddleboard or kayak adventure

A manatee comes close to a paddleboarder in Fort Myers, Florida
A manatee! Photo Credit: Three Brothers Boards Dolphin and Manatee Tours
People paddle board with dolphins in Fort Myers Florida
If you’re lucky, you’ll see dolphins! Photo Credit: Three Brothers Boards Dolphin and Manatee Tours

With breakfast out of the way, it’s time to hit the water and hopefully spot some of Florida’s incredible wildlife! Head to Bonita Springs (about 15 minutes from Fort Myers Beach or 40 minutes from downtown Fort Myers) for this guided paddleboarding adventure through the mangroves. The tour starts at 10:30 am, but you’ll need to arrive around 30 minutes early to check in and get ready!

You can choose between a paddleboard or kayak, and don’t worry if you’ve never tried paddleboarding before! The water is usually calm, all your gear is included, and the guides will help you get comfortable before heading out.

We had the best time paddling through the mangroves, keeping our eyes peeled for wildlife around every corner. We spotted dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, pelicans, and even starfish! At one point, we stopped to float among the mangroves while our guide, Jesse, shared some fascinating stories about the area. It was such a peaceful moment, and we loved learning a little about this beautiful part of Florida along the way.

Another highlight was stopping at a secluded white-sand beach that felt like our own little slice of paradise! We hopped off our boards to explore the shoreline and search for conch and beautiful seashells. Just remember that some shells are protected, especially those with living creatures inside, so always check with your guide before taking anything home.

The whole adventure lasts around two hours, so you’ll be back by about 12:30 pm with plenty of time for lunch. Between the wildlife, gorgeous scenery, and beach stop, this was easily one of our favorite experiences in Fort Myers. And after you read the glowing five-star reviews here, you’ll see we’re definitely not the only ones who loved it!

Lunch – Flippers 

Fish eaten for lunch at Flippers On The Bay in Fort Myers
Photo Credit: Flippers On The Bay
A cocktail drank by the water at Flippers On The Bay in Fort Myers
Photo Credit: Flippers On The Bay

After your tour, it’s time to grab some lunch before hitting the beach! We recommend Flippers, a waterfront restaurant about a 10-minute drive from where your tour ends. It’s a beautiful spot to kick back and enjoy the views, so keep an eye on the water while you eat. If you didn’t spot any dolphins or manatees earlier, you might just get another chance here!

The atmosphere is super casual, with outdoor seating right by the water. Just check the weather before you go, especially on cooler days, although they do have heaters to keep things cozy.

Come hungry because the food here is delicious! Their famous Flippers Oscar, served with grouper or mahi-mahi, is a standout, and the tuna ceviche is another great choice. Pair your meal with their signature Bucket of Fun cocktail, and you’ve got yourself a pretty great lunch!

Flippers is open daily from 9 am to 11 pm, but it can get busy, especially with limited seating. We’d recommend calling about an hour ahead to get your name on the waitlist and save yourself some time. After lunch, head over to Lovers Key Beach for a relaxing afternoon in the sun!

Afternoon – Lovers Key Beach

White sand beach path leading to the ocean at Lovers Key Beach
Time to relax!
Bailey walks into the ocean near Fort Myers, Florida
It’s a great place for a swim

After lunch, it’s time for some beach time, because you’re in Florida after all! Lovers Key Beach is one of the prettiest beaches in the Fort Myers area. With 2 miles (around 3.2 km) of white-sand beach, you’ve got plenty of room to swim, lie on the sand, look for shells, or just enjoy the views. After spending the morning paddling through the mangroves, I was ready to do absolutely nothing for a while!

But if you’re feeling more energetic, the park has walking trails where you might spot birds or other wildlife. Plan to stay around 2 to 3 hours, then head back to your hotel for a shower and some downtime before your evening plans.

Remember, don’t take shells or live animals home. Some are protected, so if you’re not sure, ask before picking anything up.

