Lovers Key State Park Beach sits between Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Springs on Estero Boulevard — a Florida state park with mangroves, tram or walk access to the Gulf, and a calmer feel than Times Square. Expect an entrance fee, restrooms, picnic areas, and black-needle trails; the Gulf beach is the main swim stop once you clear the interior. It is not boat-only (unlike Cayo Costa), and it is quieter than Lynn Hall when Read more…
Coquina Beach is the large Manatee County park at the south end of Anna Maria Island (2600 Gulf Dr S), with a big free lot, playgrounds, picnic shelters, restrooms, showers, and seasonal lifeguards. Leffis Key Preserve’s trails sit next door for a short nature walk. It is the island’s main “bring the family and stay” Gulf beach — busier than Cortez or Bean Point. Lots fill by late morning on peak weekends. Read more…
Cayo Costa State Park
Cayo Costa State Park is a boat-only barrier island in Lee County — no cars, no causeway — with miles of Gulf beach, shelling, camping, and trails through scrub and mangrove. Reach it by ferry or private boat from Pine Island / Captiva-area launches; bring water, food, and sun protection. It is quieter and more undeveloped than Fort Myers Beach or Sanibel’s paved parks. Check ferry schedules and park fees before you go; primitive camping Read more…
Caladesi Island State Park
Caladesi Island State Park is the undeveloped barrier island next to Honeymoon Island. Most visitors take the ferry from Honeymoon Island State Park in Dunedin; there is no bridge and no cars. The Gulf beach faces west, with a kayak trail on the bay side. Bring what you need; services are limited to the ferry landing area. Read more…