Best Beaches in Fort Myers | A Local’s Guide

Looking for the best beaches in Fort Myers? Whether you’re visiting Southwest Florida or a local looking for a new spot to spend the day, there are quite a few beaches worth considering. As a born-and-raised Fort Myers local and photographer, so I spend a lot of time at the beaches around here. I’m breaking down what makes each one worth visiting, from the easiest family-friendly spots to the best beaches for sunsets, shelling, and photography. There are also a few nearby Sanibel and Captiva beaches that are worth the short drive from Fort Myers.

Best Overall: Bowditch Point Park

Fees: Paid parking

Bowditch is really the beach I spend most of my time at and I think it’s the best overall. Located at the north end of Estero Island, it’s very easily accessible from Fort Myers. It has a good mix of natural scenery and amenities, and it’s undergoing construction soon to add more goodness! The only thing is it’s not my favorite for swimming, but for everything else I highly recommend exploring this beach park.

Best for Shelling: Bowman’s Beach

Fees: Sanibel toll and paid parking

Sanibel is known across the globe as one of the best shelling destinations. Which means Bowman’s Beach is definitely worth the drive during a low tide. It’s positioned perfectly where a lot of shells wash up here, use a tide website to find low tide and try to be there an hour early to start searching while the tide is going out.

Best for Dog Parents: Bonita Dog Beach

Fees: none

Most Fort Myers beaches don’t allow dogs and a select few allow them on leash or in certain areas. This is the only one that allows dogs off leash. The water here is beautiful but it does get crowded. It also requires a wade through water from the parking lot to the beach during higher tides. Here’s a page where you can see beaches where dogs are allowed on leash.

Best for Families: Lynn Hall Memorial Park

Fees: paid parking

At the time I’m writing this, the parking lot here is actually closed for construction. However, in summer of 2027 when they are finished I believe this will be the best beach for families. The parking is conveniently close to the beach, there are picnic tables, and there will be brand new restrooms for you and your kids. While many of the beaches are still recovering and rebuilding after recent hurricanes, it’s best to check current beach conditions here before you go.

Best for Nature Lovers & Swimming: Lovers Key

Fees: Park entry fee, paid by car

Lovers Key is an expansive state park with miles of natural coastline. It’s my favorite in the Fort Myers area for swimming because the water is clear and shallow. It’s also great for other adventures, with miles of trails and kayak access.

Best for Photos: Lighthouse Beach

Fees: Sanibel toll and parking

The Sanibel Lighthouse is a great stop for vacation photos with this historical lighthouse in the background. Get some photos with the beautiful palm trees that surround it as well! It’s also great for a beach day in general, a picnic would be amazing here, although it’s not my top choice for swimming or shelling.

Best for a Lively Beach Day: Time Square

Fees: Parking

If you’re looking for lively restaurants and gift shops, park near Time Square and hang out there. Here you can enjoy drinks with beach views, buy local merch, or grab an ice cream cone. It’s a popular spot for vacationers and spring breakers. You can find lots selling all day parking in this area.

Let’s Make Some Memories on the Gulf Coast

As a photographer here in Fort Myers, I’m at the beach taking pictures of couples and families every week! I mostly specialize in surprise marriage proposals, but whatever the occasion, I’d love to capture it for you. I’ve seen it all, from capturing vacation photos for extended families to engagements for local couples. If you’d like to start planning your Fort Myers beach photos, you can reach out here.