Lee County Island Guide

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Southwest Florida Island Guide

Southwest Florida Island Guide

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Welcome to Lee County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Lee County Beaches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Lee County Marinas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Sanibel offers something for everyone whether it’s enjoying 15 miles of beaches, biking, walking or running 25 miles on the beautifully landscaped paths, fishing, bird watching, or shelling. The quaint island, which has no traffic lights, is the perfect escape for a day in paradise. Page 8 Captiva - It’s easy to get hooked by Captiva Island, where there are incredible sunrise and sunset views from the whitesand beaches. There are also amazing opportunities to stroll, shop, recreate, pause from life’s work outside of paradise.

Page 14 Boca Grande - Boca Grande’s five beautiful beaches, abundant world-class fishing, dynamically stocked retail shops and gourmet restaurants make for a fabulous day trip or elite extended vacation. Page 15 Fort Myers Beach is a 7-mile island within Southwest Florida rich with history – and just as much personality. Over the years, it has blossomed into a hustling, bustling community while still keeping that small-town feel. Charming shops, decadent eateries and fantastic sunsets make Fort Myers Beach a must-visit location while in the area. Page 18 Bonita Springs offers an enticing array of things to see and do. From its beaches and historic sites to its unmatched shopping malls. Page 27

Pine Island - Crossing the Matlacha Bridge, the fishingest bridge in the world, islanders and visitors alike know they have arrived when they see the ‘Island Time Begins Here’ sign. Page 28 Cayo Costa - This small pristine island offers nine miles of beautiful beaches and acres of pine forests, oak palm hammocks and mangrove swamps. Page 30

STAFF Raymond M. Eckenrode Publisher

Valarie Harring Executive Editor

Laurie Ragle Advertising Director

Charlene Russ Advertising Sales

Rob Braitling Cover Design

The Southwest Florida Island Guide is produced twice yearly by Breeze Newspapers 2510 Del Prado Blvd.

Cape Coral, FL 33904 (239) 765-0400 www.flguide.com For information about advertising or distribution please call (239) 765-0400

Susan Wilhelm Layout and Design

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COVER PHOTO PHOTO COURTESY OF LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU

Southwest Florida Island Guide

Southwest Florida Island Guide

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PHOTO COURTESY LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU/BRIAN TIETZ

Welcome to lee county

Welcome to Lee County, home to some of the best beaches in the world — and so much more.

With birding, shelling, fishing, boating, pristine parks and one of the longest paddling trails in American, Lee County offers an abundance of opportunities to kick back, relax and enjoy the surf, sun, shade or a sunset.

Lee County offers 50 miles of beaches, from the top-rated — and secluded — beaches of Lover's Key north along the natural shores of Sanibel and Captiva, which also offer some of the best shelling in the world.

For those who enjoy a more active beach experience, Fort Myers Beach takes it up a Southwest Florida Island Guide

notch with parasailing and personal watercraft rentals while "the causeway beach" en route to Sanibel is popular for stand-up paddle boarding and wind surfing. Looking to kayak? The Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail offers 190 miles of marked canoe and kayak trails through coastal waters and birdinhabited inland tributaries.

Lee County doesn't lack things to do and see, either. From the historic Edison & Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers to the fun Florida kitsch of the Shell Factory and Nature Park (petting zoo, zip line and dinosaur walk!) in North Fort Myers, Lee County has its share of "must visit" attractions.

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Lee County Beaches Algiers Beach Bonita Beach Bowditch Point Regional Park Bowman’s Beach Cape Coral Yacht Basin Cayo Costa State Park Crescent Beach Family Park Lighthouse Park Beach Lover’s Key State Park Lynn Hall Memorial Park Sanibel Causeway Beaches Tarpon Bay Road Beach Turner Beach

It also offers a virtual plethora of places to eat, drink and enjoy live entertainment. Local "hot spots" include Times Square near the pier on Fort Myers Beach (make sure you take walking side trips down the beach and along Old San Carlos Boulevard); historic down-

Southwest Florida Island Guide

town Fort Myers; and the South Cape entertainment district in Cape Coral.

We hope you enjoy your stay. And we hope you return again and again. There's simply no better place to vacation in Southwest Florida.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU

Sanibel

Stunning sunrises and sunsets, beautiful white beaches perfect for swimming, diving or snorkeling the Gulf of Mexico's warm waters, a vast assortment of shells, endless

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shared use paths for exercise, resorts, restaurants and art galleries galore continue to bring visitors to Sanibel and Captiva Islands.

Southwest Florida Island Guide

PHOTO COURTESY OF LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU/BRIAN TIETZ

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge provides the perfect habitat for more than 245 species of birds.

An abundance of wildlife can be seen on the island due to its conservation efforts, resulting in nearly 70 percent of undeveloped grasses, marshes, back bays and rivers, all mostly kept as wildlife and natural preserves.

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife

Southwest Florida Island Guide

Refuge, which is approximately 6,400 acres, consists of mangrove forest, submerged seagrass birds, cordgrass marshes and West Indian hardwood hammocks, providing the perfect habitat for animals and more than 245 species of birds.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU/JASON LINDSEY

Fish houses on Pine Island Sound.

