Lovers Key Beach, which is part of Lovers Key State Park, is one of the many areas in Florida that reveals the state’s beauty. Not only can visitors spend time on its expansive beach, but they have the option of touring what was once a number of secluded barrier islands. If your destination is Fort Myers, Naples, or one of the cities of Florida’s southwest Gulf coast, Lovers Key Beach is a delightful outing for a day.
Where Is Lovers Key Beach Located?
Lovers Key Beach and the state park are located on a series of barrier islands in the Gulf of Mexico. It’s south of the city of Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach. Vehicle access is via State Road 865 from both Fort Myers and Naples.
How far is Lovers Key from Fort Myers Beach?
Lovers Key and Estero Island are neighboring islands. Estero Island and Fort Myers Beach are often used interchangeably, although technically Fort Myers Beach is a town located towards the northern tip of Estero Island, on the opposite end from Lovers Key. Even so, the drive from downtown Fort Myers Beach to the state park is under 15 minutes in light traffic.
How Was Lovers Key Formed?
Prior to 1965, the only way to reach the beaches of these barrier islands was via boat. A road was built in the mid-1960s. Though the islands were destined for redevelopment, efforts to do so damaged them. Particularly the mangrove swamps.
Florida’s government purchased the area in the early 1980s. In 1996, Lovers Key merged with Carl E. Johnson County Park to become Lovers Key State Park.
What Is The Body Of Water At Lover Keys Beach, Florida?
Lovers Key State Park consists of several barrier islands off the west coast of Florida, separated from the mainland by Estero Bay (an Aquatic Preserve). The Lovers Key beach fronts the Gulf of Mexico.
What Are The Hours?
Lovers Key State Park is open from 8 a.m. until sunset. The Ranger’s station closes at 5 p.m. The area is open 365 days a year.
How Much Does It Cost To Get Into The Park?
Those who enter the park by car pay eight dollars as long as the amount of passengers doesn’t exceed eight. Those on single-occupant vehicles, like motorcycles, pay four dollars. Pedestrians, those on bicycles, and annual state park pass holders pay two dollars.
During hours where the Ranger’s station is open, visitors can pay with cash or card. From 5 p.m. to sunset, those who stop at Lovers Key Beach can leave cash payments in the dropbox.
What Is The Beach Like?
Lovers Key is a 2.5-mile stretch of white sand beach along the Gulf of Mexico. There are three different areas.
The south end of the beach is accessible by a tram. It features a large gazebo, picnic area, and restrooms. The north end is accessible by a gate at Big Carlos Pass. Visitors who cross the bridges in the middle of the nearly three-mile stretch can access an area of the beach without facilities.
What Water Sports Are Available?
Visitors to the beach can take their boats out into the Gulf of Mexico via Estero Bay. While in the Gulf, they can catch a number of fish native to the area. Among them are seatrout and tarpon. A fishing license might be required. Furthermore, shark fishing is not permitted.
Paddling is also available at Lovers Key State Park. Visitors can travel in canoe or kayak along a 2.5-mile estuary. During the journey, they can see plenty of birds and water life, such as manatees, ospreys, and dolphins.
What’s Available Away From The Beach
Over five miles of multi-use trails are available to visitors of Lovers Key State Park. They can be used to walk, run, hike, or bicycle. Like paddling, those who use the trails have an opportunity to observe the natural residents of the area.
These areas can be traveled alone or through guided tours offered by well-informed and experienced guides. These reveal a different side of the space.
Is The Area Accessible For Disabled Individuals?
Lovers Key State Park makes it easy for any type of visitor to enjoy its beauty. Trams are available to get to the beach. There are also elevated boardwalks for easy access. Wheelchairs are available for use on the Lovers Key beach and the trails.
