Exploring Lover’s Key State Park in Florida

/ Travel / By

I’ve visited more state parks in Florida than I have in any other state and I am yet to find one that isn’t a dream. That being said, Lover’s Key State Park is definitely one of my favorites for many different reasons. In this blog, I talk about what makes this state park unique, what to do, when to go, and more.

History of Lover’s Key State Park

Lover’s Key State Park is a collection of islands that were once only accessible by boat. The state park got its name because, at one point, it was said that only lovers made the effort to get to the islands until 1965 when a road to the island was built. The islands were destined for development and as preparations for it began, the ecosystem was damaged greatly. Luckily, the islands ended up being donated to the state of Florida in order to preserve the natural areas for everyone to enjoy for years to come. Legend says that Black Island’s name originates from a pirate named Black Augustus who escaped from authorities and spent the rest of his life hiding on the island.

What You Need to Know About Lover’s Key State Park Before Visiting

Location:
8700 Estero Blvd. 
Fort Myers Beach FL 33931

Phone:
239-463-4588

Website:
www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/lovers-key-state-park

Park Hours:
The park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year

Entrance Fees:

  • $8 per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle.
  • $4 Single Occupant Vehicle + Motorcycles.
  • $2 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.

Entering + Traveling Through Lover’s Key State Park

Lover’s Key State Park is located along Estero Blvd on the southern end of Estero Island. The entrance is between New Pass and Big Carlos Pass. Once you’ve paid at the ranger station there’s free parking located at the end of the entrance road. Free tram service is available to and from the beach.

What to Do in Lover’s Key State Park

There are so many different things you can do in this beautiful state park!

  • Biking: Bikes can be rented to bike the 4.5 miles of lush trails throughout the park.

  • Hiking: Black Island Trail is 2.6 miles and has 3 different shortcuts. The first shortcut is 1.2 miles roundtrip, the second is 1.8 miles, and the third is 2.2 miles. Eagle Trail is 1.5 miles roundtrip.

  • Shelling: The beach has some of the best shelling opportunities in southwest Florida. ALWAYS make sure that the shell is not alive first before taking it!

  • Paddling: Kayaks and canoes are available for rent. There are 5 miles worth of paddling trails to explore with mile marker buoys located throughout the trail. These lush backwaters wind through mangroves and are home to a wide variety of classic Florida marine life.

  • Wildlife viewing: The canals and lagoons are often visited by manatees, dolphins, and birds. Dolphins are known for herding fish into Estero Bay. 

  • Swimming: Swim and enjoy the 2.5 miles of white sandy beaches.

  • Tours: Tours are offered year-round. These tours include biking, birding, guided walks, and more.

  • Events: The state park hosts many events throughout the year like yoga, live music, sea turtle talks, and more. You can see all of the upcoming events here.

When to Go

Peak season in Florida is mid-December through April. I visited in early March + crowds were substantial. To avoid crowds, visit during May-November. Keep in mind that towards the end of hurricane season (October + November), you can expect lots of rain.

Amenities

  • Beach: This state park has 2.5 miles of beaches along the Gulf of Mexico.

  • Concession: There’s a gift shop and a concession stand on the beach.

  • Restrooms: There are restrooms located throughout the park.

  • Tram: A free tram service is available at the visitor’s center for a quick lift to and from the beach.

  • Boat ramp and canoe/kayak launch: There’s a boat ramp is located on the bayside of the park and a canoe/kayak launch inside the park.

  • Playground: There’s a playground located along Estero Blvd. with a picnic area and restrooms.

  • Shower Station: There’s a shower station located next to the gift shop to wash excess sand off.

I hope you enjoy this unique Florida state park. Thanks for reading!

related posts