Bonita

Bonita Springs, a welcoming beach community in Southwest Florida between Fort Myers and Naples, is home to the Conservancy of Southwest Florida Nature Center.

Fishing and outdoor activities are popular in Bonita Springs, as are the sparkling beaches.

Bonita Springs also harbors Lovers 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, there are even more spots to explore.