The history of the islands is steeped in fishing tradition, specifically sport fishing. Even more specifically, tarpon fishing. It was the Silver King that put Southwest Florida on the map. W.H. Wood became noted as the first to catch a Silver King on rod and reel off the shores of Sanibel in 1885 while visiting from New York. Thomas Edison PHOTO COURTESY OF LEE COUNTY VISITOR was a noted tarpon angler. & CONVENTION BUREAU/BRIAN TIETZ Before Wood, there Fish houses on Pine Island Sound. were the indigenous Calusa Indians, followed an elbow instead of lying parallel to the mainby the Spanish-Cuban fishermen and the land. The shape acts like a vacuum, collecting Punta Gorda Fish Co. with its fish houses dot- shells that are deposited in abundance on the ting Pine Island Sound. Many fish houses beaches. Shelling created the famous “Sanibel remain and are viewable by local boating Stoop” and “Captiva Crouch” as the official stance of visitors bending over to pick up a tours.

Fly fishing is instantly recognizable with treasure of shells (non-living only, please). the casting action fishermen use and it has becoming a common sight on the shorelines of Sanibel and Captiva, as well on the bays and at the refuge. Although fly fishing has been around for many decades, it is a growing popular activity in Sanibel, which is quickly becoming known as a hotbed for the water sport.

The islands are recognized around the globe for shell collecting along the white sand beaches. It is simple geography that created the wealth of shelling. The islands bend like PHOTO COURTESY OF LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU 10

Southwest Florida Island Guide

PLACES TO GO ON SANIBEL Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum features the “Beyond Shells: The Mysterious World of Mollusks,” which includes 11 aquarium exhibits, two 15-footlong touch tanks and interactive interpretive exhibits, plus 30 permanent exhibits, several temporary exhibits and educational programs for all ages.

Southwest Florida Island Guide

Visitors can build their own shell creation with Shell Crafting, which is offered daily. Take home a treasure that's sure to be a favorite reminder of your visit. Other daily programming includes a Scavenger Hunt, Outdoor Story Walk and Mollusk Movie, along with Aquarium Tours and Great Hall of Shells Tours. There is also Trivia Tuesdays and Bingo, It's Friday!

Museum admission is $23.95 for adults, $14.95 for ages 12-17 and $8.95 for ages 511.

For more information visit www.shellmuseum.org or call 239-395-2233.

The BaileyMatthews National Shell Museum is at 3075 Sanibel-Captiva Road.

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PLACES TO GO ON SANIBEL

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J.N. ‘Ding’ Darling National Wildlife Refuge Named after editorial cartoonist and conservationist Jay Norwood Darling, the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is one of 560 refuges across the United States.

Wildlife Drive is four-mile long paved road where the common sightings include sandpipers, blue herons, roseate spoonbills and egrets. Visitors can also explore Indigo Trail, the Wildlife Education Boardwalk, Shellmound Trail and Wulfert Keys Trail, which can be accessed via Wildlife Drive. The Bailey Tract is a 100-acre parcel located off of Tarpon Bay Road.

Admission to Wildlife Drive is $10 per vehicle, $1 per pedestrian and $1 per bicycle; Indigo Trail is $1 per pedestrian and $1 per bicycle; and the Bailey Tract is free for pedestrians and bicycles only.

For more information, visit www.fws.gov/refuge/jn_ding_darling or call 239-472-1100.

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is at 1 Wildlife Drive.

Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife

Tarpon Bay Explorers Tarpon Bay Explorers is the official concession to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.

It provides low impact, recreational and educational activities for refuge visitors, and a portion of its proceeds go back to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services to benefit the national refuges nationwide. Some of its offerings include guided kayak and canoe tours, a variety of cruises, deck talks, touch tank exploration and stand-up paddle boarding, in addition to tram tours of the refuge. Rent a kayak, canoe, standup paddleboard or pontoon and explore; bike and fishing equipment rentals are also available.

For more information, visit www.tarponbayexplorers.com or call 239-472-8900.

Tarpon Bay Explorers is at 900 Tarpon Bay Road.

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The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife is a teaching hospital and visitor education center dedicated to saving wildlife through state-of-the-art veterinary care, research, education and conservation medicine.

Each year, CROW cares for approximately 3,500 wildlife patients, including more than 200 species of sick, injured and orphaned wildlife in its veterinary hospital, which is one of the nation’s leading rehabilitation facilities for native and migratory wildlife. It also provides educational fellowships and externship programs for undergraduate students, and internship programs for veterinarian graduates.

The Visitor Education Center offers behindthe-scenes views into CROW's animal care through live camera feeds, interactive displays and daily presentations by students, staff and volunteers.

Admission is $12 for ages 13 and older, and $7 for ages 4-12; children 3 and under are free.

For more information, visit www.crowclinic.org or call 239-472-3644.

CROW is at 3883 Sanibel-Captiva Road.

Southwest Florida Island Guide

BIG ARTS

Sanibel Historical Museum and Village The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village was founded in 1984 with a mission to preserve and share Sanibel history.

