Fort Myers Beach Icon Bonita Bill’s to Close After Three Decades
After 33 years feeding locals and tourists alike, Bonita Bill’s will close its doors on Jan. 5, 2025. The waterfront hangout, tucked under the Matanzas Pass Bridge, signals the end of an era in Fort Myers Beach.
After owner Bill Semmer passed away in January 2023, his daughter took over operations. Despite her best efforts, a combination of climbing costs and ongoing storm damage repairs led to the difficult decision to shut down.
The restaurant grabbed attention when Hurricane Ian wedged a yacht between it and the neighboring building. While this became an unexpected tourist draw, the storm left lasting damage, requiring major repairs to stay open.
Staff announced the closure on social media Dec. 26. They’ll stay open Tuesday through Friday 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Since ’91, this casual spot has lived by its simple motto: No shoes? No shirt? Can we get you a beer? People packed in for fresh seafood and live music, creating memories year after year.
The news stings particularly hard for regulars. Ben Mango, a 96-year-old veteran, wants his ashes scattered where he spent countless happy hours.
“Well, years ago, I decided. I decided when I go, that would be where I want to be, in the bay, you know,” Mango told NBC 2 News.
Local artist Craig Petersen thinks back on how the place became part of everyday local life. “I always said it’s not a bar, it’s a memory,” Petersen told Fox 4 News.
As the final day approaches, what happens next to the property remains unclear. The historic building, standing since 1926, has been a vital part of community life for almost a century.
