Best Things to Do in Bonita Springs (2026)

Bonita Springs sits between Naples and Fort Myers on Southwest Florida's Gulf Coast, and it packs an impressive amount of natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor adventure into one laid-back beach town. From one of the last undeveloped barrier islands in the state to a 90-year-old botanical garden filled with flamingos and alligators, Bonita Springs offers a mix of activities that appeals to families, couples, nature lovers, and anyone looking to experience authentic Old Florida charm.

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Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, this guide covers everything worth doing in Bonita Springs — organized from beaches and nature preserves to water sports, shopping, day trips, and seasonal events. If you need a place to stay, check out our guide to the best hotels in Bonita Springs.

Barefoot Beach Preserve

Barefoot Beach Preserve is the crown jewel of Bonita Springs and one of the top-rated beaches in the entire United States. This 342-acre county park occupies one of the last undeveloped barrier islands on Florida's southwest coast, with 8,200 feet of pristine shoreline stretching south to Wiggins Pass on Little Hickory Island.

The preserve is far more than just a beach. A network of boardwalks winds through coastal dunes and native sea grape hammocks, and a Learning Center near Parking Lot 1 features displays about local marine life, gopher tortoises, shells, and shorebirds. From January through April, trained volunteer docents staff the center and lead educational walks.

What to know before you go:

• Hours: Open daily 8 AM to sunset, year-round
• Parking: $10 per vehicle per day (free with a Collier County beach parking sticker). The preserve has 401 spaces across two lots
• Address: 503 Barefoot Beach Blvd, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
• Kayak launch: Bring your own kayak or canoe to the launch area near Parking Lot 3 on the estuary side
• Guided canoe trips: Park Rangers lead canoe trips through the estuary from January through April ($10 per person, reservations required at 239-252-4060)
• Rules: No dogs, no alcohol, no glass containers

Arrive before 9 AM during peak season (December through April) to guarantee a parking spot. The southern end of the beach near Wiggins Pass tends to be the least crowded section.

Bonita Beach Park

For a more accessible beach experience with full amenities, Bonita Beach Park on Little Hickory Island delivers classic Florida beach vibes without the formality of a nature preserve. This 2.5-acre beachfront park at 27954 Hickory Blvd features calm Gulf waters, soft white sand, and some of the best sunsets on the coast.

The park includes sheltered picnic areas with charcoal grills, a sand volleyball court, restrooms, outdoor showers, and a boardwalk leading to the beach. It is also a popular launch point for kayaks and paddleboards.

Parking tip: Bonita Beach Park uses a mobile pay parking system at $8 per day. During high season, arrive before 9 AM or after 3 PM for the best chance at a spot. The smaller lot near the amenities fills first, but a larger overflow lot is available further back.

For more Gulf Coast beach options nearby, explore our guide to the best beaches in Southwest Florida.

Lovers Key State Park

Lovers Key State Park encompasses 1,616 acres of barrier islands between Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Springs, offering 2.5 miles of undeveloped beachfront along with mangrove estuaries, tidal flats, and maritime hammock forest. Legend has it the islands were once so remote that only lovers would make the journey to reach them — hence the name.

The park is a haven for wildlife. West Indian manatees, bottlenose dolphins, roseate spoonbills, marsh rabbits, and bald eagles all call these islands home. Over 40 bird species have been documented here, making it one of the best birding spots in Lee County.

Activities at Lovers Key:

• Beach: A free tram runs from the parking area to the main beach, which is wide, uncrowded, and excellent for shelling
• Kayaking: 2.5 miles of designated kayak trails wind through mangrove-lined waterways where manatees and dolphins are regularly spotted. The full paddling trail is 5 miles round trip
• Hiking and biking: The Black Island Trail covers 2.5 miles through maritime hammock along canal banks
• Fishing and boating: A public boat ramp provides access to Estero Bay and the Gulf of Mexico

Admission: $8 per vehicle (2-8 people), $4 for a single-occupant vehicle, $2 for pedestrians and cyclists. Open daily 8 AM to sundown.

