Summer time is for the locals on Fort Myers Beach
You may not have the time or money to get away for a weekend this summer… but we live where other people vacation, so why not have a staycation?
“My favorite part of summertime on Fort Myers Beach is the lack of tourists,” said Summer Stockton, a Fort Myers Beach resident.
“My favorite part about the off-season is feeling our sense of community get tighter,” said singer/songwriter and Fort Myers Beach resident, Sheena Brook. “It’s easier for South enders to take the ride up and see me play at Salty Crab or Cabanas. When something like a fundraiser or a party is happening on the beach over the summer, all the locals seem to come out and support each other. It’s really special.”
Summer is the time where Southwest Florida residents get to enjoy all of the amazing things that the area has to offer without the gaggle of tourists or the road rage inducing traffic, which makes it the perfect time for a staycation. Here are five things to do on Fort Myers Beach to have an amazing staycation:
1. Watch the sunset on the beach. There’s good reason that sunsets have inspired writers and romantics for centuries, they’re timelessly beautiful and never exactly the same. Mother Nature is arguably the finest artist. Watching the sunset allows you to be present and appreciate the moment.
2. Visit a historical site. A staycation is the perfect time to explore hidden gems and learn more about the area. The Mound House gives visitors a glimpse back thousands of years into history. The shells that the Calusa Native Americans used are what the Mound House is built on today, and the multi-level museum showcases Calusa artifacts as well as interactive exhibits.
3. Go to the movies. The Fort Myers Beach Theater is America’s first ever restaurant/theater. It’s a family owned theater that allows patrons to order while waiting for a movie to start.
4. Take a hike, bike ride or paddle trip. Lovers Key State Park features over five miles of multi-use trails through the maritime hammock. You can bring your own bicycle or rent one. If you’d prefer to be on the water, take a paddle trip through the 2.5-mile mangrove protected estuary. You may see wildlife like manatees, dolphins, alligators, ospreys, and bald eagles. Guided tours are available by appointment. Kayak, canoe and paddleboard rentals are available onsite.
5. Wander the streets like a tourist. There are enough shops and restaurants on Fort Myers Beach to fill an afternoon or a full day. Visit one of the many casual bars/restaurants, order yourself a pina colada (or another beverage associated with vacationing) and some delicious seafood. Then, you can finish up your day with some live music. You can check out the beach’s live music schedule in the Beach Bulletin.