Inside Margaritaville Fort Myers Beach: What to Expect from Paradise on the Gulf

Welcome to Paradise on Fort Myers Beach

If you’ve ever dreamed of escaping to a place where every day feels like vacation, Margaritaville Fort Myers Beach might be exactly what you’re looking for. This colorful beachfront resort brings Jimmy Buffett’s tropical state of mind to life with a perfect mix of fun, comfort, and pure coastal bliss.

Situated at the base of the Matanzas Pass Bridge, Margaritaville Fort Myers Beach opened as one of Southwest Florida’s most anticipated resorts — offering locals, snowbirds, and vacationers a new way to experience Fort Myers Beach.

Whether you’re sipping a frozen margarita by the pool, exploring the shoreline on a complimentary bike, or catching a fiery Gulf sunset from your balcony, this resort truly embodies the phrase “license to chill.”

The Vibe: Where Luxury Meets Laid-Back Island Living

Stepping into Margaritaville Fort Myers Beach feels like walking into a tropical daydream. Bright turquoise walls, beach-chic decor, and friendly staff instantly set the tone.

The resort combines upscale comfort with easygoing island energy, creating a space where you can unwind completely — but still enjoy modern amenities.

Resort Highlights:

• 🌊 Oceanfront views from many rooms and suites

• 🏝️ Coastal-inspired interiors with private balconies

• 🍹 Welcome margarita upon check-in

• 👣 Complimentary slippers and robes (you can take the slippers home — robes are available for purchase)

• 🚲 Free bicycle rentals to explore Fort Myers Beach

• 🏋️ Complimentary fitness activities like Zumba, yoga, and guided walks

• 🎬 Evening movie nights and a sunset ceremony to celebrate each day’s end

• 🐾 Pet-friendly accommodations so your furry friend can join the fun

• 🚗 Valet-only parking for a seamless arrival experience

Whether you’re here for a weekend escape or a full-length vacation, the experience is designed to make every guest feel like they’ve arrived in paradise.

Dining & Drinks: Taste the Tropics

Food and drinks are at the heart of the Margaritaville experience — and this resort doesn’t disappoint.

JWB Grill

The resort’s signature restaurant, JWB Grill, blends upscale dining with island flair. Expect fresh seafood, premium steaks, and artfully crafted cocktails. You have a panoramic view of Fort Myers Beach, which in my opinion is the ultimate highlight of the restaurant.

My top tip is to check the time of sunset for the day of your visit and make a reservation for about 20 to 30 minutes prior so you can catch beautiful sunset views. As the night drops you cannot see much besides a whole lot of darkness.

Check out everything we ate at Margaritaville Fort Myers Beach and our top favorites here in this article.

The JWB Grill opens for dinner daily at 4pm but you can enjoy Sunday brunches from 10 am - 2 pm. Happy hour is from 4 pm until close from Monday through Thursday and you must sit at the bar.

5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar

The poolside bar has live music, happy hour specials, and unbeatable sunset views, this is the place to be when the sky turns pink and gold over the Gulf.

5 o'clock Somewhere opens at 9 AM and closes an hour past sunset, so if you're visiting during summer time you have until right around 9 pm to chill. Happy hour starts daily at 4pm and it ends an hour past sunset as well.

License to Chill Bar & Grill

Located in the courtyard, this spot offers outdoor dining with fire pits, live entertainment, and ideal surroundings for relaxing or dining al-fresco. This is also where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner daily.

Food and drinks are served from 7 am until 11 pm daily and happy hour is from 1 pm to 5 pm, Mondays through Thursdays.

And if you are wondering if you can get a margarita at 7 am, you sure can! This is Margaritaville and it's certainly 5 o'clock somewhere.

Lah De Lah

Located right on the sand at the resort, Lah De Dah Beach Bar & Grill delivers a lively beachfront dining and drinks experience with live music, beachfront seating, frozen cocktails, and a menu filled with fresh coastal dishes.

The restaurant opens at 11 am until 11 pm with daily happy hours from 8pm to 11pm. You can also enjoy Trivia night every Tuesday at 7 pm and Karaoke on Wednesday at 8pm to 11pm.

Coconut Telegraph Coffee Shop

Located inside the resort, Coconut Telegraph Coffee Shop serves barista-style espresso, smoothies, adult milkshakes, and grab-and-go pastries from early morning until evening — perfect for fueling up before your beach day or winding down with a treat.

From fresh-baked goods and hot sandwiches to boozy milkshakes and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s the ideal stop for a quick bite or relaxed break while staying at or visiting the resort.

