My family took a chance on Fort Myers Beach, Florida. From the first glance, it looks like a little piece of paradise that needs a little work. The enormous palm trees, colorful tropical plants, mangrove trees, and fruit trees are amazing. The white grapefruit, and tangy lemon, lime, and orange trees are full of sweet, juicy goodness. Coming over the bridge to get onto the island and seeing the crystal baby blue waters, sent me in a sea trance. Exotic birds are seen in every corner of the barrier island. Don’t be surprised to see the long legged, 4ft. Great Blue Heron flying over your head, or a white or brown Pelican fishing in the Gulf, you may even see a bald eagle or white ibis take flight or land in your direction. I must admit the over priced homes are very appealing and comfortable.
Visitors
Many College Students come to Fort Myers Beach for Spring break starting in March. The main age groups that visit the beach are mainly older retirees who all get together here with other older couples. They double date and at night you’ll see them dancing on the balconies. Families with children bring the kids to the beach mainly in the off season. People drive from Canada to this little remote spot. You may bump into people from London and other countries as well.
Activities and Accomodations
The family can take boat tours to see the Manatee, Go surfing or parasailing are great things to do on Fort Myers Beach. ” Diamond Head Resort “is one of best higher end places to stay. “Gullwing Beach Resort” is one of the best family vacation spots on Fort Myers Beach because, it has a private beach front, and very nice swimming pool. Speaking of pools, an inexpensive little hideaway for kids that mainly the locals take their kids to is the Fort Myers Beach public swimming pool, next to “Bay Oaks Park” and recreation center. The pool is like a mini water park. It has a huge water slide, and a large simulated beach pool that does not go above 1 ft for the little kids who can not swim well. Your’e not allowed to bring in food but there is a concession stand where you can buy hot dogs, hamburgers, fries, candy, soda and etc.
To save money you can pack lunches instead..Leave the pool walk to the park eat your lunch and return to swimming fun. The admission for children and adults is only about $3.00-$5.00 dollars each. Children 3 and under no charge. When school is out, the kids can play at the school playground called “playworks” just remodeled in 2007. Off season prices are good for Santa Marina hotel. It is a very nice well kept hotel on the beach. Some of condos people live in. The rest are fully equipped condos for renting for the weekend or the week. It has all the amenities of home including a washing machine and dryer inside your condo suite. The beach is right across the street.
Publix Supermarket is right on the island. It is a smaller than usual Publix, but it has all you need, including beach supplies. The customer service is outstanding. There is a quaint local fresh fruit and vegetable stand, produce prices are reasonable. You can also rent motor bike vehicles to go up and down the island. A popular spot is the “Lani Kai” hotel It looks a bit downtrodden and crusty, nevertheless people enjoy it. Visitor’s room here and locals go to the little spot to dance, drink and socialize.
Food and Dining
The Island has a section nicknamed “Times Square” you can dine and party at night in the restaurants and bars serving fresh fish, local bands play while you enjoy treats on the menu. There is an area for tourists and the locals to get fast food McDonalds, Dairy Queen and Subway or the Waffle House, shop for t-shirts, souvenirs, a variety of swim suits and beach apparel to fit all sizes, including plus sizes. “Wings” is a popular spot that has all you need to enjoy the white sandy “man-made “beach. There is a CVS, and pizza place and small shopping center within walking distance. If you go a little ways off the beach near San Carlos Blvd you’ll find restaurant that doubles as a club at night called “The Bridge” where local reggae bands play , children are welcome, you can just dine upstairs or drink and dance to the band downstairs. This is the one and only place with a little culture on Fort Myers Beach.
Shopping
When exiting Fort Myers Beach heading toward Sanibel Island you will find “Tanger Outlet” Stores. These outlets include, Nike, Guess, Coach, and Liz Claiborne which has been know to have excellent deals on designer Liz Clairborne bags. I have picked up a few ranging from$10.00 to $20.00 dollars. When you’re tired from shopping , take a break at the coffee cafe in the same shopping center and have a decadent dessert and flavored frozen coffee.
Tip
When planning your next vacation to Fort Myers Beach, decide which time of the year is better for your family and easier on your budget . If you go in the summer which is off season between June and August things will be cheaper, and the town is less crowded, take note that it is rainy season, so pack an umbrella. Don’t let the rain spoil your fun, or ruin your day it rains off and on. More than likely it will clear up and you can enjoy for cool family vacation on Fort Myers Beach, in Florida.
