Fort Myers Favorites: Restaurants, Beaches, and Nature

Fort Myers pairs a historic downtown dining scene with some of the best nature preserves in the region, plus easy access to Sanibel Island.

Where to Eat

• The Veranda - historic downtown venue in restored homes, known for shrimp and grits and pecan-crusted grouper
• Harold's Restaurant - global flavors at Gulf Coast Town Center
• The Melting Pot - cheese and chocolate fondue, tableside entrees
• Angelina's Ristorante - handmade pasta and an extensive wine list

Nature & Outdoors

• Six Mile Cypress Preserve - a 3,500-acre wetland sanctuary with elevated boardwalks
• Manatee Park - manatees seek refuge here in the warm waters during winter months

Beaches

• Fort Myers Beach - seven miles of shoreline on Estero Island
• Lovers Key State Park - secluded beaches and mangrove forests
• Sanibel Island beaches - Bowman's Beach, Blind Pass Beach, Lighthouse Beach Park, known for world-class shelling
• Bowditch Point Park - panoramic Gulf and Estero Bay views at the tip of Estero Island

Shopping & More

• Bell Tower Shops - an upscale outdoor center
• Miromar Outlets - over 140 designer and brand-name stores
• Good Time Charters - fishing charters and boat rentals for all experience levels
• Adventures in Paradise - guided kayak tours through mangrove tunnels