Guide to Fort Myers

'If you're seeking a tropical-style getaway that's a little less ordinary, Fort Myers has it all.'

Fort Myers has got so much going for it - it's hard to know where to begin. Snaking along the banks of the Caloosahatchee River in southwest Florida, this chilled-out town is a beguiling blend of exotic beaches, wonderful wildlife, superb sightseeing, elegant eateries and tiny, outlying desert isles. Dubbed the City of Palms, this holiday hotspot has heaps to do, whether you want to be up and about or kick back in tropical surroundings and do very little. If you've come to unwind, the beaches are where you want to be. Seemingly endless snow-white sands stretch alongside a crystal clear coastline that'll make your jaw drop to the floor. And these shimmering shores have plenty to keep you busy when you're not lying back in your own secluded spot. Take the plunge and try jet-skiing or parasailing. Go snorkelling and keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, manatees and sea turtles. Or stroll along the Fort Myers Pier, packed with fishermen and local pelicans, and just soak up the seaside ambience. Back in town, you'll find a hub of enticing eateries from waterfront cafe bars to gourmet chef-owned restaurants – all serving the local speciality, Gulf shrimp. If you fancy a spot of shopping, there are trendy boutiques, gift stores and shell shops, and don't miss the art deco treasures in Noel's Antiques or the antique curious at McGregor Antique Mall. Thomas Edison and Henry Ford put the town on the map when they chose Fort Myers as their winter getaway, and you can visit the Edison and Ford Winter Estates here incorporating the Edison and Ford historic homes, Edison's laboratory, a museum housing his famous inventions, a museum store and 20 acres of tropical gardens. And if you've got children with you, the Shell Factory and Nature Park in north Fort Myers and the Sun Splash Family Waterpark in nearby Cape Coral are a big hit. When the sun goes down, step out into the balmy evening breeze and bag yourself a seat at a rooftop bar or a sultry jazz haunt, or sip a cocktail at the glamorous Dolce Vita lounge. Cheers!

Back in town, you'll find a hub of enticing eateries from waterfront cafe bars to gourmet chef-owned restaurants – all serving the local speciality, Gulf shrimp. If you fancy a spot of shopping, there are trendy boutiques, gift stores and shell shops, and don't miss the art deco treasures in Noel's Antiques or the antique curious at McGregor Antique Mall. Thomas Edison and Henry Ford put the town on the map when they chose Fort Myers as their winter getaway and you can visit the Edison and Ford Winter Estates here incorporating the Edison and Ford historic homes, Edison's laboratory, a museum housing his famous inventions, a museum store and 20 acres of tropical gardens. And if you've got children with you, the Shell Factory and Nature Park in north Fort Myers and the Sun Splash Family Waterpark in nearby Cape Coral are a bit hit. When the sun goes down, step out into the balmy evening breeze and bag yourself a seat at a rooftop bar or a sultry jazz haunt, or sip a cocktail at the glamorous Dolce Vita lounge. Cheers!

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