Bonita Springs, Florida
A Weekend Getaway in Bonita Springs, Florida
Hidden away in Florida’s southwestern coast, Bonita Springs offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, tranquil beaches, exciting outdoor activities, and a delightful culinary landscape. This weekend itinerary will guide you through some of the must-see attractions and must-do activities that make Bonita Springs a fantastic destination for an unforgettable weekend getaway.
Day 1: Discovering Bonita Beach
Morning – Barefoot Beach Preserve
Kick off your first day in Bonita Springs with a visit to Barefoot Beach Preserve, one of the last undeveloped barrier islands on Florida’s southwest coast. Here, you can start your morning right by taking a leisurely stroll along the pristine shoreline, spotting loggerhead sea turtles and the impressive gopher tortoise. Join the guided nature walk if you’re lucky enough to visit on a Friday.
Afternoon – Doc’s Beach House
After working up an appetite, head over to Doc’s Beach House, an iconic beachside restaurant offering delectable seafood and mouthwatering pizzas. Enjoy your lunch with a panoramic view of the beach and, if you’re lucky, you might even spot some dolphins.
Evening – Sunset at Bonita Beach Park
As the day winds down, make your way to Bonita Beach Park, a local favorite for watching the sunset. This 2.5-acre beachfront park offers sand dunes, coastal vegetation, and a scenic boardwalk. Don’t forget your camera – the sunset against the Gulf of Mexico’s horizon is truly a sight to behold.
Day 2: Adventure and Exploration
Morning – Kayaking in Imperial River
Start your day with a dose of adventure by kayaking down the Imperial River. Bonita Springs Kayak Company offers guided tours where you can paddle through mangrove tunnels and spot manatees, birds, and other wildlife.
Afternoon – Everglades Wonder Gardens
After a morning of paddling, visit the Everglades Wonder Gardens, a botanical jungle featuring exotic plants and animals from flamingos and macaws to alligators. Be sure to take a leisurely stroll through the Butterfly Garden.
Evening – Dining at The Fish House Restaurant
Round off your day with a sumptuous dinner at The Fish House Restaurant, famous for its fresh-off-the-boat seafood. Set in a relaxed, Old Florida-style atmosphere, this restaurant is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration.
Day 3: Embracing the Art & Culture
Morning – Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs
Start your final day by immersing yourself in the local arts scene at the Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs. The center offers a diverse range of exhibitions, performances, and classes.
Afternoon – Lunch at Coconut Jack’s Waterfront Grill
Next, enjoy a waterfront lunch at Coconut Jack’s Waterfront Grill, overlooking the Back Bay. This restaurant is known for its award-winning menu, beautiful views, and live music.
Evening – Shopping at The Promenade
End your weekend with a shopping spree at The Promenade, an upscale retail center with a variety of boutique shops, salons, and eateries.
There’s so much more to discover in Bonita Springs, but this itinerary will give you a taste of what this charming Florida city has to offer. Whether it’s the natural beauty, the delicious food, or the rich art scene, Bonita Springs has something for everyone.