Boaters and dog walkers enjoy the laid-back river lifestyle
For Fort Myers Shores, a community on the Caloosahatchee River, the appeal is in its waterfront homes and public boat launch. "Along the water, it has a lot of relaxed boater vibes. Everyone is out walking their dogs and hanging out on the docks," says Yvonne Gallegos, Realtor with John R. Wood Properties. The area is about 10 miles upriver from downtown Fort Myers, and locals are as likely to get there by water as by the nearby Interstate 75. "It's out of the way, but not too out of the way, and for boaters, it’s a good option to get on the river and out to the Gulf," Gallegos says.
Waterfront homes with private docks are a desirable housing option in Fort Myers Shores.
Fort Myers Shores residents can enjoy kayaking on the Caloosahatchee River.
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With no HOA, colorful homes here display plenty of personality
Lining the streets are many 1970s and '80s ranch-style homes, early 2000s traditional Florida stucco homes and Mediterranean-style homes, often with waterfrontage on the river or canals. As a non-HOA neighborhood, lax restrictions are one of this area's perks, according to Gallegos. "Individuality really shows through here — it's not all the same [as in a] gated community," she says. "You'll see a pink house here, an orange house there, and regular colors. There's a lot of variety." Prices range from about $175,000 to around $830,000. Some waterfront homes can reach above $1 million. Much of this area falls within a FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Area.
Midcentury ranch-style homes can be found throughout Fort Myers Shores.
Coastal style homes offer great views of the Caloosahatchee River in Fort Myers Shores.
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Nature parks offer manatee sightings and cypress trails
Locals access the river from private docks or the Davis Boat Ramp on the community's west end. Fort Myers beaches, islands and the Gulf are about a 45-minute trip west with riverfront restaurants on the way. "Usually when we leave from there, we make a whole day of it," Gallegos says. Residents also enjoy a leisurely eastward cruise toward Lake Okeechobee. "It's very peaceful and quaint, and people stop along the side and chat," she says. The outlying Sanibel Island is known as the Seashell Capital of the World, with over 400 varieties washing up on the white-sand beaches. About 3 miles west, Manatee Park offers an up-close look at sea cows from kayaks or viewing platforms. The animals usually visit here from November to March. Fort Myers Shores Nature Trail Park features a boardwalk through a cypress habitat with native trees and bird species.
Boating is a popular recreation in Fort Myers Shores, with public two boat ramps.
Ft Myers Shores residents can walk the boardwalk and trails at Manatee Park.
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STEM magnet and career academies offer unique programs
Younger kids may attend James Stephens Elementary School, which earns a C-minus from Niche. As Lee County's only STEM magnet school, it incorporates STEM concepts into all subjects, including reading, physical education and art. The Alva School earns a B-minus and serves kindergarten through eighth-grade students. The B-rated Riverdale High School offers training and certifications through various career academies. Students can explore gaming and animation, web design, emerging technology and other subjects.
James Stephens International Academy in Fort Myers offers the STEM program in K- 5th Grade.
The Alva School is a public school centrally located in the community.
Riverdale High School in Fort Myers Shores gets high rankings for student college readiness.
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Walkable downtown and waterfront eateries add variety
River cruises may involve a trip to The Boathouse, a lively spot with music and outdoor seating near the water. The tiki-style restaurant serves fried seafood baskets, burgers, tacos and build-your-own entrees. Tire shops, gas stations, local restaurants, fast-food chains and grocery stores line the community's southern border along State Road 80. The family-owned Jonesez BBQ is a local favorite for traditional barbecue meats and sides. The ribs, pulled pork, mac and cheese and cornbread are menu favorites. Winn-Dixie, Publix and CVS are all nearby. Fort Myers' walkable downtown area — the River District — hosts more restaurants, bars and boutiques.
The Boathouse is known for its seafood, bar, and large tiki hut in Fort Myers Shores.
Jonesez is a the place for take out ribs in Fort Myers Shores.
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Live music, boat shows and parades bring locals downtown
At the monthly Music Walk, the downtown Fort Myers streets and venues come alive with jazz, blues, rock and other sounds from local and regional talent. The city celebrates its late resident, Thomas Edison, in February with the Edison Festival of Light — the largest nighttime parade in the Southeast. The Fort Myers Boat Show is a November highlight with over 100 manufacturers on display.
Art Lovers enjoy admiring the handmade pieces at The Fort Myers Arts Fest held near Fort Myers Shores.
The Fort Myers Boat Show invites residents to check out boats and gear near Fort Myers Shores.
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LeeTran buses and I-75 connect residents to the city center
State Road 80 connects to Fort Myers, about 10 miles southwest. Lee County's LeeTran buses also offer a route to the city center. Commuters are close to Interstate 75, which connects to Southwest Florida International Airport, about 20 miles south. Lee Memorial Hospital in central Fort Myers offers 24-hour emergency care. While sidewalks are uncommon in Fort Myers Shores, Gallegos says there is less traffic within the area boundaries. "You can definitely walk and bike the different areas in the community," she says.
Written By
Liz Coughlin
Photography Contributed By
Kristjan Veski
Video By
Scott Wiggins
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Carla Kluch,
an experienced agent in this area.
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