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Mornings With Gina Birch

Fort Myers Beach Diamond Head Reopens Today

Author Gina Birch

It’s been more than six months since Hurricane Ian wrecked this popular beach resort. However, today, there is another glimmer of hope for the battered island. Fort Myers Beach Diamond Head Resort reopens today.

The resort, like many beach properties, suffered severe damage when more than 15 feet of water was pushed through its doors and windows on September 28th by the powerful hurricane. Diamond Head had provided shelter to some first responders immediately following the storm. However, the public has not been allowed back until this weekend.

Fort Myers Beach

In this aerial view, cleared lots are all that remain of some homes and businesses that were destroyed by Hurricane Ian on January 25, 2023 in Fort Myers Beach, Florida. The process of rebuilding continues four months after the hurricane passed.

Fort Myers Beach Diamond Head reopens

Beginning Friday (April 14th), you can book your staycations and vacations at the beach resort. Officials warn that not all amenities have been restored. However, the kitchen is up and running for food service. That includes food and drinks at the famous Cabana’s Beach Bar.

The beach behind the hotel is open with chairs and umbrellas for rent. But the pool and the spa are still closed.

As far as other activities on Fort Myers Beach, they are still extremely limited. Some places, like the iconic Whale, have set up umbrella’s and make shift bars in the parking lot to welcome regulars back. Some restaurants have also opened food trucks until their places can be repaired or rebuilt.

Just across the bridge, on the back bay, places like Dixie Fish have reopened. However, Doc Ford’s remains closed.

Gallery: Life On Fort Myers Beach 4 Months After Hurricane Ian

Saturday January 28th was the four month anniversary. The Town of Fort Myers Beach took a catastrophic direct hit from Hurricane Ian on Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2022. Ian was a category 4-plus hurricane. Sustained winds were clocked just a few miles per hour short of a category 5. Bur the real damage wasn’t just the wind. It was the surge. All that water. Like nothing we’d ever seen. Life on Fort Myers Beach changed immediately.

But Southwest Florida is building back. I live in Estero and today the roofer was at my house making repairs. He sent me a picture when he was done. So happy. My friend bought a house on the river that was completely flooded. She’s currently refurbishing it and plans to move in. We’re doing this. But the people on Fort Myers Beach have a much longer way to go.

If you’re not a beach resident, but want to help out by putting some money into the local economy, here’s a list of what’s open.

Getty photographer Joe Raedle came over from Miami to take some pictures at the beach. He captured pictures of life on Fort Myers Beach including rv’s, tents, and pods that people have turned into the temporary homes. The beach will rebuild, it will just take time. Because the people in these pictures – they aren’t going anywhere.

 

Gina Birch brings the sunshine to Sunny 106.3 every weekday morning from 6-10. She has worked in radio, television and print in Southwest Florida for nearly 30 years. During that time, she has become an advocate for numerous charities including those that support animals, children, women and wellness. In addition, she has written for numerous local, regional and national publications about food, wine and travel. Those are her longtime passions...along with shoes.

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