Top 10 Reasons to Save the Date for the Island Hopper Songwriter Fest

10. You’re ready for a more intimate live music scene.

Not a fan of huge concerts with tons of people? The Island Hopper Songwriter Fest is a uniquely intimate experience. You’ll enjoy incredible live music in smaller venues – don’t be surprised to find yourself at a table mere feet away from the performers. Plus, the talented Broadcast Music, Inc.'s (BMI) singer-songwriters who perform at this festival share the meaning behind their songs, revealing what inspired them to write them and telling stories of hardship, humor and more. Ultimately, it’s a much more rewarding live music experience, where you get to know the artists on a more personal level.

9. One word: variety.

Perhaps no other music festival delivers more variety than Island Hopper. You’ll have the chance to see 80+ free performances throughout the islands, beaches and neighborhoods of Fort Myers featuring BMI's best singer-songwriters. From downtown hotspots in Fort Myers' historic River District to tiki bars along the beaches and islands, you’ll enjoy venues as varied as the performers. Each show is performed as a 'writers round,' which pairs two singer-songwriters, so even within one show you'll get to hear two unique songwriters. Plus, special ticketed performances give you the chance to listen to the music in totally one-of-a-kind venues, from a boat deck cruising the coast to a pool deck at a celebrated resort. 

At the 2024 festival, fans enjoyed a show by Bobby Tomberlin and Brian Sutherland with Captiva Cruises.

8. The majority of the performances are free.

Yes, you heard right. So, instead of blowing all your money on a ridiculously expensive concert ticket, you can hop around Fort Myers, see tons of shows and have more money to splurge on dining, a hotel room upgrade, a spa day, a deep-sea fishing adventure or another fun activity.

7. You’re not ready for summer to end.

In September, it still feels like summer in the Fort Myers area. The average water temperature at the beaches is 82 degrees, while the average air temperature ranges from 73 to 86 degrees. So, you can plunge into the Gulf and soak up the sun to your heart’s content. 

6. You’re into food as much as you’re into live music.

Many of the Island Hopper show venues are restaurant-bars renowned for their excellent culinary offerings. That means you can treat yourself to some of Florida's best wining and dining along with BMI’s best singer-songwriters.

5. You like to stay and play in one convenient place.

Book your room at one of our hotel venues and you’ll be able to enjoy the music within steps of your room. (Get on our email list to be the first to know which accommodations are hosting shows so you can reserve your spot!)

The Margaritaville Beach Resort on Fort Myers Beach made its debut as host at last year's festival.

4. You could really use a friends’ getaway.

The Island Hopper Songwriter Fest is the perfect reason to plan your next friends’ getaway. A variety of performances lets you discover and enjoy some of the best venues around our islands, beaches and neighborhoods – no planning needed!

3. It’s a proven great time: ranked 2024’s #4 music festival in America by USA Today.

That’s some serious bragging rights, ranking the Island Hopper Songwriter Fest among the likes of the Newport Jazz Festival and the Austin City Limits Music Festival. 

2. There’s so much to discover.

If you’ve never experienced the Island Hopper Songwriter Festival, you’re in for a real treat. But even if you’ve enjoyed the festival before, there’s so much more to discover, with amazing new venues and special ticketed performances each year, all designed to surprise and delight music fans.

At 2024's Island Hopper, Headliner Jeffrey Steele performed with the Gulf Coast Symphony, wowing fans with a one-of-a-kind show.

1. It just feels right.

Our serene shores offer a laid-back setting to enjoy live music and life’s other simple pleasures. It’s the relaxing escape you need to live in the moment, set your adventurous spirit free and connect with others. So, leave your everyday worries behind and make your plans now to join us for the 2025 Island Hopper Songwriter Fest!

Helpful links to plan your trip:

• Join our email list to be the first to hear announcements of performers, venues, special ticketed shows, deals and more.
• Download the Island Hopper Songwriter Fest app
• Find your perfect place to stay. It’s never too soon to book your room!
• Learn more about Island Hopper Songwriters Fest.
• Plan your trip with can’t-miss things to see and do.