Southwest Florida hospitality was put on display in the results of its fourth annual "Most Neighborly Cities in America" ranking. In fact, of the 25 towns on the list, only one Florida town made the rankings. And that one is a Southwest Florida town. According to the release "Based on factors such as charitable donations, volunteer work, and crime, this year's list reflects the core values of unity and neighborliness that make a city truly great."
On top of the list of Most Neighborly Cities was Madison, Wisconsin. The study citied Madison's charity, volunteerism, and low crime. "We couldn't be happier that Madison has earned the title of America's most neighborly city. This recognition is a reflection of the warm, supportive and proactive community spirit that doesn't just reside in Madison but is the heartbeat of all of Wisconsin," said Wisconsin Tourism Secretary Anne Sayers.
Second on the list is another cold weather town, Minneapolis, Minnesota. Perhaps the cold winters help neighbors form strong bonds. Third on the list is Colorado Springs, Colorado.
But it's number 4 on the list where a Southwest Florida town is featured.
Sarasota, Florida is number four on the rankings. According to Neighbor, "This picturesque seaside community has average temperatures of 72 degrees and 37 miles of shoreline. With year-round beach life calling many to The Sunshine State, Sarasota topped the list with the highest population change of all the top 25 cities – adding 3.4% new faces to the community between 2021 and 2022. "
With such beaches as Lido Beach, and Siesta Key to visit, it's easy to be happy. But it's not just Sarasota, I find most of Southwest Florida to be very neighborly. I wouldn't trade the world for the neighbors I have in Estero. And before tham I loved living in Naples. Having great neighbors just makes everything better.
It's hard to believe that this week marks the one year anniversary of Hurricane Ian and there are 20 restaurants that are open on Fort Myers Beach.
This Thursday, September 28, marks the one year anniversary of Hurricane Ian. Parts of Southwest Florida were completely devastated, mainly the beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel. We've come a LONG way over the past year. It still breaks my heart to go down there see so many things gone. But it's also refreshing to see so many things that have reopened. It's so important to support the businesses that have been able to reopen. I've been going to Fort Myers Beach nearly every weekend and I love seeing so many people down there. Whether they're eating, drinking or taking a walk at sunset.
When it comes to accommodations, a handful of hotels are welcoming guests back to the island.
Diamondhead, Pink Shell, Edison Beach House, Gullwing, and Lighthouse. There are also a bunch of vacation rental companies on the beach too. I love that more and more places are becoming available just in time for season. If you have friends and family coming down for holiday vacations, they'll be able to stay on the beach and enjoy all it has to offer. And when it comes to attractions, there are wave runner rentals, boat cruises and more.
But not only for visitors, us locals love to eat and drink, and with a backdrop like the beach, it doesn't get any better. For a full list of everything open on Fort Myers Beach, click here. But I put together a list of the 20 restaurants have reopened on the beach. Go down, soak up our paradise and support these Fort Myers Beach restaurants as we continue to rebuild after Hurricane Ian, one year later.
Bonita Bill’s Waterfront Cafe
Bonita Bill's is a low-key no frills spot right on the bay offering great food, cold drinks and live music. I recommend the fish sandwich.
Cabanas Beach Bar & Grill
Cabanas is located inside Diamondhead Resort. You'll love the 360 degree bar, indoor seating, outdoor patio, and amazing views of the beach.
Cold Stone Creamery
After a day on the beach, cooling down with some ice cream hits the spot. Located right in Times Square as soon as you cross the bridge.
Dixie Fish Co.
If you haven't been to Dixie, it's a great old Florida fish house. For cocktails, I recommend the Toasted Coconut Colada.
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille
Doc Ford's just reopened a few months ago and it's been SO busy ever since. I love everything on their menu and sitting outside on the deck makes for a great setting for dinner.
Eats At The Beach
Eats at the Beach is located at 61 Ave C. They have breakfast, sandwiches, wings, salads and more.
Fresh Catch Bistro
Fresh Catch Bistro is located at 4761 Estero Boulevard. Enjoy happy hour daily from 2:30-4:30.
Jack’s at the Pink Shell Beach Resort
Jack's is open for breakfast 7 days a week from 7:30am – 11am. A great option for hotel guests and visitors to the beach.
Junkanoo Below Deck
Junkanoo has a new location behind Publix at 4761 Estero Blvd. I went for the first time about a month ago for dinner with company in from out of town and we loved it. Had a great mahi sandwich and great cocktails right on the water.
La Ola Surfside Restaurant
La Ola has two locations now, one at Bell Tower and another on the beach. Enjoy happy hour daily from 3:00pm – 6:00pm with $7 margaritas and $1 off beers, wines and wells.
Matanzas on the Bay
Matanzas is located on the bay offering an old Florida atmosphere. They have a limited menu available. Petey's Upper Deck is also open on the second floor.
Mojoe’s Coffee Cafe
Mojoe's is located at 1740 Estero Blvd. If you're looking for gourmet coffee on the beach, this is the spot!
Parrot Key Caribbean Grill
Parrot Key is one of my favorite spots. It's where I always take company in from out of town for dinner, drinks or both! My favorite is the Key Lime Colada and the mussels.
Snug Harbor Waterfront Restaurant
Snug Harbor is located on Old San Carlos Blvd. If you're looking for great, fresh seafood, they unload their boats daily.
The Beach Bar
While The Beach Bar doesn't serve food, what they do serve up are great cocktails. I was there a few weeks ago to check out some live music and when your feet are in the sand, there is nothing better.
The Rude Shrimp Company
The Rude Shrimp Company is now located at Moss Marina. Enjoy Hawaiian Fusion cuisine, inspired by the flavors of the North Shore.
The Whale
The Whale is located right on Estero Blvd. With live music and a great menu, make sure to add this to your list of stops while on the beach.
Tiki Bar At The Lighthouse Island Resort
The Tiki Bar serves breakfast daily 8-11am, plus a great all-day food menu and tasty cocktails. Also a killer deal 7 days a week: $3 bloody mary's and screwdrivers.
Wahoo Willie’s
My parents just went to Wahoo Willie's a few weeks ago and loved it! They got a bunch of apps and enjoyed their all day happy hour.
Yucatan Beach Stand Bar & Grill
Yucatan is located on San Carlos Boulevard just north of Times Square. Featuring a great happy hour and live music daily from 2-5pm.
Updated 2/23: These Restaurants Are Also Open
Bella Mozzarella Pizza & Grill- 1000 Fifth Ave
Flipper's On The Bay- 8767 Estero Blvd
Heavenly Biscuit on Wheels- 110 Mango St
Liki Tiki BBQ- 17650 San Carlos Blvd
Margaritaville Beach Resort- 251 Crescent St
Meli's Ice Cream- 50 Old San Carlos Blvd
Mr. Waves Island Bar- 1028 Fifth St
Nervous Nellie's- 1131 First St
Yo! Taco- 1005 Estero Blvd
Pinchers- 18100 San Carlos Blvd
