Where to stay post hurricane

Question

My husband, my 28 year old son, and I are coming to Fort Myers for the first time in April. We’re wondering where to stay. A resort on the beach with a tiki bar or pool bar, walkable to other beach bars or other area restaurants/bars/live music, onsite restaurant for at least breakfast, beach service or the ability to bring a cooler on the beach. We need to book two rooms or find a two bedroom. We booked the Lani Kai and was excited until I heard you can’t bring any food or alcohol into the pool area after you order it from the pool bar. What? That’s really odd to me. What kind of resort doesn’t allow you to bring a cocktail back to the pool? Seems weird. I’ve also heard it’s really loud, which I’m fine with to a certain extent, but not late into the night. Recs on another fun place to stay that would meet some or all of these requirements? It’s our first time in Fort Myers Beach and is a surprise for my husband and son. Thank you!

Answer

Fort Myers Beach offers a variety of resorts that can cater to your preferences for a fun, relaxing beach vacation with easy access to bars, restaurants, and live music. Since you’re looking for a resort with a pool or tiki bar, beach service, onsite dining, and walkable options, here’s a detailed overview:

First, it’s important to note that policies like the Lani Kai’s restriction on bringing drinks from the pool bar back to the pool are uncommon but do exist in some resorts to comply with safety regulations. If that feels restrictive, there are alternatives that may suit your needs better.

Recommended options:

Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina: This is one of the larger beachfront resorts on Fort Myers Beach. It offers multiple pools, a tiki bar, beach service, and onsite dining including breakfast options. Rooms include one- or two-bedroom suites, which are ideal for families. The resort is also walkable to nearby restaurants and has a lively but not excessively noisy atmosphere.
Laguna Shores Resort: Smaller and quieter than some of the bigger resorts. It has a pool, is beachfront, allows coolers on the beach, and is close to local restaurants and bars. The setting is more relaxed, making it easier to enjoy downtime without excessive noise.
Outrigger Beach Resort: Beachfront with a pool, tiki-style bar, and easy beach access. Some rooms are two-bedroom suites. This resort is moderately lively but typically quiet by late evening, and it is walkable to several beach bars and eateries.
Times Square Beach Resort: Right on the main hub of Fort Myers Beach nightlife, so perfect if you want walkability to restaurants and live music. It has pools, a bar, and beach access. Keep in mind it is in a busier area, so evenings might be a bit livelier.

Additional tips:

Book early to secure two-bedroom suites or adjacent rooms, especially for April, which is a popular time for visitors.
Confirm beach policies in advance: some resorts allow coolers and outside food, while others may have restrictions similar to the Lani Kai.
Consider quieter locations slightly away from the main nightlife strip if you prefer a mix of lively daytime activities and more peaceful evenings.
Check if resorts offer onsite beach service or rentals for chairs and umbrellas to make your stay easier and more comfortable.

Overall, for your first visit, Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina is probably the closest match to all your requirements: beachfront, tiki/pool bar, onsite restaurant for breakfast, beach service, walkable to bars and restaurants, and suitable room options for three adults.