🌴 Top 10 Things to Do in Bonita Springs, Florida

Whether you're visiting for beaches, nature, or laid-back coastal living, Bonita Springs offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure along Florida’s Gulf Coast. Here are the top things to do in Bonita Springs—all within easy reach of your stay.

1. Relax at Barefoot Beach Preserve

One of the most beautiful beaches in Southwest Florida, Barefoot Beach is known for its soft white sand, clear Gulf waters, and natural dunes. It’s perfect for shelling, swimming, and sunset walks.

Pro Tip: Go early for parking and bring a shell bag.  This is one of the best shelling beaches in the area.

2. Explore Downtown Bonita

A classic local favorite, Bonita Beach offers easy access, restrooms, and a lively but relaxed vibe. Great for families and a quick beach day.

Why guests love it: Easy parking and a classic Florida beach feel.

3. Kayak or Paddle at Lovers Key State Park

Just minutes away, this park offers kayaking through mangroves, wildlife spotting (manatees, dolphins), and pristine beaches.

Best for: Nature lovers and peaceful exploration.

4. Bike to the Beach (From Your Stay 🚲)

One of the most unique experiences here is simply biking to the beach. Scenic, flat roads make it easy and enjoyable.

Why it stands out: Few Florida destinations offer this level of bikeable beach access.

5. Visit Everglades Wonder Gardens

A charming “Old Florida” attraction featuring rescued wildlife, botanical gardens, and flamingos.

Great for: Families and a relaxed afternoon outing.

6. Dine Along the Water at The Fish House Restaurant or Coconut Jack’s Waterfront Grille

Fresh seafood, sunset views, and casual coastal vibes define the Bonita Springs dining scene.

Must try: Grouper sandwiches, stone crab (seasonal), and sunset cocktails.

7. Shop & Stroll at Promenade at Bonita Bay

An upscale outdoor shopping and dining destination with live music and boutique stores.

Best time to go: Evening for music and ambiance.

8. Take a Sunset Cruise or Dolphin Tour

Local charters offer unforgettable dolphin sightings and Gulf sunsets.

Why it’s worth it: Dolphins are frequently spotted—especially in the morning.

9. Play Championship Golf in Bonita Springs & Naples

Bonita Springs and nearby Naples are home to some of the top golf courses in Southwest Florida, with a mix of private clubs, semi-private courses, and world-class public options—all within 5–25 minutes of your stay.

🌿 Premier Golf Courses Near Bonita Springs

Bonita Bay Club
One of the most prestigious golf communities in Florida, featuring five championship courses (90 holes total) designed by legends like Tom Fazio and Arthur Hills.

• Highlights: Marsh, Creekside, Bay Island, Cypress, Sabal
• Known for: Stunning natural preserves, wetlands, and strategic layouts
• Best for: Serious golfers and luxury club experience
• Note: Private, but accessible through member or reciprocal play

Pelican’s Nest Golf Club
A beautifully designed 36-hole facility set within a wildlife sanctuary.

• Courses: Hurricane (more forgiving) + Gator (longer, more challenging)
• Designed by: Tom Fazio
• Unique feature: Certified Audubon sanctuary with frequent wildlife sightings
• Vibe: Quiet, scenic, and immersive

The Colony Golf & Country Club
An exclusive, low-density private club with a refined feel.

• Designer: Jerry Pate
• Yardage: ~6,800 yards, Par 72
• Standout: Elevated greens, pristine conditions, intimate membership
• Best for: Private club experience with high-end amenities

Shadow Wood Country Club
A standout for variety and scale, offering 54 holes across three championship courses.

• Courses: North, South, and Preserve
• Designers: Robert Cupp & Arthur Hills
• Highlights: Water features, nature preserves, and diverse layouts
• Bonus: Strong social and tournament culture

Old Corkscrew Golf Club
One of the best public-access courses in the area.

• Designer: Jack Nicklaus (Signature Course)
• Par 72 championship layout
• Awards: Ranked among top public courses in Florida
• Why play here: Championship-level golf without needing a membership

🏌️‍♂️ Additional Notable Courses Nearby

• Bonita National Golf & Country Club – Modern course with resort-style amenities
• Spanish Wells Golf & Country Club – Semi-private, great value option
• West Bay Club – Pete Dye-designed course with a luxury coastal feel
• Highland Woods Golf & Country Club – Walkable, player-friendly layout

💡 Why Golfers Love Bonita Springs

• Year-round play with ideal winter weather
• Courses integrated into natural preserves, wetlands, and coastal landscapes
• Options for every level—from beginner-friendly to championship-level difficulty
• Close proximity to Naples, one of the top golf destinations in the U.S.
  
  Looking for a Bonita Springs vacation rental near top golf courses like Bonita Bay, Shadow Wood, or Old Corkscrew? Our home offers the perfect base for a Southwest Florida golf getaway.

🏖️ Pro Tip for Guests

Pair your morning tee time with an afternoon at Barefoot Beach or Vanderbilt Beach—one of the few places where you can play championship golf and be on the Gulf for sunset the same day.

10. Explore Naples (15–20 Minutes Away)

From Fifth Avenue South to Naples Pier, this nearby city adds upscale dining, shopping, and nightlife to your stay.

Don’t miss: Sunset at Naples Pier.

🌅 Make the Most of Your Bonita Springs Stay

Bonita Springs offers a rare mix of quiet coastal charm, walkable beach access, and proximity to Naples’ energy—making it one of the most desirable destinations on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Whether you're here for a beach vacation, golf trip, family getaway, or seasonal escape, everything you need is just minutes away.