Fort Myers Vacations for Book Lovers
The Fort Myers area is one of those places where relaxed beach reading is always encouraged! Whether you’re obsessed with the literary side of TikTok (Booktok for those in the know), are looking for your next book set in Florida, or simply want to browse around a cozy book store or curl up in a comfortable reading spot, we’ve got the inside track on the best places for book lovers.
If there’s one great place to meet up, it’s the Southwest Florida Reading Festival on March 7, 2026. Taking place at the Fort Myers Regional Library, this flagship event brings together like-minded literary lovers from all over to meet local authors who specialize in genres for every age.
Our islands, beaches and neighborhoods have inspired countless works of fiction, and you can become your own main character by walking in the footsteps of famous figures. The fast-paced mystery series, “The Sanibel Sunset Detective,” brings the area to life as private investigator Tree Callister solves crimes across the island (and frequently dines at The Mucky Duck!). Author Ron Base lives part of the year in Southwest Florida and has been spotted signing his books for years.
“Gift from the Sea” is another local treasure, first published by Anne Morrow Lindbergh in 1955. She was inspired to write this thoughtful meditation while collecting seashells from Captiva Island and even named a few chapters after local shells. Other familiar authors with ties to the Fort Myers area include Mary Roberts Rinehart, whose family once owned Cabbage Key Inn, and Randy Wayne White, whose popular Doc Ford series was first introduced in his book “Sanibel Flats.”
Ready to grab your next good read?
Find a wide collection from local authors and books inspired by the destination at MacIntosh Books + Paper on Sanibel Island.
The Book Rack in Fort Myers is loaded with used books, including hard-to-find titles. Check before you go as hours can be limited.
Stacks of new and used books, book club gatherings, and author signings are at the heart of Blinking Owl Books. You’ll also find yarn and other knitting supplies, along with other fun wares.
If you’re not already beachside or poolside, the next step is to find a place to read that takes full advantage of the Florida sunshine.
At the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, Banyan Cafe serves up locally roasted coffee and small-batch snacks. Get your favorite treats and then enjoy your reading on the beautiful grounds and gardens.
In downtown Bonita Springs, Survey Café is a historic cottage-turned-cafe. Bring a book and enjoy a meal in a charming, Old Florida space surrounded by live oaks and Spanish moss.
Pull up a seat on the patio and enjoy a good read at Chocolattés in Fort Myers. Beans are roasted in-house, and you’ll also find fun special events like live music and mahjong classes.
