Retiring Right - Fort Myers by Retiring Right

w it h Tane Cabe

Editor: Amy Randall Writer andResearch: KatherineBurke Designer: Ray AnneDionisio Project Management: LessDoingLLC

Churchill Mortgage Corporation 8805 North Harborview Drive, Suite 204 Gig Harbor, WA 98332 NMLS ID# 78590 Company NMLS ID # 1591 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org); AZ BK# 0926494; Branch ID: 993312; AZ-0121181; CA-813L007, Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under Churchill Mortgage Corporation, which will do business in California as Churchill Mortgage Home Loans; FL-MLDB3346; ID-MBL-8243; KY-MC358370; OK-MLB11372; OR-ML-5134-3; SC - MLB - 993312; TN-109305-124; TX?Mortgage Banker Branch Registration, 8805 N Harborview Dr, Ste 204, Gig Harbor, WA 98332-2146; VA?MC-5222, Churchill Mortgage Corporation of TN; WA-CL-993312; All other states, Churchill Mortgage Corporation TaneBlake Cabe NMLS ID: 78590; Company NMLS ID: 1591 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org); AZ BK# 0926494; Branch ID: 993312; AZ-0934599; CA-CA-DBO78590, Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under Churchill Mortgage Corporation, which will do business in California as Churchill Mortgage Home Loans; CO-100022135, Churchill Mortgage Corporation, 8805 N Harborview Dr, Ste 204, Gig Harbor, WA 98332-2146, Tel 253-853-5805, Regulated by the Division of Real Estate; FL-LO28248; ID-MLO-15742; KY-MC358371; MI-78590; OK-MLO14593; OR-Approved Mortgage Loan Originator; SC-MLO-78590; TN-117182; TX-Churchill Mortgage Corporaiton, 8805 N Harborview Dr, Ste 204, Gig Harbor, WA 98332-2146; VA-MLO-18164VA; WA-MLO-78590; All Other States: Churchill Mortgage Corporation

ISFORT MYERSYOUR NEW HOME?

The most common question I hear from people of retirement age is: "where should we retire?" This can be a challenging question to answer because there are so many reasons why retirees want to relocate. Sometimes it?s proximity to grandchildren or escaping the cold weather. Also at the top of the list is what you get for your money when it comes to real estate, avoiding high taxes, and having a reasonable cost of living. Other considerations are the proximity to state-of-the-art medical facilities, the availability of outdoor activities, the arts and entertainment scene, and an overall lifestyle an area provides. The list of aspects to consider when determining where to retire is endless! However, one thing is certain: the process of deciding where to retire can be overwhelming! I created Retiring Right to help guide people like you along this journey. In this ?Guide to Fort Myers Florida? you will find everything you need to explore the Fort Myers retirement lifestyle. The guide is full of information on everything from real estate prices to available medical facilities to must-visit restaurants. No matter where you plan to retire, Retiring Right is dedicated to educating you on all your options when it comes to making the right retirement choices. I would like to extend my personal thank you for reading this ?Guide to Fort Myers Florida." If you enjoy the guide and want more information, please email me: tane@retiringright.us. For more retirement guides and locations, please be sure and visit our website www.retiringright.us. Tane Cabe Founder and Executive Director www.Retiringright.us

Table of Contents What's Inside

Quick Facts

Real Estate: What You Get in Ft. Myers

History

The Art Scene

Dining and Nightlife

Accommodations

The Great Outdoors

Attractions

Relax and Recreate

Hospitals & Health Care

COMMUNITIES:

Index

Verandah

Pelican Preserve

Marina Bay

42 43

What's Inside Ft. Myers is the hidden jewel of Florida's Gulf Coast. It s unspoiled beauty and modern conveniences make the area a perfect fit for this next chapter of your life. Retiring Right w ill share our favorite places to explore and give you a sense of the kind of life you're destined to enjoy w hen you choose Ft. Myers for your next grand adventure.

Quick Facts: Population: 80,0 0 0 in Fort Myers and

determined by the home value which is

Florida Southwestern State College offers

620,0 0 0 for Lee County

set by the appraiser. Many factors can af-

some classes online for continuing edu-

fect property taxes, such as fees for spe-

cation as well. Finally, Nova Southeastern

cific services (ie. solid waste disposal,

has a branch in Fort Myers that allows au-

water management, sewer, storm water,

diting of certain courses.

Climate: Fort Myers' "tropical savanna" climate offers a respite from temperature extremes (especially at the low end of the thermometer)! With an average temperature of 75 degrees F, outdoor activities, especially of the aquatic kind, can be en-

and special improvements). For example, the tax on a $250,0 0 0 home would be $2,863 for a tax rate of 1.145%.

Transport ation: The city is convenient for travel, as it is served by the Southwest Florida International Airport (110 0 0 Ter-

joyed year-round. Winters are short and

Homestead Exemptions: There is a $50 0

minal Access Rd. 239-590 -480 0 ) which

warm with an average low of 65 F, and

widow/widower exemption, and residents

has direct flights from Atlanta, Chicago,

summers see average highs in the upper

age 65 and older may qualify for a

New York and other major hubs. Interna-

80 s and low 90 s. As with the rest of

$25,0 0 0 exemption based on the con-

tional service is available to Canada, Mex-

Florida, most of the year's rain falls in the

sumer price index.

ico, and Germany. Fort Myers is served by

summer with frequent thunderstorms.

Personal Property Tax: TPPT is only for

major freeways I-10 and I-95, and indirectly connected to I-75. LeeTran is the

Cost of Living: Below average

business owners.

Housing Cost: $137 per sq ft (average)

Religion: There are over 10 0 houses of

of the county. Fares are discounted 50 %

worship in Fort Myers. Almost 90 of those

for those 65 and older.

local bus service and runs through much

Sales Tax: 6%

are various Christian communities, inSales Tax Exemptions: Groceries and

cluding a Greek Orthodox congregation.

prescription drugs

Additionally, there are four synagogues, a

St ate Income Tax: None

mosque, a Hindu temple and a Baha'i

of 38 with the neighborhoods of Lincoln Park, Franklin Park and Winkler Safe Neighborhood having the highest ratings.

community. Est ate Tax: None Education: Fort Myers is host to several Inherit ance Tax: None

Walk Score: Fort Myers has a walk score

universities. Florida Gulf Coast University

Property Tax: In Lee County, the tax rate

allows those ages 60 + to audit classes for

hovers around 1.10 %, but property tax is

free as a non-degree seeking student.

Rent als: Discovery Village at the Forum and Renaissance Preserve both offer rentals. Discovery Village at the Forum's has some rentals that are inclusive of meals, utilities, transportation and housekeeping. The options are studios, one and two bedrooms at Discovery Village and one and two bedrooms at Renaissance Preserve. Rents start at $599 at Renaissance Preserve and at $360 0 at Discovery Village.

Real Estate: What You Get for Your Money in Fort Myers Deciding to move in retirement can be overwhelming! Many people find themselves on a fixed income for perhaps the first time in their lives, and making the decision to purchase a home can be a stressful one. Finding a home you love that fits your budget and allows the lifestyle you desire should be one of your top considerations when choosing a retirement destination. Read below to see what you can get for your money in Fort Myers!

Condos and Tow nhomes up to $20 0 ,0 0 0

Dow nload HomeScout to find your dream condo/ tow nhome under $20 0 ,0 0 0 !

Condos and Tow nhomes $20 0 ,0 0 0 - $30 0 ,0 0 0

Dow nload HomeScout to find your dream condo/ tow nhome under $30 0 ,0 0 0 !

Condos and Tow nhomes $30 0 ,0 0 0 - $40 0 ,0 0 0

Dow nload HomeScout to find your dream condo/ tow nhome under $40 0 ,0 0 0 ! 10

Det ached Homes $10 0 ,0 0 0 - $30 0 ,0 0 0

Dow nload HomeScout to find your dream det ached home under $30 0 ,0 0 0 ! 11

Det ached Homes $30 0 ,0 0 0 and up

Dow nload HomeScout to find your dream det ached home!

