LOVERS KEY STATE PARK

A beautiful park with 2-1/2 miles of one of the best beaches in the State, it is located on the Gulf of Mexico at the south end of Ft. Myers Beach, just north of Bonita Beach, about 1/2 hour drive from downtown Naples. You will find plenty of picnic areas, some with grills, so bring your lunch and plan to spend the day. There is a large pavilion for weddings, reunions, etc. Contact Nature Recreation Management for more information at 239-765-7788.

FLORIDA BEACH VACATION, NAPLES FLORIDA INSIDER TIPS.

Lovers Key has three distinct sections. Hop on the courtesy tram for a ride to the South Beach where you will find facilities including a gazebo, picnic area and restrooms. Or, take a walk over the bridge to the Middle Beach which has no facilities and is left natural. Access the North Beach through the north honor gate at Big Carlos Pass. All three areas have their own unique differences. Lovers Key may also be enjoyed on the many biking and hiking trails. Bicycles are available to rent at the main parking lot. Also available are canoes or kayaks for rental to explore the inner waterways, the Gulf and Estero Bay. For information on all rentals, call 239-765-7788. If you have your own boat, there is a boat ramp for direct access to Estero Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

Most Florida State Parks offer programs that are informative as well as interesting. Lovers Key State Park has such programs on many topics. These programs make the park’s history, wild life, and environment come to life. Known for the manatees and the playful dolphins, they are also home to many species of birds including the Roseate Spoonbill and the American Bald Eagle. For programs and schedules, call 239-463-4588.

Don’t miss the Black Island Trail, a maritime hammock.Years ago the islands were accessible only by boat. Legend has it that only six lovers made the trip to this romantic island and that Black Island got its name from Black Augustus, who was a pirate. Black Augustus was captured but escaped to the island, making it his home for the remainder of his life.