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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 2026
CONTACTS: Jackie Parker, Miriam Dotson 239-338-3500
What’s New from Fort Myers – Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods
LEE COUNTY, Florida (U.S.A.) – Celebrate July 4 with events throughout our islands and neighborhoods. Go wild for mangos at MangoMania and plan your summer vacation now with a dynamic, new Visitor Guide. See details below.
Reasons to celebrate this month
This July 4 offers a full schedule of parades, entertainment and fireworks throughout the area with events that include:
Fort Myers Beach 4th of July parade and fireworks
fortmyersbeach.org/events/fort-myers-beach-fourth-of-july-celebration
Celebrate America’s 250 in Downtown Fort Myers
myriverdistrict.com/event/america-250-fort-myers-july-4-celebration
Cape Coral 4th of July Red, White & BOOM!
capeboom.com/enjoy
FreedomFest Lehigh Acres, family fun and fireworks
eastleenews.com/freedom-fest-2026
4th of July Star Spangled Bonita parade and fireworks
cityofbonitasprings.org
Stars, Stripes and Sanibel! Parade, fireworks and more!
mysanibel.com
For more, go to visitfortmyers.com/events.
Don’t miss
Go wild for mangos at MangoMania, Pine Island’s tropical fruit fair
on July 11 at Winn Dixie Plaza in St. James City. Fun, food, entertainment, games and more for the entire family. pineislandchamber.org/chamber-events/mangomania
Everything you need to plan your vacation
Dreaming about a Fort Myers vacation? Find your inspiration in our new, digital Visitor Guide that takes vacation planning to a new level with interactive maps, hidden gems, quick answers to questions, information on experiences you will not want to miss and more. There is even a guided meditation video until you can get here in person. Check it out at visitfortmyers.us.foleon.com/officialdigitalguide/dream/wellness
The magazine-like experience is accessible on your desktop or smartphone. Start planning at visitfortmyers.us.foleon.com/officialdigitalguide/welcome
Plan ahead
Headliners announced for Island Hopper Songwriter Fest
Island Hopper Songwriter Fest is set to return Sept. 18-27 with two acclaimed artists leading this year’s lineup including platinum-selling singer-songwriter Edwin McCain and country music rising star Alexandra Kay.
McCain, best known for his timeless hits, including “I’ll Be” and “I Could Not Ask for More,” most recently has been touring with Hootie & the Blowfish, Collective Soul and Train.
Alexandra Kay has emerged as one of country music’s fastest rising artists earning millions of followers across social media through her authentic storytelling, powerful vocals and relatable songwriting.
The BMI singer-songwriter recently released her sophomore album, “Second Wind,” and headlined her third tour featuring her single “Straight for the Heart.” Her debut album, “All I’ve Ever Known,” reached No. 1 on the iTunes All Genre and Country charts and earned her a Top 10 on Billboard’s Current Country Album.
Making its Island Hopper debut, Caloosa Sound Amphitheater will host the festival’s “Stars on the River” concert in downtown Fort Myers on Sept. 24.
Stay up to date on headliner performance details at IslandHopperFest.com.
In its 12th year, Island Hopper Songwriter Fest, named one of the Top 5 music fests by USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, gives fans the opportunity to see the country’s top singer-songwriters perform up close with a tropical setting as the backdrop.
In addition to the headlining performances, more than 60 BMI singer-songwriters will perform more than 80 performances during the 10-day music fest. Be sure to catch a live Island Hopper performance at these four locations around the Fort Myers area:
- Captiva Island, Sept. 18-20
- Cape Coral, Sept. 21-22
- Downtown Fort Myers, Sept. 23-24
- Fort Myers Beach, Sept. 25-27
While most Island Hopper shows are free, there are several ticketed events, including the Kay and McCain performances and the closing pool party at Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina. Other one-of-a-kind ticketed experiences include a songwriter sunset cruise and dinner experiences.
Island Hopper Songwriter Fest is presented by BMI, iHeart Radio’s Cat Country 107.1, Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association and Fort Myers – Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods. Visit IslandHopperFest.com. Follow the festival hashtag #islandhopperfest as well as Instagram and Facebook.
