In the heart of Southwest Florida sits the vibrant and pristine coastal city of Bonita Springs, home to one of the most desirable and exclusive communities in which to reside, Bonita Bay. This 2400 acre gated community is central to some of the most social and adventurous activities that the land and sea have to offer, and it can begin right outside your doorstep.
For the prospective and current residents alike, we’ve narrowed down the top ten things to do as a Bonita Bay resident to help navigate the myriad of possibilities that await you.
1. Bonita Bay Community Association Sponsored Activities
The Bonita Bay Community Association organizes events which give you the opportunity to join your neighbors on trips to exciting local attractions, theaters, and even baseball spring training. During these COVID times, residents can sign up for virtual educational classes, intellectual lectures, yoga, art and cooking classes. During non-COVID times which are coming back, there are annual events, such as the Bay Breeze Concert Series, Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Celebrations and even a children’s Easter Egg Hunt are all held at our pristine community parks and open to all residents and their guests. If you’re looking for something to do, this is the place to start!
2. Bonita Bay Beach Park
A private sanctuary and gem for Bonita Bay residents, Bonita Bay Beach Park is a gorgeous white sand beach easily and quickly accessible from Bonita Bay. Located on Little Hickory Island on the Gulf of Mexico, Bonita Beach Park is open every day and provides beach chairs, umbrellas, or other beach accessories that will make your experience more comfortable. Complimentary shuttle services run from November through April.
3. Estero Bay Park
Estero Bay Park is a beautiful recreational area nestled beside the mangroves of Estero Bay. Visitors can enjoy nature trails and an 800 ft. long boardwalk through the Mangroves to a pier and observation deck on the bay. There is a pavillion, playground, grills and picnic tables, and the top attraction is a butterfly garden, featuring native butterflies fluttering around tropical flowers.
4. Spring Creek Park
Spring Creek Park is a park located on the northern edge of Bonita Bay. Visitors can kick off the boat launch in a canoe or kayak and enjoy the nature by the creek. There are nature paths where one can admire esteemed pine and Grand Oak trees. In addition to the natural wonders, there is a bocce court, basketball hoop and children’s playground.
5. Riverwalk Park
In addition to the previously mentioned parks of Bonita Bay, Riverwalk Park is located on the edge of the Imperial River, boasting an accessible day marina with a boat ramp and canoe storage. For the activity-driven visitor, Riverwalk Park offers plenty of amenities to enjoy: a playground, picnic areas, pet stations, tennis, pickleball, and basketball courts, 3 bocce ball courts and a 12 station fitness course called Par Course.
6. Visit Local Restaurants
For great waterfront dining, Backwater Jacks located within Bonita Bay at the Marina offers the freshest, local seafood on their casual dining deck situated on the Imperial River. For upscale dining, minutes outside of Bonita Bay at the Promonadek check out Roy’s Restaurant inspired by culinary visionary Roy Yamaguchi for an unforgettable Hawaiin fusion and exceptional cocktails. At the same Promenade location enjoy DeRomo’s Italian restaurant and market as well as Molino’s.
7. Stroll the Promenade
The Promenade at Bonita Bay is an exquisite outdoor shopping center offering a diverse display of businesses, restaurants, and entertainment. Head to the Promenade to browse boutiques, visit the salon or spa, look through a gallery, take a class at the dance or yoga studio, or stroll through the farmer’s market Saturday mornings.
8. Center for the Arts
The Center for the Arts in Bonita Springs is central to the city’s vibrant art scene with it’s two centers for visual and performing arts. Anyone can sign up for art classes, watch the performances or volunteer at the many festivals, exhibits and events that add color and culture to Bonita Springs.
9. Bonita Springs National Arts Festivals
Bonita Springs National Arts Festivals have gained national attention for presenting three grand festivals each year hosted at the beautiful Riverside Park. Meet and talk with over 200 local and international artists and have the option to purchase art directly from the creator. This is a fabulous way to incorporate art into your home, view fine art from around the world, and attend one of the top Fine Art Festivals in the USA. Plus, 100% of the proceeds go back into the community to help bring art into the life of others. These events are a must for the residents and visitors of Bonita Bay and Bonita Springs.
10. Bonita Springs Dog Park
Bonita Bay is an exceptionally dog-friendly community with many dog walking areas, but if your furry family member needs more socialization and areas to run, there is the the six-acre Bonita Springs Dog Park off East Terry St. Three separate fenced areas allow for your dog to enjoy a safe space with other dogs within the same size range. Visitors can enjoy a covered pavilion, a dog washing station, picnic tables and other amenities for the perfect day trip with your dog.