Fort Myers-Islands, Beaches & Neighborhoods’ recovery efforts from Hurricane Ian, which devastated the popular MICE and leisure destination last September, continue with a number of resorts reopening and attractions being restored or rebuilt.
The latest figures indicate that 68.4% of Lee County accommodations are now open, with 9,801 rooms available.
The following resort properties have reopened and are welcoming guests and meeting groups:
- Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort and Spa, Fort Myers
- Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina, Fort Myers Beach
- Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village, Cape Coral
- Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, Bonita Springs
- Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa, Captiva Island
In addition, this fall the area will welcome two new resorts: Margaritaville Beach Resort on Fort Myers Beach plans a fall 2023 opening, and South Seas Island Resort on Captiva Island plans to open in September 2023.
Recovery efforts at the destination’s iconic attractions also continue, with several being restored or rebuilt. For example, the Sanibel Lighthouse, constructed in 1884, is still standing tall with the relighting of the structure planned in the near future, and The Bokeelia Fishing Pier gate was rescued from the water by Pine Island and plans are underway to restore it. Wonder Gardens in Bonita Springs and the Mound House on Fort Myers Beach have opened to visitors. Many Lee County parks are open and welcoming visitors.
Captiva Cruises operates a reduced cruise schedule from McCarthy’s Marina on Captiva Island and Boca Grande. Cabbage Key is open, and guests can still have a cheeseburger and leave a dollar on the wall. Shelling tours, dolphin sunset tours, and kayaking are available through local outfitters.
Fort Myers’ Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) was recently named the best airport in the U.S. by Travel Lens. While it may not be the biggest airport in terms of area, (RSW) is currently the second-busiest single-runway airport in the country, with wait times of just 16 minutes and low pollution levels compared to other airports.
For more news of Fort Myers’ recovery efforts go to visitfortmyers.com.