The Best Places to Stay in Bonita Springs
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The 27 Best Things to Do in Bonita Springs
Discover the top attractions, outdoor adventures, and hidden gems in Bonita Springs—just a short drive from Naples, Florida.
By
Scott Carr
and
Kelly Carr
Updated
Lovers Key State Park
Nestled just north of Naples, Bonita Springs blends small-town charm with a laid-back coastal vibe, making it a favorite side trip for visitors exploring Southwest Florida. Known for its natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and hidden local gems, Bonita Springs offers a unique mix of white-sand beaches, scenic parks, art-filled enclaves, and family-friendly attractions. Whether you're looking to kayak through mangroves, relax at Barefoot Beach, or discover local flavors in downtown Bonita, this neighboring town has plenty to offer.
See our quick guide below or ready on further down for the best things to do in Bonita Springs—perfect for a day trip or an easy detour from Naples.
- Beaches: Bonita Beach Park, Barefoot Beach Preserve, Lovers Key State Park
- Attractions: Wonder Gardens, Sports Challenge America
- Breweries: Riptide Brewing Company, Celebration Brewing, Hopsized Brewing Co., Chubby Mermaid
- Kid-Friendly Stops: ice cream at Royal Scoop, mini golf at Congo River Golf or Golf Safari Mini Golf, U-Pick at Farmer Mike's
- Parks & Trails: Riverside Park, Cullum's Trail
- Lively Food & Drink Spots: Rooftop at Riverside, Doc's Beach House, Sugarshack
- Entertainment: live music at Sugarshack, Performing Arts Center at Arts Bonita, Bonita Springs Poker Room, pickleball, bowling and virtual indoor sports at Sports Challenge America, movies at Prado Stadium 12
- Tours & Experiences: e-bike rentals from Naples Electric Bikes, kayak tours with Mike's Coastal Expeditions, kayak rentals from GCT Kayaks, boat rentals from Bonita Boat Rentals
- Shopping: Promenade at Bonita, Flamingo Island Flea Market
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See What's On This Page
- Wonder Gardens
- Sports Challenge America
- Rooftop at Riverside
- Naples Electric Bikes
- Doc's Beach House
- Mike's Coastal Expeditions
- Bonita Boat Rentals
- Congo River Golf
- Lovers Key State Park
- Farmer Mike's U-Pick of Bonita Springs
- Bonita Beach Park
- Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa
- CGT Kayaks
- Golf Safari
- Flamingo Island Flea Market
- Sugarshack Downtown
- Arts Bonita
- Cullum's Trail
- Riptide Brewing Company
- Barefoot Beach Preserve
- Promenade at Bonita Bay
- Bonita Springs Historical Society
- Riverside Park
- Shangri-La Springs
- Royal Scoop Homemade Ice Cream
- Bonita Springs Poker Room
- Prado Stadium 12
Showing 27 results
1
Wonder Gardens
4.5
1946 Google reviews
A historic gem in the heart of Bonita Springs, The Wonder Gardens is a charming botanical and wildlife sanctuary that’s been delighting visitors since 1936. Home to rescued birds, reptiles, and mammals—including flamingos, alligators, and parrots—the gardens offer a peaceful stroll through lush tropical landscaping. It’s an ideal stop for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to experience a slice of Old Florida charm with a modern conservation focus.
2
Sports Challenge America
4.7
164 Google reviews
Test your aim and unleash your competitive side at this interactive sports experience. Sports Challenge America offers a mix of fun, skill-based challenges like baseball pitching, basketball free throws, football throws, and even golf chipping—all scored with precision technology. Great for families, groups, or anyone who wants to mix a little friendly competition into their day.
3
Rooftop at Riverside
4.0
220 Google reviews
Mexican, Seafood, American, Pizza
$, $$-$$$
Bonita’s first rooftop bar, this elevated open-air venue offers craft cocktails, small plates, and sunset views over the Imperial River. Located at the Riverside Park redevelopment, Rooftop at Riverside brings a chic, laid-back vibe to downtown with live music, lounge seating, and a perfect perch for evening drinks after exploring the area. Downstairs, a rotating lineup of local food trucks adds flavor to the experience, serving everything from tacos and barbecue to sweet treats.
Editors Choice
4
Naples Electric Bikes
5.0
94 Google reviews
Explore Bonita Springs with ease on a rental from Naples Electric Bikes. Offering high-quality electric bikes with delivery to your location, it's a fun, eco-friendly way to cruise local trails, scenic neighborhoods, and beachside paths—no car needed. Perfect for casual riders, couples, or families looking to see more while doing less pedaling.
Electric Bike Rentals
from
$65.00 per person
Beach Chairs & Umbrella Rentals
from
$50.00 per day
5
Doc's Beach House
4.3
4156 Google reviews
American, Pizza
$$-$$$
A Bonita Springs staple for decades, Doc’s Beach House is the go-to spot for casual beachfront dining with toes-in-the-sand vibes. Located right on Bonita Beach, this no-frills hangout serves up burgers, seafood baskets, and cold drinks just steps from the Gulf. You can rent beach chairs, jet skis, or even try parasailing—making it a perfect one-stop spot for a laid-back beach day.
