Things to do Bonita
ABOUT BONITA SPRINGS
Bonita Springs, nestled between Naples and Fort Myers, is celebrated for its beautiful beaches, friendly atmosphere, and outstanding quality of life. Originally a small fishing village, Bonita has blossomed into a vibrant community that attracts locals, seasonal residents, and visitors alike. People are drawn to its stunning landscapes, warm Gulf waters, and rich history. Historic Downtown Bonita Springs is the heart of the community, offering a glimpse into the city’s heritage. The downtown area features charming streets lined with historic buildings, unique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Strolling through Historic Downtown Bonita is like stepping back in time, with its preserved architecture and welcoming feel, capturing the essence of old Florida while embracing the vibrancy of the modern day.
The Beach is Calling
Barefoot Beach
A hidden gem known for its quieter, more peaceful atmosphere. With its wide, unspoiled beach and tranquil waters, it’s ideal for a laid-back day at the beach.
Bonita Beach Park
The closest beach to Bonita Springs, Bonita Beach Park offers plenty of parking, making it a popular and busy spot. Located next to it is the famous Doc’s Beach House, perfect for a casual meal by the Gulf.
Lover's Key State Park
Known for its pristine beaches and lush mangroves, Lover’s Key is perfect for kayaking, bird-watching, and hiking. A serene and beautiful spot for nature lovers.
Vanderbilt Beach
Just north in Naples, Vanderbilt Beach is famous for its expansive shoreline, crystal-clear waters, and proximity to dining and shopping
Delnor Wiggins Pass State Park
A beautiful beach and nature preserve in Naples, perfect for swimming, picnicking, and wildlife spotting
Water Front Dinning
The Bay House
Enjoy waterfront dining and live music at this Naples favorite. With its beautiful views and vibrant atmosphere, The Bay House is perfect for a relaxing meal by the water.
Coconut Jack’s Waterfront Grille
Located just steps from Bonita Beach, Coconut Jack’s is a beloved spot known for its laid-back, tropical atmosphere and panoramic views of the Back Bay. The menu features fresh local seafood, including coconut shrimp and daily chef specials. With complimentary valet parking and a first-come, first-served seating policy for parties under 10, it’s perfect for a relaxed lunch, dinner, or happy hour.
Flippers on the Bay
is a hidden gem nestled within Lovers Key Resort on Fort Myers Beach, offering an exceptional waterfront dining experience. Overlooking the serene Estero Bay, this open-air restaurant provides a laid-back ambiance complemented by panoramic views, making it an ideal spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner
Doc’s Beach House
A Bonita Beach institution since 1987, Doc’s Beach House offers ultra-casual dining right on the sand. Enjoy tavern-style pizza, burgers, and frozen drinks with your toes in the sand. The open-air patio and beach-level seating make it a favorite for beachgoers looking to grab a bite without leaving the shoreline.
The Fish House Restaurant
Situated along Bonita Beach Road, The Fish House has been serving up fresh seafood in a fun, casual atmosphere since 1994. With a spacious waterfront patio, it’s a great spot to enjoy dishes like Gulf grouper and crab-stuffed broiled fish while watching the sunset. The restaurant is pet-friendly and offers options for various dietary preferences.
Golf
Saltleaf Golf Preserve
Formerly known as Raptor Bay Golf Club, this 18-hole championship course was redesigned by Raymond Floyd. It offers a unique experience with no formal bunkers and is set amidst a 144-acre preserve adjacent to Estero Bay.
Bonita Fairways Golf Course
An 18-hole executive course nestled within a nature preserve, featuring water hazards and mature trees, suitable for golfers of all skill levels.
Bonita Bay Club
A premier private club offering five championship courses designed by Arthur Hills and Tom Fazio, spread across two campuses in Bonita Springs and Naples.
Shopping or Strolling
Waterside Shops
Venetian Village
Mercato
Tin City
Third Street South
Fifth Avenue
Naples Pier
Coastland Mall
Third Street Farmer’s Market
(Saturday morning from 7:30 until 11:30 a.m.)
Celebration Park Naples
Food trucks provide the eats at this laid-back, open-air bar set in a waterfront park.
Water Activities
Explore the serene waters of the Gulf and nearby mangroves. Paddleboarding and kayaking are excellent ways to get closer to nature and see local wildlife, such as manatees, dolphins, and a variety of bird species. Relax like the locals do!
CGT Kayaks & Paddleboards
Provides kayak and paddleboard rentals launching from Riverside Park. Affordable rates with options for both single and tandem kayaks.