The story of Sanibel is told from the Calusa and Spanish eras to the early pioneer families who settled on the island in the 1800s. It tells of warriors, adventures, fishermen, farmers and proprietors. Nine historic buildings were moved from their original sites.

Each building has been restored to its original state.

The village also has a replica of a Packing House and a garage housing a 1927 Ford Model T truck.

Volunteer docents share the stories of Sanibel with almost 10,000 visitors a year.

Admission is $10 for ages 18 and older.

For more information, visit sanibelmuseum.org or call 239-472-4648.

The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village is at 950 Dunlop Road.

BIG ARTS, or the Barrier Island Group for the Arts, was started by a group of island residents and artists in 1979. It has expanded every year to offer artistic and educational experiences for all.

The education series features workshops and classes, including the Winter Academy, painting and drawing, fine crafts, photography, discussion and writing, pottery, and music. There is also the FORUM of nationally recognized speakers and the Talking Points series dialogue that encourages audience participation with recognized thought leaders on a broad range of topics.

In addition, BIG ARTS hosts a Monday Night Films series, along with art exhibits.

For more information or to register, visit bigarts.org or call 239395-0900.

BIG ARTS is at 900 Dunlop Road.

Sanibel Sea School The Sanibel Sea School offers one-day courses, educational classes for youth and opportunities for the whole family, as well as boat trips, film screenings, social events, speakers and more for adults.

There are shelling programs, wetland tours, paddlesports, half-day programs for youth, guided beach walks, birding sessions and more.

For more information, visit www.sanibelseaschool.org or call 239-472-8585.

The Sanibel Sea School is at 455 Periwinkle Way.

The Community House The Community House offers an array of activities and programs, including yoga, painting classes, community socials and guest speakers, to cooking classes and demonstrations for all ages through the Culinary Education Center of Sanibel.

For more information, visit sanibelcommunityhouse.net or call 239-472-2155.

The Community House is at 2173 Periwinkle Way. Southwest Florida Island Guide

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PHOTO COURTESY OF LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU/BRIAN TIETZ

Captiva

PHOTO COURTESY OF LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU/BRIAN TIETZ

It is easy to get hooked by Captiva, where there are incredible sunrise and sunset views from the white-sand beaches.

There are also amazing opportunities to stroll, shop, recreate, pause from life’s work outside of paradise.

Sister island to Sanibel, Captiva is just over a small bridge at Blind Pass that crosses Turner Beach, the ideal place to catch fish or discover colorful shells. The island's beaches stretch for five miles to the northern tip at Redfish Pass, which was created by a hurricane.

From Blind Pass, Captiva Drive is a winding journey past lush tropical landscaping, gorgeous homes and vacation rentals.

Dining on Captiva will fill a hungry soul with culinary treats. Andy Rosse Lane, named after a colorful islander of another generation, is home to fabulous restaurants like Key Lime Bistro, where breakfast,

PLACES TO GO ON CAPTIVA Captiva Civic Center 11550 Chapin Lane Captiva Memorial Library 11560 Chapin Lane Historic Captiva Cemetery 11580 Chapin Lane World's Smallest Fishing Museum 15107 Captiva Drive 14

lunch and dinner are served with a touch of Key West in the atmosphere; and the Mucky Duck, where the sunsets are applauded, beer is always cold and the menu specializes in fresh seafood.

Situated along the Roosevelt Channel, the historic Green Flash restaurant overlooks Pine Island Sound and the pristine beauty of Buck Key. One’s culinary journey wouldn’t be complete without a stop at The Bubble Room, known for its large slices of delicious cakes.

For seafaring folk, an adventure out on the water can be arranged by charters like Captiva Cruises, through some marinas, and with rentals from Sunny Island Adventures and YOLO Watersports. Those seeking to experience the true island living can also consider renting a golf cart to get around town.

Fishing the Redfish Pass can produce memorable results. The Redfish Pass connects Pine Island Sound with the Gulf of Mexico and the perfect conditions to attract fish, especially redfish, which lends to its name. With the tidal currents strong from both directions, Redfish Pass acts like a funnel, which catches baitfish in its wake. That draws in the sport fish like redfish, sheepshead, tarpon and ladyfish.

Captiva shops are clustered at the north end of Captiva Drive and on Andy Rosse Lane. Stroll along the village paths from shop to shop taking in the antiques, casual fashions, pottery, furniture and unique gifts for that special someone in your life.

Southwest Florida Island Guide

Boca Grande

PHOTO COURTESY OF LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU/BRIAN TIETZ

The drive along the Boca Grande Causeway features turquoise-blue waters plied by boats ranging from yachts to kayaks. Completing the picture: Sandy beaches, a historic train trestle, high-end shopping and more fishing holes than anyone without a skilled guide can find.

Boca Grande’s beautiful beaches, abundant world-class fishing, dynamically stocked retail shops and gourmet restaurants make for a fabulous day trip or elite extended vacation.

Tourist attractions begin just two miles over the bridges at the North Village anchored by the Boca Grande Resort. Some of the North Village businesses include Courtyard Hair, Kappy's Market & Deli and Uncle Henry's Marina. Seafood connoisseurs visiting the island will find a plethora of restaurants to satisfy their taste buds.

