Activities at Lovers Key State Park
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BeachesLovers 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. |
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BicyclingEnjoy 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. |
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BirdingLovers 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. |
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Boat RampA boat ramp is located in the park for direct access to Estero Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. |
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BoatingBoating is one of the most popular activities at the park with direct access to Estero Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. 11/2 hour Sunset Eco-tours now offered aboard the beautiful Nautilus II every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Cost is $20.00 for an adult and $8.00 for children. Contact the concessionaire at (239) 314-0110. Make your reservations today! There is also a Dolphin Cruise and Shelling Excursion every Sunday 8:15 am – 9:15 am. Call the ranger station for more information. |
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Canoeing & KayakingCanoeing and kayaking are very popular throughout the inner waterways and in Estero Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. |
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ConcessionsNature 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. |
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FacilitiesTwo playgrounds, picnic shelters, grills and restroom facilities are available at the Lovers Key State Park Bayside Park. The park is located on Estero Blvd 1 mile north of the main park entrance |
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FacilitiesBathroom facilities are availabe and ADA accessible.
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Fishing
Trout, redfish, snook and tarpon are caught seasonally. Castnetting for mullet in the bay is a popular activity.
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Nature TrailsThe 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. |
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PavilionAvailable to rent for Weddings, reunions, company picnics and parties. Contact Nature Recreation Management at (239) 314-0110. |
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PicnickingSeveral 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. |
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PlaygroundThe Bayside four acre addition provides opportunities to visitors for recreation and relaxation. This state-of-the-art facility offers two playgrounds, nine pavilions, grills, volleyball court, restroom facilities and an additional field for flying kites and playing. |
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ShellingWith 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. |
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ShowersOutdoor showers are available at the bathhouses located at south beach and the main parking area. |
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SwimmingSwimming is a popular activity in the Gulf and the park boasts 2 1/2 miles of excellent beachfront. |
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ToursThe 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 |
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Wildlife ViewingLovers 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. |
