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
Hank Bertodatto,
an experienced agent in this area.
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Experience the ultimate Southwest Florida boating lifestyle in this stunning Direct Gulf Access waterfront retreat in the sought-after River Forest community! Perfectly positioned on over 1/3 acre with a 105-foot seawall, this beautifully updated pool home offers a private dock with trex planking, brand-new 10,000-lb boat lift (2023), and quick access to the Caloosahatchee River and Gulf waters
Move-in ready and beautifully renovated, this home is a rare find in the desirable Fort Myers Shores neighborhood. Located outside of the flood zone and not affected by Hurricane Ian, it offers both peace of mind and modern comfort. Recent upgrades include a new roof (2025), new A/C ducts (2026), impact windows, and a completely updated interior. The kitchen features elegant quartzite countertops
New home - Brilliance - by Neal Communities in the newest subdivision, Heritage Preserve in Verandah. Home is in progress! This beautiful BRILLANCE floor plan has 2079 SF, 3 bedrooms, den, 2.1 baths, 3- car garage, upgraded kitchen package with upgraded cabinets, quartz counters, and stainless appliances, upgraded tile floors, IMPACT WINDOWS/DOORS, 8-ft doors, and coffer ceilings. You'll be
NO HOA! COMMUNITY BOAT RAMP! NEWER ROOF! Welcome to this well maintained home in the established Fort Myers Shores neighborhood. This home has numerous updates, including a newer roof and gutters (2023), hurricane-rated impact windows, and a newer A/C unit (2021). The interior features stylish, modern flooring in living area and an updated kitchen with elegant quartz countertops and a chic glass
SELLER FINANCING AVAILABLE! Experience the allure of waterfront living with this riverfront, Gulf Access, legal duplex in the highly sought-after Paradise Shores area. Located in a charming boating community with NO HOA fees, NO city tax, and NO assessments, this exquisite home offers breathtaking million-dollar views from the Caloosahatchee River, part of the Okeechobee Intracoastal Waterway.
This exceptional deepwater canal residence offers just over 2,500 sqft and features four bedrooms and two-and-a-half bathrooms, complemented by an expansive enclosed pool+lanai area ideal for both relaxation and entertaining. The master bedroom on the first floor has a brand new walk-in closet and a large bathroom. The second floor displays three bedrooms, a full bathroom, and a covered lanai
Welcome to your dream riverfront home! This stunning single-family home has been completely upgraded and remodeled to perfection. As you step to the rear of the home, you are greeted by a cozy fireplace and exposed beams in the spacious living room, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The impact windows and sliders not only provide breathtaking views of the river but also ensure safety and
— Rare opportunity to own one of the most breathtaking riverfront properties in East Fort Myers. Situated on a prime half-acre point lot overlooking the Caloosahatchee River, this property offers panoramic water views that are truly unmatched. The existing nearly 2,500 sq ft home presents endless possibilities — renovate and create your dream waterfront retreat, or start fresh and build a custom
Sitting on a canal just seconds away from the main river with direct access along with a 30k lb covered boat lift, this beautifully renovated 2 bedroom, 2 bath waterfront home is the perfect haven for boaters. This home has been impeccably renovated, with the interior featuring a fully custom kitchen with an expansive island, newly updated master and guest bathrooms, impact windows and doors
Beautiful house on the inter-coastal Caloosahatchee River, with views of the old river frontage. This recently renovated property features 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, with a real wood fireplace, all under extravagant cathedral ceilings. This property sits on nearly 80' of water frontage and includes a covered boat lift, making it a boating enthusiast's paradise. The house is situated in a
City convenience meets backyard homestead charm in this adorable 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home featuring flexible living spaces and plenty of outdoor potential. Inside, you’ll find a spacious kitchen with abundant cabinet storage, a large laundry room, and a converted garage space perfect for a den, home office, playroom, hobby room, or additional living area. Step outside to enjoy a private backyard
We offer an amazing opportunity to own almost 3⁄4 acre of river front property located in the River Forest community and situated on a protected oxbow of the Caloosahatchee River. Water carries good depth to accommodate most any vessel. There is a beautiful view across the oxbow of a protected island full of natural wildlife. The water front has a concrete seawall with composite dock and boat
Calling all boaters! Listed at LOT VALUE This is a rare opportunity to own just under 1 acre on the Caloosahatchee River, already equipped and ready for your vision. The property features a brand-new seawall and dock (installed in 2022), offering immediate access to the water and effortless boating to the Gulf. Enjoy fishing, jet skiing, and true waterfront living right from your backyard. Even