Evening – Wander around Fort Myers River District

The Edison Bridge over Caloosahatchee River in Fort Myers
Buildings in downtown Fort Myers in the evening

Once you’ve had a chance to freshen up, head downtown to the Fort Myers River District, the city’s historic heart. This is one of our favorite areas to wander, with beautiful old buildings, cute local shops, art galleries, and plenty of restaurants and bars to discover along the way!

We think late afternoon is the perfect time to explore, especially as the Florida heat starts to ease. Take your time browsing the shops before heading to Centennial Park for a stroll along the Caloosahatchee River. We loved finding a bench by the water and watching the boats cruise beneath the bridge. It’s such a peaceful spot to slow down and enjoy the views!

As sunset approaches, make your way to The Firestone Skybar or Beacon Social Drinkery for a drink with a view. There’s something pretty special about watching the sky change colors over the river, and it’s a fantastic way to wrap up an afternoon of exploring downtown Fort Myers!

Dinner – Bruno’s of Brooklyn, Italian Eatery

Pasta eaten for dinner in Fort Myers, Florida
More cheese, please!
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Cheers!

After your aperitivo, head to Bruno’s of Brooklyn, Italian Eatery, one of the River District’s most popular Italian restaurants. Unlike the previous food spots, this one is a bit more upscale, yet still comfortable, with exposed brick walls and a relaxed vibe.

You’ve got big windows where you can see what’s going on in the kitchen, too! The menu has all the Italian comfort food you’d expect, including house-made meatballs piled high with fresh ricotta, melted mozzarella, and Parmigiano, plus shrimp with figs and spinach pasta – yum! Just be warned: the portions are huge, which isn’t a bad thing if you end up taking some leftovers home! Oh, and definitely try their espresso martini; it’s the best in the city!

The dining room is pretty small, and this place is popular, so waiting for a table isn’t unusual, but you can book ahead online if you don’t want to wait. They’re open until 10 pm every day, except on Sundays, when they close at 8 pm, so you’ll still have plenty of time for dinner and a good night’s sleep before tomorrow’s adventures. 

Day 2 

Breakfast – MoJoe’s Coffee Cafe

People hold up coffee at MoJoe's Coffee Cafe in Fort Myers Beach
Photo Credit: MoJoe’s Coffee Cafe
Burrito eaten for breakfast at MoJoe's Coffee Cafe in Fort Myers Beach
Photo Credit: MoJoe’s Coffee Cafe

Day 2 starts slowly with a hearty breakfast at MoJoe’s Coffee Cafe. This cozy coffee shop was hands down one of our favorite breakfast spots. It’s so quiet in the mornings that if you go right when they open, you’ll probably be the only one there, which is just how we liked it!

This is a food truck setup, but the food was delicious! I had the Sunrise Burrito and MoJoe’s Enchilada, but there’s plenty more to choose from, including omelets, French toast, cinnamon rolls, and biscuits with gravy. They also make some seriously strong specialty coffee to kickstart your day!

It opens at 7:30 am and is just a 20-minute drive from the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy breakfast before your first morning activity.

Morning – Explore the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve 

Many Cypress Tree Stumps seen at Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve in Fort Myers, Florida
You’ll see many Cypress Tree stumps
Red-headed woodpecker seen at the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve in Fort Myers Florida
We even spotted a Red-Headed woodpecker

Your first stop today is Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, about a 20-minute drive from breakfast. This beautiful 3,500-acre (1,415-hectare) wetland is one of the best places to experience Florida’s wild side, and you never know what wildlife you might spot!

The highlight is the 1.2-mile (1.9-kilometer) elevated boardwalk that winds through the cypress swamp, surrounded by towering trees and peaceful wetlands. Keep your eyes peeled for turtles, wading birds, and even alligators hiding in the water. We spotted a few ourselves, but we had to look pretty carefully to find them!

If you’ve got some extra time, check out the Butterfly Garden and Interpretive Center to learn more about the preserve and its wildlife.