Address: 8700 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

Everglades Wonder Gardens

Established in 1936, Everglades Wonder Gardens (now officially called The Wonder Gardens) is one of Florida's original roadside attractions and celebrates its 90th anniversary in 2026. This 3.5-acre botanical garden in historic downtown Bonita Springs is home to rescued and rehabilitated wildlife set among towering African mahogany trees, kapok trees, giant staghorn ferns, orchids, and bromeliads.

The star residents include a flock of pink flamingos that visitors can hand-feed, along with Amazon parrots, cockatoos, rainbow lorikeets, wood ducks, and 40 alligators that inhabit the central lake. The property also features a butterfly garden, orchid trail, picnic grove, gift shop, and the John Brady Art Gallery showcasing local artists.

Visit details:

• Hours: Daily 9 AM to 3 PM (closed major holidays)
• Admission: Approximately $15 for adults. Free for Bonita Springs residents on the first Sunday of each month
• Address: 27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
• Phone: (239) 992-2591
• Wheelchair accessible: Yes

Plan about 90 minutes to explore the full property. Morning visits offer the most active wildlife and comfortable temperatures, especially during summer months.

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

Just east of Bonita Springs, Audubon's Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary protects 13,000 acres of Western Everglades wilderness, including the largest remaining stand of old-growth bald cypress forest in North America. Some of these ancient trees have stood for nearly 600 years.

The sanctuary's 2.25-mile raised boardwalk trail passes through five distinct habitats — old-growth bald cypress forest, pine flatwoods, wet prairie, sawgrass pond, and central marsh. Along the way, you may spot alligators, white-tailed deer, river otters, and over 200 bird species including herons, egrets, and the endangered wood stork.

Visit details:

• Hours: Open daily at 8 AM. Last admission at 3 PM (December 16 through April 30) or 1 PM (May 1 through December 15)
• Admission: $17 adults, $6 children ages 6-14, free for children 5 and under. Buy tickets online in advance
• Address: 375 Sanctuary Road West, Naples, FL 34120 (about a 30-minute drive from downtown Bonita Springs)
• Tips: No food on the boardwalk (except bottled water). No pets. Allow 2-3 hours for the full trail

Corkscrew Swamp is a must-visit for birders and photographers, especially during the winter dry season when wading birds concentrate around shrinking water pools.

Kayaking the Imperial River

For an authentic Old Florida paddling experience right in the heart of town, kayaking the Imperial River is hard to beat. The river runs about 9 miles east-west from Flint Pen Strand Preserve through downtown Bonita Springs to Estero Bay, and the most scenic section is the freshwater stretch upstream from Riverside Park.

Launching from downtown, paddlers can travel about 3 miles upstream and back (6 miles total) on clean freshwater shaded by a canopy of old-growth trees. Much of the riverbank remains in a natural state with mangroves and sandy shores rather than seawalls, giving it a wild feel despite being minutes from shops and restaurants.

Where to rent: CGT Kayaks operates from Riverside Park at 27385 S Tamiami Trail and offers kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. Single kayak rentals start at $25 for 90 minutes, with half-day rentals at $35 (single) or $50 (double). They also run guided eco-tours and history adventures exploring the Calusa Indian heritage of the area.

Wildlife to watch for: Turtles, fish, eagle nests, herons, anhingas, and — if you are lucky — manatees. The calm water and easy current make this suitable for beginners and families.

For more paddling options in the region, see our guide to the best boat tours in Southwest Florida.

Dolphin and Shelling Boat Tours

The waters off Bonita Springs are home to resident pods of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, and several local operators run daily boat tours from nearby marinas. Most tours cruise through Estero Bay and the back bays between Lovers Key and Big Hickory Island, where dolphin sightings are common year-round.

Shelling excursions typically head to uninhabited barrier islands south of Lovers Key, where low-tide flats reveal an impressive variety of shells including lightning whelks, sand dollars, and fighting conchs. Some operators combine dolphin watching and shelling into a single trip, and sunset cruises are another popular option.

Pontoon boat rentals are also available if you prefer a self-guided adventure. Bonita Boat Rentals offers easy-to-operate pontoons that are perfect for cruising to nearby islands, watching dolphins, or finding a quiet spot to anchor and swim.

