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Island Guide

FORT MYERS BEACH

Gulf Beaches | Times Square | Sunsets on Estero Island

Fort Myers Beach sits on Estero Island, a seven-mile sliver of sand between the Gulf of Mexico and Estero Bay. The water is shallow and calm, the sand is soft enough to go barefoot all day, and nearly every evening ends with people wandering down to the shoreline to watch the sun go down. It’s also home base for most of our Florida rentals, so everything on this page is a short walk, bike ride, or trolley hop from your front door. The island has spent the last few years rebuilding, and it’s come back with fresh paint, new places to eat, and the same easygoing pace it’s always had.

know before you go

At a Glance

Where
Estero Island
Between the Gulf and Estero Bay
Beach
About 7 miles
Calm, shallow Gulf water
Getting around
Walk, bike, or trolley
Estero Boulevard runs end to end
Heart of the island
Times Square
North end, near the bridge
Drive from our rentals
Minutes away
Most homes are on the island
Best for
Families & groups
Easy, all-ages beach days
find it on the map

Where It Is

You’ll reach the island over the Matanzas Pass Bridge at the north end, which drops you right by Times Square. From there, Estero Boulevard runs the full length of the island down to the bridges toward Lovers Key. In season, the beach trolley is the easiest way up and down without fighting for parking.

What to expect

  • Spend a slow day on the sand: the Gulf here is shallow, warm, and good for little swimmers
  • Walk to Times Square for ice cream, souvenir shops, beach bars, and live music
  • Head to Bowditch Point Park at the north tip for a quieter beach and wide-open sunset views
  • Book a dolphin cruise, parasail ride, or jet ski tour from the marinas along the bay side
  • Hunt for shells at low tide, especially along the south end of the island
  • Catch the sunset from the beach, then stay out for dinner with your feet in the sand

Good to know

  • Leave the car at the rental when you can: parking near Times Square fills up fast in season
  • The bridges get busy on winter weekends, so plan off-island trips early in the morning
  • Pack reef-safe sunscreen and plenty of water; the sun is strong even in January
  • Shuffle your feet when you wade in summer to give stingrays a heads-up
  • The fishing pier is being rebuilt, so check before planning a pier day
pick your season

When to Go

Peak

Winter Season: January – April

Dry, sunny days in the 70s and low 80s. It’s the island’s busiest stretch, so book early and expect lively evenings.
Shoulder

Spring & Fall: May & November

Warm water, fewer crowds, and better rates. Some of the nicest beach weather of the year.
Quiet

Summer Days: June – October

Hot and humid with quick afternoon storms, but the Gulf is bathwater warm and the beach is all yours in the morning.
stay close by

Browse our Rentals

  • Private hot tub and pool at a Florida vacation rental – relax in a screened-in lanai with tropical surroundings
    Cozy, beachy vibes, with a heated pool & hot tub and lots of outdoor living space!
  • Monthly rental pool at Batiki West 403, a monthly rental in Fort Myers Beach, Florida
    Gated building with elevator and on-site parking, a heated pool overlooking the canal, beach chairs and towels by the door — and Times Square and Margaritaville an easy walk away.
    Stay awhile · 28+ nights
  • Steps to the beach, Margaritaville and Times Square — with two king suites and canal views waiting when you get back!
while you're here

More to Explore

Nearby in Fort Myers Beach, FL
All of Fort Myers Beach, FL

Our mountain range

common questions

FORT MYERS BEACH FAQ

Is Fort Myers Beach open after the hurricanes?
Yes. The island has done a lot of rebuilding, and beaches, restaurants, shops, and rentals are open and welcoming guests. You'll still see some construction, including the new fishing pier, but it doesn't get in the way of a beach day.
How long is Fort Myers Beach?
About seven miles, running the length of Estero Island from Bowditch Point Park at the north tip to the bridges toward Lovers Key in the south.
Do I need a car on Fort Myers Beach?
Not every day. A lot of what you'll want is walkable or bikeable, and the beach trolley runs up and down Estero Boulevard in season. A car is handy for day trips to Sanibel, Naples, or downtown Fort Myers.
What is Times Square on Fort Myers Beach?
It's the busy little hub at the north end of the island, packed with restaurants, beach bars, shops, and street performers. It's the place to go when you want some energy after a quiet beach day.
How far is Fort Myers Beach from the airport?
Plan on about 30 to 40 minutes from Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), depending on traffic.
stay with us

Stay Steps From the Sand on Fort Myers Beach

At Coast & Range, we specialize in vacation homes that feel just right — whether you’re gathering by the beach or unwinding in the mountains. Every property is carefully chosen and curated for families and friends who want a stay that’s as comfortable as it is memorable.

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