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The Loft FMBCall

Getting Around Fort Myers Beach

Updated September 24, 2026 by Chris and Jake, your local hosts

Main House at The Loft FMB in downtown Fort Myers Beach

The Fort Myers Beach trolley

LeeTran runs the beach trolley from the Beach Park & Ride at 11101 Summerlin Square Drive, just off the island, onto Fort Myers Beach and down Estero Boulevard toward Lovers Key State Park, stopping at beach accesses, shops and restaurants. Parking at the Park & Ride is free. Fares are low; pay with exact change or the LeeFare app. See the Chamber’s trolley and tram page (opens in a new tab) for current routes and times.

The free seasonal tram

From November through April, a free tram runs back and forth through the busy north end of the island, between Bowditch Point Park and the Fort Myers Beach Public Library, every 30 to 40 minutes. It is scheduled to return in November 2026. The Town of Fort Myers Beach transit page (opens in a new tab) posts updates.

Walking and biking downtown

Downtown is compact and flat. From The Loft, the beach is 2 to 3 minutes on foot and Times Square is about five. Every booking includes free bikes, which are the easiest way to reach places like Matanzas Pass Preserve. Stick to bike lanes and sidewalks where marked, and use lights after dark.

Staying downtown? Our Fort Myers Beach vacation rentals are a short walk from the beach and Times Square. Check availability

Getting here from the airport (RSW)

The closest major airport to Fort Myers Beach is Southwest Florida International (RSW). It’s usually about 30 to 45 minutes by car, depending on traffic, and longer on winter weekends. Rental cars, rideshare and taxis are available at the airport. LeeTran’s Route 50 connects the airport with the Beach Park & Ride, where you can catch the trolley.

Arriving by car? You’ll cross onto the island on the Matanzas Pass Bridge, the tall blue “Sky Bridge,” which lands right in downtown. Our parking guide explains where to park; our guests get a free on-site space.

Day trips by boat

The Key West Express (opens in a new tab) ferry leaves from 1200 Main Street, just over the bridge on San Carlos Island, with a morning departure and an evening return; the crossing takes about three and a half hours each way. The terminal charges for parking, so ask us about the easiest way to get there.

Questions and answers

What is the closest airport to Fort Myers Beach?

Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers, usually about 30 to 45 minutes away by car.

Is the Fort Myers Beach trolley free?

The LeeTran beach trolley has a small fare. A separate free tram runs through the north end of the island from November through April, and parking at the Beach Park & Ride is free.

Do I need a car on Fort Myers Beach?

Not if you stay downtown. The beach, Times Square, restaurants and the trolley are all within walking distance of The Loft, and our guests get free bikes.

Places to stay

See the availability calendar

Ready for some island time?

Pick your dates and we’ll show you every place that’s open.