10/22/2026
La Ola Surfside Signs Contract to Acquire Its Longtime Times Square Property, Targets May 2027 Construction Start
La Ola Surfside Restaurant has its longtime home at 1035 Estero Boulevard under contract. This site has been La Ola’s home since 2010 and sits at the main entrance to Fort Myers Beach, where every car and every pedestrian onto the island passes it.
Owner Thomas Houghton said securing the land clears the way for the permanent rebuild. “Having the property under contract means we can finally move from planning to building La Ola back on the corner it has always belonged.” He credits the strong, long-term relationship with the Primeau Family as one of the key components of this comeback story.
La Ola plans to operate its current temporary setup through April 30, 2027.
The project is also expecting a Conditional Letter of Map Revision (CLOMR) from FEMA for its wave mitigation wall. That approval allows the design to make full use of the ground level while still providing the elevation and resilience the site requires. The new building will include some air-conditioned dining, approximately 270 total seats, covered outdoor areas, and a live-music patio, with panoramic views of the downtown district and some of the world’s best sunsets looking down through the Times Square corridor.
The new building features a two-story octagon tiki bar with panoramic views from upstairs, along with a replica tower that will carry a welcoming mural visible to all as they crest the Matanzas Pass Bridge from the north end of the island.
La Ola has always been known as one of the best places on Fort Myers Beach to see live music, and the new building is designed specifically for that purpose. The restaurant will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Construction is targeted to begin in May 2027. The restaurant plans to reopen in early 2028 with the same casual beach-bar atmosphere, signature dishes, and margaritas that have drawn locals and visitors for more than fifteen years, now with the ability to stay open when the weather turns.
A first look at the downstairs bar is shown below. The full rendering of the new building will be released tomorrow.
FMB Strong — La Ola is back.
Hurricane Ian destroyed our building, but not our vibe. Check out our unique shipping container turned bar and our food truck. Featuring FREE live music daily and delicious beach inspired foods! Find us in Times Square under the Legacy Tower ☀️