Fishing Charters
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, Bonita Springs and Naples offer fantastic fishing opportunities. Take a charter for deep-sea or backwater fishing and enjoy a fun day on the water.
Bonita Springs Fishing Charters (Captain Steve Nagy)
Specializes in light tackle fishing in Estero Bay, targeting species like snook and redfish.
Fred Gowdy Charters
Offers backcountry and nearshore fishing trips, ideal for both beginners and seasoned anglers.
Bonita Boat Rentals
Family-owned business offering 22-foot pontoon boats for 2–8 hour rentals. Convenient access to Estero Bay.
Bay Water Boat Rentals
Features a diverse fleet of boats for exploring Southwest Florida’s waterways.
Bonita Jet Ski & Parasail
Provides bicycle rentals with free delivery, including helmets, baskets, and locks.
Shows & Movies
Prado Stadium 12
A local movie theater offering 12 screens with comfortable seating and a selection of the latest films. Located in The Prado shopping center, it’s a convenient spot for moviegoers.
Address: 25251 Chamber of Commerce Dr, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Arts Bonita – Performing Arts Center
Home to the 400-seat Hinman Auditorium and the 200-seat Moe Auditorium & Film Center, this venue hosts a variety of performances, including theater productions, concerts, and film screenings.
Address: 10150 Bonita Beach Rd SE, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
The Stage – Bonita Springs
A lively venue offering dinner shows, live music, and tribute performances. Enjoy a meal and entertainment in a vibrant atmosphere.
Address: 9144 Bonita Beach Rd SE, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Grocery & Specialty Stores
Publix Super Markets
A staple in Florida, Publix offers a wide selection of groceries, fresh produce, and baked goods.
The Center of Bonita Springs at 3304 Bonita Beach Rd SE
Publix Super Markets
A staple in Florida, Publix offers a wide selection of groceries, fresh produce, and baked goods.
Bonita Bay Plaza at 26841 S Tamiami Trail
ALDI
Known for its budget-friendly prices and efficient shopping experience.
Located at 8951 Bonita Beach Rd SE
The Fresh Market
Offers a variety of specialty foods, including premium meats and organic produce.
Located at 27251 Bay Landing Dr
DeRomo’s Gourmet Market
An upscale market featuring imported cheeses, fresh bakery items, and a vast wine selection.
Outdoor
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida
Discover a rich blend of education and exploration, including a Natural History Museum, Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, guided electric boat tours, and scenic trails. Daily presentations cover topics like snakes, turtles, coastal ecosystems, and seashells.
Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
Set in a historic 52-acre botanical garden, Naples Zoo features exotic animals such as zebras, apes, and rare tigers. It’s one of the few places in the U.S. where you can see all four of Africa’s top predators.
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
Wander along a 2.25-mile boardwalk through the largest remaining old-growth bald cypress forest in North America. You’ll experience multiple ecosystems teeming with birds, alligators, and native flora.
Naples Botanical Garden
This tropical paradise showcases plants from around the world alongside restored Florida habitats. The garden offers inspiring exhibits, conservation projects, and hands-on educational programs for all ages.
Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (C’mon)
Address: 15080 Livingston Rd, Naples, FL 34109
Sun-N-Fun Lagoon
Make a splash at Sun-N-Fun Lagoon, Naples’ premier water park with over one million gallons of aquatic fun! The park features four pools, five thrilling water slides, a relaxing lazy river, an interactive splash playground, and water features designed for all ages to enjoy from toddlers to grandparents.
Restaurants
The Bohemian Restaurant
A tapas-style restaurant with a laid-back atmosphere and an impressive bar. Enjoy small plates made with fresh ingredients in an artsy, intimate setting. Whether you’re here for a casual evening or a special celebration.
Address: 27975 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135, United States
Canary Club
Bonita’s newest restaurant with Great cocktails and amazing wood fired pizzas, sharable dishes with a middle Eastern twist.
Address: 25091 Bernwood Dr, Bonita Springs, FL 34135, United States
Maria’s Restaurant
Mexican cuisine in a cozy setting
Address: 27080 Old 41 Rd
A Table Apart
Globally inspired dishes with sustainable ingredients
Address: 4295 Bonita Beach Rd
Coffee Shops
Downtown Coffee and Wine Company
A cozy cafe that blends the best of coffee and wine. Perfect for grabbing a morning espresso or relaxing with a glass of wine in the afternoon. The menu also features a delightful selection of pastries and light bites.