Best of all, entry is free! Just keep in mind that parking costs around $1 USD per hour, up to $5 USD. We recommend 1–2 hours to explore, and visiting in the morning before the Florida heat really kicks in. Bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and take your time on the boardwalk. You never know what might be hiding just around the corner!

Afternoon – Your choice!

You’ve got a few free hours this afternoon, so pick the activity that sounds most like you! All of these tours start at 12 pm or later, so I’d recommend grabbing lunch nearby, whichever activity you choose.

Go sailing

Bailey-enjoys-a-drink-on-Fort-Myers-catamaran-cruise-tour-Florida
In my happy place!
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If you’re lucky, you’ll spot some dolphins

What better way to spend an afternoon in Florida than sailing along the coast? This 2-hour catamaran cruise sets off at 12:45 pm, so there’s no need to rush your morning!

We love a good catamaran cruise, and this one didn’t disappoint! We sailed past the Sanibel Island Lighthouse and Fort Myers Beach Pier, keeping our eyes peeled for dolphins, sea turtles, and even manatees. Along the way, our captain shared some fun facts about the area and its wildlife, which made the experience even better.

Non-alcoholic drinks are included, so grab one, sit back, and soak up those gorgeous coastal views. Now that’s our kind of afternoon!

Go parasailing 

People parasail with Ranalli Parasail Fort Myers Beach
Photo Credit: Ranalli Parasail Fort Myers Beach
Aerial view of Fort Myers Beach while parasailing
Photo Credit: Ranalli Parasail Fort Myers Beach

Want to see Fort Myers Beach from a whole new perspective? This parasailing adventure takes you soaring up to 400 feet (122 meters) above the Gulf of Mexico! The whole experience lasts about an hour, and while there are plenty of departure times, we think 12, 1, or 2 pm works best for today’s itinerary!

Don’t worry if you’ve never been parasailing before! All the gear and instructions are provided, and you can kick back on the boat and enjoy the coastal views while you wait your turn.

Once you’re up in the air, the views of Fort Myers Beach are incredible, and there’s something pretty special about floating high above that gorgeous turquoise water. With over a HUNDRED five-star reviews to match those sky-high views, this one’s a real crowd-pleaser!

Go shelling

Many shells on a beach seen on a tour from Fort Myers, Florida
This is the best place to find unique seashells
Bailey-swims-at-a-beach-in-Fort-Myers-Florida
 Big Hickory Island is also a great place to swim!

If you’re craving even more beach time, this 2-hour shelling tour is a fantastic choice! It leaves from Lovers Key Boat Ramp, and we’d aim for a 12 or 1 pm departure to make the most of your afternoon.

You’ll cruise over to Big Hickory Island, where you can hunt for beautiful seashells, sand dollars, and conches, or grab the provided snorkeling gear and explore underwater. There’s a huge variety of shells here, and your captain can help you identify some of your finds! Of course, you can always just kick back on the sand and soak up the sunshine.

The best part? It’s a private tour, so you’ll have the boat and captain all to yourselves. Sounds like a pretty perfect afternoon to us!

Evening – Grab oceanside sunset drinks

The beautiful sun setting on the shores of Fort Myers Beach
The sunsets here are stunning!

After a day filled with fun activities, tonight is all about taking it easy. And honestly, there’s no better way to relax than by the water, sipping a drink and watching the sunset. Luckily, Fort Myers Beach has lots of restaurants and beach bars right along the coast, so you won’t have to walk too far. 

If you don’t have a particular place in mind, keep walking until you find one that catches your eye. If you’re traveling with kids, keep them busy by looking for live music or other entertainment. That way, you can still sit back and relax while the kids are being kids. 

Otherwise, find a good spot, preferably outside on a patio, grab a drink, and enjoy the ocean. Simple, but fun!

Dinner – Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille

The outside of Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grill in Fort Myers Beach
Photo Credit: Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grill
A glass of wine held up at Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grill in Fort Myers Florida
Photo Credit: Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grill

Tonight’s dinner is at Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grill, a casual seafood spot right by the marina in the Fort Myers Beach area. We sat outside, which was lovely, but the inside is nicely decorated, too, with a fish tank and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the dock. But if the weather is nice, I’d definitely grab a table outside.

