Rain could dampen Fort Myers Beach's thriving spring break scene

FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. (WINK)—Spring break is bringing a major boost to Fort Myers Beach businesses, with owners reporting triple their usual revenue and expecting one of the busiest seasons since Hurricane Ian.

The streets of Fort Myers Beach have been packed with spring breakers, and restaurants and businesses on the island are loving it, but businesses are hoping this weekend's potential rain doesn't dampen the spring break momentum.

"Most of these businesses were affected by Ian, so it's a welcome sight to see the crowd and see the people spending," said Terry Persuad, a business owner on Fort Myers Beach.

Persuad tells WINK News he has had to double his staff to keep up with the crowds. Employees say they're seeing people of all ages flock to the beach.

"We have an older generation coming in right now. We have live music, so usually about 40-50 years old," said Taylor, a bartender. "Then around noon on the weekends, we'll get a bunch of 20-year-olds on spring break, so we're pretty packed."

Some owners are optimistic that visitors might take the opportunity to stay longer inside restaurants and stores if the weather turns. Most of Southwest Florida is currently in an extreme drought, making the forecasted rain a welcome sight for the region despite the timing.