Some notable ones include Temptation Restaurant, Sisters Restaurant, and Eagle Grille and Miller's Dockside restaurant.

The island is also home to many rare animals, birds and fish. Raptors such as osprey and bald eagles soar while multitudes of pelicans ply the waters giving onlookers a fascinating insight into the workings of the wild kingdom. Iguanas or alligators can often be seen sunning after the rare cold fronts pass through.

Whether you switch to a golf cart (highly recommended), bicycle the island path or drive the entire 7.5 miles to the south end of the island to view the famed Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum, the key to enjoying Gasparilla Island is to let cares slips away and fall leisurely into island time.

There is no place in the world where fishing is more abundant or varied. Team with a member of the famed Boca Grande Fishing Guides Association to maximize your enjoyment in Boca Grande Pass, the Gasparilla Sound or the saltwater flats — all Southwest Florida Island Guide

within moments of launch. They’ll take you out into the Gulf of Mexico for deep-sea game as well.

Gasparilla Island beaches are maintained by the Florida Park Service and offer an incredible glimpse into the world-class estuarine habitat where hammerhead sharks mingle with red fish, hogfish, grouper including the massive Goliath grouper, and porpoises, manatees and, of course, the famed silver kings — the tarpon.

All beaches are swim at your own risk because of the stream of underwater wildlife that runs through the treacherously swift currents of the Boca Grande Pass.

Adventurers and shell-collectors alike know how much fun it can be. Others watch or fish from the safety of the sand, especially in prime spots such as nearby the South Beach Bar & Grille.

Fishing is king on Gasparilla Island and the silver kings are at the top of the angler’s bucket list. Tarpon put up a brilliant fight making them a coveted gamefish to catch and release. With the tarpon habitat under pressure from developers, the Boca Grande fishing guides have teamed with the Lemon Bay Conservancy and Boca Grande Area Chamber of Commerce in working to conserve the species and its fisheries.

No mention of Boca Grande attractions can omit the famed Gasparilla Inn & Club, which also operates the Inn's Dining Room, the Inn Bakery, The Beach Club and the historic Pink Elephant restaurant.

The Gasparilla Inn & Club is the hub of the Boca Grande economy. It attracts visitors the world over to its Pete Dye-designed championship golf course, croquet and tennis courts, world-class cuisine, and the green, pink and white-striped rooms that take visitors back to the best of Old Florida.

For more information on Boca Grande, visit bocagrandechamber.com.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU

Fort Myers Beach

With seven miles of beach spanning Estero Island and plenty of public access points, there’s room for everyone to find their perfect piece of paradise on Fort Myers Beach.

On the north side of the island there is Lee County's Bowditch Point Park and Lynn Hall Memorial Park. The public beach at Lynn Hall Memorial Park intertwines with the town's Times Square. There, you will find eateries and shops as well as occasional street performers and live music. On Fridays and Saturdays there are sunset celebrations. The town is planning renovations at Times Square so depending on when you arrive, you may encounter the place in the midst of an overhaul, but enjoy -- the beach will still entice.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU/BRIAN TIETZ

Times Square.

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The Fort Myers Beach Pier stretches out into the ocean to offer a more scenic view of the gulf and is also used by fishermen.

Shops and restaurants line up and down Old San Carlos Boulevard nearby.

Both ends of the island offer chances to take boat tours and cruises so scout around and pick a boating option that fits your comfort zone. There are sightseeing cruises, family cruises, dolphin tours, fishing charters and boat rental options. There are kayak tours and other tours which will take you out to small islands. Discover the nature that Fort Myers Beach has to offer.

On the south end of the island, you will find much of the bird action, including the Little Estero Critical Wildlife Area. Look out for osprey, pelicans, falcons, hawks, spoonbills, gulls, herons, egrets, black skimmers, terns and more. The birds will often get close, soaring from high above and searching the shallow waters for food.

Fishing is a popular tradition at Fort Myers Beach and there is no shortage of spots. Inshore fishing supplies year-round opportunities to catch snook, redfish, snapper, spotted seatrout, sheepshead, jack crevalle, mangrove snapper, catfish and other species. Offshore fishing is a great way to find grouper, black fin tuna, and mackerel.

Sport-fishing for tarpon has been a longtime favorite among visitors and residents alike and brings anglers from all over the world to Fort Myers Beach. One of the largest tarpon migrations in the world takes place annually off the shores of Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel. Some tarpon reside here year-round, but the best time to catch them is during their migration season which is April-June.

Southwest Florida Island Guide

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU/BRIAN TIETZ

Lynn Hall Memorial Park.

For those looking to stay physically active on the beach and do more than swim, there are watercraft and bicycle rentals available.

For the most adventurous, check into parasailing operators.

If you have an eye for art, the Fort Myers Beach Art Association and Gallery is a must. Local artists are constantly working to produce new oil and acrylic paintings, watercolor and pastel portraits and Shops and restaurants line up and down other art which can be found on the Old San Carlos Boulevard. walls of the gallery at Shell Mound Boulevard. Most are also for sale.