6
Mike's Coastal Expeditions
5.0
400 Google reviews
Explore the hidden side of Bonita Springs with a guided kayak or paddleboard tour from Mike’s Coastal Expeditions. Specializing in small-group eco-tours, Mike and his team take you through mangrove tunnels, estuaries, and calm coastal waters rich with wildlife like dolphins, manatees, and native birds. It’s a peaceful, educational, and authentic way to experience Southwest Florida’s natural beauty.
7
Bonita Boat Rentals
4.8
233 Google reviews
Explore the waterways of Bonita Springs at your own pace with a self-guided adventure from Bonita Boat Rentals. They offer easy-to-operate pontoon boats perfect for cruising, shelling, dolphin watching, or docking at a nearby island for lunch. It’s a relaxing and memorable way to experience the beauty of Southwest Florida from the water.
8
Congo River Golf
4.8
1634 Google reviews
Adventure meets mini golf at Congo River Golf, a tropical-themed course filled with waterfalls, caves, and lush landscaping. Perfect for families and fun-seekers, this Bonita Springs attraction offers more than just putt-putt—you can feed live alligators, mine for gems, and test your skills with interactive challenges along the way. It’s a playful and memorable stop for kids and adults alike.
9
Lovers Key State Park
4.7
7262 Google reviews
A pristine natural escape between Bonita Springs and Fort Myers Beach, Lovers Key State Park is a haven for outdoor lovers. The park features over two miles of unspoiled beach, scenic trails, and mangrove-lined waterways perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or spotting manatees and dolphins. Ideal for beachgoers, birdwatchers, and adventurers alike, it’s one of the most beautiful and peaceful spots along Florida’s Gulf Coast.
10
Farmer Mike's U-Pick of Bonita Springs
4.4
729 Google reviews
A seasonal favorite for locals and visitors alike, Farmer Mike’s U-Pick offers a hands-on farm experience just minutes from downtown Bonita. Depending on the time of year, you can pick your own strawberries, sunflowers, pumpkins, and more. The farm also hosts festive events like fall corn mazes, haunted harvests, and holiday markets—making it a fun, family-friendly outing rooted in Southwest Florida’s agricultural charm.
11
Bonita Beach Park
4.6
3744 Google reviews
Located at the southern tip of Bonita Beach, this waterfront park is a favorite for families and beachgoers looking for a more relaxed Gulf Coast experience. Bonita Beach Park offers easy beach access, picnic shelters, restrooms, and a playground—all just steps from the sand. With calm waters and plenty of space to spread out, it’s an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, shelling, or catching a stunning Florida sunset.
12
Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa
4.6
3015 Google reviews
Even if you never leave the resort, there’s no shortage of fun at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point. Guests can enjoy a full-scale waterpark with waterslides, a lazy river, and multiple pools, or hop on a ferry to the resort’s private island beach for sunbathing and shelling. Lawn games, hammocks, fire pits, and watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding round out the activities, making it an all-in-one playground for families, couples, and relaxation seekers alike.
13
CGT Kayaks
4.6
84 Google reviews
For a fun and active way to experience the Imperial River, CGT Kayaks offers rentals, tours, and paddleboard adventures right from downtown Bonita Springs. Whether you're a first-timer or experienced paddler, their friendly team will get you geared up for a scenic trip through mangroves, past waterfront homes, and into peaceful backwaters teeming with wildlife. It’s a local favorite for outdoor enthusiasts and a great way to see Bonita from a new perspective.
14
Golf Safari
4.5
573 Google reviews
A longtime favorite for families, Golf Safari Mini Golf offers a fun and jungle-themed 18-hole course filled with shaded pathways, waterfalls, and life-sized animal statues. It’s clean, well-maintained, and perfect for all ages—whether you’re looking for a casual date night or an afternoon of family-friendly competition. With its tropical landscaping and relaxed vibe, it’s one of Bonita’s most playful attractions.
15
Flamingo Island Flea Market
4.0
1846 Google reviews
A quirky Bonita Springs landmark, Flamingo Island Flea Market is a treasure trove of local vendors, unique finds, and laid-back Florida charm. With over 200 booths under one roof, you’ll find everything from handmade crafts and vintage goods to fresh produce and souvenirs. There’s also live music, food stalls, and cold drinks—making it more of an experience than just a shopping trip.
16
Sugarshack Downtown
4.3
247 Google reviews
Tucked away in downtown Bonita Springs, Sugarshack is a one-of-a-kind venue blending live music, art, and community. What started as a backyard acoustic session has grown into a nationally recognized platform for intimate live performances, featuring up-and-coming artists from around the world. With its laid-back vibe and creative spirit, Sugarshack Downtown offers a unique cultural experience that music lovers won’t want to miss.
17
Arts Bonita
4.6
205 Google reviews
The creative heartbeat of downtown Bonita Springs, Arts Bonita is a nonprofit arts organization offering exhibits, performances, workshops, and festivals year-round. With two campuses—the Visual Arts Center and the Performing Arts Center—it’s a hub for cultural enrichment, showcasing local and regional artists, live music, theater, and hands-on classes for all ages. Whether you’re browsing a gallery or catching a show, Arts Bonita adds a rich layer of culture to your visit.
