Bonita Springs, Florida

1. Barefoot Beach Preserve

With over 342 acres of natural lands accessible to visitors, Collier County’s Barefoot Beach Preserve is one of the few remaining undeveloped barrier islands located along Florida’s southwest coastline. The preserve is open for sunbathers, swimmers, joggers, and more, and has a few access points through which guests can enter. There are facilities at a nearby beach, including restrooms, showers, concession stands, and additional parking. The Barefoot Beach Preserve is home to numerous animal species, so guests are encouraged to treat any wildlife they encounter with respect by not feeding them and keeping their distance.

505 Barefoot Beach Boulevard, Naples, FL, 34134, Phone: 239-252-4000

2. Everglades Wonder Gardens

The Everglades Wonder Gardens originally opened in 1936, a dream project between Bill and Lester Piper, brothers, who wanted to establish a Reptile Garden for tourists visiting the area. This small project eventually grew and grew, as it was the perfect pitstop for people passing through on the Tamiami Trail. Eventually the wildlife in the gardens, as well as the botanical exhibits, continued to grow and grow under the same family for three generations. In 2014 the gardens passed ownership and have continued to thrive, providing guests with a chance to experience diverse Floridian plants, animals, and more.

27180 Old 41 Rd. Bonita Springs, Florida 34135, Phone: 239-992-2591

3. Bonita Springs Riverside Park

The Bonita Springs Riverside Park offers the perfect getaway without ever leaving Bonita Springs. It is located on the old US 41 Road, in Olde Bonita, and rests along the banks of the Imperial River. The park is perfect to visit any time of year, and it is also used for special holiday celebrations, various art shows, different festivals, and more. Occasionally there are Movies in the Park, live music, and even the Celebrate Bonita Festival takes place in the park. For information on special events it is best to contact the park directly by telephone or by viewing their calendar online.

10451 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135, Phone: 239-992-2556

4. Farmer Mike’s U Pick

Depending on the time of year, guests who visit Farmer Mike’s U Pick can expect anything from fresh strawberries to fresh corn, tomatoes, bell peppers, and more. A visit to this farm typically entails wandering the rows of fresh produce and fruit while carrying a basket to fill at the guests leisure with whatever catches their eye. There is nothing fresher than right off the plant, and guests can find that, and more, from Farmer Mike’s U Pick. At various times of the year there are special events, like a giant corn maze, pumpkin patch, and even a fall festival filled with tasty treats and activities.

26031 Morton Ave. Bonita Springs, FL 34135, Phone: 239-498-4576

5. Dog Beach

The Bonita Springs Dog Beach is run by volunteers, open from dawn to dusk, and welcomes dogs of every breed, size, and play capacity. This beach is considered to be one of the only pet permitted public beaches in Bonita Springs, and serves a double purpose as an off leash dog area for dog owners to let their four legged friends run free and play. It is located on Bonita Beach Road, just north of New Pass Bridge, and is only a few miles away from Fort Myers Beach. Beach size varies heavily with tide and water levels, so plan trips accordingly.

6. Flamingo Island Flea Market

Flamingo Island Flea Market is one of Bonita Springs premier weekend shopping destinations. Featuring over 600 booths, from clothing to hand crafted arts, jewelry, food, and more, customers at Flamingo Island Flea Market can almost always find what they are looking for. Walking the aisles is a great way to spend the morning before grabbing food at nearby cafes and restaurants. The Flamingo Island Flea Market has plenty of special events throughout the year so be sure to check out their calendar before scheduling a visit.

11902 Bonita Beach Rd SE, Bonita Springs, FL 34135, Phone: 239-948-7799