Bonita Springs lies along Florida’s gulf-coast corridor as a mellow refuge where sea breezes mingle with subtropical foliage. With a current population in the mid-fifty-thousands, it has grown steadily in recent years.
From the moment one approaches by road, you sense a sense of ease in the pace of life. Water is everywhere: the Imperial River winds past downtown, mangroves frame small creeks, and barrier islands lie just offshore. The town is best known for its beaches, its nature preserves, and its welcoming coastal lifestyle. Beyond that, it supports a lively cultural scene, a rich history, and local traditions that reward visitors willing to look more closely.
History here is layered. Long before modern settlement, this region was used by native peoples, and traces of early Calusa culture have been unearthed nearby. In the late 19th century, a surveying camp was set up near what is now the Imperial River; eventually the name “Survey” gave way to something more appealing, and the community evolved under names like Surveyor’s Creek. Over the decades developers changed street names, attracted settlers, and rebranded the area to align with its scenic appeal. Legend has it that a local farmer once claimed his well water changed flavor during certain phases of the moon, leading neighbors to call that spot a “moon spring.” While the tale rests somewhere between folklore and idle rumor, a few longtime residents still point to a well cap hidden among the palms and tell the same story to amused visitors.
One of the pleasures of exploring this place is the variety of things to see and do outdoors. Lover’s Key State Park, composed of several barrier islands just off the coast, offers hiking trails, kayak routes through mangrove tunnels, and miles of essentially undeveloped shoreline. The Wonder Gardens, an Everglades-centered attraction, remains in operation and combines botanical displays with rescued wildlife, offering a throwback experience to early Florida roadside gardens. Barefoot Beach Preserve stretches across hundreds of acres of shoreline, dunes, and maritime hammock, regularly listed among the area’s standout beachfronts. The Promenade at Bonita Bay is a landscaped open-air shopping and dining enclave where fountains, pedestrian bridges, art installations, and occasional live music create a pleasant stroll. And for those interested in local gatherings, the annual Bonita Springs Seafood & Music Festival draws a crowd each February, pairing fresh Gulf fare with regional bands and a marketplace of arts and crafts.
Downtown one might wander the streets on a Sunday morning to find art fairs and galleries affiliated with the Center for the Arts, which stages exhibitions, theater performances, and community classes. In the fall and spring, outdoor concerts and seasonal markets often line Old 41 and nearby side streets, attracting locals and visitors alike.
Dining here reveals the coast’s gifts. Coconut Jack’s Waterfront Grille is known for its fresh seafood and dockside ambiance, where stone crab claws and grouper sandwiches compete with Gulf views. Angelina’s Ristorante presents Northern Italian classics—pastas, veal, seafood in white-wine sauces—that make it a favorite for special evenings. Petar’s Restaurant offers an upscale experience, combining Mediterranean influence with Florida ingredients in elegant presentations. Rooftop at Riverside provides a more casual rooftop setting along the river, blending views with contemporary coastal fare. Survey Café draws locals for breakfast and sandwiches in a relaxed daytime setting—especially popular on weekend mornings. Meanwhile the Flamingo Island Flea Market, though a shopping venue, also includes on-site dining and features live music between November and April.
Among local customs, one stands out: the tradition of “beach shelling” walks at dawn. Enthusiasts patrol the shoreline after high tide, seeking remnants of conchs, scallops, or sand dollars. Frequently, community groups post notices about sunrise shelling walks, and newcomers are often invited to tag along
As a coastal enclave with steady natural appeal and cultural rhythm, the locale draws those who favor nature, artistry, and slower rhythms. Yet the same environment that attracts people also provides a home for countless native creatures. From raccoons exploring attics to armadillos burrowing near foundations, or snakes seeking shade beneath decks, it’s not uncommon for residents to encounter wildlife a little too close for comfort.
At Wildlife Task Force, we specialize in humane wildlife removal and prevention, helping homeowners and businesses handle these situations responsibly and efficiently. Our team understands the habits of local species and uses proven methods to remove animals safely while preventing future intrusions. Whether you’re dealing with unwanted visitors in your attic, under your porch, or around your property, we’re ready to help restore peace of mind. Contact Wildlife Task Force today to schedule an inspection or discuss your wildlife concerns—we proudly serve Bonita Springs and the surrounding areas.