Bonita Springs Travel Guide
Bonita Springs, between Fort Myers and Naples on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is full of surprises and Old Florida charm. It’s home to a quaint downtown district, beautiful beaches, and a historic hotel that’s the perfect home base to explore all that the area has to offer. Here are five ways to make the most of your visit.
1. Explore Downtown Bonita Springs
Downtown Bonita Springs has plenty of charming shops and restaurants to check out. I highly recommend Downtown Coffee & Wine Company for a Horchata Latte and Smashed Avocado Toast. Be sure to stop by Survey Cafe, located inside a historic cottage, for French dishes like Quiche Lorraine, Croque Monsieur, or a freshly made crepe.
Next to Riverside Park and close to the Imperial River, you’ll find the Artist’s Cottages, where you can browse paintings, pottery, and other locally made art.
2. Visit Wonder Gardens
Visit Wonder Gardens in Bonita Springs, a 90-year-old roadside attraction that’s home to rescued, non-releasable birds and reptiles. The flamingos, macaws, and sulcata tortoises are must-sees. Spend time walking the winding paths and exploring the duck and lorikeet pavilions.
3. Enjoy Bonita Beach Park
Bonita Beach Park on Little Hickory Island is a popular spot to soak up the sun. There are sheltered picnic areas and a sand volleyball court. Bonita Beach Park is a favorite for both locals and visitors, so be sure to arrive early during peak season and on weekends, as parking can be limited.
4. See Bonita Springs from the sky with Str8 Up Aviation
Get a different view of Bonita Springs and the Fort Myers coastline by seeing the beaches from high above on a tour with Str8 Up Aviation. I highly recommend the One Hour Shoreline Tour. We flew over Fort Myers Beach, Bonita Beach Park, and Estero Bay’s winding waterways. The views were unreal.
5. Stay at Shangri-La Springs
Spend the night at Shangri-La Springs, a historic hotel dating back to 1926, set on eight lush acres in the heart of downtown Bonita Springs. The organic spa and the on-site organic restaurant, Harvest & Wisdom, are popular draws.
There are just eight units to choose from, including two suites inside the historic hotel and six king rooms in the nearby Villa Ascona. It’s one of the most relaxing getaways I’ve found in Florida.
This trip was sponsored by the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau. Discover more ways to explore Southwest Florida at VisitFortMyers.com.