Attractions news
Family Fun: Become Nature Navigators this summer
Spend summer enjoying our sandy beaches, shady trails, wildlife surprises, and hands-on activities that turn a family getaway into stories that become treasured memories. The Summer Nature Navigators Pass lets you chose your adventure from educational beach walks to wildlife cruises. The free digital pass is filled with exciting eco-adventures. Check in at each location to earn points and redeem for great prizes, including a grand prize of day passes to Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina and more.
Start planning with a visit to visitfortmyers.com/summer-nature-navigators for details and receive your digital pass.
Explore Sanibel Island's Wild Mile Pass 2.0
Now that season has wrapped up, take a day trip and visit some of the area’s popular, natural attractions. Earn points and prizes through April 1, 2027, with this mobile-exclusive pass that includes:
Download pass and to immerse yourself in the island’s legendary conservation story. Here you can take a deep dive into its reputation as a Seashell Capital of the World, hike miles of island forest and wetlands, visit an animal hospital to learn about the island’s diverse wildlife or explore one of the nation’s most fascinating national wildlife refuges.
How it works:
- Visit any location in the pass and earn points when you check in.
- Special monthly events give you the chance to accumulate even more points.
- Redeem points for prizes.
- Check in to 14 locations and you’ll be entered for a chance to win a grand prize that includes giveaways from your favorite Sanibel Island stores and restaurants.
Sign-up is easy and free. Check details at visitfortmyers.com/digital-passes/sanibel-wild-mile
Beat the Heat beach walks
Join an expert educator from the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium and learn about the shells found on our beaches. Walks run on specific dates now through October. Check for details and dates at: shellmuseum.org/learn-and-experience/field-education
City of Sanibel designated as a Florida Trail Town
The Office of Greenways and Trails within the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, has designated the City of Sanibel as a Florida Trail Town. The designation recognizes communities that embrace and support trail users through exceptional recreational opportunities, connectivity, amenities, and outdoor experiences. Sanibel joins a growing statewide network of more than 20 designated Florida Trail Towns, further strengthening Florida’s reputation as one of the nation’s premier destinations for outdoor recreation and trail tourism.
Known for its natural beauty and commitment to alternative transportation, Sanibel Island features approximately 26 miles of shared use paths, allowing residents and visitors to safely explore beaches, parks, shopping districts, restaurants, wildlife preserves and neighborhoods by bicycle or on foot. The extensive path system has long been one of the community’s signature amenities and offers a relaxing and scenic way to experience the island.
To learn more about Florida’s Trail Town Program, visit: floridadep.gov/parks/ogt/content/trail-town-program
For information about Sanibel’s shared use path system, visit mysanibel.com/318/Bike-Hike-on-the-Shared-Use-Path
Matlacha celebrates 100 years
Matlacha, the tiny town with its colorful buildings, art, shops, spectacular sunsets, fresh seafood and Old Florida fishing town charm, recently celebrated 100 years. It’s a special place that you can’t resist as you approach Pine Island.
To learn more about this special neighborhood that draws locals and visitors alike, visit visitfortmyers.com/neighborhoods/matlacha
Lovers Key State Park free programs this month
Take a “Walk on the Wildside” and other free programs this month at Lovers Key State Park. Check topics and signup at loverskey.eventbrite.com
Murals tell the story of area’s unique culture and history
Discover vibrant murals throughout our islands, beaches and neighborhoods, each offering amazing photo ops, interactive fun and a fascinating look at our unique culture and history. These murals were created in partnership with the Fort Myers Mural Society, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving local history and fostering community pride through artistic expression. Check them out here and put them on your list for your next visit. visitfortmyers.com/murals
Walks with CREW in Bonita Springs
Check out the walks and programs offered this month at CREW in Bonita Springs. Each year, more than 100,000 people visit CREW Trust’s four trail systems to explore more than 40 miles of marked hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, as well as outdoor pavilions, primitive campsites, elevated boardwalks, and observation platforms. Upcoming programs and registration: crewtrust.eventbrite.com
Explore and win prizes with Parks, Points & Perks
Discover some of the top parks, beaches, preserves and recreation centers, all while earning points for exciting rewards. This free pass gives you the chance to explore new spots you might never have visited before, plus enjoy popular locations across our islands, beaches and neighborhoods. Check out new ways to kick off summer fun and win great prizes through April 24, 2027.