Tane Blake Cabe NMLS ID: 78590 ; Company NMLS ID: 1591 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org); AZ BK# 0 926494; Branch ID: 993312; AZ-0 934599; CA-CA-DBO78590, Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act, under Churchill Mortgage Corporation, which will do business in California as Churchill Mortgage Home Loans; CO-10 0 0 22135, Churchill Mortgage Corporation,880 5 N Harborview Dr, Ste 204, Gig Harbor, WA98332-2146, Tel253-853-580 5, Regulated by the Division of Real Estate; FL-LO28248; GA-570 0 8; ID-MLO-15742; KY-MC358371; MI-78590 ; OK-MLO14593; OR-Approved Mortgage Loan Originator; SC-MLO-78590 ; TN-117182; TX-Churchill Mortgage Corporation,880 5 N Harborview Dr, Ste 20 4, Gig Harbor, WA98332-2146; VA-MLO-18164VA; WA-MLO-78590 ; All Other States: Churchill Mortgage Corporation

History Long before the foundation of the city, the riverfront area was the site of several Seminole villages, which were sited on shell and earthen mounds made by the ancient Calusa people. During the American Indian Wars of the 1830 s, the United States built a wooden fort, one of the first along the Caloosahatchee River. Abandoned for a time, the fort was reoccupied by Union soldiers for two years during the Civil War. It served as a place of refuge for Union sympathizers and escaped slaves, and was the only federally occupied fort in south Florida. Abandoned once again, activity around the fort was renewed by Captain Manual A. Gonzales, who founded the first permanent post-war settlement. He had shipped supplies and carried the mail on his tiny sloop during the war and knew the area's potential. Captain Gonzales sailed from Key West to settle with his family near the fort, which by then was known as Fort Myers. There he operated a trading post, offering tobacco, beads, and gunpowder to Seminoles in exchange for bundles of otter, bobcat, deer, and alligator hides.

A community grew up around the trading post, which was incorporated as Fort Myers on August 12, 1885. At the time it boasted 349 residents. The fort, and town, was named after Col. Abraham Charles Myers, who was stationed in Florida for seven years and was the son-in-law of the fort's establisher and commander, Major General David E. Twiggs. Col. Myers was descended from Rabbi Moses Cohen, an emigrant from London to Charleston, South Carolina in the 1730 s. In 1885, Thomas Edison visited Fort Myers while on a boat trip, and soon purchased property on which he built a laboratory and his winter home, "Seminole Lodge." The historical museum and lush gardens are still major tourist draws. In 1898 New York department store magnate Hugh O'Neill built the majestic, ultra-modern Royal Palm Hotel. This luxury hotel established Fort Myers nationally as a winter resort destination.

In 1916 Henry Ford purchased the home next door to the Edison home and named it "the Mangoes." Ford and Edison, along with Harvey Firestone, worked together during WWI to find a natural source of rubber and the research was done in Fort Myers. In 1947, Mina Edison deeded Seminole Lodge to the City of Fort Myers, and in 1988, the city purchased Ford's "the Mangoes." The combined properties today are known as the Edison and Ford Winter Estates (2350 McGregor Blvd., 239-334-7419). Today the 20 -acre property houses Edison's botanical gardens, the Edison Botanic Research Lab, and the Edison Ford Museum. Other historic buildings include the newly restored Edison Main House, Guest House, Caretaker's House, and the Ford House. The historic landscaping is maintained as it was in 1929. History buffs will find themselves often revisiting the beautiful River district to enjoy the stately homes lining the Caloosahatchee River from the turn of the 20 th century. First among them is perhaps the Murphy-Burroughs House (250 5 First Street, 239-337-950 5), on the National Register of Historic Places. Now it is the subject of guided tours and is the perfect place to host weddings and other special events.

The Art Scene Fort Myers has an outstanding art scene, with colorful galleries, hip festivals, and classes galore. In fact, art and culture drive much of the local economy: Americans for the Arts estimates that in Fort Myers, nonprofit arts and culture generates $49.7 million in annual economic activity; 1,389 full-time equivalent jobs; and $6.7 million in local and state government revenue! Galleries abound throughout the downtown River District, which also delights with antique shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. One of the most prominent art districts in Southwest Florida, the River District is known for avant-garde, leading edge art in the tradition of Robert Rauschenberg. A premier art venue is the DAAS Co-Cop Art Gallery, showcasing the art of 30 members, and offering classes, workshops, and wine and painting nights. The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, also in the River District, is housed in a gorgeous 1930 ?s-era building that has been fully renovated. It is a rare example of Neoclassical Revival architecture but with a Florida twist: its massive columns were cut from Key West limestone, and the exterior walls are embedded with shells and coral. It is run by the non-profit Florida Arts, Inc., and brings world-class art events including concerts, galas, lectures, and free art exhibitions. The one-of-a-kind facility is also available for rental. The Arts for ACT is an award-winning gallery in historic downtown, featuring the distinctive and extraordinary art of a diverse group of over 75 co-op artists. It is owned by ACT, a domestic violence shelter.

The Alliance for the Arts hosts exhibitions, festivals, concerts, and many other programs. They offer a wonderful variety of art and music classes for every age and skill level. Theatre Conspiracy is their own resident theater company, which puts on shows ranging from classics to comedies to new works throughout the year. Art aficionados will return again and again to the Art Walk in the River District. On the first Friday of every month, rain or shine, First Street is closed to vehicles and instead hosts hundreds of art vendors. Thousands of art lovers flock to the open air art demonstrations, meet-the-artist receptions, and new exhibitions at the Patio de Leon, and the Oasis Condominiums. The street festival feeling is enhanced by live music and excellent food and spirits. The Walk culminates in a free Friday Night Live concert at Patio de Leon. Every February Fort Myers hosts the juried art festival Art Fest along the beautiful historic downtown waterfront. Admission is free to enjoy exceptional works of art, entertainment, and children's activities. For a fun art experience, head over to Painting with a Twist, where you can take a 2 or 3-hour class or book a private party, with discounts for seniors and children. Just bring yourself - they provide all painting supplies and detailed instructions. No experience or special skill necessary!

Fort Myers is surrounded by vibrant art communities. There are well over 125 art galleries within an hour's drive, in places such as Captiva Island (home to Rauschenberg from 1970 to 20 0 8), Marco Island, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, and Naples. Naples boasts two major districts. Fifth Avenue is known for classical masters and artwork from Haiti (and elsewhere in the Caribbean), Belize, and Africa. The Third Street South shopping district, including the fabled Gallery Row, is known for contemporary art. Closer to Fort Myers is Sanibel Island, which boasts Big Arts, which since 1979 has been the main venue for arts and culture on the island. Also in Sanibel is the professional co-op Tower Gallery, housed in a sweet little beach house built in 1926, and the beautiful Bailey Matthews National Shell Museum, the only shell museum in the US. You can also soak in the old Key West-like vibe in the colorful part fishing village, part art colony of Matlacha on nearby Pine Island.

Dining and Nightlife Dining

can be had at the Austrian-German Restaurant alongside other traditional favorites and imported beer and wine.

Dining in Fort Myers is a delight.

Satisfy your hankering for New England style seafood made by authentic Rhode Islanders at The Clam Bake.

There is something to suit everyone's taste, from elegant to casual, adventurous to comfort food. Fort Myers' restaurants boast a variety of cuisines from around the world, such as Caribbean, Mexican, Peruvian, Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, and Thai.

For a different take on seafood, along with American offerings, head to the Tarpon Lodge for fine dining in the atmospheric 1926 lodge. They also boast gorgeous waterfront sunset views.

Just a few local favorites are highlighted here. Make going out for breakfast an adventure by heading over to Sanibel Island to select from a huge variety of eggs benedict at Rosie's Cafe. They also serve wonderful lunches and dinners, and are known to have the best desserts on the island. For simpler fare, enjoy the fantastic fresh-roasted coffee and hand-cut donuts closer to home at Bennetts' Fresh Roast, co-owned by local radio personality C. David Bennett. If you're looking for mouth-watering down-home breakfasts, try Heavenly Biscuit in a cute little house near the beach. For lunch or dinner, there is a variety of choices to suit your mood. Truly excellent schnitzel, served nine different ways,

Cip's Place on Sanibel is another favorite for Seafood and American dishes. For local flavor, don't miss The Veranda, where you can enjoy elegant southern cuisine in a charming setting the restaurant resides in adjoined turn-of-the-20 th-century houses in historic downtown. For quirky, colorful settings and excellent cooking, head over to The Bubble Room on Captiva Island or the Island Cow at the southern tip of Sanibel. Don't let the Bubble Room's eye-popping decorations distract from the tasty sandwiches and burgers, made fresh daily. At the Island Cow, signature tropical drinks, games, live music, and a beachy vibe come with items from the extensive menu, which includes BBQ, pizza, seafood, sandwiches, and salads. (They also serve breakfast.) Also in the category of intriguing decor is Ford's Garage, which serves up mouth-watering burgers, steaks, and craft beers in a setting reminiscent of a 1920 s garage in historic downtown Fort Myers. If you are looking for a night out with excellent food and drinks, Harold's, by chef Harold Balink, cannot be missed. This small, upscale, and always in-demand restaurant serves creative, clean, farm-to-table fare that is as pleasing to the eye as to the palate. Also co-owed by Chef Balink is Cru, the place to see and be seen, offering excellent, inventive cuisine in a lovely and lively atmosphere. Fine Italian dining can be found at Ciboand also at the lovely Roadhouse Cafe, where live jazz and a chance to dance comes with your delicious meal. Phensri Thai offers delectable cuisine in a casual yet elegant setting. Fancy's Southern Cafe, like the Veranda, offers mouth-watering homemade soul food in a Southern chic atmosphere, with live music. (They serve equally good breakfasts and lunches.)

