Fort Myers Shores offers waterfront living just upriver from the city
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 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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Mix of ranch, stucco and Mediterranean homes with river access
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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River access, nature trails and Gulf trips define outdoor life
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 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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Public schools include STEM and career-focused 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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Riverfront dining, barbecue and groceries near State Road 80
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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Fort Myers celebrates art, music and coastal climes
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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Commuters have access to Interstate 75, LeeTran buses and SR 80
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
Sara Warthen
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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an experienced agent in this area.
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Welcome to your new gulf access home!This home is fully and freshly renovated and move in readyThis home is located on millionaires row, in a quiet and community friendly boating community.Here you will see many people walking their dogs and going out for a run.A must see, especially if you have not been on that street before!Upgrades and Features include and are not
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
Trade in the weekend projects list for a tide chart? Ready for Fun! An affordable, updated home right on the water, this is the one you've been waiting for. Located on a deep-water canal, this property gives you direct sailboat access to the river and out to the Gulf. It’s the perfect home base for anyone who loves being on the water. Enjoy the Florida Lifestyle, Rain or Shine. Your new favorite
Welcome to your new gulf access home!This home is fully and freshly renovated and move in readyThis home is located on millionaires row, in a quiet and community friendly boating community.Here you will see many people walking their dogs and going out for a run.A must see, especially if you have not been on that street before!Upgrades and Features include and are not
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
Trade in the weekend projects list for a tide chart? Ready for Fun! An affordable, updated home right on the water, this is the one you've been waiting for. Located on a deep-water canal, this property gives you direct sailboat access to the river and out to the Gulf. It’s the perfect home base for anyone who loves being on the water. Enjoy the Florida Lifestyle, Rain or Shine. Your new favorite
NOTE: THIS HOME IS ALSO FOR SALE - MLS# 224093386. Welcome to your dream waterfront retreat! This charming single-family home features 2 bedrooms and 1 bath, perfectly situated on an intersecting canal that leads directly to the stunning Caloosahatchee River and the Gulf of Mexico. Imagine stepping out onto your private boat dock, equipped with a lift, ready for a day of fishing, boating, or
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 + $35/mo per pet. Some homes may include pool ($150/mo), septic ($15/mo), and/or HOA fees; other fees may apply.
Beautiful single family home with a one car attached GARAGE. Situated in a non-gated neighborhood that does not have any homeowner association and is surrounded by single family homes. This home offers a great room layout, dining area, galley designed kitchen, 3 bedrooms, 1 full bath, spacious enclosed rear lanai, oversized 1-car garage w/ storage space & laundry area, new roof in 2024 and a
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