Shopping and Dining in Bonita Springs

Bonita Springs has two standout shopping destinations that offer very different experiences.

The Promenade at Bonita Bay

This upscale open-air shopping center at 26811 South Bay Drive features boutiques, art galleries, and several excellent restaurants including DeRomo's Gourmet Market & Restaurant, Molino's Ristorante, and Roy's Hawaiian Fusion. The Center Bar provides a relaxed spot for drinks in a covered courtyard.

The Promenade also hosts the Local Roots Farmers Market every Saturday from October through May, 8 AM to 1 PM. Local vendors sell fresh produce, baked goods, seafood, honey, jams, cut flowers, and prepared food. Admission is free.

Coconut Point

Located just north in Estero at the intersection of US 41 and Corkscrew Road (I-75 Exit 123), Coconut Point is a massive outdoor mall with over 110 stores surrounding several acres of lakes with boardwalks. Anchor stores include Dillard's, Target, Apple, Barnes & Noble, and Nordstrom Rack. Dining options range from The Cheesecake Factory and Ruth's Chris Steak House to California Pizza Kitchen.

Flamingo Island Flea Market

For a quirkier shopping experience, Flamingo Island Flea Market on US 41 has over 200 vendor booths under one roof selling handmade crafts, vintage finds, fresh produce, and Florida souvenirs. Live music, food stalls, and cold drinks make it feel more like a festival than a flea market.

For the full dining picture, check out our guide to the best restaurants in Bonita Springs.

Arts and Culture

Arts Bonita

Arts Bonita (formerly the Center for the Arts Bonita Springs) is the cultural hub of the community, operating two campuses — a Visual Arts Center and a Performing Arts Center. The organization hosts rotating gallery exhibitions, live theater productions, concerts, art workshops, and classes for all ages throughout the year.

Bonita Springs National Art Festivals

Held at Riverside Park in downtown Bonita Springs, these nationally ranked fine art festivals draw over 200 artists from across the country. The 2026 schedule includes three shows: January 10-11, February 7-8, and March 14-15. All shows run 10 AM to 5 PM with free admission. The festivals feature 16 fine art categories and proceeds support scholarships for emerging young artists.

Bonita Springs Historical Society

Located in a restored historic home in downtown Bonita Springs, the Historical Society museum features curated photographs, archives, and artifacts tracing the area's history from the Calusa people through the pioneer era. The property includes a botanical garden and a living food forest that are worth exploring on their own.

Day Trips from Bonita Springs

Bonita Springs is ideally positioned for day trips throughout Southwest Florida. Here are the top excursions within easy driving distance:

• Naples (20 minutes south): Fifth Avenue South shopping and dining, Naples Pier at sunset, Naples Botanical Garden, and the Baker Museum
• Fort Myers (30 minutes north): Edison and Ford Winter Estates, Fort Myers River District, and Centennial Park
• Sanibel Island (45 minutes): World-class shelling at Bowman's Beach, J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, and Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum
• Everglades National Park (90 minutes): Airboat tours, Ten Thousand Islands kayaking, and wildlife viewing along the Tamiami Trail

The Great Calusa Blueway — a 190-mile saltwater kayaking and canoeing trail — connects Bonita Springs to destinations throughout Estero Bay, Pine Island Sound, and the Caloosahatchee River for paddlers looking for multi-day adventures.

Seasonal Events and Festivals

Bonita Springs has a lively events calendar, especially during the dry season from October through April when snowbirds and visitors swell the population.

Winter highlights (December - March):

• Holiday in the Park: Riverside Park transforms with holiday lights, a snow slide, live entertainment, dance performances, and visits from Santa (December through early January)
• Bonita Springs National Art Festivals: Three shows in January, February, and March at Riverside Park (free admission)
• Local Roots Farmers Market: Every Saturday at the Promenade at Bonita Bay, October through May

Spring and summer:

• Bonita Brew Fest: Craft beer festival held at Riverside Park (February)
• Bonita Springs Concert Series: Live music events at Riverside Park throughout spring
• Sea turtle nesting season: May through October, when loggerhead turtles nest on Barefoot Beach and Bonita Beach (look for marked nests and attend ranger-led programs)

The Riverside Park area in downtown Bonita Springs serves as the main venue for most community events. Check the City of Bonita Springs events page for current schedules and any new additions.