Nightlife The hip Firestone Grill Room and Sky Bar and the Roadhouse Cafe should be on your list for both an excellent meal and a fun night out. But you can also just park in downtown Fort Myers and stroll until you find a place to suit your fancy. You?ll find pubs, taverns, clubs, wine bars, cigar bars, breweries and more lining the antique brick streets. The diversity of bars at Gulf Coast Town Center (990 3 Gulf Coast Main St., 239-267-5107) make it another fun destination for a bar crawl. Take your pick of cigar bars, tequila bars, sushi bars, piano bars, and sports bars! For a laid-back beach party, head to the Cottage Beach Bar on Fort Myers beach, long a hub of beach nightlife. Enjoy fresh seafood, a table with a view, and live music nightly. Accessible by car, boat, or foot! Also try one of the many popular beach bars on Sanibel or Estero islands.

The Fort Myers Brewing Company was the first microbrewery in Lee County, and is now the biggest in the area. It has over twenty taps of award-winning brews, which you can enjoy while playing one of the games provided (like beanbag toss and giant Jenga), or while watching your favorite sport on TV. One of the most popular hangouts in town, people bring their own lawn chairs and blankets, and food trucks congregate nearby. The brewery hosts festivals and live music events throughout the year. If you love line dancing, put on your boots and head to the Dixie Roadhouse (10 23 SE 47th Terrace, Cape Coral, FL 3390 4, 239-541-790 0 ), where they offer free lessons every evening.

Accommodations Fort Myers' hotels and resorts have something to offer everyone, from the budget-conscious to the luxury traveler andvacationing families to couples looking for a romantic beach getaway. You will easily find a spot to put up visiting family, or take a mini-staycation yourself and enjoy a few days at one of Fort Myers' luxurious beach resorts.

Kid-Friendly Accommodations South Seas Island Resort, Captiva Island is surrounded by a 330 -acre wildlife preserve that was once a key lime plantation. South Seas prides itself on its stunning natural setting, its truly astonishing array of activities for guests, and its variety of accommodations that will suit every need, from honeymoon getaway to family vacation. Activities include kayaking, sailing, boating, bicycling, golfing, tennis, fishing, shelling, swimming, beach yoga, or of course simply strolling along the beach and admiring the dolphins and other wildlife. Accommodations range from rooms to suites to villas, condos, and homes. All have balconies and soaking tubs. The campus boasts a spa, dining, shopping, and three heated pools with water slides. At Skully's Family Interactive Center, children, teens, and adults can participate in crafts, games, and social events. It also hosts a summer kids program full of fun things to do.

from standard to two-room suite, features a full kitchen, a private Gulf-view balcony, and free WiFi. Enjoy the hotel?s complimentary daily breakfast, the outdoor heated pool, and rentals of wave-runners, sailboats, kayaks, paddleboards, or parasailing equipment. Staff are happy to arrange dolphin tours and fishing excursions for guests as well.

Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina is a full-service, destination resort, voted as a top resort by readers of Conde Nast Traveler. The resort offers one and two-bedroom condo-style suites, villas with washer-dryers and full kitchens, and studios with kitchenettes. All rooms come with two breakfasts each day, two drinks, two in-suite bottles of Voss water, a Pink Shell Resort beach bag, and daily beach lounge chair and umbrella rental. The resort fee provides WiFi, parking and valet services, and use of the steam room. The 12-acre grounds include three heated pools, with 0 -degree entry and waterfalls, a splash pad for kids, and a full-service spa. The resort offers lessons in paddle-boarding and sailing, dolphin tours on wave-runners, nature walks, fitness classes such as beach yoga, and stargazing activities. It also provides activities for children and families.

At Diamond Head you'll always find something to do. Work out in the fitness center or be pampered in the spa. Take a bicycle ride, play beach volleyball, take a beach yoga class, rent kayaks or jet skis, or take a parasail ride. The resort caters to families with their organized activities for children on the pool deck and in the playroom. Relax in your own cabana on the beach, or take an island tour with your family. The outdoor pool is heated and there are two hot tubs to enjoy. Onsite dining (two restaurants and a lounge) and shopping meet all your needs. One bedroom suites (standard or deluxe) sleep up to four and come with kitchens and beautiful views.

Guests at the Best Western Plus Beach Resort, a recipient of Trip Advisor's certificate of excellence, can enjoy the seclusion of a private beach at the north end of Estero Island. Its location is nevertheless convenient to all the dining, shopping, and amusements of Fort Myers Beach. Every room, 25

Sandpiper Gulf Resort on a beautiful beach front property on Estero island boasts two outdoor heated pools (one for families, one for adults only), a shuffleboard court, bean-bag toss, and beach volleyball. Make your own picnic at one of their complementary barbeque gas grills. Standard rooms, suites, and studios have kitchenettes and free WiFi, and all have Lanais or balconies. Splurge on the Penthouse suite with full kitchen and wrap around balconies with breathtaking views. Sandpiper has earned the Trip Advisor certificate of excellence.

The Neptune, directly on Fort Myers Beach, offers studio and one bedroom suites with full kitchenettes, and flat-screen TVs. Large families can rent the three-bedroom Executive Suite. Outside, the property has two full-size heated pools, shuffleboard courts, and complementary grills for guests. The Neptune's amenities also include free WiFi, free parking, a fitness center, and a sundries shop.

Families love Harbor House, a unique boutique inn and resort in Fort Myers Beach, just steps away from Times Square. Harbour House offers concierge service for 34 individually owned brand-new one and two bedroom condos. The two bedroom suites boast full kitchen. The property is convenient to the beach and has its own pool and jacuzzi. Outrigger Beach Resort in Fort Myers Beach is a family-friendly resort with Polynesian flair. It has 144 standard guest rooms and efficiencies, with the efficiencies located directly on the beach. Plentiful onsite dining choices include two restaurants, a cafe that serves the heated outdoor pool, and a beachside Tiki Bar that features live music daily. The Outrigger also offers its guests board games and beach cabana rentals. GullWing Beach Resort on the quiet south end of Estero Island has plenty of room for large families. It offers one, two, and three bedroom suites with full kitchen, private balcony, and a jacuzzi in the master bath. Amenities include the beachfront heated swimming pool, beach side snack bar, volleyball court, gazebo with complementary grill, beach cabana rentals and watersport rentals. The resort staff will happily arrange adventure tours for your family. GullWing is located on a trolley stop for easy access to the shopping, dining, and fun activities of Fort Myers Beach.

