Best Things To Do in Bonita Springs, Florida (Honest Local Guide)

a photo of Jamie and Morgan | construction2style | vacationing and sharing their favorite things to do in Bonita Springs

Looking for the best things to do in Bonita Springs, Florida? We’ve visited Bonita Springs multiple times and this is our honest, firsthand guide, the spots we actually return to, the restaurants we recommend to friends, and the hidden gems that don’t show up on every generic travel list. Whether you’re planning a spring break trip, a winter escape, or a beach weekend with family, here’s exactly how we’d spend our time in Bonita Springs, FL.

Table of Contents

1. Visit Doc’s Beach House

Doc’s had a really cool vibe from their restaurant on the water to their actual beach. Best part was that the beach had shade, which was huge for us especially with babies in tow. It was also nice to not have to haul food and drinks down to the water and we could just grab something right there.

Doc’s Beach House had a great Chicago Style Italian Beef Sandwich, grilled chicken salad, shrimp tacos and chicken Philly sandwich. If you are looking to just get a drink, the upstairs bar had a fabulous atmosphere.

a photo of Morgan Molitor with her family at Bonita Beach, one of the things to do in Bonita Springs when you come on vacation or spring break

2. Coconut Jack’s Waterfront Grill

Coconut Jack’s is where we ate the first night and the ambiance and food were really good! This was our favorite restaurant we ate at. Again, it was right on the water so the view was my fabulous. We even got to see an alligator swimming around right off where we were sitting, which actually freaked me out! Ha! But I loved that the boys got to see their first alligator. Coconut Jack’s has been voted the best Bonita’s waterfront restaurant for a number of years now and we know why.

It has a complimentary valet and it’s a first come first serve seating.

Morgan and Jamie Molitor and their two sons on the way to go eat at Mel's Diner | this restaurant is a must for things to do in Bonita Springs

3. Bonita Beach

The home Jamie’s parents rented was just walking distance from Bonita Beach, which was really nice. Bonita beach is just a long strip of beautiful white sand, it is convenient and has multiple access points! Beckam and I took a walk to the beach every morning and almost every night. And then we spent a good three days just relaxing all day, playing and swimming on the beach.

After you are done relaxing, head down to Doc’s Beach House for a drink, snack or meal.

4. Mel’s Diner

We found an amazing breakfast spot, called Mel’s Diner. It brought me back to the Guest House days. I do have a big heart for small town breakfast joints as my parents raised me in one. Mel’s Diner is locally owned and operated. As they say, they have been waking up Bonita Springs with the Best Breakfasts Near ME for decades and I agree. Add this place to your things to do in Bonita Springs list.

5. Sweet Melissa’s Homemade Ice-Creams & Key Lime Pies

Sweet Melissa’s Ice Cream Shoppe is a must when in Bonita Springs, FL. This ice cream parlor features a wide range of flavors, plus pies, shakes, and sundaes. We really enjoyed it. We heard that it’s voted Bonita’s Best Ice Cream, Key Lime Pie & Bonita’s Best Milkshakes for the past 8 years. Add it to your top things to do in Bonita Springs list.

6. Everglades

One of the days all the boys traveled over to the Everglades to take the Gator Park airboat rides. They even brought Greyson with and Jamie said at first he was a little scared he wouldn’t get on the boat. But once he finally did, he had the time of his life and loved every minute he got to hang with the boys. Sadly they didn’t see any alligators, but as a momma I was ok with that! I guess this time of the year they all swim inland. This activity is a great one to put on your things to do in Bonita Springs list.

7. Kamoon Sushi

The last night we were there we ate at Kamoon Sushi and it was sooo delicious! Although it wasn’t on the water and in a strip mall, everything we ordered we’d recommend. Even Beckam and Greyson were inhaling it.

There were a handful of other fun things we had on our list to-do like Barefoot Beach, Lover’s Key, and Momentum Brewhouse but that will just have to wait until next time!

8. Explore the Imperial River by Kayak or Paddleboard

One of the most underrated things to do in Bonita Springs is getting out on the Imperial River. Several local outfitters rent kayaks and paddleboards, and the river winds through mangroves with incredible bird watching. It’s calm, beautiful, and completely different from the beach experience — a perfect half-day activity, especially in the early morning when the water is glassy.

9. Watch the Sunset at Barefoot Beach

Barefoot Beach Preserve is regularly ranked among the best beaches in the country, and the sunsets here are exceptional. Get there an hour before sunset, grab a spot on the sand, and just watch. It’s one of those moments that reminds you why you traveled. The beach also has sea turtle nesting activity in season — an incredible thing to witness if the timing lines up.

When to Visit Bonita Springs, Florida

The best time to visit Bonita Springs is November through April — when the weather is warm but not brutally hot or humid, and the snowbirds and spring breakers haven’t fully taken over yet. Late January through early March is our personal sweet spot: temperatures in the mid-70s, lower crowds than peak season, and the water is warm enough for the beach.

Summer (June–September) is hot, humid, and the rainy season — afternoon thunderstorms are almost daily. It’s cheaper and less crowded, but the heat is real. If you go in summer, plan beach time for mornings and indoor activities for afternoons.

Where to Stay in Bonita Springs

Bonita Springs sits between Naples (more upscale) and Fort Myers (more budget-friendly), so you have great options at every price point. For a true beach experience, look for properties directly on or within walking distance of Bonita Beach Road. If you’re traveling with family, vacation rental homes in the area offer much more space than a hotel at a comparable price.

Getting Around Bonita Springs

You’ll need a car. Bonita Springs is spread out and there’s no meaningful public transit. Most of the activities we mention are within a 10–15 minute drive of each other, so having your own vehicle makes the whole trip significantly easier. Rideshare is available but inconsistent depending on the time of day.

Frequently Asked Questions: Bonita Springs, Florida

What is Bonita Springs, Florida known for?
Bonita Springs is known for its beautiful Gulf Coast beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and proximity to both Naples and the Everglades. It’s a popular destination for snowbirds escaping cold northern winters and families looking for a quieter alternative to busier Florida beach towns.

Is Bonita Springs worth visiting?
Absolutely. Bonita Springs often gets overlooked in favor of Naples or Fort Myers, but that’s exactly what makes it great. The beaches are excellent, the restaurants are solid, and it feels less commercial and crowded than many other Florida beach destinations. It’s our kind of Florida town.

How far is Bonita Springs from Naples?
Bonita Springs is about 15–20 minutes north of downtown Naples by car. It’s close enough that you can easily day-trip to Naples for a nicer dinner or to walk Fifth Avenue South, then come back to Bonita Springs where things are more relaxed and a bit more affordable.

How far is Bonita Springs from the Everglades?
The main Everglades entrance at Everglades City is about 45 minutes to an hour from Bonita Springs. It’s very doable as a day trip and highly recommended — airboat rides, wildlife, and a completely different side of Florida that most tourists never see.

What are the best beaches near Bonita Springs?
Bonita Beach and Barefoot Beach Preserve are the top two. Barefoot Beach is a protected preserve with a more natural, less developed feel. Bonita Beach has more amenities and parking. Both are excellent — we’d recommend doing both if you have a few days.