Their menu has a bit of everything, but go for seafood! We grabbed several different dishes because we just couldn’t decide. Try the panko Asian hogfish or the macadamia nut grouper. So delicious! The Yucatán shrimp is an absolute must-try, too. You won’t be able to resist dipping your bread in that sauce! Yum!

We also loved the live music, which added to the whole “island getaway” vibe. They have live music on most nights (check before you go), with a mix of classic rock, blues, and tropical beach acoustic covers.

They’re open until 10 pm, so you can take your time with dinner and still get some proper rest before your last day here, which we, of course, have packed with lots of fun activities!

Alternate Day Trip – Visit the Everglades 

An-airboat-passing-through-Everglades-on-a-tour-from-Fort-Myers-Florida
Exploring on an airboat
An-alligator-in-the-Everglades-National-Park-on-a-tour-from-Fort-Myers-Florida
We even saw an alligator!

If the Everglades is on your bucket list, this full-day tour from Fort Myers is an awesome way to experience it without planning a separate trip! It kicks off at 7:30 am and lasts around 9.5 hours, so grab some breakfast beforehand and get ready for a big day of adventure.

First up is an airboat ride through the Western Everglades, where you’ll zip through swamps and marshes searching for alligators, turtles, and birds. We spotted SO many gators, which was easily one of the highlights!

Next, you’ll explore Big Cypress National Preserve, where we loved walking through the ancient cypress forest. Comfortable shoes are a must here! You’ll also stop for lunch at Island Cafe, which has plenty of options, from burgers and fish to salads. We’d bring some extra snacks and water too, especially if you’re traveling with kids.

Another highlight was cruising through the Ten Thousand Islands, where we watched dolphins jumping out of the water and spotted an island covered in hundreds of white pelicans. It was incredible seeing so much wildlife in one day!

Our naturalist guide kept things interesting with stories and fun facts along the way, and the small group made the whole experience feel really relaxed. Hotel pickup and drop-off were another huge bonus, especially after such a busy day! Just keep in mind that this is only available from select hotels, so double-check when booking.

It’s a long day, but between the airboat ride, wildlife encounters, and gorgeous scenery, we thought it was absolutely worth it. If you only have one day to explore the Everglades, this is a fantastic way to make it count!

Why We Book Tours with Viator

Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:

  • Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
  • Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
  • Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
  • Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
  • Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.

                                               Day 3  

Breakfast – Bare Roots Coffee House

Bailey having coffee in Fort Myers, Florida
Starting my morning right
Quiche eaten at Bare Roots Coffee House in Fort Myers
Photo Credit: Bare Roots Coffee House

Need proper coffee to kickstart Day 3? Head to Bare Roots Coffee House, a popular, cozy local cafe downtown. It’s located just a 15-minute walk or a 5-minute drive from the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, your next activity.

If the weather’s nice, grab a seat outside on the shaded deck beneath the trees (trust us on this one!). Besides their specialty organic coffee, they have some seriously tasty pastries, too, especially the lemon blueberry and orange poppyseed bread. They also have gluten-free options, including quiches and cheese bread made with tapioca flour.

And since you have a long day ahead, I’d grab a couple of empanadas for later, too. They also make their own almond milk and oat milk completely from scratch, which is pretty rare nowadays.

They’re open from 7 am on weekdays and 8 am on weekends, and we suggest getting there right when they open to avoid the morning rush.

Morning – Explore the historic Edison and Ford Winter Estates 

Outside of the house at Edison & Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers copy
Photo Credit: Edison & Ford Winter Estates
The dining room inside Edison & Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, Florida copy
Photo Credit: Edison & Ford Winter Estates

For a fascinating glimpse into Fort Myers’ past, spend the morning exploring the Edison and Ford Winter Estates! These neighboring historic properties are packed with history, beautiful gardens, and plenty of interesting things to discover.

