Bonita Beach
Bonita Springs, FL
Bonita Beach runs along Estero Boulevard just north of Naples, a quieter stretch of Lee County coast overshadowed by its own famous neighbor, the off-leash Dog Beach just up the road. The main public beach itself doesn't allow pets, a contrast to the off-leash freedom found practically next door.
The nearby off-leash Dog Beach is a genuine draw for anyone with a pet, though the main beach itself is a fairly standard stretch of Lee County sand without pets or much else to distinguish it.
How we score beachesHead to Dog Beach specifically, a short drive from the main Bonita Beach access, if traveling with a pet, it's free and genuinely off-leash in the designated area. The 2 dollar parking fee at the main beach applies every day of the week, not just weekends.
Parking at Bonita Beach runs 2 dollars, charged every day of the week. Dog Beach nearby has free parking.
Beach accesses along Estero Boulevard are short, flat walks from parking, typical of this stretch of Lee County coast.
Pets aren't allowed at the main Bonita Beach, but Dog Beach nearby allows off-leash dogs in a designated area, free parking, no entry fee.
Winter and spring bring Southwest Florida's driest, mildest weather and the biggest snowbird crowds. Summer's heat and hurricane season, June through November, thin things out despite warmer water.
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