Local Tips for Visiting Bonita Springs

Best time to visit: The peak season runs from December through April, with warm days in the 75-85 degree range, low humidity, and minimal rain. This is also the busiest and most expensive time. For fewer crowds and lower hotel rates, consider May or early June when temperatures are warm but manageable and summer afternoon storms have not yet become a daily pattern.

Getting around: A car is essential in Bonita Springs. US 41 (Tamiami Trail) is the main north-south corridor, and it can be slow during rush hour and season. Use I-75 for longer trips to Fort Myers or Naples. Bonita Beach Road connects US 41 to the beaches on the barrier island.

Parking strategy: Beach parking fills early during peak season. Arrive before 9 AM at Barefoot Beach Preserve or Bonita Beach Park. Lovers Key State Park typically has better availability because of its larger lot and entrance fee that deters some visitors.

Dining reservations: During season (January through March), make dinner reservations at popular restaurants at least a few days in advance. Downtown Bonita Springs along Old 41 has a growing restaurant scene that is less crowded than Naples while offering comparable quality.

Bug spray: If you are kayaking, hiking, or visiting nature preserves during summer months, bring insect repellent. Mosquitoes and no-see-ums can be intense near mangroves and marshes, especially at dawn and dusk.

If you are considering making Bonita Springs your permanent home, read our comprehensive guide to retiring to Bonita Springs for information on cost of living, neighborhoods, healthcare, and more.

Build Your Bonita Springs Trip

• Best hotels in Bonita Springs
• Best restaurants in Bonita Springs
• Retiring to Bonita Springs
• Things to do in Naples
• Things to do in Fort Myers
• Things to do in Estero
• Best beaches in Southwest Florida
• Best golf courses in Southwest Florida

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best beach in Bonita Springs?

Barefoot Beach Preserve is widely considered the best beach in Bonita Springs and has been ranked among the top beaches in the United States. Its 342 acres of undeveloped barrier island coastline, nature boardwalks, and Learning Center set it apart from typical Florida beaches. Parking costs $10 per day and the preserve opens daily at 8 AM.

Is Bonita Springs worth visiting?

Bonita Springs is absolutely worth visiting, especially if you enjoy nature, beaches, and outdoor activities without the crowds and higher prices of nearby Naples. The town offers pristine beaches at Barefoot Beach Preserve, wildlife encounters at Everglades Wonder Gardens, world-class kayaking on the Imperial River, and easy access to Lovers Key State Park — all with a relaxed, local atmosphere that many visitors prefer to busier Gulf Coast destinations.

What is there to do in Bonita Springs when it rains?

On rainy days in Bonita Springs, visit Coconut Point mall for shopping and dining at over 110 stores and restaurants, explore the galleries and workshops at Arts Bonita, browse Flamingo Island Flea Market (which is covered), or check out the exhibits at the Bonita Springs Historical Society. The Promenade at Bonita Bay also offers covered shopping and dining options.

How far is Bonita Springs from Naples and Fort Myers?

Bonita Springs sits between both cities on the Gulf Coast. Naples is approximately 20 minutes south via US 41 or I-75, while Fort Myers is about 30 minutes north. Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) is roughly 25 minutes from downtown Bonita Springs, making it an easy base for exploring the entire region.

When is the best time to visit Bonita Springs?

The peak season from December through April offers the best weather with temperatures in the mid-70s to mid-80s, low humidity, and very little rain. This is also when seasonal events like the National Art Festivals and farmers markets are in full swing. For lower prices and fewer crowds, visit in May, early June, or November when conditions are still pleasant.

Are there kayak rentals in Bonita Springs?

Yes, CGT Kayaks at Riverside Park (27385 S Tamiami Trail) is the main outfitter in downtown Bonita Springs, offering kayak, canoe, and stand-up paddleboard rentals starting at $25 for 90 minutes. They also run guided eco-tours on the Imperial River. Additionally, Lovers Key State Park has kayak trails and seasonal rentals through their concessionaire.