Fort Myers Beach is Rebuilding — Here’s What You Need to Know

Fort Myers Beach has come a long way since Hurricane Ian and Hurricane Milton. A lot was lost, but even more is being rebuilt — stronger, smarter, and more resilient than before. As a local Realtor, I’ve been keeping a close eye on the redevelopment projects that are shaping the new face of the island. Whether you’re looking to invest, buy, or sell near the beach, these updates are worth knowing.

Here’s a breakdown of some of the most exciting projects in the works right now:

Red Coconut Redevelopment

This is one of the most ambitious plans on the beach. The proposal includes two 17-story condo towers, a public beach club, restaurant, and beach access. It’s been controversial due to its height, but it’s now in the final design phase. Once construction starts, it’s expected to take about two years.

The Whale

A longtime beach favorite, The Whale is coming back with a bold new look. The new design includes three stories and a rooftop bar overlooking the Gulf. It’s set to open later this summer. Until then, you can get a taste of their classic menu at Sandy Bottoms every Saturday.

The Salty Crab

The Salty Crab is gearing up for a comeback, right next to Margaritaville. The design has already cleared the LPA and is now heading to Town Council for public hearings. Owner Greg Powers hopes to be fully open by Winter 2026.

The Arches (Moss Marina Redevelopment)

This 5-acre project includes 263 hotel rooms, a Bayfront promenade, shopping, dining, a splash pad, a water taxi, and an upgraded marina. It’s big. The final council hearing is coming up June 2nd, and construction is expected to begin in a few years.

La Ola Surfside

After Ian destroyed their Times Square location, La Ola quickly adapted. They opened at Bell Tower and launched a food truck/bar in Times Square. Now, they’re planning a full rebuild featuring an elevated dining space that brings energy right back to the heart of the beach.

Access 26 Food Truck Park

A creative and casual concept is coming to the corner of Estero Boulevard and Chapel Street. Plans include five food trucks, outdoor seating, bathrooms with showers, and a two-story bar structure. It’s already LPA-approved and heading to Town Council next.

Fort Myers Beach Pier

The new pier will be wider and longer than before — 1,000 feet total and 50 percent wider. The design is nearly finished, permitting has begun, and construction is expected to start in late 2026.

Times Square Resort

Developer Terry Persaud is working on a new hotel project for his Times Square lot, currently a parking area. The first design was rejected, but a revised version with fewer stories and rooms is now being presented to the Town Council.

Why It Matters

This level of investment doesn’t happen unless people believe in the future of Fort Myers Beach. It’s happening, and early buyers and sellers stand to benefit most. Whether you’re looking to buy into the area or wondering what your current property might be worth in this new wave, I’d love to talk.

Reach out any time, and let’s chat about where things are headed on the island.