Go to visitfortmyers.com/ParksPass to check out locations and to sign up. Pass will be delivered to your phone via text and email and you are ready to participate.
Select your location, plan a visit and start having fun.
- Visit any location in the pass and earn 20 points when you check in.
- Special monthly events give you the chance to add up even more points.
- Earn rewards like a drawstring backpack, and unlock choices for memberships, parking passes or recreation center access.
- Check in at 20 locations on the pass, and you will be entered for a chance to win a grand prize, a two-night stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Fort Myers at Bell Tower Shops and a Family Fun Day at Lakes Park.
CROW opens Harkey Sea Turtle Complex
CROW (Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife) on Sanibel Island celebrated its first step in a journey to once again rehabilitate sea turtles with Harkey Sea Turtle Complex, which replaces a facility demolished by Hurricane Ian in 2022. With funding provided by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and donors, the new state-of-the-art facility has larger tanks, heaters and chillers, ionization filters, and other features to elevate the care of turtle patients.
The nearly $3 million facility will also include cameras to allow the CROW team to evaluate and the public to witness firsthand the sea turtles’ recovery process. crowclinic.org
New marine life at Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium
Many popular species such as the queen conch, horse conch, giant clam, flamingo tongue snail, lined seahorse, California sea gare, giant triton and red abalone are on view at the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium on Sanibel Island.
And several new species have recently been added, including flamboyant cuttlefish, California two-spot octopus, disco clams and thrush cowries. One of the most popular on view is a playful giant Pacific octopus, which the Museum welcomed in October. The largest species of octopus in the world, the giant Pacific octopus has eight arms, three hearts, blue blood and weighs an average of 90 lbs. shellmuseum.org
Accommodations news
Beachview Villas open
Beachview Villas on Sanibel Island have opened with 22 Gulf-view villas. Check for reservations at beachview-villas.com
Happy 100th Birthday, Tarpon Lodge
A century of history and Old Florida charm, with views of Pine Island Sound, greet visitors for overnight stays and dining for lunch and dinner. Check out details at tarponlodge.com
Shangri-La Springs in Bonita Springs celebrates 100 Years
Established in 1926, Shangri-La Springs, a historic hotel nestled on over 8 lush acres in the heart of Bonita Springs, is celebrating 100 years. The tranquil oasis offers a boutique hotel experience, a full-service organic spa, a farm-to-table restaurant featuring produce from an on-site garden, and a busy calendar of community events. Check out details and plan a visit soon at shangrilasprings.com
Under construction
- Captiva Island Inn, opening late 2026
- HomeTowne Suites by Red Roof, Fort Myers, 2026
- Lake Shadroe Resort & Marina, Cape Coral, early 2027
- Hampton Inn at Bell Tower, Fort Myers, early 2027
- Cambria Hotels, Fort Myers, late 2027
Visit Fort Myers partners with Kind Traveler
Visit Fort Myers is proud to be the first Florida destination to partner with Kind Traveler, an acclaimed innovator in sustainable travel. Participating hotels, adventure operators and experience providers, and their nonprofit partners, offer a chance for visitors to give back with a portion of their booking going to a local organization that supports sustainable travel. Check accommodations and their nonprofit partners at visitfortmyers.com/kind-traveler
Dining & entertainment
Three area restaurants included in Michelin Guide Florida
The Fort Myers-area culinary scene has earned statewide recognition with three local restaurants included in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide Florida.
The MICHELIN Guide is considered one of the world's most respected restaurant rating systems and serves as a trusted resource for travelers seeking exceptional dining experiences. The recognition further elevates the destination’s appeal for both visitors and residents exploring the area's diverse culinary offerings.
