Fort Myers Beach has always been a place of sunshine and laughter, where locals and visitors alike could relax, unwind, and soak in the magic of island life. But like many of you, Santini Plaza has faced its share of storms—both literally and figuratively. The hurricane left its mark on our island, our homes, and our hearts. Yet here we stand, moving forward, one step at a time, ready to bring some “normal” back to our beloved community.
For those of you who are just discovering us, Santini Plaza is more than a shopping center—it’s a cornerstone of Fort Myers Beach. We’re thrilled to announce that every space in our plaza is leased, except for *one very special spot*. This particular space is calling for a restaurant. At one point, Santini Plaza was home to **SEVEN restaurants**, each offering something unique to our locals and visitors. It’s a tradition we deeply miss, and we’re seeking the perfect partner to bring back the aroma of fresh-cooked meals and the sound of laughter over shared plates.
If you’re in the restaurant business, this location has *everything* going for it—steady foot traffic with a targeted return, a strong community spirit, and a history of success. The opportunity to step into a space like this and become part of the Fort Myers Beach story doesn’t come often.
The Good, the Bad, and the Heartfelt
We know that for many of you—whether you’re here year-round, have a second home, or are just visiting—life after the hurricane has been a mixed bag. Condo and homeowners are facing unique yet familiar challenges, from insurance battles to repairs that seem never-ending. The struggle to rebuild isn’t just about homes; it’s about lives, memories, and futures.
We mourn the loss of the Fort Myers Beach we knew—its history, its charm, its irreplaceable sense of community. But amidst the heartache, there’s joy to be found. Santini Plaza has become a beacon for those seeking a slice of normal. We’ve noticed new faces—shoppers who, in the past, never ventured our way because Times Square met their every need. To these new visitors, we say, *welcome!* And to our longtime locals, we say, *thank you* for your resilience and support.
Looking Ahead
While some things can never be replaced, there’s so much we can rebuild together. We see Fort Myers Beach as a phoenix rising from the ashes—not exactly as it was, but beautiful in its own way. Santini Plaza is here to offer you a sense of continuity, a place where you can find your favorite shops, meet a neighbor, or even discover something new.
And with 3 restaurants opening —hopefully soon—we’ll be able to serve up the full Santini experience once again! Keep watching our blog and Facebook page for information regarding other businesses opening in Santini Plaza!
To our community, both old and new, thank you for sticking with us through the challenges. Whether you’re here for a short stay or a lifetime, you’re part of this island’s story, and we’re proud to be part of yours.
Let’s Rebuild Together
So here’s to Fort Myers Beach: to its past, its present struggles, and its bright future. If you have a favorite restaurant you’d like to see take up residence here in Santini Plaza—or if you’re a restaurateur looking for a space with history and heart—let us know. Together, we can rebuild not just buildings, but the spirit of Fort Myers Beach.
Until then, we’ll keep our doors open, our spirits high, and our hearts full as we navigate this journey together.