They open at 9 am, and a self-guided tour costs $28 USD, but guided tours are available too! You can check out the different tour options and book your tickets online before you go. We’d allow around 2–3 hours here to see everything without feeling rushed.

There’s lots to see, from the historic homes and laboratory to the museum and lush botanical gardens. One thing worth knowing is that the property is split across McGregor Boulevard, so you’ll need to cross the road to see everything. We were a little confused by the map at first, but once we figured that out, it was easy to navigate!

We especially loved the peaceful waterfront setting, where you can find a shady bench overlooking the river and just soak up the views for a while. It’s such a lovely spot to slow down and enjoy a quieter side of Fort Myers!

Lunch – REN’s Bistro

A croissant sandwich at Ren's Bistro in Fort Myers
Photo Credit: REN’s Bistro
An ice coffee at Ren's Bistro in Fort Myers
Photo Credit: REN’s Bistro

After exploring the Winter Estates, you’ll probably have worked up an appetite. I know I did! Luckily, REN’s Bistro is just nearby, and it’s a lovely little spot to stop for lunch.

This French-American bistro has a few Latin-inspired twists, with everything from flaky sourdough croissant sandwiches and fresh baguettes to fruity smoothies. Yum! We especially love the outdoor patio overlooking the Caloosahatchee River, so try to snag a table outside if you can.

REN’s is open from 8 am–3 pm every day except Monday, and seating is first-come, first-served. You might have to wait a little for a patio table, but we think it’s worth it! There’s also free parking on-site and along the street, so you won’t have to worry about finding somewhere to leave the car.

Afternoon – Hit the beach

Beach chairs at Fort Myers Beach
Fort Myers Beach is a great place to relax
Bailey-posing-for-a-photo-at-a-beach-in-Fort-Myers-Florida
Time to take a dip!

You can’t visit the Fort Myers area without spending some time on the beach. It’s Florida, after all! So, after lunch, it’s beach time. Think soft white sand, blue-green water, and a few hours with absolutely nothing to do, or a LOT to keep you busy, if you prefer. Several beaches fit the bill, depending on the kind of afternoon you’re after.

  • Fort Myers Beach – If this is your first time in the area, I’d probably start here. It stretches for 7 miles (about 11 km), with restaurants, shops, bars, and cafes all close by. It’s popular with families and people looking for water activities, so it can get busy, especially during peak season. But if you like having everything within easy reach, this is a good choice.
  • Bonita Beach Park – Bonita Beach is such a lovely spot for swimming or shell collecting without the usual beach crowds. Just be aware that the parking lot and amenities are currently closed for repairs. You can still walk to the beach from nearby Bonita Beach Access #1, though, so you can still enjoy some downtime here.
  • Bowditch Point Park – Bowditch Point is a great choice because you get water on both sides: the Gulf on one and the bay on the other. There are walking trails if you want to explore, plus some birdwatching. While the parking lot and park amenities are currently closed for restoration work, you can still walk to the beach. Just check the latest updates before heading over.

Whichever option you choose, leave yourself some time to head back to the hotel and freshen up before your evening plans. 

Evening – Relax on a sunset sail  

Bailey-and-Daniel-cheers-on-a-catamaran-at-sunset-in-Fort-Myers
Cheers!
Sunset seen on a catamaran tour in Fort Myers Florida
We saw the most amazing sunset

It’s your last evening in Fort Myers, and we can’t think of a better way to end the trip than sailing into the sunset! This 2-hour catamaran cruise was such a highlight for us, and trust us, it’s a pretty special way to spend your final evening.

The tour leaves from Getaway Marina near Fort Myers Beach, with departure times changing throughout the year to match the sunset. They typically range from around 3:45 pm to 5:45 pm or later, so check your booking and plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early. If you’ve got an earlier departure, just wrap up your beach time a little sooner!

Once on board, grab a cold soda (included!) and find yourself a good spot on deck. We loved watching Fort Myers Beach drift by as the sky slowly changed colors, and just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, dolphins showed up too! Talk about a picture-perfect Florida sunset.