Fort Myers Beach is known for its wide array of restaurants, many of which offer a full array of fresh Gulf seafood. You will find scenic views and can enjoy locally caught grouper and shrimp, as well as long menus of other popular fish.

There’s no shortage of late-night spots, many of which host live music. The area is also popular for ice cream, with two new shops opening in the past year – so don't settle for anything less than the best.

Whether you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life to relax Gulf side, go on an outdoor adventure or just find the best happy hour on the beach – you’ve come to the right place.

Southwest Florida Island Guide

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PLACES TO GO ON FORT MYERS BEACH

PHOTO COURTESY OF LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU/BRIAN TIETZ

Times Square.

Wander There are enough shops on Fort Myers Beach to fill an afternoon or a full day with an abundance of eclectic items that you can only find on the island. From Santini Plaza down to Times Square and old San Carlos Boulevard, there are plenty of offerings.

Visit one of the many casual bars/restaurants, order yourself a frozen cocktail and some delicious local seafood. Then, you can finish up your day with some live music at any number of establishments.

Try some watersports Be adventurous and try some watersports.

Enthralling activities for all ages are available on Fort Myers Beach from a myriad of outfitters. Take a joy ride on a personal watercraft or take a personal watercraft dolphin tour to combine adventure and nature.

If you want to include the entire family, go on a banana boat ride. The banana boats typically fit up to six people, and yes, they do look like bananas. The banana boat is pulled behind a personal watercraft through waves and has been compared to the thrill of white water rafting.

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Southwest Florida Island Guide

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU

Estero Bay.

Go fishing Fort Myers Beach offers inshore and offshore fishing. Anglers can choose to fish from the shoreline, bridges and piers, or to go on a fishing charter. Inshore fishing supplies yearround opportunities to catch snook, redfish, spotted seatrout, sheepshead, jack crevalle, mangrove snapper and other species. Offshore fishing is a great way to find shark, grouper, bonito, barracuda, permit, black fin tuna, cobia, and Spanish and king mackerel.

The area is considered a fisherman’s paradise for a reason. Southwest Florida has some of the best grouper grounds in the state.

Sport-fishing for tarpon has been a longtime favorite among visitors and residents alike and brings anglers from all over the world to Fort Myers Beach. One of the largest tarpon migrations in the world takes place annually off the shores of Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel. Some tarpon reside here year-round, but the best time to catch them is during their migration season which is April-June.

Visit the Mound House Visit the Mound House and see how one of the oldest cultures, the Calusa lived on Estero Island. Go underground to view the 2,000-year-old shell mound that the Calusa built their homes on, that the museum is currently built on.

Visit moundhouse.org for ticket prices and hours of operation for the historic home and museum at 451 Connecticut St., Fort Myers Beach.

Or consider a kayak tour and paddle the trail that the Calusa once fished.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU/CAMERON MICHAEL PHOTOGRAPHY

Lovers Key State Park encompasses 1,616 acres that include a stretch of 2.5 miles of white sandy beaches, 744 acres of mangrove-fringed waterways, and 8 miles of hiking and nature trails that thread through the beaches and islands.

Lovers Key state ParK

Consisting of four barrier islands, Lovers Key State Park encompasses 1,616 acres that include a stretch of 2.5 miles of white sandy beaches, 744 acres of mangrovefringed waterways, and 8 miles of hiking and nature trails that thread through the beaches and islands. Originally named after University of Florida engineering graduate Carl E. Johnson, who helped design and build the causeway that connects the park to Bonita Springs along County Road 865, the park is now commonly referred to simply as Lovers Key. Like many of Florida’s state parks, Lovers Key is a day-use-only facility— opening every morning at 8 a.m. and closing at sunset 365 days a year. Because of its strategic location between the urban centers of Naples to the south and Fort Myers/Cape Coral to the north, Lovers Key State Park is one of the most visited parks in the state, topped only by Honeymoon Island in Dunedin, Florida. Although no camping is allowed, the park is a great place for fishing, biking, hiking, sunbathing, picnicking, swimming, and more.

The name Lovers Key dates back to the turn of the last century when it was said that young couples favored the sunsets along the beach that extends between New Pass to the south and Big Carlos Pass to the north. In 22

the early days Lovers Key was accessible only by boat, and the seclusion it offered was a welcome respite from the early Florida land boom of the 1920s. Black Island, which is where a 2.6-mile hiking loop and a 5-mile canoe and kayak trail are now located, was slated for a resort-style development in the late 1960s. The island was cleared of all native trees and mangroves and dredged in anticipation of this new subdivision. After a public outcry to halt the development, the state of Florida purchased almost all of the island and added its acreage to what was then the Carl E. Johnson State Park. Since the acquisition by the state, the mangroves and hardwood coastal hammocks have returned, and the land where houses were destined to rise is now covered in palm trees and native plants.

One unique feature of Lovers Key State Park is that it has a nice two-slot boat ramp located on the bay side of County Highway 865 where anglers and boaters can launch their vessels to explore the backwaters of Estero Bay (Florida’s first aquatic preserve) and the numerous surrounding passes.

There is a launch fee per boat. There are also canoe and kayak launches in the park free to all paid park visitors. One section of the park is part of the Great Calusa Blueway.