Romance and Resort s Tarpon Lodge opened in 1926 and still delights visitors with its Old Florida charm. Guests love the quiet ambiance and the spacious rooms from which they can soak in the views of Pine Island Sound. The lodge offers an outdoor swimming pool and a four-star restaurant. Rooms have free WiFi and Cable TV, and include Continental breakfast. Boat docking is available for a fee. It is convenient to the Alden Pines Golf Course, the Calusa Heritage Trail, a full service marina, and canoe/ kayak rentals. Sited near ancient mounds of the Calusa civilization, the lodge offers its guests Calusa ghost tours! Other romantic spots include the Lovers Key Resort on a small island, known for its lagoon-style heated pool and spa. Resort guests enjoy private beach access adjacent to Lovers Key State Park. Lovers Key Resort is both luxurious and economical; three different suite floor plans offer private balconies, relaxing spa tubs, and galley kitchens so that you can prepare your own meals. (Continental breakfast is included on weekdays from May 1 to Dec 15.) Extended-stay accommodations are available. The resort offers a multilingual staff and babysitting services. Marriott Sanibel Harbor offers luxurious and comfortable rooms and one-bedroom suites, all with private balconies and free WiFi access. Guests have access to a private yacht for brunch, dinner, or drinks. The Marriott steakhouse is also a superb choice for dinner. The resort boasts three outdoor pools (with poolside dining service) but guests can also head out to the nearby beach, take a walk on the nearby nature trail, or rent a kayak. Guests can pamper themselves at the on-site spa, offering a range of treatments that include children's?services. The resort offers a full schedule of fitness classes such as water aerobics, Yoga, and Pilates. Casa Ybel Resort on the white sand beaches of Sanibel Island offers all oceanfront one and two bedroom suites with kitchens. Guests can dine at the award-winning Thistle Lodge, indulge in beachside, poolside, or in-room massage, take a Yoga class, or enjoy the many games and activities organized by the resort. The resort keeps bikes available for guests, offers boat rentals and fishing excursions, and trolley rides to nearby shopping and dining. Watersport lovers can rent ocean kayaks, paddle boards, and jet skis. With onsite pool, tennis courts (with resident Pro for lessons) and pickleball courts, guests will always find something fun to do. Lani Kai Island Resort is a beach front hotel with standard rooms, suites, and studios with kitchenettes, all of which have private balconies. The resort offers a beach side playground for kids, but no pool. Lani Kai includes three restaurants: Island View Restaurant, Sabal Palm Bar & Grill, and Sun Deck Rooftop Lounge. Live entertainment seven days a week is offered at the restaurants and at Club Ohana.

Inns and Bed & Breakfast s The quaint and lovely Manatee Bay Inn earned Trip Advisor?s Certificate of Excellence six years in a row. The inn offers six one bedroom and studio apartments with kitchens, all decorated island style. All units overlook the tropical pool area and picturesque lagoon. Guests will be charmed by the manatees in the lagoon. Continental breakfast is included. Full of Old Florida charm and located between Historic Downtown Fort Myers and the Edison-Ford Estates, the historic Hibiscus House (built in 1923) is convenient to the fine dining and shopping of the city. Its well-appointed five bedrooms offer deluxe private baths and private exterior and interior entrances. The hotel welcomes children over the age of five. The hospitable Mango Street Inn provides its guests with a full gourmet breakfast six days a week. The inn offers six one and two bedroom suites, each with a full kitchen, living room-dining room combination, separate bedroom, and private bath. Guests can socialize in the common courtyard and enjoy the fire pit. Mango Street Inn welcomes weddings, family reunions, and other special events. The Beacon Beachfront Bed and Breakfast, another historic ?Old Florida? B&B in business since the 1940 s, sits directly on a private beach only two blocks from Fort Myers Beach Pier and Times Square and on the trolley route. It offers fifteen rooms in a range of styles, from beach cottage to suite to single room with double, queen, or king bed. Some rooms have an ocean view and some have a full kitchen, but all are provided with continental breakfast. All rooms are also equipped with free WiFi, AC/ Heat, cable TV, microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker & toaster.

The Great Outdoors Nature Preserves Away from town center, Fort Myers has several preserves where you can enjoy Florida?s natural beauty and variety of wildlife, many with accessible trails. The welcoming Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium (3450 Ortiz Avenue, Fort Myers, FL 3390 5, 239-275-3435) has a natural history museum and gift shop; three nature trails, most of which are wheelchair accessible; a Planetarium; butterfly and bird aviaries; as well as meeting and picnic areas. It boasts the only Planetarium south of Bradenton and west of Miami. The Calusa Center provides regular programs such as the Junior Ranger and school field trips as well as special events such as concerts and laser shows. The facilities and grounds are also available for meetings, parties, and picnics. The Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve (7751 Penzance Crossing, 239-533-7554) is a 350 0 -acre wetland collecting water from a 33 sq. mi. watershed of creeks and bayous. Home to fish, waterfowl, and plenty of alligators, the preserve offers an interpretive center and 1.2 mi. Boardwalk. San Carolos Bay-Bunche Beach Preserve (1820 1 John Morris Rd., 239-765-6794) is a 718-acre tidal wetland at the entrance to San Carlos Bay. This gorgeous preserve is ideal for bird-watching, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, hiking, swimming, and geocaching. It has a convenient ADA-accessible picnic area with parking and restrooms, and a charming boardwalk overlooking Rock Creek. Matanzas Pass Preserve (199 Bay Road, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931, 239-229-1610 ) is nearly 60 acres of unspoiled sanctuary in Fort Myers Beach. The preserve offers a little over a mile of interpreted trail that winds through an oak hammock and mangroves, and offers a shaded rest in the pavilion. Paddle in on your canoe or kayak and take advantage of the paddle craft landing provided by the Great Calusa Blueway. JN ?Ding? Darling National Wildlife Refuge stretches from Captiva to Sanibel Island and is known for its abundance of bird life. It includes an interpretive center with interactive exhibits on the local ecosystem and migratory birds, a Wildlife Drive for viewing from your car, and several hiking trails. The shell mound trail is an accessible wooden boardwalk with interpretation. The refuge also encloses a unique interior freshwater wetland called the Bailey Tract, which hosts its own trails. Tours are available. Activities suitable for the preserve include saltwater fishing, boating, kayak/canoeing, bicycling, nature photography, as well as bird watching. Fans of archeology will want to make Randell Research Center a regular stop. Located in Pineland on the western shores of Pine Island, it encompasses 67 acres at the center of a massive archaeological site that is more than 10 0 acres across. This is a shell mound of the pre-Columbian Calusa people. Following the Calusa Heritage Trail, visitors can learn about Calusa culture and their environment. A bookstore is open to the public, and volunteers and students can participate in the ongoing research programs of the Research Center.

Island Cruises and Dolphin Tours Take your visiting family on an adventure with one of the many boats available for tours or private charters in the waterways around Fort Myers. Adventures in Paradise, Inc offers shelling and lunch tours, fishing excursions, sea life encounters, dolphin watches, sunset dolphin cruises, and wedding cruises in addition to trolley tours.

Captiva Cruises on Capitva Island is a leader in ecotourism, keeping conservation at the core of their philosophy. They offer a variety of tours and excursions for wildlife viewing and island hopping, as well as romantic sunset tours with live entertainment.

The Fort Myers Princess, docked under the Sky Bridge on Fort Myers Beach, offers year-round tours for sightseeing and dolphin-watching. They also offer sunset party cruises, holiday and other specialty cruises, and private charters. All cruises include a full-service bar and snacks. Tropic Star Cruises offers cruises and adventures in Pine Island Sound and Charlotte Harbor. Boat tours are not the only thing on offer--visitors can rent cottages, kayaks, and use their boat ramp facilities. Enjoy a luxury excursion on Marriott?s 10 0 -foot private Sanibel Harbour Princess Yacht. Choose a romantic dinner cruise or an elaborate brunch buffet complete with delectable desserts. You can enjoy your tour from the outdoor observation deck or two indoor, air-conditioned salons.

Attractions Historic Fort Myers True Tours offers walking tours of historic Fort Myers, and happily accepts group reservations. Current tours include the River District, a haunted history tour, a ?Legends and Legacies? tour, and ?Fort Myers--A Modern Renaissance.? In 1885, Thomas Edison visited Fort Myers while on a boat trip and soon purchased property on which he built a laboratory and his winter home, ?Seminole Lodge.? In 1916 Henry Ford purchased the home next door and named it ?the Mangoes.? The two men, along with Harvey Firestone, worked together during World War I to find a natural source of rubber for the US, and much of the research was done in Fort Myers. In 1947, Mina Edison deeded Seminole Lodge to the City of Fort Myers, and in 1988, the city purchased Ford?s ?the Mangoes.? The combined properties today are known as the Edison and Ford Winter Estates (2350 McGregor Blvd., 239-334-7419). Today the 20 -acre property houses Edison?s botanical gardens, the Edison Botanic Research Lab, and the Edison-Ford Museum. Other historic buildings include the newly restored Edison Main House, Guest House, Caretaker?s House, and the Ford House. The historic landscaping is maintained as it was in 1929. History buffs will find themselves often revisiting the beautiful River district to enjoy the stately homes lining the Caloosahatchee River from the turn of the 20 th century. First among them is perhaps the Murphy-Burroughs House (250 5 First Street, 239-337-950 5), on the National Register of Historic Places. This house was Ft. Myers?first year-round luxury home, built in the Georgian Revival style in 190 1 for John T. Murphy, a cattle rancher. Now it is the subject of guided tours and is the perfect place to host weddings and other special events. Also in the River District, Butterfly Estates (1815 Fowler St, Fort Myers, FL 3390 1, 239-690 -2359) is proud to be the only not-for-profit organization dedicated to protecting, preserving, and populating butterfly species that are native to Florida. All of the butterflies are hand-raised in a conservatory. The grounds offer another beautiful spot for special events, including weddings. There is also an on-site gift shop.

