What’s New on Your To-Do List?
Welcoming a new year means it’s time to try some fresh adventures. We’re always growing and evolving in Fort Myers, so we’re happy to share all the new openings, exciting reopenings and what’s coming soon to our islands, beaches and neighborhoods. From the return of top hotels to trendy restaurants, speakeasies and breweries, discover new things to do in 2025.
Be among the first to experience Brightwater Lagoon, a tropical oasis in North Fort Myers. All you need is a swimsuit, towel and sunscreen to splash into your day of fun. Plunge into clear waters and relax on a complimentary beach lounger, or kick up your adrenaline with endless water activities including a waterslide, water obstacle course, kayaks, and paddleboards. To upgrade your stay, try a beach tiki or a luxurious cabana cove with a private bar and swim area.
We’re so excited for the grand re-opening of Sundial Beach Resort & Spa and Sanibel Inn on Sanibel Island on February 1st . Sundial is a true island gem with everything you need to create your beach home away from home. Reserve condominium-style accommodations ranging from studios to three-bedroom spaces complete with your own kitchen. Every day brings new adventures from paddling along the shoreline to challenging each other to a game of pickleball to enjoying an al fresco meal at sunset. Sanibel Inn is another great option with newly redesigned suites and guestrooms with amazing views of the Gulf of Mexico. They also offer condominiums if you’re looking for accommodations offering more space.
Also reopening its doors is The Gasparilla Inn & Club in Boca Grande. Feel the essence of Old Florida at this legendary resort that has been welcoming generations of families since 1913. Breeze around on a bicycle or a golf cart or see Gasparilla Island from a different point of view by kayak.
These treasured resorts join several brand-new hotels that have opened recently, expanding your options by more than 600 rooms in Southwest Florida. Explore comfortable accommodations in Fort Myers such as TownePlace Suites by Marriott® Fort Myers Gulf Coast and Comfort Suites/Mainstay Suites Extended Stay By Choice Hotels. Click here to shop for all your options.
Trendy new lounges are popping up downtown. Escape into the wild and whimsical decor at Hogwash on Dean Street. The libations are flowing with all the classics and modernized craft cocktails (you’ll get a kick out of the Roadside Hawk made with 1800 Reposado, ancho chile, pineapple, lime, and cinnamon!). Escondido Lounge captures a speakeasy vibe, hidden behind a secret library door inside Taco Works. Inside is a sweeping, two-story space where mezcal, tequila and small plates are on the menu.
Southwest Florida’s craft beer scene is always growing, and we’re thrilled to announce two new breweries. Find a place for community and conversations at Swamp Cat Brew Co. in downtown Fort Myers, where the co-owners have tirelessly worked on creating the 5,000-square-foot space, including an in-house kitchen, and brewing their inaugural batches of beer.
In Bonita Springs, Chubby Mermaid Brewing Company, two former home brewers went pro with both traditional techniques and experimental spins. Choose from nearly 20 drafts, including gluten-free and small-batch options.
There’s always space for a new music venue, and Sugar Shack Downtown fits the bill. Brought to life by the founders of the Sugarshack Sessions, a digital music series that was born in Bonita Springs, this exciting new venture brings together heavy hitters in the revitalization of downtown. The venue will have more than 270 seats and a full kitchen to establish a new landmark in the heart of Bonita Springs. Keep watching this space for its grand opening in 2025.
All eyes are on Cape Coral’s new food truck park, coming to the waterfront in spring 2025. Set right at the foot of the Cape Coral Bridge on the Caloosahatchee River, Slipaway Food Truck Park & Marina will be accessible by both cars and boats. Expect a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere filled with good eats (10 trucks to start), live music and other festivities throughout the year.