The coffee opens at 6 am and closes at 9 pm.

A Few Must-Tries

• The grouper bites from Licensed to Chill.

• The chicken au jus at JWB grill .

• Sunset cocktails at the 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar while the sun melts into the Gulf.

Pro Tip: Locals don’t have to stay overnight to enjoy the restaurants or bars — they’re open to the public, making it a great place to grab dinner or drinks with a view.

Relaxation, Recreation & Island Adventures

Margaritaville Fort Myers Beach offers more than just a stay — it’s an experience packed with activities for all ages.

Relax & Recharge

• Lounge by the beachfront pool with tropical tunes and cocktail service.

Enjoy games, dancing or just soak up the sun from 9 am to an hour past sunset for guests and resort pass holders can enjoy from 10 am. Cabana rentals are also available for an extra charge.

• Enjoy a rejuvenating treatment at the St. Somewhere Spa.

Be sure to check out the deals page on their website, for all the top deals going on. During my visit I got the Maragaritaville massage that includes hot stone treatment for $109 for 50 minutes. They also offer beauty services such as facials, hair and nail services.

• Soak in Gulf views from your private balcony — best enjoyed at sunset.

Stay Active & Have Fun

• Join a complimentary Zumba or yoga class offered by the resort.

• Borrow a complimentary bike and cruise along Estero Boulevard.

• Catch a family-friendly flick during movie night under the stars.

• Experience the nightly sunset ceremony — a resort tradition celebrating another perfect day in paradise.

Family-Friendly Fun

This Southwest Florida resort is incredibly family-friendly. Kids will love the pool, movie nights, kid activities such as bracelet making, ceramic dinossaur making, and beach access, while parents can unwind knowing everything is within steps.

Want even more fun activities to do in Fort Myers Beach? Check out this list on Viator for direct access to booking the top fun things to do.

Want to have the best trip to Margaritaville but without hurting your pockets? Then I highlight recommend reading this article on " How to enjoy Margaritaville Fort Myers Beach on a budget ".

Traveling with Pets

Yes — you can bring your pet to Margaritaville Fort Myers Beach, but there are important rules and fees to know.

• Pets (dogs/cats) are allowed. Fee: around US $100 per stay (some sources).

• You must inform the resort in advance (72 hours recommended) that you’ll bring a pet so the room can be prepared properly.

• There is a dog relief area located right below the St Somewhere Spa

• Pets are not permitted in dining rooms, food service areas, or pool areas (standard for many resorts).

• Be aware of a cleaning fee for pets (in addition to the standard pet fee) — check current policy when booking.

  
  

If you’re planning a vacation with a fur-friend, this resort offers one of the stronger pet-friendly options in the Fort Myers Beach area — just plan ahead and confirm all details.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Before you pack your flip-flops, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your visit:

Best Time to Visit

• Peak Season (November–April): Ideal weather, perfect for beach lounging and exploring.

• Shoulder Season (May–October): Warmer temps, smaller crowds, and great rates.

Parking & Access

• Valet-only parking. Guests pay around US $35/night for valet. Self-parking is not available for overnight guests.

• If you’re only visiting for dining/bar access or using a day pass (see next section), valet is still the method.

• The resort is located at 251 Crescent Street, Fort Myers Beach, FL — right near the main beach access points.

Essentials to Pack

• Sunscreen (SPF 30+ recommended)

• Beach hat, sunglasses, flip-flops

• Light layers (evening breeze) - check out this article for everything I wore during our trip.

• Swimwear and maybe an extra outfit if you plan dining out

• If traveling with pets: leash, travel bowl, etc., and documentation if required

Safety Tips

• Keep an eye on local tide schedules before swimming.

• Stay hydrated — even in paradise, the Florida heat is real.

• Respect sea life and avoid disturbing nesting turtles if visiting during summer months.

Resort Perks Worth Knowing

• Complimentary bikes and fitness classes.

• Welcome margarita at check-in sets the mood early.

• Slippers (take home!) and robe (optional purchase) to cozy up your room experience.

• Evening ceremony at sunset — a fun little ritual that reminds you you’re truly in vacation mode.

Things to Do Near Margaritaville Fort Myers Beach

One of the best parts about staying here is how close you are to everything Fort Myers Beach has to offer.

Lovers Key State Park

Just a 15-minute drive south, Lovers Key is a must-visit for nature lovers. Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, or spotting dolphins and manatees.

