Lovers Key

Lovers Keys is a natural undeveloped barrier island between nearby Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Beach which offers outdoor enthusiasts excellent opportunities for shelling, swimming, sunbathing, hiking, fishing, boating and much more! Once a courting site for young couples prior to the construction of Bonita Beach Causeway, the island is best known today for its remote solitary beach which is consistently ranked in the top 10 beaches nationally.

Here you’ll find a beautiful long, wide beach with plenty of space for secluded sunbathing, even during the high season. The spectacular 2-mile long beach is accessible by boardwalk or by tram which makes for the perfect afternoon getaway for those wanting to spend some leisure time in a totally natural environment. Lovers Key is actually one of four islands which make up Lovers Key State Park, and is a haven for wildlife including manatees, dolphins, roseate spoonbills, ospreys, marsh rabbits and bald eagles. There are biking and hiking trails as well as sheltered paddling areas for canoeing and kayaking.

This is also a great spot for wade fishing and many days you’re likely to have the whole beach to yourself! If you prefer to take out a boat, the park has a public boat ramp for anglers and pleasure boaters to launch their craft. Park rangers give regular guided tours and teach everything from cast net throwing to proper bird watching techniques. Restrooms, showers and vending facilities are available as well as fishing and bait supplies, an observation area, volleyball net and a gazebo. Hours are from 8 am until sunset daily. Call (239) 463-4588 for more information.

Published on Thursday, November 12, 2009