FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. — The Lani Kai Resort on Fort Myers Beach reopens its doors! After more than two years of silence brought on by Hurricane Ian’s relentless fury, this beloved sanctuary welcomes its first guests back on Monday. Locals and visitors alike can breathe a sigh of relief, as the lively energy of Estero Island begins to stir once more.
WATCH AS FORT MYERS BEACH COMMUNITY CORRESPONDENT ANVAR RUZIEV TOURS THE PROPERTY:
Lani Kai Resort on Fort Myers Beach reopens its rooms to guests
For over four decades, the Lani Kai has held a special place in the hearts of those who visit the island. Hurricane Ian may have tested its resilience, but the structure, a testament to architectural fortitude, stands proud. Melissa Schneider, the resort’s marketing director, reflected on the building’s survival, saying, “This beautiful girl survived, this 50-year building survived that Cat 5 storm.” Such pride echoes in the vibrant community that surrounds it.
While the exterior still whispers tales of Old Florida charm, a complete transformation awaits within. Schneider recounted the extensive journey of revitalization, where every detail mattered. “Everything is new in this entire venue, everything; I mean from the wiring, the plumbing, the electric, the ceilings, the floors, the drywall,” she explained. Each upgrade, a stitch in the fabric of recovery, breathes life back into the cherished resort.
However, rebuilding comes at a cost. Schneider candidly acknowledged that the financial burden may ripple through the hotel’s rates. “Like with all of the resorts and hotels in Fort Myers Beach, there probably will be an influx in rates just across the board,” she noted, a reminder that recovery requires investment, both emotionally and financially.
Despite the anticipated rate adjustments, the Lani Kai is committed to remaining a family-friendly destination, with room rates starting around $200 per night. Currently, only two of the resort’s five glorious floors are open, and several beloved amenities—restaurants, bars, and the lively nightclub—await further enhancements. The tantalizing scents and sounds of festivity, which once defined the Lani Kai, will return soon but are still in the wings for now.
As for the timeline of full restoration, Schneider shared a hopeful outlook, stating they are working diligently to unveil those remaining floors. Although no specific date is set, the anticipation hangs like bright lights on a festive evening, filled with hope for the summer ahead.
For those exploring Fort Myers Beach, there’s a unique charm in this reclamation. The city’s character, embodied in establishments like the Lani Kai and local favorites, remains unbroken. In fact, did you know that Estero Island is home to the only environmentally protected area in South Florida? It’s a reminder that while nature can devastate, it can also rejuvenate—a duality echoed by the renewed spirit of the Lani Kai Resort, lighting the way for its community.