Explore the Shoreline

Take advantage of your resort’s location: the sand and Gulf waves are just outside the door, perfect for sunbathing, shell collecting, or simply strolling at sunset.

Ride the Boulevard

Use your complimentary bike and ride along Estero Boulevard — there are local shops, eateries, and quirky small businesses worth checking out.

Local Dining & Nightlife

• Head to Times Square on Fort Myers Beach for lively street-performers, souvenir shops, and casual dining.

• Try local favorites like Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille or Junkanoo Below Deck for fresh seafood or casual beach fare.

• For more dining inspiration, check out Top Romantic Restaurants in Southwest Florida

Nature & Outdoor Adventures

• Take a ferry or boat to nearby barrier islands for shelling or kayaking.

• For a peaceful nature escape read Discovering Cayo Costa Island: A Hidden Gem in Southwest Florida.

• Having kids in tow? Check out Top Things to Do with Kids in Southwest Florida for family-friendly ideas beyond the resort.

Resort Pass & Membership Perks

Even if you’re not staying overnight at Margaritaville Fort Myers Beach, you can still enjoy many of its amenities:

• The resort offers a Resort Pass (day-pass style) that allows non-guests to access the pool, beach club, lounge areas, and other amenities.

• There’s also a Margaritaville Parks membership / sign-up perks program: by joining, you gain access to discounts, coupons, and special offers whether you stay overnight or just visit for the day.

• When you arrive, mention the membership or pass at check-in — these perks can make the experience more accessible, especially if you’re local and just want a pool day or sunset drink.

If you to capture the best photos at Margaritaville, make sure you read this article for all the top photo op spots.

Pro Tip: Make sure to visit the Margaritaville Offers Page before booking your trip so you can get the best deal for your buck. For example, Military, First Responders and Government workers can enjoy up to 35% off when they book directly on the resorts website.

Why Margaritaville Fort Myers Beach Is Worth Visiting

Still wondering if it’s worth the stay? Here’s why guests can’t stop raving about it:

• 🏖️ Prime beachfront location — direct access to soft Gulf sands

• 🍸 Vibrant atmosphere — live music, great food, and sunset cocktails every night

• 🚴 Unique amenities — complimentary bikes, daily fitness activities, and movie nights

• Easy access to town and beyond — you’re not isolated; you’re connected to Fort Myers Beach and regional adventures.

• 💆 Relaxation meets fun — spa treatments, sunset ceremonies, and endless beach time

• 🐾 Pet & family friendly — making it ideal for every type of traveler

• 💙 Genuine hospitality — from your welcome margarita to your last goodbye, staff go above and beyond

In short: it’s not just a stay — it’s a slice of paradise designed to help you slow down, smile more, and savor the moment.

❓ FAQ: Margaritaville Fort Myers Beach

Q: Is the resort valet-only parking?A: Yes. Overnight guests must use valet parking (no self-parking). The current fee is around US $35 per night.

Q: Are pets allowed?A: Yes — dogs and cats are allowed in designated rooms, for an additional fee (around US $100 per stay) and with prior notice.

Q: Can I just visit for the day (pool/beach) without staying overnight?A: Yes — via the Resort Pass you can gain access to pool and amenities even if you’re not booked for a room.

Q: Which bar is poolside and which is in the courtyard?A: The poolside bar is 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar. The License to Chill Bar & Grill is situated in the courtyard, not poolside.

Q: Are non-guests allowed to dine there?A: Yes — the restaurants and bars are open to the public, making it a great option even if you’re not staying overnight.

Q: What’s the best time of year to visit?A: November–April offers the most comfortable weather; May–October is warmer and usually less crowded, but it can be more humid and storm-prone.

Your Escape to Paradise Awaits

When you choose Margaritaville Fort Myers Beach, you’re not just choosing a resort — you’re choosing a mindset. A mindset where the “license to chill” is real, where sunset cocktails matter, where kids run free and dogs can join too (if pre-registered!).

Where you trade life’s rush for ocean breezes, palm trees, and the kind of horizon that reminds you: you’re on vacation.

Whether you’re planning a weekend staycation or your next big tropical escape, this resort is one of the best ways to experience Fort Myers Beach and Southwest Florida’s relaxed beach culture.

👉 Ready to keep exploring Southwest Florida ? Be sure to check out more travel inspiration and hidden gems, from beachside adventures to rainy-day retreats, our site is packed with ideas to make your next trip truly memorable.

Here’s to sandy toes, frozen drinks, and unforgettable sunsets in paradise!