Address: 27546 Old 41 Rd
Survey Cafe
Known for its delightful croissants and excellent coffee, Survey Cafe offers a peaceful location for breakfast or brunch. The charming decor and relaxed atmosphere make it a perfect spot for a quiet moment or catching up with friends.
Address: 10530 Wilson St
Grumpy Goat Coffee Roastery
Specializes in single-origin, small-batch beans roasted on-site. A must-visit for coffee lovers seeking quality and craftsmanship.
Address: 28280 Old 41 Rd, Suite 11
The Garden Café
A charming, laid-back café with a peaceful outdoor patio surrounded by lush greenery—great for a relaxing coffee break or light lunch.
Address: 9851 Bonita Beach Rd SE
Drinks
Sugarshack Downtown
A vibrant live music venue and restaurant brought to you by the founders of Sugarshack Sessions. Enjoy delicious food and drinks while experiencing local, regional, and national music acts in an immersive setting.
Address: 27421 Old 41 Rd
Chartreuse Craft Cocktail Lounge
Unit 1 & 2 Cocktail A speakeasy-style cocktail bar that transports you to the Prohibition era. With expertly crafted cocktails and a stylish, intimate atmosphere, Chartreuse is the perfect place for a nightcap or a special drink with friends.
Address: 27313 Old 41 Rd
Rooftop at Riverside
A new addition to Bonita Springs, this rooftop venue offers incredible views, refreshing cocktails, live music, and food trucks. It’s a great spot to mingle with locals and enjoy the vibrant nightlife scene. The relaxed vibe and scenic setting make it a must-visit for anyone in the area.
Ceremony Brewery
A local favorite with a constantly changing selection of craft beers brewed on-site. Ceremony Brewery is a welcoming, casual spot for beer enthusiasts to enjoy unique brews and a laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or just looking for a fun place to hang out, Ceremony is a top choice.
C Level Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
A modern eatery offering New American cuisine and tapas, complemented by a vibrant atmosphere and a selection of wines and cocktails.
Address: 4450 Bonita Beach Rd SW
Happy Hour
Angelina’s Ristorante
Happy Hour: 4–5:30 PM Daily
Specials: 50% off beer and wine, $10 Tito’s martinis and featured cocktails, $10+ small plates
Address: 24041 S Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL 3413
Aqua
Happy Hour: 3–6 PM Daily
Specials: $5 domestic beers, $6 import beers, $8 top-shelf drinks & house wine, $9 martinis, $9–$13 small plates
Address: 27941 Crown Lake Blvd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Backwater Jack’s
Happy Hour:3–6 PM Wednesday–Saturday
Specials:$2 off draft beers, wine, wells & bar bites
Address:27598 Marina Pointe Dr, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
BCN Paellas
Happy Hour: 4:30–6 PM Tuesday–Saturday
Specials: $5 sangria & beers
Address: 3401 Bonita Beach Rd SW #104, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Bonefish Grill
Happy Hour: 3–6:30 PM Daily
Specials: $7 cocktails, $1 off draft beers, $6 house wines, $7 select spirits
Address: 26381 S Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Bonita Beach Balloon
Happy Hour:Drink Specials 11 AM–6 PM Daily; Food Specials 2–5 PM Daily
Specials:$3.75 beers, $15 pitchers, $18 buckets, $5.50 house wines, $7 Bloody Mary & margaritas; $10 20 P&E shrimp, $1.50 oysters, $6 wings (6)
Address:9070 Bonita Beach Rd SE, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
The Brass Tap Bonita Springs
Happy Hour: 4–7 PM Weekdays
Specials: $4.50 shots, $5 pints, wine & sangria, $6 premium wells & Nutrls, $7 drink of the week, $8+ appetizers
Address: 28010 Race Track Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
The British Open Pub
Happy Hour: 3–6 PM Daily
Specials: $5.99 wines & wells, $2.75 20 oz Coors & Miller Lights
Address: 24630 U.S. 41, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Buffalo Chips
Happy Hour: 4–6 PM Weekdays
Specials: $3.50 draft Bud, Miller, Coors & Yuengling, $4 wine, $4.50 Blue Moon, $5 Modelo, $5.50 Stella, $10 Coors, Miller & Bud Light pitchers, $1 wings
Address: 26620 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
The Center Bar
Happy Hour:3–6 PM Daily
Specials:$6 wines & wells, $8 martinis & Old Fashioneds, $3 domestic bottles
Address:26811 South Bay Dr. Unit 128, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
C Level
Happy Hour: 4:30–5:30 PM Daily
Specials: $3 off all drinks