Southwest Florida Island Guide

FILE PHOTO

Wildlife sightings may include roseate spoonbills, least terns, black skimmers, bald eagles, West Indian manatees, bottle-nosed dolphins, and the diminutive marsh rabbit.

Another great feature of Lovers Key is the picnic area and children’s playground located in the northeast corner of Black Island. Numerous picnic tables and covered kiosks are available for day-trippers.

Because of its name and its 100-year-old reputation as a destination for romance, Lovers Key State Park is a particular favorite for beach weddings; a large covered gazebo and tram stop along the beach help to facilitate these events.

The sheer size of the park, coupled with its dredged canals, backwaters, and passes, make it one of the state’s top-rated parks for anglers.

The south side of the park abutting New Pass is known for producing some of the largest record snook in the state. Other catches include redfish, sea trout, tarpon, and flounder, and visiting anglers are encouraged to try castnetting for the plentiful black-striped mullet.

Wildlife sightings may include roseate spoonbills, least terns, black skimmers, bald eagles, West Indian manatees, bottle-nosed dolphins, and the diminutive marsh rabbit. Because of its location along the coast, Lovers Key has shelling comparable to that found on Sanibel Island.

FILE PHOTO

Canoe and kayak launches in the park are free to all paid park visitors.

Southwest Florida Island Guide

Lovers Key State Park Admission Fees $8 per vehicle.

Limit 2-8 people per vehicle. $4 Single Occupant Vehicle and Motorcycles. $2 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.

A free tram ferries the visitors from the parking lot to the beaches and runs daily from the park’s opening until 5 p.m.

Wildlife tours and presentations are offered during the winter season. Contact the park directly for updates on these events.

The concession company operating in the park offers food, beverages, ice cream, and bike, canoe, and kayak rentals along with an assortment of other amenities including guided sightseeing and fishing tours. The park has been working with Friends of Lovers Key (FOLKS, 239-4634588) to raise funds to build a visitors center near the main parking lot.

Lovers Key State Park remains nearly as untouched and beautiful today as it was 500 years ago. Several times over the past decade this beach has made it into the top 10 in all of Florida, and once you’ve experienced its white sandy beaches, you’ll understand why.

Lovers Key State Park at 8700 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, between Big Carlos Pass and New Pass

By Charles Sobczak

Florida Realtor & a Florida Author 23

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Tarpon Bay Road Beach tarpon bay Road sanibel

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Sanibel Causeway Beaches sanibel Causeway sanibel

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Motel Row Fort Myers beach

Turner Beach sanibel-Captiva Road, Captiva

Picnic Area

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Lynn Hall Memorial Park north end of estero blvd., Fort Myers beach

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Lover’s Key State Park County Road 865, bonita beach Road, bonita springs

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Lighthouse Park Beach eastern tip of sanibel from the Causeway

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Crescent Beach Family Park at the foot of the Matanzas bridge on estero blvd., Fort Myers beach

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Cape Coral Yacht Basin Cape Coral Pkwy.. to south on Coronado, Cape Coral

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Bowman’s Beach bowman beach Road, sanibel

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Bowditch Point Regional Park north end of estero Island

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Bonita Beach hickory blvd. and bonita beach Road, bonita springs

beaChes

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Barefoot Beach us 41 to bonita beach Road then West, to boca Grande

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Algiers Beach Gulf side City Park sanibel

Parking (Metered)

Parking

Handicap Access

Grills

Fishing Pier

Fishing

Boat Launch

Benches

Lee County

Southwest Florida Island Guide

Lee County Marinas ∫ In-water Marina Facility ∫ Service & Repairs ∫ Boat sales & rentals

