Discover Southwest Florida’s Top Nature Destinations

With its unique blend of ecosystems, including mangroves, estuaries, and subtropical trails, Southwest Florida offers stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters you won’t find anywhere else. And if you happen to live at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Estero Bay, you’re at the heart of it all, with easy access to some of the area’s most awe-inspiring outdoor gems.

Whether you’re eager to spot rare birds, kayak through serene waters, or hike under a canopy of cypress trees, there’s something here for every lover of the great outdoors. Here’s a list of Southwest Florida’s must-visit nature destinations.

1. Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve

Welcome to Florida’s oldest aquatic preserve! Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve is a haven for kayakers, paddleboarders, and birdwatchers alike. Glide across the calm waters as you pass through mangroves, where pelicans and herons often make an appearance.

The preserve is also an ecological gem, protecting critical habitats for marine life, including dolphins and manatees. Be sure to explore its waters while soaking in the serene beauty.

Highlights:

• Kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing
• Birdwatching for species like spoonbills and ospreys
• Proximity to The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Estero Bay
  
  

2. Lovers Key State Park

True to its name, Lovers Key State Park is the perfect getaway for those seeking a mix of tranquility and adventure. Once only accessible by boat, this stunning barrier island is now a popular destination for secluded beach walks, manatee sightings, and dolphin watching. It’s also a fantastic spot for shelling, with treasures washed ashore daily.

Bring a picnic and spend the day immersing yourself in the gentle hiking trails or kayaking through the tidal lagoons. This park offers both quiet escapes and active recreation opportunities.

Highlights:

• Secluded beaches and stunning sunrises 
• Wildlife spotting, including manatees and dolphins 
• Great for shelling, kayaking, and hiking 
  
  

3. Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

Managed by the Audubon Society, Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a must-visit for lovers of unique ecosystems. This 2.25-mile boardwalk takes you through the heart of marshlands, wet prairies, and ancient cypress forests.

Here, you might catch glimpses of rare birds like the wood stork, along with a lush variety of native Florida plants. It’s the perfect mix of education and wonder.

Highlights:

• Elevated boardwalk through diverse ecosystems 
• Rare and stunning wildlife, including wood storks 
• A peaceful, immersive nature experience 
  
  

4. Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve

If you’re looking for a hidden treasure in Fort Myers, Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve is a peaceful escape nestled just inland. The scenic boardwalks meander through lush, shaded wetlands where the sound of chirping birds and rustling trees instantly calms your mind.

Educational exhibits provide storytelling elements that engage visitors of all ages. It’s an excellent destination for families seeking quiet yet enriching nature immersion.

Highlights:

• Easy walking trails and scenic boardwalks 
• Great for peaceful strolls and birdwatching 
• Family-friendly educational exhibits 
  
  

5. J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge

Set on Sanibel Island, this refuge is a haven for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. Known for its mangrove forests and tidal flats, the refuge is home to an incredible array of birds, from egrets to roseate spoonbills.

Visitors can enjoy scenic drives or guided tours that highlight the diversity of this 6,400-acre preserve. It’s an ideal destination for anyone keen to capture Florida’s wild beauty.

Highlights:

• Casual hikes and scenic drives 
• Guided tours offering deep insights into local wildlife 
• Fantastic for both wildlife photography and birding 
  
  

6. Koreshan State Park

Koreshan State Park offers an intriguing blend of natural beauty and quirky history. Walk under the shaded canopy of bamboo forests and live oaks along the Estero River, where you can kayak and explore unspoiled nature.

The park also features a glimpse into Florida’s pioneer era through historical exhibits of the Koreshan Unity Settlement. This destination offers history buffs and outdoor lovers alike a unique experience.

Highlights:

• Riverside trails and shaded bamboo forests 
• Kayaking on the Estero River 
• Educational glimpses into early Florida history 
  
  

7. Barefoot Beach Preserve

For a coastal adventure with a touch of untouched wilderness, Barefoot Beach Preserve is a must-see. This barrier island is one of Southwest Florida’s last undeveloped beach habitats. Stroll along pristine coastlines, explore tidal lagoons, or keep an eye out for turtle nesting areas.

Whether you’re in the mood for a simple beach day or an eco-inspired outing, Barefoot Beach offers the perfect combination of relaxation and discovery.

Highlights:

• Pristine, undeveloped beach habitat 
• Turtle nesting areas and thriving tidal lagoons 
• Great for shelling and quiet eco-exploration 
  
  

8. Bonita Nature Place

Tucked away in Bonita Springs, Bonita Nature Place offers a more intimate, community-focused nature experience. It features a butterfly garden, bat houses, and family-friendly trails that are great for a weekend stroll.

With an emphasis on education and fun, this gem is perfect if you’re looking for a laid-back but enriching nature outing close to home.

Highlights:

• Butterfly garden and bat houses 
• Family-friendly walking paths 
• Perfect for relaxed weekend outings 
  
  

Southwest Florida offers a treasure trove of natural wonders, all waiting to be explored right in The Residences at Estero Bay’s backyard. Living here means you don’t have to choose between luxury and nature. From peaceful trails to pristine coastlines, every day can be a new adventure.

Come explore The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Estero Bay and discover a lifestyle where outdoor beauty meets modern elegance. Schedule your visit today!