Fort Myers Beach, FL
County: Lee
History
The history of Fort Myers Beach, Florida dates back to the early 20th century. The area was originally inhabited by the Calusa Native American tribe for thousands of years before the arrival of European explorers. Fort Myers Beach is located on Estero Island, a barrier island off the southwest coast of Florida.
In the late 19th century, after the Seminole Wars and the civil war, the area began to attract settlers. A group of pioneer families, including the Hendry, Johnson, and Glidden families, arrived in the area in the late 1800s. They started farming, fishing, and hunting, taking advantage of the natural resources the region had to offer.
The first known name for the area was Crescent Beach, given in 1885 by the surveyors for the planned South Florida Railroad. Later, it became known as Estero Island, named after the Estero Bay which borders the island on the eastern side.
In 1921, Fort Myers Beach was officially established as a town. The island's access improved with the construction of the first bridge connecting the mainland to Estero Island in 1924. The Matanzas Pass Bridge provided a vital link, making it easier for people to access the island and attracting more development.
During the booming 1920s, Fort Myers Beach became a popular vacation destination for tourists. The construction of hotels, restaurants, and other amenities began to shape the island into a tourist haven. However, like many other places, Fort Myers Beach was affected by the Great Depression in the 1930s, which slowed down its development.
In 1942, during World War II, the US Army established a military training base on the island called Fort Myers Beach Training Center. The base trained soldiers, including amphibious assault training for the D-Day invasion. After the war ended in 1945, the base was decommissioned, and the buildings were repurposed.
As Fort Myers Beach continued to grow in the following decades, it faced challenges such as hurricanes and erosion. Measures were taken to protect the island and its people from the natural elements, including beach renourishment projects and the building of seawalls.
Today, Fort Myers Beach is a vibrant and popular tourist destination known for its beautiful sandy beaches, fishing opportunities, water sports, and a variety of recreational activities. It continues to attract visitors from around the world, who come to enjoy the sun, sand, and natural beauty that this Gulf Coast paradise has to offer.
Attractions
Fort Myers Beach
A long stretch of white sandy beach where visitors can relax, swim, and soak up the sun.
Lovers Key State Park
A beautiful state park with beaches, trails, and opportunities for bird watching and wildlife spotting.
Times Square
A bustling area in downtown Fort Myers Beach with restaurants, shops, street performers, and live music.
Bowditch Point Park
A nature preserve and park with walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of Estero Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
Ostego Bay Marine Science Center
A small educational facility that offers exhibits on coastal ecology, marine life, and nature walks.
Mound House
An archaeological and historical site featuring a 2,000-year-old Calusa Indian shell mound, along with educational exhibits and guided tours.
Big M Casino
A casino cruise ship that offers gambling, live entertainment, and dining experiences.
The Pirate Cruise
A themed pirate cruise for families with interactive activities, storytelling, and treasure hunts.
Parasailing and Watersports
Fort Myers Beach offers various watersports activities, including parasailing, jet skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Fishing Charters
Visitors can book fishing charters to explore the abundant fishing opportunities in the area, including deep sea fishing and backwater fishing.
Climate
Fort Myers Beach, located on the southwestern coast of Florida, experiences a subtropical climate. The area enjoys warm temperatures throughout the year with mild winters and hot, humid summers.
The average temperature in Fort Myers Beach ranges from around 65°F (18°C) in winter to about 89°F (32°C) in summer. Winters are quite pleasant, with temperatures rarely dropping below 50°F (10°C). However, occasional cold fronts can bring cooler temperatures and occasional frost during the coldest months of December and January.
Summer in Fort Myers Beach is hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C). The area experiences frequent thunderstorms, especially in the afternoon or evening, providing relief from the heat. The rainy season usually falls between May and October, with September being the wettest month.
The coastal location of Fort Myers Beach plays a significant role in its climate. The Gulf of Mexico helps moderate temperatures throughout the year, preventing extreme heat or cold. However, it also brings higher humidity levels, making the climate feel warmer than the recorded temperatures.
Hurricane season runs from June to November, with the highest risk occurring between August and October. Though Fort Myers Beach is vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms, the area has efficient warning systems in place to ensure residents and visitors can prepare and evacuate if necessary.
Overall, Fort Myers Beach offers a warm and sunny climate ideal for outdoor activities year-round, with mild winters and hot summers.
Neighborhoods
Fort Myers Beach is a popular tourist destination located on Estero Island in southwest Florida. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, water sports, and relaxed atmosphere. Here are some of the main neighborhoods in Fort Myers Beach:
Times Square
Located at the northern end of the island, Times Square is the heart of Fort Myers Beach. It is a lively area with colorful buildings, numerous bars, restaurants, and shops. This bustling neighborhood is popular among tourists and offers a variety of entertainment options.
North End
Situated to the north of Times Square, the North End is known for its quieter and more residential vibe. It is a popular area for vacation rentals and offers a peaceful atmosphere with beautiful beaches and scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Mid Island
As the name suggests, Mid Island is located in the central portion of Fort Myers Beach. It is a mix of residential and commercial areas and offers a range of accommodation options, restaurants, and shops. The Mid Island area is less crowded than Times Square but still offers easy access to the beach.
South End
The South End of Fort Myers Beach stretches from the Publix Shopping Center to the southern tip of the island. It is primarily a residential area, with some vacation rentals and small accommodations. The South End offers a quieter atmosphere and is ideal for those seeking a more laid-back beach experience.
Bay Beach
Situated on the eastern side of Estero Island, Bay Beach is a residential area known for its canals and waterfront properties. It offers a peaceful neighborhood with access to the bay and some stunning views. The Bay Oaks Recreation Center, with its numerous sports facilities, is also located in this area.
These different neighborhoods in Fort Myers Beach offer their own distinct character and atmosphere, catering to a variety of preferences and interests. Whether you are looking for a lively beach town experience or a tranquil getaway, Fort Myers Beach has something to offer for everyone.