Matanzas Pass Bridge, Road bridge in Fort Myers Beach, Florida.
Matanzas Pass Bridge is a road crossing between Fort Myers Beach and the mainland, offering two traffic lanes and a separate pedestrian path protected by concrete barriers. The structure spans a waterway where boats pass underneath while vehicles above reach the island.
The first structure opened in 1921 as a wooden drawbridge with a toll of 54 cents, connecting Estero Island to the mainland for the first time. Over the decades, it was modernized and expanded to handle growing traffic demands.
The bridge connects the mainland with the island's beach community, allowing people to move freely between two distinct living areas. Daily, both residents and visitors cross it to reach the beach and local shops.
The bridge is passable for vehicles year-round and offers a safe pedestrian access on a dedicated path. It's wise to expect traffic delays during peak times and weekends, especially in warmer months.
Beneath both sides of the structure are fishing piers where anglers can cast lines while boats navigate below. This dual use creates layered activity at a single location.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