Museums Fort Myers has excellent museums for the curious. Children and adults alike will delight in the Imaginarium History and Science Center, which is currently merging with the Southwest Florida Museum of History. The Imaginarium contains over 60 hands-on exhibits including numerous ?living lab? animal exhibits, animal encounter shows, ?Sea-to-See? touch tanks, and a theater experience re-imagining Jules Verne?s 20,0 0 0 Leagues Under the Sea. Architecture lovers will enjoy the Idea Lab Engineering Design Studio, which encourages hands-on building experiments. Outside, the Backyard Nature exhibit and Fisheye Lagoon educate visitors about Florida?s ecosystems. Discounts are offered for seniors and the museum is free for children 2 and under. The Lee County Black Historical Society (1936 Henderson Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33916) should not be missed. Janice Cass established the museum in 1994 to both provide Fort Myers its own Black History Museum and give African-Americans in Lee County a way to celebrate Black History Month. The museum documents and celebrates the African American experience in Lee County, and hosts several events throughout the year such as the Legends Gala, Juneteenth, and Holiday in the Park. Sanibel island has its own museums of note. Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum (3075 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, FL 33957, 239-395-2233) offers over 30 permanent and temporary exhibits on shells in history, culture, art, design, medicine, and more? but it is not just about shells! Live touch tanks and beach walks with resident marine biologists delight visitors and educate them about southwest Florida?s marine animal and plant life. Nearby you will want to check out Sanibel Historical Museum & Village (950 Dunlop Road, Sanibel, FL 33957, 239-472-4648). The museum?s vibrant exhibits recount Sanibel?s history from the time of the precolumbian Calusa people to the days of the Spanish, to the early English and other pioneer families who settled on the island in the late 170 0 s and 180 0 s.

Relax and Recreate Golf Courses Fort Myers is a golfer?s dream. You are sure to find a club with a course that suits your skills and ideal atmosphere. The Plantation Golf and Country Club is a private 18-hole, par 72 golf course of casual elegance designed by the award winning team of Dr. Michael Hurdzan, ASGCA, and Dana Fry. Take lessons from golf masters and enjoy the pro shop in the charming club house. Dining at the newly renovated great house is not to be missed. Guests are seated either in the spacious air-conditioned dining room or the pleasant terrace overlooking the club?s ?Sunset Lagoon.? The gorgeous palmetto-studded grounds are an ideal setting for weddings and banquets. Heritage Palms Golf and Country Club offers an Azinger/ Lewis Designed course that features 36 holes of championship golf centered around a 37-acre lake, a full service golf pro shop, driving range, and two practice putting greens. They offer the Chelsea automated tee time system. This formal, elegant club requires that members abide by the dress code. There are two guest restaurants onsite. The Heritage Palms course is surrounded by homes of the lovely Heritage Palm community, which include single family homes, luxury twin villas, two-story veranda homes, and four-story terrace condominiums.

The Gateway Golf and Country Club offers members a signature 20 -hole Tom Fabio designed course. It is considered to have one of the best greens in Florida. The club offers a state-of-the-art practice facility, the NBC golf academy, fitness and exercise classes, and daily games and events. Members and their guests who dine at the club can enjoy Chef Dan Lavalle?s delicious signature dishes. Kids?Camp provides excellent instruction in golf, tennis, and swimming during the summer months, and is open to non-members. Gateway Country Club?s beautiful facilities are an ideal place to host a wedding or banquet. The Eagle Ridge Golf Club boasts a course on a 6,50 0 -yard championship layout framed by native pine and cypress trees, and laced with lakes and waterways. It is open to members, their guests, and the public, and is considered one of the best valued course in the area. The clubhouse offers quality food and beverage services and other amenities. Instructors are available, and there is usually a golf special on offer? check the website! The Eastwood Golf Course is Fort Myers?premier public course, owned and operated by the city. The 18-hole course designed by Robert Von Hagge and Bruce Devlin sits on 150 acres and has been ranked among the top 10 0 public courses by Golf Digest. A driving range and practice green are at visitors?disposal, and golf lessons are available from PGA-certified professionals. The beautiful new clubhouse boasts a fully stocked golf shop. Hungry golfers will be sure to enjoy the selections at the 19th-hole Cafe.

Beaches Fort Myers abounds in white sand with over fifty miles of pristine, sparkling, tranquil beaches. They are perfect for chilling out with your favorite book, superb for wildlife watching, and fantastic for aquatic sports. Many beaches offer rentals of paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes. Lynn Hall Memorial Park is a popular family-friendly beach centrally located in Fort Myers Beach and convenient to restaurants, bars, and shopping in the adjacent pedestrian mall known as ?Times Square.? Facilities include showers, changing rooms, restrooms, grills, sheltered picnic tables, volleyball courts, and a ship-shaped playground. The park includes Fort Myers Pier, a licensed, 560 -foot fishing pier with its own bait/gift shop. Visitors enjoy a variety of watersports off of the beautiful 60 0 feet of white sandy shore.

Bowditch Point Park is a mangrove-enclosed beach on the northern tip of Fort Myers beach, on Estero Island. It offers kayak and canoe rentals, as well as a concession stand and restrooms. Excellent for wildlife watching (as well as boat watching), the park is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail and includes interpreted walking trails. A popular spot for aquatic sports is the Causeway Islands, where you can camp out all day and pursue wind surfing, kite surfing, fishing, skiing, wading, swimming, picnicking (picnic tables provided, but bring your own grill), canoeing/ kayaking, shelling, sunbathing or of course, relaxing in the shade with a beautiful view. Lighthouse Beach Park on Sanibel is the most photographed site on Sanibel Island. The recently renovated, 120 -year-old functioning lighthouse is closed to visitors, but is marked with interpretive signs. Wetlands around the lighthouse are snaked with nature trails and boardwalks. Facilities include accessible parking, restrooms, and a small fishing pier. One of the most romantic beaches is Captiva Island Beach, with its miles of shell-strewn shore off of which dolphins can often be spotted playing. A pontoon boat floating just offshore sells snacks and drinks. Local favorites for shelling and fishing include the barrier islands off of Sanibel and Captiva, which are also nesting grounds for Loggerhead turtles. Bowman Beach on Sanibel Island is isolated and tranquil, with little development to mar its natural beauty. Miles of sand beckon visitors to take long walks, collecting shells and admiring sea birds. Public amenities such as parking, picnic tables, grills, pay phone, bathrooms, and bike racks make it convenient to use. Visitors should note that the parking lot is a 5-minute walk from the beach. Saltwater fishing requires a license but can be done from shore, and is free for Florida residents.

Baseball fans can get their fix right in town, as Fort Myers is fortunate to host two teams for spring training. Fans can see the Minnesota Twins at Hammond Stadium, or the Boston Red Sox at JetBlue Park.

Bicycles Cycling enthusiasts will enjoy the large network of bicycle routes in the city. Those who prefer quieter rides will enjoy the Tour de Park, consisting of two bike trails that connect six major parks within and around Fort Myers. Nearby Sanibel Island is also easy to cycle, with numerous pleasant bike paths for leisurely Sunday rides.

Shopping Shoppers will find so much to do in Fort Myers. From luxury brand outlets to chic boutiques to flea markets to souvenir shops, the city has every kind of shop you can imagine. Spacious outdoor malls with bustling restaurants and cafes are destination shopping establishments where you will want to spend the afternoon. Chief among them are Bell Tower Shops

Event s Fort Myers?Annual Golf Classic is a best ball scramble hosted by the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce every fall. It features a helicopter golf ball drop, ?Taste of the Chamber? lunch for players, and culminates in an awards ceremony and cocktail hour on the 10 th tee box. The Annual Holiday in the Park is hosted by the city at beautiful Roberto Clemente Park, featuring the Soul Santa & Elves Fire Truck Parade, a community choir concert, tree lighting, and Christmas ornament display.

