Florida’s Gulf Coast is welcoming travellers with a wave of accommodation updates — from multimillion-dollar renovations and hurricane-resilient rebuilds to a pioneering partnership in sustainable tourism.
Visit Fort Myers has become the first Florida destination to partner with Kind Traveler, an innovator in responsible tourism. Participating hotels donate a portion of bookings to local non-profits supporting environmental and community causes. Details are available at visitfortmyers.com/kind-traveler.
Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, Bonita Springs
A multimillion-dollar renovation is underway at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, refreshing meeting and event spaces with coastal-inspired design. Due for completion this fall, the project complements recent updates to guestrooms, restaurants and the waterpark. Highlights include a dramatic mesh chandelier in the Estero Ballroom, opalescent glass lighting installations, and a landscaped Calusa Ballroom Terrace evoking a tropical garden.
Shalimar Beach Resort, Sanibel Island
The Shalimar Beach Resort has reopened as the first Sanibel property to be completely rebuilt following Hurricane Ian. The 33-room resort offers Gulf-front studios and villas, designed with hurricane resiliency in mind — including impact-resistant structures elevated above flood levels and supported by more than 500 concrete pilings. Turtle-friendly lighting has also been installed to protect nesting wildlife.
More Reopenings Across the Islands
- Best Western Plus Beach Resort, Fort Myers Beach: The 75-room beachfront property has reopened after a full renovation, offering suites, complimentary breakfast, a heated pool, watersports and pet-friendly stays. bwbeachresort.com
- Jensen’s Twin Palm Resort and Marina, Captiva Island: A beloved destination since 1977, Jensen’s welcomes guests back to its 14 historic cottages, decorated in nautical themes, with direct access to Pine Island Sound, boat rentals and a fueling station. jensensmarina.com
- White Pelican Villas, Sanibel Island (opening early 2026): Sanibel Captiva Beach Resorts is redeveloping the former Beachview Cottages site into a 22-unit property. The new build will feature three interconnected buildings set farther back from the shoreline. sanibelcaptivabeachresorts.com
From sustainable travel initiatives to hurricane-resilient rebuilds and luxury renovations, Fort Myers and its islands are redefining hospitality for business and leisure travellers alike.