Bonita Springs, a welcoming beach community in Southwest Florida between Fort Myers and Naples. Bonita Springs is named for a medicinal spring on Old Highway 41 that the local Indians believed could heal the sick. Today, Bonita Springs is a beautiful, natural area and is called Gateway to the Gulf of Mexico because its sugar-white, sand beaches and calm Gulf waters are easily accessible from Interstate 75. It’s located near Estero. Fishing and outdoor activities are popular in Bonita Springs, as are the sparkling beaches. Bonita Springs also harbors Lover's Key State Park, a place so named because it once was an island so remote only lovers went to the trouble to seek its privacy. Today, you don’t need a boat to get to the beach. It’s easy to reach, but still not as well known as many other state parks. The 2.5-mile beach is lined with natural vegetation and is perfect for beachcombing and birding. For some off-leash excitement there’s the rightly named Dog Beach Park. It’s one of Florida’s only no-leash beaches and a big hit for both locals and visitors. The secluded shoreline and shallow waters make Dog Beach Park one of our best pet-friendly beaches, and when you get the chance.
The heart of Estero is the spring-fed Estero River which flows to Estero Bay. The river was the site of most settlement an development up until the 1970s. Estero’s name is Spanish for “estuary.” Since Estero is located on the Estero River and Estero Bay, it’s an ideal area for paddlesports. The Great Calusa Blueway, a system of paddling trails inspired by the Calusa Indians, passes through Estero Bay. Paddle through Koreshan State Park along the brackish river which leads to Estero Bay or join the College of Life Foundation for a historic paddling tour. Or, paddle the nearby Imperial River. Estero Bay is popular for spotting Southwest Florida wildlife such as dolphins, Western Indian manatee and a host of birds. Also, it’s the shopping that attracts many visitors, specifically, the exquisite shops and restaurants at Miromar Outlets. Shop more than 140 designer and brand names such as Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th, Ann Taylor Factory Store and Bloomingdale’s The Outlet Store while saving up to 70 percent. Shop for apparel, beauty products, home goods and electronics. Coconut Point Mall is about 15 minutes from the Southwest Florida Airport and offers a fine collection of retailers including Chico’s, Lilly Pulitzer and Michael Kors. You’ll also find a nice selection of restaurants. Don't forget to visit our YouTube Channel for more information on SW Florida.
