The Gulf Coast is one of the best places in Florida to spend a day by the water. From quiet nature preserves to famous shelling beaches, Lee County has a shoreline for every kind of beach day. Here is a friendly guide to some of the best beaches and beach parks near Fort Myers, with hours, parking, and a few tips to help you plan.
A quick note before you go: many of our beaches are still recovering from past storms. A few amenities may be closed or limited, so it is smart to pack water and beach shoes and to check the official park page before you head out. Lee County also runs a free Beach Park and Ride trolley, which is handy when parking is tight.
Bowditch Point Park (Fort Myers Beach)
At the northern tip of Estero Island, Bowditch Point Park gives you the Gulf on one side and the bay on the other. The 17-acre park has walking trails, restrooms, and easy access for wheelchairs and strollers. It is a calm spot for families who want sand without a big crowd.
Address: 50 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach. Hours: dawn to dusk. Parking: about $2 per hour, and the county annual pass works here.
Bunche Beach Preserve (Fort Myers)
If you love birds, tide pools, and “Old Florida” scenery, Bunche Beach is for you. This 718-acre tidal wetland on San Carlos Bay is a favorite for birdwatching, fishing, kayaking, and slow morning walks. Bring bug spray and a camera.
Address: 18201 John Morris Rd, Fort Myers. Hours: dawn to dusk. Parking: about $2 per hour, and the county annual pass works here.
Bonita Beach Park (Bonita Springs)
Bonita Beach Park sits at the southern tip of Bonita Beach and is a classic Gulf Coast swimming spot. You will find soft sand, showers, and a launch for kayaks and paddleboards. Restroom service may be limited while storm repairs continue, so plan ahead.
Address: 27954 Hickory Blvd, Bonita Springs. Hours: dawn to dusk. Parking: about $2 per hour; the county annual pass is not accepted here.
Bowman’s Beach (Sanibel)
Bowman’s Beach is one of Sanibel’s most loved beaches and a top spot for shelling. You will find a playground, picnic grills, and restrooms, plus room to spread out. Leashed dogs are welcome, so the whole family can come along. Note that you walk a short path from the parking lot to the sand.
Address: 1700 Bowmans Beach Rd, Sanibel. Hours: dawn to dusk. Parking: about $5 per hour, enforced around the clock; the county annual pass works here.
Turner Beach (Sanibel)
Turner Beach sits right by the bridge to Captiva and is famous for sunsets and jetty fishing. The water can move fast near the pass, so strong swimmers should stay close, and families with little ones should swim a bit down the beach where it is calmer.
Address: 17200 Captiva Dr, Sanibel. Hours: dawn to dusk. Parking: about $5 per hour, mobile pay only; the county annual pass works here.
Lovers Key State Park (Bonita Springs)
Lovers Key is a state park with about two miles of beach, calm water for kayaking, and the Black Island Trail for walkers and bikers. The Discovery Center is worth a stop with kids. The tram is no longer running, so you reach the beach on foot over the bridges, and there is no food or gift shop right now. It is a beautiful, natural place to spend the day.
Address: 8700 Estero Blvd, Bonita Springs. Hours: 8 a.m. to sunset, every day. Entry: $8 per vehicle. Phone: 239-707-6328.
A tip on Fort Myers Beach parking
The parking lot at Lynn Hall Memorial Park, next to Times Square, has been closed since April 2026 for repairs. If you are heading to that stretch of Fort Myers Beach, use the free Beach Park and Ride trolley instead of circling for a spot.
Frequently asked questions
Which beach is best for shelling? Sanibel’s Bowman’s Beach is the classic pick for shells. Early morning, after a low tide, is the best time to look.
Which beach is best for families with young kids? Bowditch Point Park has calm water and easy access, which makes it a gentle choice for little ones.
Are dogs allowed on the beach? Leashed dogs are welcome at Bowman’s Beach. Rules differ from beach to beach, so check the official page for your beach before you bring your pet.
How much does parking cost? Most Lee County beaches charge about $2 to $5 per hour. A Lee County annual beach parking pass is accepted at many of them.
Are the beaches fully open after the storms? Most beaches are open, but some amenities are still being repaired. Check the county park page for the latest before your visit.
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You can also read this month’s issue of Fort Myers Living and see what is happening on the Fort Myers events calendar. Planning a weekend? Check our latest This Weekend in Fort Myers roundup for more ideas.
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