Fort Myers Beach won my heart

I’m an island girl. A beach baby. All my favourite places on this planet are surrounded by beach, beautiful vistas and water, so it’s no wonder I love Fort Myers Beach. The white sand beach seems to be never-ending, the ambiance of Fort Myers Beach as a destination or community is unpretentious, and it’s quite accessible to other parts of Florida, being just three hours (less than 200 miles) southwest of central Florida and our previous destination of Orlando.

We were fabulously fortunate to be hosted by the GullWing Beach Resort, located on a wide stretch of Fort Myers Beach. The GullWing is part of the Sunstream family of properties and exemplifies luxury travel in every way. Our expansive suite was so large, we occasionally got lost in it! The spacious screened-in lanai overlooked the beach, and it was just a short walk before we were immersed in the welcoming waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

our beachfront suite at the GullWing had a beautiful lanai

We also enjoyed the pool and the poolside hot tub. There are no restaurants on-site as the GullWing is a condominium property. Each suite is owned by individual owners, so decor varies from unit to unit. I can tell you that Suite 306, decorated throughout in shades of green and blue, was most pleasing to this nature-loving water baby.

Most of the “action” happens at the north end of Fort Myers Beach, just as you come off the  Matanzas Pass Bridge (also known as the “Sky Bridge” because it seems to touch the sky) onto Estero Blvd, the road running from the north end of Fort Myers Beach to the less populated southern end. The GullWing is located more towards the southern end of the strip, but just a short drive to the rest of the action. And we liked it that way. Less traffic, fewer people and more birds.

brown pelican enjoying the sun at the Fort Myers Beach pier

I do love the pier at the northern end of Fort Myers Beach. You see many kids and adults fishing, a few brown pelicans resting peacefully in the sun and a terrific view of the entire beach. And right at the foot of the pier, you’ll find Kilwin’s, who make terrific chocolate goodies. Try the dark chocolate “Sea Foam.” It reminded me of sponge toffee. Now, doesn’t that bring back some warm childhood memories? Kilwin’s is also famous for their fudge and ice cream. But I can only swear by the chocolate, and it was indeed, good.

Yes, you’re right! I hadn’t come to Fort Myers Beach strictly for the beach. (You know me better than that!) I came for the chocolate, as it was the next research stop for Chocolatour. What I found, is perhaps some of the best chocolate that has ever passed these chocolate-loving lips. Check out this post on details about that.

Please share your thoughts about Fort Myers Beach, your favourite place in Florida, pelicans, sponge toffee, or anything else that makes you smile.

Doreen Pendgracs

Known throughout the Web as the "Wizard of Words", I've been a freelance writer since 1993. I researched and wrote Volume I of Chocolatour that won a Readers' favourite Award in 2014. Always enjoy experiencing new destinations and flavours.

11 Responses

  1. Akdu says:

    Fort Myers Beach won my heart! The stunning white sands, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back vibe make it the perfect paradise getaway. Whether you’re soaking up the sun, enjoying water sports, or strolling along the lively pier, this slice of Florida heaven is a must-visit. Can’t wait to return!

  2. Lee says:

    I know this is one of your old posts but the picture of the pelican is a great pic. Pelicans are such silly birds just thinking about them makes me laugh. Lee
    Lee recently posted…Car Insurance Premiums dropMy Profile

  3. Thanks, Shirl (and Naldo)! Yes, chocolate is awesome in every way. This has definitely been the tastiest project I’ve ever worked on and is undoubtedly my calling in life. Thanks for following along with us. And stay tuned for more great chocolate revelations!

  4. I must say the Pelican knows its angles as if it was on a cycle of Bird’s Next Top Model. Hehe! It’s a great shot by the way. We’re just dropping by to wish you good luck on your quest to finding the best chocolate in the world. What you’re doing is awesome! Chocolates are awesome!

  5. Fort Myers is a beautiful area, thanks for sharing. It’s amazing how low real estate has gone in that area. It may be a great time to buy if you plan on being a snowbird.

    • Thanks for your comment, Daryl, and for joining the blog.

      I would definitely be interested in buying a snowbird property in Fort Myers — if I hadn’t bought that timeshare property in Vegas a couple of years ago. That is a mistake I am still living with.

  6. Thanks, and I hear you, Suzanne! We, too, have been waiting far too long for spring.

    I spoke to my colleague in Fort Myers today and he told me it is sunny & 85 degrees F. I could very happily live there.

  7. Amazing photo of the pelican. All the pictures are beautiful and enticing. Warm weather where art thou? I can’t wait for summer too come here!

  8. manny says:

    fantastic images! it reminds me of my childhood visit to Portugal and the smell of the ocean!

    • Thanks, Manny. Haven’t yet been to Portugal, but it is certainly on my list. So many people have had great things to say about it. Glad you’re enjoying our tasty travels here on the blog.

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