Stop scrolling—your “set it and forget it” investment just hit the market. This beautifully remodeled duplex offers the perfect blend of style, location, and immediate income potential. Ideally situated with quick access to Downtown Fort Myers—enjoy Music Walk, Art Walk, dining, and entertainment—plus convenient access to I-75. Inside, both units have been thoughtfully updated with modern
Welcome home to this updated 3-bedroom, 1 bath home in Ft Myers Shores. The garage area (which was a room) has recently been treated for mold and has been remediated. The floor and one wall had to be removed for this work. So right now, that area is not in a finished condition and home will be sold as is. New owner will decide how to proceed and be responsible for completing. You will have plenty
Discover this beautifully updated 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom rental in the rapidly growing Palm Beach Boulevard area, just east of I-75 in Fort Myers! This is a true apartment and not a room for rent or a garage conversion. This unit features your own entrance and stylish 12x24 porcelain tile flooring throughout, complemented by 5 1/4 baseboards for a modern touch. The kitchen boasts white shaker
Welcome to your dream home! Step inside this pet-friendly home featuring modern finishings and a layout designed with functionality in mind. Enjoy the storage space found in the kitchen and closets as well as the spacious living areas and natural light throughout. Enjoy outdoor living in your yard, perfect for gathering, relaxing, or gardening!Take advantage of the incredible location,
Well-maintained 3 BEDROOM, 1 BATHROOM rental located in a convenient Fort Myers location, offering exceptional value with ALL UTILITIES INCLUDED—water, electric, internet, and lawn service. This residence features NEW TILE FLOORING throughout and a REMODELED BATHROOM, providing a clean and updated living environment. The layout is functional and comfortable, ideal for everyday living. The unit
Beautiful, pet-friendly home coming soon! Apply now, Move-In is available on or after the listed date. Upon approval, $500 reservation deposit to reserve (applied to security deposit and/or refundable). Application fee: $50 per adult. Security Deposit: one month?s rent. Pet fees: $250 + $40/mo per pet. Some homes may include pool ($150/mo), septic ($15/mo), and/or HOA fees; other fees may apply.
Welcome home to this charming 3-bedroom, 1-bath residence with a bonus sunroom/den—perfect for a home office, playroom, or extra living space. This home features tile flooring throughout, a beautifully updated kitchen with granite countertops and wood cabinetry, and a functional split-bedroom layout that makes the space feel open and comfortable. Enjoy peace of mind with new roof and windows
Welcome to your dream home! Step inside this pet-friendly home featuring modern finishings and a layout designed with functionality in mind. Enjoy the storage space found in the kitchen and closets as well as the spacious living areas and natural light throughout. Enjoy outdoor living in your yard, perfect for gathering, relaxing, or gardening!Take advantage of the incredible location,
Please note, our homes are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are not reserved until the holding fee agreement is signed and the holding fee is paid by the primary applicant.This home features Progress Smart Home - Progress Residential's smart home app, which allows you to control the home securely from any of your devices. Learn more at Coming soon! This home is
Beautiful, pet-friendly home coming soon! Apply now, Move-In is available on or after the listed date. Upon approval, $500 reservation deposit to reserve (applied to security deposit and/or refundable). Application fee: $50 per adult. Security Deposit: one month?s rent. Pet fees: $250 + $40/mo per pet. Some homes may include pool ($150/mo), septic ($15/mo), and/or HOA fees; other fees may apply.
Beautiful, pet-friendly home coming soon! Apply now, Move-In is available on or after the listed date. Upon approval, $500 reservation deposit to reserve (applied to security deposit and/or refundable). Application fee: $50 per adult. Security Deposit: one month?s rent. Pet fees: $250 + $40/mo per pet. Some homes may include pool ($150/mo), septic ($15/mo), and/or HOA fees; other fees may apply.
Welcome to 14181 Old Olga Rd., Fort Myers! This charming and well-maintained duplex presents an excellent opportunity for those seeking a cozy and comfortable rental home. With its prime location in Fort Myers, FL 33905, this property offers convenient access to local amenities, parks, and transportation options. Upon entering this delightful duplex, you'll be greeted by a warm and inviting
Enjoy this direct gulf access pool home with a spectacular Caloosahatchee Riverfront view. The spacious fenced yard on a double lot paired with a large screened-in pool area with lanai is perfect for entertaining, grilling out, and viewing the sunrise and sunset. This homey open concept floor plan brings together the living, dining and kitchen area. You'll love the gas-powered kitchen with
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