Check them out on your next visit:
- Liberty, Fort Myers
- The Bohemian, Bonita Springs
- Canary Club, Bonita Springs (also awarded a Bib Gourmand distinction for good quality, good value cooking)
Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre in Fort Myers has been named #6 on USA Today’s 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards for 2026. The popular venue has been serving dinner and great shows for 30 years. broadwaypalm.com
Blossom & Brie named top brunch spot
The North Fort Myers open-air, farm-to-table dining experience has been named one of the best brunch spots in Florida by USA Today Florida Network. A favorite among locals and visitors, it serves weekend brunch, lunch and dinner. blossomandbrie.com
Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) news
New air service at RSW. For more information, visit flylcpa.com
Breeze Airways
- Madison, (MSN), starting Oct. 21
- Dayton, OH (DAY), starting Oct. 23
Avelo
- McKinney, Texas (DTX), starting Nov. 11
- Concord, NC (USA), starting Nov. 19
Festivals and events
MangoMania
July 11
pineislandchamber.org/chamber-events/mangomania
Island Hopper Songwriter Fest
Sept. 18-27
island-hopperfest.com
41st Cape Coral Oktoberfest
Oct. 17-19 & 24-26
German-American Social Club
capecoraloktoberfest.com
Art in the Wild
Oct. 20-22
J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
dingdarlingsociety.org/art-in-the-wild
REVIVE! Trash to Fashion Couture Collection Show
Nov. 4
Sundial Beach Resort and Spa, Sanibel Island
dingdarlingsociety.org/revive
Sanibel Island Writers Conference
November tba
FGCU
fgcu.edu/siwc
36th annual American Sand Sculpting Championship, Fort Myers Beach
Nov. 19-23
fmbsandsculpting.com
Fort Myers Tip-Off
Thanksgiving week
Florida SouthWestern State College, Fort Myers
fortmyerstipoff.com
38th Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade
Dec. 5
fortmyersbeach.org
2027 Festivals and Events
42nd annual Cape Coral Art Festival and Market Place
January tba
capecoralartfestival.com
36thth Tour De Cape in Cape Coral
January tba
Rotary Park
tourdecape.net
ArtFest Fort Myers, downtown Fort Myers
Feb. 5-7
artfestfortmyers.com
89th Edison Festival of Light Grand Parade, Fort Myers
February tba
Downtown Fort Myers
edisonfestival.org
25th annual Burrowing Owl Festival, Cape Coral
February tba
Rotary Park Environmental Center
ccfriendsofwildlife.org/burrowing-owl-festival-2
Southwest Florida Ag Expo
Feb. 25-March 7
Mike Greenwell Regional Park
swflagexpo.com
Spring training
Boston Red Sox
February-March tba
mlb.com/redsox/spring-training
JetBlue Park, Fort Myers
Minnesota Twins
mlb.com/twins/spring-training
February-March tba
Lee Health Sports Complex/Hammond Stadium, Fort Myers
90th annual Sanibel Shell Festival, Sanibel Island
March tba
Sanibel Community House
sanibelcommunityhouse.net/shell-festival
28th annual Southwest Florida Reading Festival, Fort Myers
March 6
Fort Myers Regional Library, downtown Fort Myers
readfest.org
Fort Myers Beach Lions Club Shrimp Festival
March 13-14
fortmyersbeachshrimpfestival.com
Taste of the Islands event
March tba
Sanibel City Hall
tasteoftheislands.org
12th annual Bonita Springs Short Film Festival
April tba
Prado Stadium
bonitaspringsfilmfestival.org
National Seashell Day
June 21
visitfortmyers.com/national-seashell-day
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EDITOR’S NOTE: Fort Myers - Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods includes: Sanibel Island, Captiva Island, Fort Myers Beach, Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, Estero, Cape Coral, Pine Island, Matlacha, Boca Grande & Outer Islands, North Fort Myers, Alva, Buckingham and Lehigh Acres. For more information, go to visitfortmyers.com.
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