Fort Myers Beach visitors embrace sun on a cold beach day

Cooler temperatures didn’t keep people off the sand at Fort Myers Beach, where visitors and locals spent the day walking the shoreline, soaking up the sun, and in some cases, even getting into the water.

People strolled in jackets and hoodies, jogged along the shoreline, or cruised by on bikes. While the breeze made it feel chilly at times, beachgoers said the sunshine and open space made it well worth the trip.

Benjamin Davis, visiting from St. Louis, was one of only a few people willing to trade layers for swim trunks. He said the cooler conditions didn’t bother him as much as expected.

“Getting in feels good,” Davis said. “But once you’re out, that breeze really hits you.”

Other visitors echoed that sentiment, saying a cooler Florida beach day still beats winter conditions back home. Katie and Derek, visiting from Canada, said they were happy to enjoy the beach even with lower temperatures.

“Even though it’s a little cold in Florida terms, it’s so nice to get into the sun and enjoy it and sit on the beach,” Katie said.

Not everyone was eager to take a dip. Christa Babel, visiting from Colorado, watched from the sand while her son paddled out into the water.

“Oh gosh no… I’m not getting in there,” Babel said, laughing. “Bundled up is just fine.”

Her son, Max Babel, said the water was more inviting, “The water’s warmer than the air,” he said.

For many, the cooler weather made the beach feel calmer and less crowded. Some said the lighter crowds added to the experience, offering a more peaceful way to enjoy the shoreline.

Local resident Kevin, who was walking along the beach, said the conditions didn’t change what brought him out.

“We’re here for the sunshine,” he said.