Estero Island Map - Fort Myers Beach Map

Description:

Description:

Description: This map shows where the island is located in Florida.

Estero Island is a barrier island located in Lee County, Florida, along the Gulf of Mexico. Spanning approximately 7 miles (11.3 km) in length and with an area of about 4 square miles (10.4 sq km), this narrow strip of land is separated from the mainland by Estero Bay to the east. The island is primarily known as the home of Fort Myers Beach, the town that occupies most of its territory.

The town of Fort Myers Beach was officially incorporated in 1995, though the area has a much longer history of settlement. According to archaeological evidence, the Calusa Native Americans were the first inhabitants of the region, with their presence dating back several thousand years. European settlement began in the late 19th century, with the island initially serving as a military outpost during the Seminole Wars, which contributed to its name despite never having an actual fort on the island itself.

Fort Myers Beach has developed into a popular tourist destination known for its white sand beaches and laid-back atmosphere. The town has a permanent population of approximately 7,000 residents, though this number swells significantly during the winter months when seasonal residents and tourists arrive. The island's economy is heavily dependent on tourism, with numerous hotels, restaurants, and vacation rentals catering to visitors year-round.

The most famous beach on the island is Fort Myers Beach itself, which extends along much of the Gulf side of the island. The beach is known for its fine, white sand composed primarily of quartz, which remains cool even on hot days. Other notable beach areas include Bowditch Point Park at the northern tip of the island and Lynn Hall Memorial Park near Times Square, the island's main entertainment district.

Times Square serves as the commercial and entertainment hub of Fort Myers Beach, featuring shops, restaurants, and street performers. The Fort Myers Beach Pier, extending 560 feet into the Gulf of Mexico, is another prominent landmark offering fishing opportunities and panoramic views. Nature enthusiasts can explore Matanzas Pass Preserve, a 60-acre natural habitat with mangrove forests and walking trails showcasing the island's native ecosystem.

The island is connected to the mainland by the Matanzas Pass Bridge, which links to San Carlos Island and ultimately to the city of Fort Myers. A second bridge, the Big Carlos Pass Bridge, connects the southern end of Estero Island to Lovers Key State Park and Bonita Springs. These connections make Estero Island accessible while maintaining its distinct island character.

Weather on Estero Island is typical of Southwest Florida, with hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. The island faces significant hurricane risk during the Atlantic hurricane season from June through November, with Hurricane Ian causing extensive damage in September 2022.