Address: 4450 Bonita Beach Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
DeRomo’s
Happy Hour: 3–6 PM Daily
Specials: $6 wines, $3 domestic beers, $4 imported & craft beers, $6 wells, $10 signature drinks & apps
Address: 26851 South Bay Dr. Suite 140 & 148, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Enzo’s
Happy Hour: 3–6 PM Daily
Specials: $4 domestics, $5 imports, wine & Tito’s, $6 wells, $8 martinis, $10 Buffalo Trace cocktails, $7+ shareables
Address: 4351 Bonita Beach Rd SW, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Johnny Malloy’s
Happy Hour: 11 AM–6 PM Weekdays; 3–6 PM Daily
Specials: $3.77 domestic drafts & bottles, $12.77 domestic pitchers, $4.77 house wine & liquor; FREE happy hour pizza table Monday–Wednesday 3:30–5 PM
Address: 10347 Bonita Beach Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Koi Lounge
Happy Hour: 11:30 AM–6 PM Monday–Saturday; 4:30–6 PM Sunday
Specials: $5 wines, $4 premium beers, $3 domestic beers, $6 wells, $6+ rolls
Address: 24880 S Tamiami Trail Suite #2, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
The Lake House
Happy Hour: 3–4:30 PM Daily
Specials: $2 off wine & cocktails, $1 off beers, 50% off food
Address: 3401 Bay Commons Dr, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Lansdowne Street
Happy Hour: 11 AM–7 PM Daily
Specials: $2.99 domestic beers, $3.99 wells & wines, $4.99 tidbits 3–7 PM
Address: 24851 S Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
MareTerra Ristorante
Happy Hour: 3–6 PM Daily
Specials: 50% off spirits & wine, $4 beers, $10 cocktails, $8+ small plates & pizzettas
Address: 28340 Trails Edge Blvd, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
North Bonita Country Club
Happy Hour:11 AM–6 PM Daily
Specials:$6 house margaritas, $4.99 wells, $5.75 wine, $2.99 draft beers
Address:24850 Old 41 Rd Unit 12, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Olde Florida Chop House
Happy Hour: 3:30–5 PM Daily
Specials: $1 off all beers, $2 off all cocktails & wine, 30% off steaks, 50% off all food
Address: 3401 Bay Commons Dr, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Rooftop at Riverside
Happy Hour: 3–6 PM Weekdays
Specials: $4 drafts, $5 house wine, $6 cocktails
Address: 10450 Reynolds St, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Roy’s Restaurant
Happy Hour: 3:30–6 PM Daily; 3:30–Close Thursday
Specials: $10 signature cocktails, $8 wines, $7 wells, $2 off select beers
Address: 26831 South Bay Dr. #100, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Sea Turtle Nesting Season
Experience one of nature’s most awe-inspiring events during sea turtle nesting season, which runs from May through October in Southwest Florida. Our pristine beaches become nesting grounds for endangered species like loggerhead, green, and leatherback turtles. If you’re lucky, you might witness a mother turtle laying eggs at night or see hatchlings making their first journey to the Gulf.
To protect these incredible creatures:
- Avoid using flashlights or flash photography on the beach at night.
- Fill in any holes and flatten sandcastles before leaving the beach.
- Keep beaches clean and free of obstacles.
- Turn off or shield lights visible from the beach to prevent disorienting hatchlings.
For a deeper understanding, consider joining a guided turtle walk or visiting local conservation centers. Organizations like the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) and Turtle Time, Inc. offer educational programs and opportunities to observe these magnificent creatures responsibly.
(May–October)
Stone Crab Season
Indulge in one of Florida’s most celebrated culinary traditions during stone crab season, which runs from October 15 through May 1. Southwest Florida, especially areas like Everglades City—dubbed the «Stone Crab Capital of the World”becomes a hub for this sustainable seafood delicacy.
Stone crabs are harvested by removing one claw and returning the crab to the ocean, allowing it to regenerate the lost limb. This practice ensures the species’ sustainability and makes stone crab claws a guilt-free indulgence.
Enjoy freshly caught stone crab claws at local favorites such as Truluck’s in Naples or the Everglades Seafood Festival in February, which celebrates the season with food, music, and crafts. Whether you prefer them chilled with mustard sauce or warm with melted butter, stone crabs are a must-try during your stay.