∫ Storage ∫ Charters ∫ Fishing Guides

∫∫∫∫Bonita Bay Marina, 27598 Marina Pointe Dr. SW, Bonita Springs (239) 495-3222 www.bonitabaymarina.net ∫∫Burnt Store Marina, 3192 Matecumbe Key Rd, Punta Gorda (941)637-0083 www.burntstoremarina.com ∫∫Calusa Jack’s Marina, 2200 Marina Park Drive, Ft. Myers (239)694-2708 www.calusajacksmarina.com ∫Cape Coral (Godman) Yacht Basin, 5815 Driftwood Pkwy., Coral (239)574-0809 www.capecoral.net ∫∫∫Cape Coral Marine Centre, 1503 SE 46th Ln., Cape Coral (239)541-2988 ∫∫Cape Harbour Marina, 5828 Cape Harbour Drive, Cape Coral (239)945-4330 www.capeharbour.com ∫∫Castaways Marina, 6460 Sanibel-Captiva Rd., Sanibel (239)472-1112 www.castaways-cottages.com/marina/ ∫City of Fort Myers Yacht Basin, 1300 Lee Street, Ft. Myers (239)321-7080 www.cityftmyers.com/381/Yacht-Basin ∫∫Diversified Yacht Services, 751 Fishermans Wharf, Fort Myers Beach (239)765-8700 www.dysinc.com ∫∫Diversified Yacht Services, 2455 Fowler Street, Fort Myers (239)765-8700 www.dysinc.com ∫∫∫∫Everest Marina, 1838 Everest Parkway, Cape Coral (239)458-6604 www.capecoralboatrepair.com ∫∫∫∫∫Fish Tale Marina, 7225 Estero Blvd., Ft. Myers Beach (239)463-3600 www.thefishtalemarina.com ∫∫∫∫∫Four Winds Marina, Inc., 16501 Stringfellow Road, Bokeelia (239)283-0250 www.fourwindsmarina.com ∫∫∫Getaway Marina, 18400 San Carlos Blvd., Ft. Myers Beach (239)466-3600 www.getawaymarina.com ∫∫∫Gulf Star Marina, 708 Fisherman’s Wharf, Ft. Myers Beach (239)209-0285 www.gulfstar-marina.com ∫∫∫Gulfside Marine Services, 4440 Pine Island Rd, Matlacha (239)282-0443 www.gulfsidemarine.com ∫∫∫Jensen’s Twin Palm Resort and Marina, 15107 Captiva Drive, Captiva (239)472-5800 www.gocaptiva.com ∫Legacy Harbour Marina, 2044 West First Street, Fort Myers (239)461-0775 www.legacyharbourmarina.com ∫∫∫Marinatown Yacht Harbour, 3446 Marinatown Lane, North Ft. Myers (239)997-7711 www.marinatown.net ∫∫McCarthy’s Marina, 11401 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva (239)472-5300 www.mccarthysmarina.com ∫∫∫∫Monroe Canal Marina, 3105 Stringfellow Road, Saint James City (239)282-8600 www.monroecanalmarina.com ∫∫∫∫Moss Marine, 450 Harbor Court, Ft. Myers Beach (239)765-6677 www.mossmarine.com ∫∫Mullock Creek Marina, 18501 Mullock Creek Ln., Fort Myers (239)267-4932 ∫∫∫Owl Creek Boat Works and Storage 18251 Owl Creek Dr, Alva (239)543-2100 ∫∫∫Pineland Marina, 13921 Waterfront Dr., Bokeelia (239)283-3593 www.pinelandmarina.com ∫∫∫∫Port Sanibel Marina, 14341 Port Comfort Road, Fort Myers (239)437-1660 www.portsanibelmarina.com ∫∫Prosperity Pointe Marina, 1016 N. Tamiami Trail, North Ft. Myers (239)995-2155 www.prosperitypointemarina.com ∫∫∫∫∫Salty Sam’s Marina, 2500 Main Street, Ft. Myers Beach (239)463-7333 www.saltysamsmarina.com ∫∫∫∫Sanibel Marina, 634 N. Yachtsman Drive, Sanibel (239)472-2723 www.sanibelmarina.com ∫∫∫∫∫Snook Bight Marina, 4765 Estero Blvd., Ft. Myers Beach (239)765-4371 www.snookbightmarina.com ∫∫∫South Seas Resort and Yacht Harbour, 5400 Plantation Road, Captiva (239)472-5111 www.southseas.com ∫∫∫∫Sweetwater Landing, 16991 S.R. 31, Ft. Myers (239)694-3850 www.sweetwaterlanding.net ∫∫∫Tarpon Point Marina, 6095 Silver King Blvd., Cape Coral (239)549-4900 www.tarponpoint.com ∫∫∫The Boat House of Cape Coral, 1516 SE 46th St, Cape Coral (239)549-2628 www.boathouseh2o.com ∫Tween Waters Marina, 15951 Captiva Drive, Captiva (239)472-5161 www.tween-waters.com ∫∫∫York Road Marine, 3446 York Rd, St James City (239)283-1149 www.yorkroadmarine.com Southwest Florida Island Guide

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Southwest Florida Island Guide

Bonita SpringS

PHOTO COURTESY OF LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU/CAMERON MICHAEL PHOTOGRAPHY

Step into Downtown Bonita Springs to see the historic Liles Hotel, a butterfly garden, bandshell and the artist cottages at Riverside Park. This park, off Old 41 Road right on the Imperial River, is used for a variety of town functions - everything from holiday celebrations, art shows, festivals, Movies in the Park to the annual Celebrate Bonita Festival held every spring.

Amenities include sheltered picnic tables, park benches, and restrooms as well as a Veteran's Brick walkway and Veteran's Memorial to honor all those who have served.

A stunning fountain and an abundance of green space provide the perfect atmosphere for a bit to eat at one of the picnic shelters, or benches.

Meanwhile, the historic Liles Hotel, built in 1926, offers exhibits in the public areas of the hotel while the Imperial River cottages, restored fishing bungalows, offer a selection of handmade jewelry, paintings, sculptures and other fine arts. The Artist Cottages are open to the public on Sundays during season and offer Art Nights the fourth Wednesday of each month.

The City of Bonita Springs also provides other opportunities for individuals to enjoy the outdoors at a variety of stunning parks along the water: • Stroll down to Bonita Beach Park, a 2.5-acres of beachfront featuring a boardwalk and ample areas to take a dip in the blue water. Need a break out of the heat?

Stop by one of the eight gazebo and picnic shelters surrounded by sand dunes and coastal vegetation.

