Decisions, decisions…..You’re planning that perfect get-a-way on Ft. Myers Beach on Estero Island. Now comes the moment of truth. Which resort on this slice of paradise should you book? You have read all the reviews, talked to every one who might have a hint of information, let alone actual knowledge on the subject and yet you are still second guessing yourself. Here is our two cents on where to stay if Ft. Myers Beach is your destination.
# 1 The Pink Shell Beach & Marina
Located at the northern tip of Fort Myers Beach, Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina lays on 1,500 feet of sugary white sand and provides each and every guest with a sweeping beachfront view. The resort is located on 12 acres with lush landscaping and is comprised of five buildings for a total of 213 rooms. Accommodations range from luxury villas and private condos to posh hotel rooms with fully equipped kitchenettes. On site numerous amenities include full service health and beauty spa, an underwater fantasy pool, tropical poolside bar and grill, free kayaks and paddle boards and a KiddsKammp, Offshore Sailing School, dolphin-sightseeing tours on WaveRunners. The Pink Shell features a new, state of the art marina with direct, deep water access to the Gulf of Mexico for those arriving by sea. It’s not cheap. In February a room for two will probably cost over $700.
#2 The Best Western Plus Beach Resort
Also located at the northern tip of Ft Myers Beach with immediate access to sugar-white sand beaches, The Best Western offers rates that might fit your budget a bit more comfortably. All rooms at this hotel feature a full kitchen and, more importantly its private balcony overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. A complimentary breakfast is offered each morning. free high-speed wireless Internet is available and a large heated out door pool overlooks the Gulf of Mexico. Convenient on-site amenities include assistance in rentals for water sports - wave-runners, sailboats, kayaks, paddle-boards and para sail equipment for your fun in the sun. On site facilities also include a picnic area with barbecue equipment and shuffleboard. You can get a room in February or March for under $400 if any are still available.
#3 The Neptune Inn
Located a bit further south, the Neptune Inn is a local icon on Ft. Myers Beach and has been a favorite family destination for nearly 50 years. This ‘Old Florida’ style inn is situated on an expansive, prime beachfront property and offers newly remodeled, spacious suites with private balconies with ocean or poolside views, kitchenettes, and flat screen TV’s. Neptune Inn features two full-sized heated pools, shuffleboard courts, gas grills and shaded picnic area as well as an on-site fitness center and courtesy business center. Though smaller than others in the area, this resort offers a less crowded venue for relaxation while still close enough to the action if you so desire. This time of year rates will run $300 and up. In summer it’s possible to get a room for as little as $100.
Bottom line
No matter which resort you decide on, you’ll have made a great choice. All are within walking distance of the historic Fort Myers Beach Pier, restaurants, shopping and entertainment. All are a short drive away from Broadway shows and world class orchestra and ballets. All are just a hop, skip and a jump down the road from famous Sanibel and Captiva Islands. All are a fisherman’s dream with access to off shore or in shore fishing, not to mention fishing right off the beach itself. All are a quick drive to the airport. All allow you to soak in the sun and relax your cares away. So if you are ready to enjoy the expansive sugar sand beach playing with your kids, building sandcastles or strolling with your special someone, go ahead and book your stay. Before you know it, you’ll be enjoying privacy under your own beach umbrella while simply relaxing and listening to the sounds of waves from the Gulf of Mexico.