Captain Joel and First Mate Sammy made the experience even better. They were so friendly and shared some fascinating stories about the local wildlife and their family’s commitment to protecting these beautiful waters.

After two hours on the water, you’ll be back on shore just in time to get ready for dinner. And don’t worry, we’ve saved something pretty special for your final meal in Fort Myers!

Dinner – JWB Grill

Dinning room with ocean view at JWB Grill
Photo Credit: JWB Grill
Shrimp eaten for dinner at JWB Grill in Fort Myers
Photo Credit: JWB Grill

For dinner, I’m sending you to JWB Grill in the Fort Myers Beach area, located on the second floor of the Margaritaville Beach Resort. Unlike the previous spots, this one is more upscale, and every seat comes with a view of the beach and the Gulf of Mexico. It’s perfect for a special occasion, a date night, or simply celebrating a well-spent time in Fort Myers.

The menu focuses on fresh seafood and premium specialty steaks, and portions are generous, so consider sharing a few dishes. If you’re a seafood fan, definitely go for the pan-seared grouper and ceviche or the seafood paella. But if you love your meat, opt for the specialty ribeye or Filet Oscar.

JWB Grill is open Sunday through Thursday until 9 pm, and on Friday and Saturday until 10 pm. Don’t rush it, though. Get a fine bottle from their upscale wine list or a custom espresso martini if that’s more to your liking, and enjoy the views through the massive wall-to-wall glass windows. If you’ve got to say goodbye to Fort Myers, you might as well do it in style!

Related Read: Looking for even more ways to fill your days? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Fort Myers for more fun activities, hidden gems, and must-visit spots!

Where to Stay in Fort Myers, Florida

Beach with sun chairs at Margaritaville Beach Resort Fort Myers Beach
Photo Credit: Margaritaville Beach Resort Fort Myers Beach
Pool area at Margaritaville Beach Resort Fort Myers Beach
Photo Credit: Margaritaville Beach Resort Fort Myers Beach

For this itinerary, 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.

Margaritaville Beach Resort Fort Myers Beach – $$$

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!

Lani Kai Island Resort – $$

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!

Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Myers Beach/Sanibel Gateway – $

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!

Book your Airport Taxi in advance

Start your trip stress-free by booking your airport taxi before you arrive. You’ll skip the long lines, avoid overpriced fares and scams, and won’t have to worry about explaining your hotel address to a driver. Simply prebook your airport pickup online here, and your driver will be ready to take you directly to your hotel!

Renting a Car in the USA

Car rental photo for the United States

The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.

We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in the USA

  • Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
  • Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
  • Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
  • Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.

What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA

  • A valid driver’s license from your home country.
  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
  • A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
  • Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.

Ready to hit the road and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms?

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Thanks for reading!

Daniel-and-Bailey-take-a-selfie-on-a-catamaran-cruise-from-fort-myers
Thanks for reading!

Who knew three days in Fort Myers could pack in so much? Dolphins, manatees, alligators, beautiful beaches, and enough delicious seafood to keep us coming back for more! Whether you’re chasing wildlife or simply chasing sunsets, this little slice of Florida has something special waiting for you. We hope you love it as much as we did!

Dreaming of more sunshine and adventures? We’ve got plenty more where that came from! Check out our other USA travel guides for more amazing destinations, fun activities, and travel tips. And if your bucket list isn’t long enough already, the blogs below should fix that!

12 Best Things to do in Panama City Beach, Florida

15 Best Things to do in Naples, Florida

Where to Stay in Destin, Florida: 4 Best Areas & Hotels

The Services We Recommend

From hotels to guided tours, we only recommend services we know and trust. Here are our recommended partners so you can explore with confidence.

Bailey and Daniel are the married couple who started this blog. They’re endlessly curious, always planning the next adventure, and happiest when they’re on the move. Travel isn’t something they do once or twice a year — it’s the way they’ve chosen to live their lives.

Learn more about Dan & Bailey

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