Southwest Florida Island Guide

• One of the last underdeveloped barrier islands on the southwest coast of Florida offers 342-acres of natural land where a shifting habitat of beach, dunes, coastal strand, maritime hammock and estuarine mangrove forest is located. Barefoot Beach Preserve, actually in Collier County, has 8,200 feet of sandy beaches for people to enjoy creating sandcastles, or splashing in the water. The preserve is also a popular attraction for avid fishermen who enjoy loosing themselves in nature while trying to catch one of the many varieties of fish.

• An isolated location, Little Hickory Island Park, is located just off Little Hickory Island. Take a dip in the water, enjoy a little meal at one of the shelters or — a local favorite— cast a line in the surf.

It's also a great place to take in a beautiful Florida sunset.

• For those who have a furry four-legged best friend, stop by the Bonita Springs Dog Park, which has a bridge spreading across Leitner Creek providing some peace and serenity. The wooded, spacious park gives dogs 6 acres to run some of their energy off in three separated enclosures depending on the dogs size.

• A popular old Florida-style attraction, Everglades Wonder Gardens provides visitors with an opportunity to travel back in time to learn about artifacts collected by Bill and Lester Piper, as well as explore the 3.5-acre botanical jungle bursting with native trees and plants. Take a moment to feed the bright pink flamingos, take a stroll through the butterfly garden and stop and view the intriguing alligators.

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PHOTO BY CHARLENE RUSS

BOKEELIA

Pine island

Pine Island, often referred to as the forgotten island, is located just west of Cape Coral off Burn Store Road. Once you venture over the Matlacha Bridge -- fantastic for fishing -- you’re on island time. You’ll notice no traffic lights or high rises, which is just the way locals like it. The speed limits on this two-lane island are slower for a reason. You won’t be in a hurry to zip passed the colorful Matlacha architecture, where the streets are lined with shops, art galleries, and eateries.

The historic Calusa Indians were already calling this island home as early as the 1500s, when Ponce de Leon stumbled upon them after careening his ship here.

All this and much more rich island history can be found at the Museum of the Islands where many exhibits await discovery. The volunteer-run museum now stands in what was once the island’s first library, preserving many artifacts donated by locals, many of whom are third, fourth, and even fifth generation Pine Islanders. Winter Hours (Nov. 1 - April 30) Tuesday through Saturday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.; Sunday 1 p.m. 4 p.m. closed Mondays Summer Hours (May 1 - October 31) Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Group Tours available by appointment Admission $3 adults $1 children 28

Education abounds at the Randell Research Center in Pineland where the Calusa Heritage Trail is now open from sunrise to sunset. The store, classroom and restrooms are still closed. Bicycles are not allowed on the trail. Visitors are encouraged to maintain physical distancing and avoid touching handrails or signage to help stem the spread of COVID19.

Pine Island Tropicals in Bokeelia is a tropical plant nursery as well as an outdoor farmers market, specializing in organically grown plants and vegetables.

Frequent visits to the nursery reveal the seasonality of the fruits and vegetables; therefore not all of the produce is available year-around. They continually do research and development of different plant cultivars to further not only their education but enhance the wide varieties they offer.

For over 100 years people have enjoyed fishing from the Bokeelia Fishing Pier at Bocilla Island Seaport. Located at the northern tip of Pine Island stretching into the waters of Charlotte Harbor. No fishing license is required, just come and enjoy the fun. Rod & Reel rentals available for $10 a day from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Southwest Florida Island Guide

Southwest Florida Island Guide

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PLACES TO GO

PHOTO COURTESY OF LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU

Cayo Costa The Tropic Star Ferry will take you on a short ride from Pine Island to Cayo Costa, one of the area’s most beautiful islands. Here you can spend the day visiting dolphin and manatee or lengthen your stay if you enjoy camping either in a tent or rustic cabin. With miles of pristine beaches and hiking trails to discover, this is a place the family can disconnect with the mainland and reconnect with nature.

Cabbage Key

Useppa Island

Cabbage Key is only accessible by boat. Located near marker 60 on the inter-coastal highway this 100-acre island, owned by the Wells family, proudly features the well-known Cabbage Key “open air” restaurant with its “dollar bill bar” if you’re in the mood for a bite or an historic inn and rental cottages for those who plan a longer stay than the average day-tripper.

Useppa Island is located near the northern end of Pine Island Sound. Currently the home of the private Useppa Island Club, this 100-acre bridgeless private island is a destination for those who have a desire for security as well as privacy. Club membership as well as real estate inquiries invited.

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Southwest Florida Island Guide

PHOTO COURTESY OF LEE COUNTY VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU

Little Pine Island is a 4700-acre wetland preserve.

Little Pine Island Little Pine Island is a 4,700-acre wetland preserve found along the way from Matlacha to Greater Pine Island. Little Pine Island is an extensive coastal wetland between Pine Island and Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve, whose restoration began over 23 years ago. This habitat is responsible for the discharge of organic biomass to the estuary while simultaneously supporting a diversity of wildlife. It also serves as a nursery for juvenile fish, while providing breeding areas for migratory birds.

Southwest Florida Island Guide

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