Iona Area – South Fort Myers

The Iona area of South Fort Myers is one of the closest mainland locations to Sanibel Island and the Gulf beaches. Situated along the southern edge of the Caloosahatchee River, this area has long been popular with homebuyers seeking waterfront neighborhoods, boating access, and convenient proximity to the Sanibel Causeway.

Iona Road runs east from McGregor Boulevard, following the southern shoreline of the river and connecting several residential neighborhoods throughout this part of Fort Myers.

Because of its location near Punta Rassa and the Sanibel Causeway, the Iona corridor remains one of the most desirable areas for buyers looking for Fort Myers communities near Sanibel Island.

Homes in the Iona Area

Real estate in the Iona area includes a wide range of housing options including:

  • Waterfront homes with boating access

  • Gated residential communities

  • Established neighborhoods along the river

  • Single-family homes located near the Sanibel Causeway

Many buyers choose this area because it offers convenient access to Sanibel Island while still providing the services and infrastructure of mainland Fort Myers.

Homes in the Iona corridor are often located within 10 to 20 minutes of the Sanibel Causeway, making it possible to enjoy island beaches while living on the mainland.

A Brief History of Iona

The Iona area has a colorful history tied to Southwest Florida’s early cattle industry. Cowboys once drove cattle through this region to Punta Rassa, where the animals were loaded onto ships bound for Cuba.

The nearby McGregor Boulevard was originally known as Riverside Avenue and served as a route for moving cattle between Fort Myers and Punta Rassa. It was later renamed for Ambrose McGregor, a Standard Oil executive who lived in the area and was a neighbor of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.

Today the region has evolved into a residential corridor filled with waterfront communities while still maintaining its connection to the river and coastal lifestyle.

Why Buyers Choose the Iona Area

The Iona corridor attracts buyers for several reasons:

  • Close proximity to Sanibel Island

  • Access to the Caloosahatchee River and boating waters

  • Established neighborhoods with mature landscaping

  • Convenient access to major roads such as Summerlin Road and McGregor Boulevard

Summerlin Road also provides a direct route from Fort Myers to the Sanibel Causeway and Fort Myers Beach.

Because of this location, many buyers consider Iona one of the best mainland areas for living near the Gulf beaches.

Iona Area Neighborhoods

Neighborhoods located within the Iona corridor include:

Many of these neighborhoods include waterfront homes, boating access, or gated community environments.

Buyer Insight

Buyers relocating to Southwest Florida often start their search on Sanibel Island but later expand to nearby mainland communities. The Iona corridor offers the advantage of being close to the island while providing more housing options, larger homes, and easier access to shopping and healthcare.

For those who want frequent access to Sanibel’s beaches, wildlife refuges, and boating waters, the Iona area can provide a convenient balance between mainland living and coastal recreation.

Distances to Key Destinations

The Iona area provides convenient access to several Southwest Florida destinations.

Approximate driving times include:

  • Sanibel Causeway: ~10 minutes

  • Fort Myers Beach: ~15 minutes

  • Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW): ~25 minutes

  • Downtown Fort Myers River District: ~25 minutes

  • HealthPark Medical Center: ~10 minutes

Communities Nearby

Buyers exploring neighborhoods in the Iona corridor may also want to consider nearby communities. Exploring multiple neighborhoods can help buyers compare amenities, waterfront access, and proximity to Sanibel Island.