(Daniels Pkwy & US 41, 239-489-1221) and Gulf Coast Town Center (990 3 Gulf Coast Main St., 239-267-5107). The Bell Tower Shops are arranged like a Roman piazza, with over fifty shops, restaurants, and bars. The Gulf Cost Town Center boasts every major brand label you can think of, surrounded by several big box stores. It also has myriad excellent bars and restaurants including popular chains like Carrabba?s and P.F. Chang?s, as well as local favorites. After an afternoon of shopping and a nice dinner out you can relax in front of a movie at the Regal Gulf Coast Stadium 16 & IMAX in the same mall.

Entert ainment Fort Myers has nothing lacking for entertainment. There is always a show to see or a musical performance to hear. The Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Center (13350 FSW Pkwy, 239-481-4849), on the campus of Florida SouthWestern State College, is the largest venue in the area. It hosts traveling broadway plays and musicals as well as local talent. Season tickets are available. The Broadway Palm Dinner Theater (1380 Colonial Blvd., 239-278-4422) also puts on Broadway and off-Broadway musicals as well as excellent Children?s theater. The food is good, too! Shows at the Florida Repertory Theater and Arcade Theater (2268 Bay St., 239-332-4488), housed in the 190 8 Arcade Theater, are routinely sold out.

For a completely different feel, head to Times Square at Fort Myers Beach (30 Estero Blvd.). This pedestrian mall at the north end of Fort Myers Beach is great for beach gear and trinkets. Browsing the Florida-themed snow globes and beach towels may warm you up for the bargain-hunter?s dream, Fleamasters (4135 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, 239-334-70 0 1). This gargantuan shopping space is 40 0,0 0 0 square feet containing over 90 0 stalls selling everything under the sun. Imagine it, and someone is sure to be selling it at Fleamasters. At the other end of the spectrum is a small shop that shouldn?t be missed. Norman Love Confection (11380 Lindbergh Blvd., 239-561-7215) carries locally-made, to-die-for chocolate confections that are perfect as a gift for yourself or someone special.

Music lovers will not be disappointed by Southwest Florida Symphony (8290 College Parkway Ste. 10 3, 239-418-0 996), Lee County?s professional orchestra. If orchestral music isn?t for you, there?s always the popular The Buddha (1270 1 McGregor Blvd., 239-482-8565) rock club and live music venue. 36

Hospitals & Health Care Fort Myers is home to numerous hospitals and medical facilities to meet the needs of its residents. Chief among them is the Gulf Coast Medical Center (13681 Doctor?s Way, 239-343-10 0 0 ). Established in 20 0 9 as a general medical and surgical facility, Gulf Coast Medical Center is ranked among the best regional hospitals, boasting #14 in the entire state of Florida. US News deems it high performing in 9 adult procedures and conditions. It also scored high in patient safety, demonstrating commitment to reducing accidents and medical mistakes. Ranking with Gulf Coast Medical Center is Lee Memorial Hospital (2776 South Cleveland Ave., 239-343-20 0 0 ), a general medical and surgical facility also ranked by US News as high performing in 9 adult procedures and conditions and scoring high in patient safety. Right on their campus one can find the Golisano Children?s Hospital of Southwest Florida (9981 S Healthpark Dr, Fort Myers FL, 3390 8, 239-60 3-7430 ), providing comprehensive pediatric care services. Nursing care can be obtained at HealthPark Medical Center (9981 S Healthpark Dr, Fort Myers, FL, 3390 8, 239-60 3-7430 ), a skilled 112-bed nursing facility providing rehabilitative treatments. Promise Hospital of Fort Myers (30 50 Champion Ring Road, 239-313-290 0 ) is a long-term acute-care facility specializing in Intensive Care, CardioPulmonary Care, Complex Wound Care, and Rehabilitation Therapies. Compassionate psychiatric care, both inpatient and outpatient, is available a Park Royal Hospital (9241 Park Royal Dr, 855-564-0 136). They specialize in care for adults and senior adults. More than a walk-in clinic, TLC Medical Center (20 40 Collier Ave, Suite A, 239-215-3940 ) is a full-service medical facility providing physical exams, immunizations, lab tests, DNA testing, physical therapy, massage, a weight-loss clinic, in addition to its walk-in clinic.

Communities Blue water. White sand. Green golf courses. Tropical breezes. Sun and warmth. Flowers, palm trees, and a relaxed way of life. You have chosen this magazine because Fort Myers intrigues you, and it should. The active adult communities in Fort Myers resemble resorts more than neighborhoods, yet they maintain a homey feel with excellent social opportunities. Although there are more than 20 communities, we are showcasing the creme de la creme with the following 3 communities. They are top rated with the best builders in the industry. There is no shortage of amenities, housing choices, activities, and more. Peruse. Find something you like. We'll see you here.

Verandah Verandah is a gated community situated on tranquil preserves right along the Orange River, ten minutes from downtown Fort Myers. Developed by Bonita Bay Group, this green living community opened in 20 0 3, and will have approximately 1,70 0 homes upon completion. Verandah?s master-planned community sits on 1,456 acres of natural Florida landscape surrounded by beautiful oaks and sunny river fronts. Verandah encompasses nine miles of scenic walking trails. On State Road 80 just east of I-75, its location is convenient to shopping, dining, travel, and leisure activities. The adjacent Shops of Verandah include a Publix grocery store, parks, and boat facilities. The Lee County Civic Center is a short drive away. The Southwest Florida International Airport is only 10 -15 minutes away, and gorgeous beaches are 20 minutes away, as is Florida Gulf Coast University. From hobby groups to exercise clubs, this neighborhood provides a social and active lifestyle perfect for any homebuyer. Verandah employs a full-time activities director who plans both on-site activities and excursions such as spring training games, seminars, pub-crawls, and Broadway shows. Several social clubs enjoyed by residents include Texas hold ?em, bridge, Mah Jongg, beading club, photography, art club, Bible study group, technology class, horseback riding, and kayaking. Verandah?s River Village is the center of all community activities. Rather than a single clubhouse, River Village is comprised of a clubhouse, Golf House, and River House connected by picturesque boardwalks and trails wending through the natural landscape. The clubhouse has state-of-the-art facilities including a group fitness studio, an exercise room with cardiovascular and strength-training equipment (where personal fitness training is available), a junior Olympic-sized outdoor pool, five lighted Har-Tru tennis courts (where tennis lessons are available), and a tennis pro shop. Verandah?s day spa is housed in the club house, providing massages, manicures, and facials. Nearby, residents can relax at the dog park or enjoy the playground. River House is home to the River House Restaurant and River House Lounge. It has its own canoe and kayak launch, and is a prime fishing location. With its elegant dĂŠcor and stunning riverfront setting, River House is perfect for hosting weddings, banquets, holiday parties, and other special occasions. The Golf House is home to a pro shop and the Old Orange and Whispering Oaks golf courses. The Old Orange is Verandah?s first 18-hole championship golf course, designed by Bob Cupp. Whispering Oaks, also a world-class golf course, was designed by professional golfers Jack Nicklaus II and his father, Jack Nicklaus.

Verandah will have 1,70 0 homes developed by a variety of highly-respected builders such as D.R. Horton, Neal Communities, Kolter Homes, and Wyman Stokes. Verandah offers custom and traditional single-family homes, villas, and coach homes throughout twenty-two neighborhoods, providing a home for every taste and need. Floor plans offer anywhere from two to five bedrooms and two to four bathrooms.