18
Cullum's Trail
4.5
83 Google reviews
Cullum’s Trail in Bonita Springs, Florida, is a peaceful 0.9-mile shell-lined loop nestled along the Imperial River, adjacent to Bonita Nature Place. Ideal for leisurely walks and nature observation, the trail winds through scenic old-growth cypress and oak trees draped in Spanish moss, offering frequent sightings of native birds, butterflies, and plants.
Editor's Tip
While the packed shell and boardwalk path is generally accessible, some areas may be less suited for strollers or wheelchairs. Parking is available on Kent Road just south of Bonita Nature Place, but visitors should note that restrooms are limited.
19
Riptide Brewing Company
4.6
95 Google reviews
A local favorite with laid-back vibes, Riptide Brewing Company’s Bonita Springs taproom is the perfect spot to sample small-batch craft beers brewed right on-site. The spacious indoor-outdoor setup often features food trucks, live music, and games—making it a relaxed hangout for both locals and visitors. From IPAs to lighter seasonal brews, there’s something on tap for every taste.
20
Barefoot Beach Preserve
4.7
2699 Google reviews
One of Southwest Florida’s most pristine natural beaches, Barefoot Beach Preserve is a protected stretch of coastline that feels like a hidden paradise. With soft white sand, gentle surf, and abundant wildlife—including gopher tortoises and nesting sea turtles—it’s a peaceful escape perfect for nature walks, shelling, or simply unwinding by the water. The preserve also offers walking trails, a learning center, and scenic boardwalks through coastal habitats.
21
Promenade at Bonita Bay
4.6
881 Google reviews
An upscale open-air shopping and dining destination, the Promenade at Bonita Bay combines local boutiques, art galleries, and refined restaurants in a beautifully landscaped setting. Stroll the palm-lined walkways, explore one-of-a-kind shops, or enjoy a leisurely meal at one of several chef-driven eateries. At the heart of it all, The Center Bar offers craft cocktails, live music, and a lively social scene—making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of shopping or kick off your evening out.
22
Bonita Springs Historical Society
4.9
15 Google reviews
Step back in time and discover the stories that shaped this coastal town at the Bonita Springs Historical Society. Located in historic downtown, the society offers walking tours, exhibits, and restored landmarks that highlight the area’s early pioneer days, Native American heritage, and Old Florida charm. It’s a meaningful stop for history buffs and curious visitors looking to connect with the roots of Bonita Springs.
23
Riverside Park
4.6
1294 Google reviews
The heart of downtown Bonita Springs, Riverside Park is a scenic community space nestled along the Imperial River. With a riverside stage, open green space, historic buildings, and shaded walkways, it hosts everything from art festivals and concerts to movie nights and holiday events. Whether you're attending a local gathering or just enjoying a peaceful stroll, Riverside Park offers a welcoming blend of nature, culture, and community charm.
24
Shangri-La Springs
4.6
280 Google reviews
A hidden oasis in the heart of Bonita Springs, Shangri-La Springs is a historic hotel and wellness retreat surrounded by centuries-old banyan trees, organic gardens, and natural spring water. Visitors can explore the peaceful grounds, enjoy farm-to-table dining at the on-site restaurant, or attend holistic wellness events, art exhibits, and garden tours. It’s a serene escape that blends Old Florida charm with a focus on health, nature, and rejuvenation.
25
Royal Scoop Homemade Ice Cream
4.7
2026 Google reviews
American
$
Royal Scoop Homemade Ice Cream is a beloved Bonita Springs institution serving handcrafted ice cream made in small batches with premium ingredients. Family-owned and operated since 1979, Royal Scoop offers a wide variety of classic and creative flavors, along with sundaes, milkshakes, and waffle cones made fresh in-house. Whether you’re cooling off after a beach day or just craving something sweet, Royal Scoop delivers a timeless ice cream experience that’s pure Southwest Florida tradition.
26
Bonita Springs Poker Room
4.3
258 Google reviews
The Bonita Springs Poker Room, located at 28010 Race Track Road in Bonita Springs, Florida, offers a premier gaming experience in Southwest Florida. With approximately 37 tables, the room hosts a variety of poker games, including Texas Hold’em and Three Card Poker, complemented by monthly promotions and tournaments. Beyond poker, patrons can engage in horse and jai-alai wagering, and enjoy dining at The Brass Tap, which features over 150 craft beers and a diverse menu.
27
Prado Stadium 12
4.5
1075 Google reviews
Prado Stadium 12 is a modern cinema offering a premium movie-going experience. The theater features 12 screens equipped with Sony 4K projectors and Dolby Surround audio systems, ensuring high-quality visuals and sound. Guests can enjoy the comfort of electronic recliners and reserved seating for added convenience. Beyond traditional concessions, Prado Stadium 12 boasts an in-house restaurant serving gourmet options, including cheese platters and flatbread pizzas, complemented by a selection of over 50 craft beers and a full-service bar.
