Ft. Myers Beach, Florida

Contact Information
8700 Estero Blvd.
Ft. Myers Beach, 33931
(239) 463-4588

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Fort Myers, Florida

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Made up of Black Island, Lovers Key, Inner and Long Key, this 1616-acre area features canals and tidal lagoons fringed with mangroves, which support an array of fish and other aquatic animals.

Although the park has been disturbed in the past by dredge and fill activities and the invasion of non-native plants, today the area provides habitat for numerous animals.

Wildlife
The remnant maritime hammock on Black Island hosts several species of woodpeckers, hawks, owls and warblers. Osprey may be seen regularly fishing in the water and nesting in area trees.

Marsh rabbits, raccoons and gray squirrels may also be observed in their natural setting. Many shore birds and wading birds, including roseate spoonbills and reddish egrets, may be seen feeding in the lagoons and along the beach area. Bottle-nosed dolphins and the endangered West Indian manatee also inhabit the nearshore waters.

Hours of Operation
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.

Driving Directions
Lovers Key is located at 8700 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach. The park boundaries are Big Carlos Pass and New Pass. We are 10.5 miles west of I75 on exit 116.

Park Activities

Beaches
Lovers Key is a 2 1/2 mile stretch of beautiful beach. It was selected as the #4 beach in Florida by the Travel Channel. A courtesy tram is available to the south beach where a gazebo, restroom, and picnic area are located. A beautiful walk over 2 bridges takes you to the mid portion of the beach, left natural with no facilities. The north beach is accessible through the north honor gate at Big Carlos Pass. We suggest exploring all three areas of the beach and discover their unique attributes.

Bicycling
Enjoy over 5 miles of bike trails including the Black Island Trail through a maritime hammock. Trail maps are available showing many interesting places and observation points along the trail. Bring in your own bicycles or rent them at our concession located in the main parking lot. For rental information, contact the park concessionaire
at(239)314-0110.

Birding
Lovers Key State Park offers one of the best birding areas in SW Florida. The park is home to many active Osprey nests and 2 Bald Eagle nests. Roseate Spoonbills, Snowy Egrets, American Kestrel and many other species are often observed feeding in the bays, estuaries and maritime hammock. With over 40 species of birds recorded, 17 of which are on the designated species list; Lovers Key State Park is a birder paradise.

Boat Ramp
A boat ramp is located in the park for direct access to Estero Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

Boating
Boating is one of the most popular activities at the park with direct access to Estero Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

Canoeing
Canoeing and kayaking are very popular throughout the inner waterways and in Estero Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

Concessions
Nature Recreation Management is the new concessionaire for Lovers Key State Park. This new visitor service provider offers kayak, canoe and bike rentals. Sunset Eco tours aboard the Nautilus II. Food, Beverage as well as delicious ice cream is now available.

Fishing
Trout, redfish, snook and tarpon are caught seasonally. Castnetting for mullet in the bay is a popular activity.

Nature Trails
The Black Island Trail is 2.5 miles of hiking or biking adventure through a maritime hammock along the canal banks of Black Island. There are a total of 8 miles of trails within the park including the beach.

Picnicking
Several picnic areas are set throughout the park. On the beach, the inner waterways or the backwaters of Estero Bay, you will be able to find the right spot to enjoy a picnic. Many of the picnic areas are equipped with grills and trash receptacles.

Shelling
With over 2 ½ miles of shoreline on the Gulf of Mexico, Lovers Key State Park has some of the best shelling opportunities on the Lee Island Coast. Just remember that the taking of live shells is prohibited.

Showers
Outdoor showers are available at the bathhouses located at south beach and the main parking area.

Swimming
Swimming is a popular activity in the Gulf and the park boasts 2 1/2 miles of excellent beachfront.

Tours
The park staff and concessionaire offer a full array of programs that are sure to entice the adventurous side of you. Join the environmentalists as you discover the many interesting aspects of this nature lover's paradise. For more information please contact the park at (239) 463-4588.

Nature Recreation Management is the new concessionaire for Lovers Key State Park. This new visitor service provider offers kayak, canoe and bike rentals. Sunset Eco tours aboard the Nautilus II. Food, Beverage as well as delicious ice cream is now available. A 20% off introductory NRM coupon is available from this site, just click on Nature Tours and Events and print. Nature Tours and Events Flyer

Wildlife Viewing
Lovers Key is one of the best birding areas in South West Florida. You may also encounter Bottlenose Dolphin or West Indian Manatees while in the park.