How Fort Myers Beach Became a Luxe Snowbird Destination

How Fort Myers Beach Became a Luxe Snowbird Destination

If you came here hoping to learn more about birds, you'd be sadly mistaken. In this case, a snowbird is a northerner that moves to the south during the winter. Where do people go exactly? That depends, but one particular place tends to stand out more than others: Fort Myers Beach.

Fort Myers Beach is a town on Estero Island in Lee County, Florida. This is an excellent place for a winter home. That is because the spot isn't overly crowded. According to the 2010 Census, the population of Fort Myers Beach was only 6,277. So, there is more than enough room for you to hit the beach to go fishing or swimming without feeling claustrophobic.

Community

Community is one of the reasons snowbirds have been coming to Southwest Florida for more than 100 years. As a result, people head to Lee County and other nearby locations to try and forge strong bonds. They look to become friends, neighbors, and even members of people's extended families. So, if a tight-knit community is important to you, consider moving to Fort Myers Beach. Then, you'll be like the other snowbirds who arrive, causing the population of the Sunshine State to jump by approximately five percent each year.

What About Your Car?

If you've chosen to move to Fort Myers Beach, have you decided how you'll get there? For instance, will you rent a moving truck and tow your car behind it? Or are you all about loading the bed of your pickup up to the brim and moving everything yourself? If you don't want to drive, you can get quotes from car shipping companies. Then, hire one of them to deliver your ride to its new home.

Now that you know about some of the ways to get your vehicle to southwest Florida, it is time to look at the reasons why Fort Myers Beach has become a luxe snowbird destination over the years.

Fun and Entertainment

Snowbirds also appreciate Fort Myers Beach because something always seems to be happening. You can make plans for a fun-filled evening in advance. Then again, if you're more of a spur-of-the-moment type of person, there's usually something going on to accommodate that taste too.

Regardless of what you like, there's a little something for everyone in Fort Myers Beach. For instance, if you love shopping, you have plenty of stores to check out the stores in the area. Other ways retirees can stay entertained in Southwest Florida include:

  • Folk concerts
  • Art festivals
  • Kayaking
  • Paddle-boarding
  • Boating
  • Fishing

If you’d rather spend your time indoors, you can still enjoy Fort Myers Beach. For example, Florida SouthWestern State College regularly offers free screenings of foreign, documentary, and independent films. And with campuses in Naples, Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, and Punta Gorda, hopefully, you won't have to travel very far to get to a showing.

White Sandy Beaches

People also choose Fort Myers Beach because of the white sandy beaches in the vicinity. The spots are perfect for taking in a sunrise or sunset. Or how about kicking back and watching the ocean splash about? If that's what you enjoy, who knows, you may even catch some seals, whales, or dolphins playing. That is sure to make the experience that much better. Southwest Florida is a luxe snowbird destination because of white sandy beaches nearby at:

  • Fort Myers Beach
  • Captiva Island
  • Boca Grande
  • Sanibel Island
  • Cape Coral

Cape Coral is bordered by the Caloosahatchee River. It is also considered the country's top destination to retire. So whether you wish to visit the beach to collect shells, watch a sunset, or catch a tan, the beaches near Fort Myers Beach have you covered.

More Attractions

Snowbirds appreciate all the attractions around Fort Myers Beach as well. They are part of the allure that draws people to the town. For those wanting some culture, there are museums and island tours. Individuals who want to try their luck can do so at the many casinos in the area. Are you searching for a more family-friendly attraction? Zoomers Amusement Park can be found in Fort Myers Beach too. It is an indoor/outdoor facility with a Family Fun Arcade.

Fort Myers Beach could also be the perfect place for sports fanatics to retire. That is because the Minnesota Twins spring training facility is in Fort Myers. Hence, at the right time of year, you'll be able to catch some games. In addition, if you attend practices, you may even get some of your favorite players to give you their autographs.

Forests and Parks

Fort Myers Beach is also the place to be if you want to become one with nature without the ocean being involved in the process. There are national forests and state parks in the area. They have hiking trails and camping areas for you to explore. Therefore, if you're into the great outdoors and the thought of Florida's wildlife excites you, you should think about finding a second home in Fort Myers Beach. Then, you can go on adventures to see what Mother Nature brings to the table in the Sunshine State.

Final Thoughts

These are some reasons why Fort Myers Beach has become a winter destination hot spot over the years. However, this list really only begins to scratch the surface. As such, you shouldn't be surprised if you discover other benefits after visiting this Southwest Florida town. Even if you don't wish to move immediately, you might want to plan a trip. That will allow you to see everything other snowbirds have seen up close. And then, you'll understand what makes this spot so special.