Fort Myers – Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods Hosts Notable Female Athletes for 2026 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue

In addition to hosting all-star models, announced last week, Fort Myers – Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods served as the backdrop for notable female athletes, as part of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, which was launched digitally today and will run in the May print edition. Seamlessly aligning with the destination’s sports offerings and adventurous spirit, the Fort Myers area hosted professional basketball players Sophie Cunningham and Napheesa Collier and renowned track star Melissa Jefferson-Wooden for photoshoots on the soft, white-sand beaches of Captiva Island.

“It’s been inspiring to see the fearless energy these accomplished female athletes brought to the photoshoots,” said Tamara Pigott, executive director of Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau. “We’re proud to showcase the beauty of our area on a global scale alongside these powerful women. By shining a brighter spotlight on our community, we’re inviting visitors from around the world to discover firsthand what makes Lee County so special.”

This is the third digital photoshoot release with SI Swim this year. The first featured NFL ‘Wives and Girlfriends’ (WAGS) leading up to the Super Bowl, followed by last week’s digital issue featuring Olandria, Christen Goff, Katie Austin, Ellie Thumann, Jasmine Sanders, Gabi Moura and Jena Sims throughout Captiva Island, Sanibel Island, Cayo Costa State Park and Pine Island Sound.

Plans to feature the Fort Myers area were presented at the Jan. 8 Lee County Tourist Development Council meeting. Brian Ososky, chief marketing officer for the Visitor & Convention Bureau highlighted the significant exposure this partnership brings to the destination. Click here to watch presentation

The Fort Myers area is a relaxing oasis with 50 miles of secluded white-sand beaches, nature preserves, historic landmarks, fun activities and more. It’s the perfect vacation spot for families, couples and friends who love sunny days, warm breezes, and an easygoing island atmosphere. Here, visitors will discover natural beauty, spot an abundance of wildlife, and learn why travelers continue to vacation with us year after year.

South Seas on Captiva Island is a secluded 330-acre retreat and wildlife preserve where families and friends have gathered for over 75 years. Captiva Island’s beaches are some of the most coveted in the world for their white sands and plethora of seashells.