Pelican Preserve Pelican Preserve is a master-planned community for those 55 and better. Begun in 20 0 1, it was originally named Sun City Fort Myers. Located just off I-75, Pelican Preserve is just 15 miles of downtown Fort Myers and 40 miles north of Naples. Pelican Preserve was one of the first residential communities in the world awarded the Gold Seal of Sustainability from Audubon International?s Sustainable Development program. It has its own 38-acre nature preserve with gardens (including a beautiful butterfly garden) and a fishing pier. The centerpiece of the village-like community is the Plaza Del Sol clubhouse, a 70,0 0 0 square-foot hub of activity with its state-of-the-art fitness center, aerobics and dance studio, ceramics and art studio, card room, game room, hobby shop, computer room, 10 0 -seat movie theater, banquet hall, and Destinations restaurant. The Pelican Preserve golf course, designed by Chip Powell and a recipient of the Audubon International Gold Signature Certification, offers 27 holes of championship golf. It has its own 24,485 square-foot Pelican Preserve Golf Clubhouse. Besides an extensive golf pro shop, the clubhouse has a state-of-the-art fitness center with private day spa, full-service dining room and bar, Spoonbills restaurant, and a ballroom available for its members. Outdoors, residents swim in the resort-style pool, or play basketball, pickleball, volleyball, and softball. There is also lawn bowling, an outdoor amphitheater, and a sand beach. Residents can and enjoy a refreshing smoothie from Frescos at Soleil juice bar. This 1,10 0 acre gated golf course community sited in a botanical paradise has something to suit every budget. Homebuyers can choose from carriage homes, attached villas, and single-family homes. The affordable condos range from 1,229 to 1,450 square feet and are housed in four-story buildings with elevators and balconies. They have two or three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and two assigned carport spots. Bridgetown at the Plantation is an upscale gated community of single-family homes and villas within the master-planned Plantation community. It is in southeast Fort Myers, convenient to both I-75 and Hwy 82, giving access to Southwest Florida International Airport, Gulf Coast Town Center and Florida Gulf Coast University. This vibrant community centers around Bridgetown Hall, which consists of two clubhouses offering a full-service spa, fitness center, and game room. Outside are resort-style and lap pools, bocce ball court, and a barefoot bar. Bridgetown?s Activities Director plans enjoyable onsite gatherings and exciting off site excursions for residents. Bridgetown homes, built by Pulte, are 2 to 5 bedrooms, 2 to 4 bathrooms, with two or three-car garages, and come in nine designs. Innovative design feature elegant architectural exteriors and spacious gathering areas perfect for entertaining. Prices begin at $226,990. Arborwood Preserve by WCI Communities is a brand new 332-acre gated master planned community surrounded by over 20 acres of preserves and 73 acres of lakes. This lovely new community offers a fantastic Fort Myers location convenient to I-75 and near JetBlue Park. Within Arborwood?s lush natural setting you will find carefully designed single- and multi-family homes from 1,375 to more than 2,70 0 square feet. They are priced from the low $20 0 s to $40 0 s. Planned amenities include a 25,0 0 0 square foot Town Center with resort style pool, outdoor dining and bar, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and more. 41

Marina Bay Marina Bay is a new luxury community offering an array of villas and single-family homes arranged around a 12,0 0 0 SF clubhouse. The community will have up to 999 units, priced from the mid-20 0 s to 40 0 s. Marina Bay is situated off Treeline Avenue which makes it accessible to all major highways, but still unimpeded by traffic and noise. The entrance is staffed and gated for your utmost security. GL Homes continues to add to the home collection, and will eventually offer over 21 floorplans in 80 0 + homes. Those homes will range in size from 1,40 0 to 4,0 0 0 square feet, offering sizes and layouts for all tastes. You can choose from 2 to 6 bedrooms, even 2 or 3 car garages. Marina Bay is designed to echo all of the old world Florida tropical charm with state of the art amenities and designs. No detail has been overlooked in the lush neighborhood. At Marina Bay?s luxurious clubhouse you?ll find a fully-equipped fitness center, aerobics studio, and indoor sports court for basketball and volleyball. Host events for neighbors and friends at the social hall, which includes a catering kitchen. Enjoy table tennis or billiards in the game room or poker in the card room. Outdoor amenities include a resort-style pool, lap pool, tennis courts, and party pavilion. A full-time social director plans events and activities for the entire family. The facility has been called "outstanding," "beautiful," and provides a true resort style feel for the community. Marina Bay is surrounded by lakes and wildlife preserves, giving it a remote and tranquil feel, yet it is only minutes from shops, gourmet restaurants, fantastic schools, top-notch medical facilities, beautiful parks and Gulf coast beaches. Marina Bay is owned by GL Homes. GL homes has over 40 years of luxury home building experience and more than 85,0 0 0 people live in and love GL Homes. GL Homes is located at: 11796 Meadowrun Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33913. (239) 561-160 0.

Index AIRPORTS:

Tower Gallery An Artist Co-Op

Ford's Garage

Southwest Florida International Airport

751 Tarpon Bay Rd

2207 First St

110 0 0 Terminal Access Rd

Sanibel, FL 33957

Fort Myers, FL 3390 1

Fort Myers, FL 33913

(239) 472-4557

(239) 332-3673

(239) 590 -480 0

Fresh Catch Bistro DINING AND NIGHTLIFE:

30 40 Estero Blvd

THE ART SCENE:

Austrian-German Restaurant

Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

Alliance for the Arts

140 0 Colonial Blvd # 33

(239) 463-260 0

10 0 91 McGregor Blvd

Fort Myers, FL 33907

Harold's

Fort Myers, FL 33919

(239) 936-8118

15250 S Tamiami Trail #107

(239) 939-2787

Bennett's Fresh Roast

Fort Myers, FL 3390 8, USA

Art Fest

20 11 Bayside Pkwy

(239) 849-0 622

1375 Monroe St

Fort Myers, FL 3390 1

Heavenly Biscuit

Fort Myers FL 3390 1

(239) 332-0 077

110 Mango St

(239) 768-360 2

Bubble Room

Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

Art Walk

150 0 1 Captiva Dr

(239) 463-760 0

2265 First Street

Captiva, FL 33924

The Island Cow

Fort Myers Florida 3390 1

(239) 472-5558

2163 Periwinkle Way

(239) 337-50 50

Cibo

Sanibel, FL 33957

Arts for Act

1290 1 Mcgregor Blvd

(239) 472-0 60 6

2265 First Street

Fort Myers, FL 33919

The Mad Hatter Restaurant

Fort Myers, Florida

(239) 454-370 0

6467 Sanibel Captiva Rd

(239) 939-2553 / (239) 337-50 50

Cips Place Restaurant

Sanibel, FL 33957

DAAS CO-OP Art Gallery

20 55 Periwinkle Way

(239) 472-0 0 33

140 0 Colonial Blvd Ste 84

Sanibel, FL 33957

Phensri Thai Restaurant

Fort Myers FL 33907

(239) 472-0 223

40 85 Hancock Bridge Pkwy

239-590 -8645

The Clam Bake

North Fort Myers, FL 3390 3

Painting with a Twist

16520 S Tamiami Trail

(239) 599-4639

990 2 Gulf Coast Main Street, Suite D-130

Fort Myers, FL 3390 8

Roadhouse Cafe

Fort Myers, FL 33913

(239) 482-1930

15660 San Carlos Blvd Suite 280

(239) 330 -6789

Dixie Roadhouse

Fort Myers FL 3390 8

Patio De Leon

10 23 SE 47th Terrace

(239) 415-4375

2215 Main St

Cape Coral, FL 3390 4

Rosie's Cafe & Grill

Fort Myers, Florida

(239) 541-790 0

2330 Palm Ridge Rd

(239) 349-2240

Fancy's Southern Cafe

Sanibel, FL 33957

The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center

8890 Salrose Ln #10 1

(239) 579-0 807

230 1 First St

Fort Myers, FL 33912

Fort Myers, FL 3390 1

(239) 561-2988

Shucker's at the Gulfshore and The Cottage Bar

(239) 333-1933

Firestone Grill Room and Sky Bar

Theatre Conspiracy

2224 Bay St

10 0 91 McGregor Blvd

Fort Myers, FL 3390 1

Fort Myers, FL 33919

(239) 334-3473

1250 Estero Blvd Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

(239) 939-2787

(239) 765-5440

RESTAURANTS CONT:

(239) 472-5111

(239) 283-20 62

Tarpon Lodge & Restaurant

Romance and Resort s

Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium

13771 Waterfront Dr

Casa Ybel Resort

3450 Ortiz Avenue

Bokeelia, FL 33922

2255 West Gulf Drive

Fort Myers, FL 3390 5

(239) 283-3999

Sanibel, FL 33957

(239) 275-3435

The Veranda

(239) 472-3145

Great Calusa Blueway

2122 Second St

Lani Kai Island Resort

220 1 Second Street Suite 60 0

Fort Myers, FL 3390 1

140 0 Estero Blvd

Fort Myers, Florida 3390 1

(239) 332-20 65

Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

(239) 338-350 0

(239) 463-3111

JN ?Ding? Darling National Wildlife Refuge

BREWERIES:

Lovers Key Resort

1 Wildlife Dr.

Fort Myers Brewing Company

8771 Estero Blvd.

Sanibel Island, FL 33957

12811 Commerce Lakes Dr. Suite 28

Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

(239) 472-110 0 ext. 233

Fort Myers FL, 33913

(239) 765-10 40

Matanzas Pass Preserve

(239) 313-6576

The Neptune

199 Bay Road

2310 Estero Boulevard

Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

ACCOMMODATIONS:

Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

(239) 229-1610

Kid Friendly

(239) 463-6141

Randell Research Center

Best Western Plus Beach Resort

Tarpon Lodge

13810 Waterfront Dr

684 Estero Boulevard

13771 Waterfront Dr

Bokeelia, FL 33922

Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931-50 21

Bokeelia FL 33922

(239) 283-20 62

(239) 463-60 0 0

(239) 283-3999

San Carolos Bay-Bunche Beach Preserve

Diamond Head

Inns and Bed & Breakfast s

1820 1 John Morris Rd

20 0 0 Estero Blvd

The Beacon Beachfront Bed and Breakfast

(239) 229-1610

Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

1240 Estero Boulevard

Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve

(844) 887-6736

Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

7751 Penzance Crossing

GullWing Beach Resort

(239) 463-5264

(239) 533-7554

6620 Estero Blvd.

Hibiscus House

Island Cruises and Dolphin Tours

Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

2135 Mc Gregor Boulevard

Adventures in Paradise, Inc

(844) 887-6736

Fort Myers, FL 3390 1

14341 Port Comfort Rd.

Harbor House

(239) 332-2651

Fort Myers, FL

450 Old San Carlos Blvd.

Manatee Bay Inn

(239) 472-8443

Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

932 Third Street

Captiva Cruises

(239) 463-070 0

Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

1140 1 Andy Rosse Lane

Outrigger Beach Resort

(239) 765-4536

Captiva, FL 33924

620 0 Estero Boulevard

Mango Street Inn

(239) 472-530 0

Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

126 Mango Street

Fort Myers Princess

(239) 463-3131

Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

645 Old San Carlos Blvd

Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina

(239) 233-8542

Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

275 Estero Boulevard

Marriott Sanibel Harbor

(239) 765-850 0

Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

17260 Harbour Pointe Dr.

Sanibel Harbour Princess Yacht

(888) 222-7465

Fort Myers FL 3390 8

17260 Harbour Point Dr

Sandpiper Gulf Resort

(239) 466-40 0 0

Fort Myers, FL 3390 8-270 4

5550 Estero Blvd.

(239) 466-40 0 0

Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

THE GREAT OUTDOORS:

Tropic Star Cruises

(80 0 ) 584-1449

Nature Preserves

7290 Barrancas Ave.

South Seas Island Resort, Captiva Island

Calusa Heritage Trail

Bokeelia, FL 33922

540 0 Plantation Rd

13810 Waterfront Drive

(239) 283-0 0 15

Captiva, FL 33924

Pineland, FL 33922

ATTRACTIONS:

Gateway Golf and Country Club

Matanzas Pass Preserve

Historic Fort Myers:

120 91 Gateway Greens Dr

199 Bay Rd.

Butterfly Estates

Fort Myers, FL 33913

Fort Myers Beach, 33931

1815 Fowler St

(239) 561-10 36

(239) 461-740 0

Fort Myers, FL 3390 1

Heritage Palms Golf and Country Club

San Carlos Bay: Bunche Beach Preserve

(239) 690 -2359

10420 Washingtonia Palm Way

1820 1 John Morris Rd.

Edison and Ford Winter Estates

Fort Myers, FL 33966

Fort Myers, 3390 8

2350 McGregor Blvd

(239) 278-90 90

(239) 765-6794

Fort Myers, FL 3390 1

The Plantation Golf and Country Club

Bicycles

(239) 334-7419

10 50 0 Dartington Dr

Tour de Parks

Murphy-Burroughs House

Fort Myers, FL 33913

Fort Myers

250 5 First Street

(239) 561-8650

Event s:

(239) 337-950 5

Beaches:

Annual Golf Classic

True Tours

Bowditch Point Park

2310 Edwards Drive, PO Box 9289

220 0 First Street

50 Estero Blvd

Fort Myers, Florida 3390 2

Fort Myers, FL 3390 1

Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

(239) 332-3624

(239) 945-040 5

(239) 229-1610

Annual Holiday in the Park

Museums:

Bowman Beach

3265 Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd

Bailey Matthews National Shell Museum

170 0 Bowmans Beach Rd

Fort Myers, FL 3390 1

3075 Sanibel Captiva Rd

Sanibel, FL 33957

(239) 332-8778

Sanibel, FL 33957

(239) 395-1860

Entert ainment:

(239) 395-2233

Causeway Islands

Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Center

Imaginarium History and Science Center

19931 Sanibel Causeway

13350 FSW Pkwy

20 0 0 Cranford Avenue

Sanibel, FL 33957

Fort Myers, FL 33919

Fort Myers, FL 33916

(239) 432-2154

(239) 481-4849

(239) 243-0 0 43

Lighthouse Beach Park

Broadway Palm Dinner Theater

Lee County Black Historical Society

110 Periwinkle Way

380 Colonial Blvd

1936 Henderson Ave.

Sanibel, FL 33957

Fort Myers, FL 33907

Fort Myers, FL 33916

(239) 472-0 345

(239) 278-4422

(239) 332-8778

Lynn Hall Memorial Park

The Buddha

Sanibel Historical Museum & Village

950 Estero Blvd.

1270 1 McGregor Blvd

950 Dunlop Road

Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

Fort Myers, FL 33919

Sanibel, FL 33957

(239) 229-1610

(239) 482-8565

(239) 472-4648

Sanibel Island

Southwest Florida Museum of History

FL 33957

Florida Repertory Theater and Arcade Theater

230 0 Jackson St

Bird Watching Trails:

Fort Myers, FL 3390 1

Bowditch Point Regional Park

(239) 332-5955

50 Estero Blvd.

2268 Bay Street Fort Myers, FL 3390 1 (239) 332-4488

Fort Myers Beach, 33931

Hammond Stadium 1410 0 6 Mile Cypress Pkwy

RELAX AND RECREATE:

(239) 765-6794

Golf Courses:

Great Florida Birding Trail

Eagle Ridge Golf Club

Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve

14589 Eagle Ridge Dr. SE

7751 Penzance Blvd.

Fort Myers, FL 33912

Fort Myers, 33966

(239) 768-1888

(239) 533-7550

Eastwood Golf Course

Little Estero Island Critical Wildlife Area

460 0 Bruce Herd Ln

Flamingo Rd.

Fort Myers, FL 3390 5

Fort Myers Beach, 33931

(239) 321-7485

(239) 765-0 20 2

Fort Myers, FL 33912 (239) 533-7695 JetBlue Park 1150 0 Fenway South Drive Fort Myers, FL 33913

(239) 533-7222

Entert ainment Cont:

TLC Medical Center

Southwest Florida Symphony

2040 Collier Ave Suite A

8290 College Pkwy

Fort Myers, FL 3390 1

Fort Myers, FL 33919

(239) 215-3940

(239) 418-0 996 Shopping:

COMMUNITIES:

Bell Tower Shops

Arborwood Preserve

Daniels Pkwy & US 41

1160 2 Arborwood Preserve Boulevard

(239) 489-1221

Fort Myers, FL 33913

Fleamasters Fleamarket

(239) 390 -3750

4135 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd

Bridgetown at the Plantation

Fort Myers, FL 33916

11741 Kingsbridge Blvd

(239) 334-70 0 1

Fort Myers FL 33913

Gulf Coast Town Center

(239) 362-0 151

990 3 Gulf Coast Main St

Marina Bay by GL Homes

Fort Myers, FL 33913

11796 Meadowrun Circle

(239) 267-5107

Fort Myers, FL 33913

Norman Love Confections

(239) 561-160 0

11380 Lindbergh Blvd

Pelican Preserve

Fort Myers, FL 33913

10 571 Veneto Drive

(239) 561-7215

Fort Myers, FL 33913 (239) 985-160 0

HOSPITALS AND MEDICAL CENTERS:

Verandah

Golisano Children?s Hospital of Southwest Florida

11571 Verandah Boulevard,

9981 S Healthpark Dr

Ft. Myers, FL 3390 5 (239) 694-7199

Fort Myers FL, 3390 8 (239) 343-5437 Gulf Coast Medical Center 13681 Doctor?s Way Fort Myers, FL 33912 (239) 343-10 0 0 HealthPark Medical Center 9981 S Healthpark Dr Fort Myers, FL, 3390 8 (239) 60 3-7430 Lee Memorial Hospital 2776 Cleveland Ave Fort Myers, FL 3390 1 (239) 343-20 0 0 Park Royal Hospital 9241 Park Royal Dr Fort Myers, FL 3390 8 (855) 564-0 136 Promise Hospital of Fort Myers 30 50 Champion Ring Rd Fort Myers, FL 3390 5

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