As you plan for 2026 and beyond, Fort Myers – Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods offers more than a beautiful setting. It’s a destination designed to help you deliver successful, seamless meetings with the added benefit of a relaxed, coastal environment your attendees will appreciate. Here, your attendees can learn, connect, and recharge in settings that inspire without overwhelming the schedule.

With flexible waterfront venues, walkable neighborhoods, and partners who understand the importance of seamless, stress‑free planning, Fort Myers and its surrounding neighborhoods give you the clarity and support needed to bring your biggest ideas to life. Whether you’re designing a leadership retreat, an incentive program, or a mid-size conference, our destination blends mindful energy with the practical tools that keep attendees fully engaged.

We’re also excited to introduce Natalie Duran, Director of Sales, who leads a team focused on simplifying your planning process. From site selection to program design, our team provides hands-on support to help you move from inquiry to execution with confidence. Together, we’re here to help you build programs that feel intentional, energizing, and uniquely Fort Myers. 

A new option for private dinners and VIP experiences, Acqua Bistecca offers waterfront dining just steps from Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa. The menu features local seafood, premium steaks, pasta, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. The restaurant is ideal for off-site group functions. 

Gasparilla Inn on Boca Grande has been named to the publication’s gold list 2026 for the Best Hotels in the World. The 1913 icon has Old Florida charm in a stunning beach setting. For groups seeking a destination that feels both exclusive and effortlessly relaxed, The Gasparilla Inn delivers a truly memorable environment.

The VCB is proud to be the first destination marketing organization in Florida to partner with Kind Traveler, a socially conscious booking platform that gives back to the community. This collaboration supports several of our local conservation partners. Confirmed participating hotels and their associated nonprofit partners include:

Shangri‑La is celebrating 100 years of history, healing, and hospitality throughout 2026. To honor its century‑long legacy, the venue will host special events, seasonal experiences, and community gatherings all year long. With unique indoor and outdoor spaces accommodating groups from 10 to 400, it is an inspiring setting for corporate meetings, sales conferences, teambuilding and retreats. The property brings a peaceful, uplifting atmosphere that supports meaningful and successful events.

Heading to any of these events? Let’s connect. Schedule time with our team to explore how Fort Myers can support your next program.

14-16: Destinations Celebrations Kansas City & Minneapolis 
Kansas City & Minneapolis, MN | Lauren Hyps

20-22: Peninsula Shows - MD, PA, NJ
Baltimore, MD, Lancaster, PA, Cherry Hill, NJ | Jennifer Walla

27-30: HelmsBriscoe Annual Business Conference
Los Angeles, CA | Erin Lester &  Lauren Hyps

14-16: ASTA Global Convention
San Diego, CA | Jennifer Walla

1: Red Sox Fenway Client Event
Boston, MA | Betsy Bush

16-18: Central Florida Travel Agency Sales Mission
Greater Orlando, FL | Jennifer Walla

21-24: PCMA Educon
Puerto Rico | Betsy Bush

Rotating photos include:

(Photos 1-2) Candice Cocco, VCB, met with Mark Franchi, VP of Mid Atlantic Receptive Services and Jody O'Gara & Steve Ellis from US Tours at American Bus Association, January 10-14, in Reno, NV.

(Photos 3-4) Betsy Bush, VCB, enjoyed meeting with Renita Gross, National Asphalt Pavement Association and Helene Slavin, National Association of Community Health Centers during the PCMA Convening Leaders, January 11-14, Philadelphia, PA. 

(Photo 5) Erin Lester, VCB, represented Lee County along with hotel partners Tracy Ryan, Luminary Hotel & Co., Kristin Marshall, SunStream Hotels and Resorts, Lisa Lahners, Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, Tamara Parker, Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa, and Wendy Nicodemus, South Seas, meeting with qualified meeting planners with Florida’s top suppliers at Florida Encounter, February 2-4 in Orlando, FL.  

(Photos 6-8) Candice Cocco, VCB, met with Akilah Parker and Kenya Lewis from Dominion Church of God in Christ and Gabriella Hodges and Greg Weisbrody of Andrew Wommack Ministries & Charis Bible College. Candice shared the Legend of The Sand Dollar with meeting planners throughout RCMA Emerge 2027, February 10-12 in Lexington, KY.   

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