Visitors to Bonita Springs can expect uncrowded beaches, beautiful golf courses, and quirky roadside attractions.
The once 14,000-person town of Survey became Bonita Springs, but pieces of the old identity remain.
We tapped Leonard to find out what makes Bonita Springs an undiscovered gem on Floridas Gulf Coast.
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When remote work became prevalent, he and his wife bought their home in Bonita Springs.
The boutique hotel offers a cozy waterfront oasis with incredible views of Bonita Bay and the bustling downtown.
The 410-square-foot guest rooms feel spacious and all have modern amenities.
Courtesy of Hyatt Regency
Leonard added, Its a lovely property owned by a husband-and-wife team.
Meanwhile, the on-site Olde Florida Chop House has floor-to-ceiling windows to take in that charming view.
I won last year and thats how I got my title.
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Riverside Park
The sprawling green space in the center of town isRiverside Park.
The six on-site cottages serve as studios for local artists creating everything from pottery to paintings to seashell art.
Also in the park is a fountain, a veteran’s memorial, and a vibrant butterfly garden.
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Leonard notes, when youre at the park, water activities are right there.
Were known for the Imperial River running through our city.
Its really beautiful, Leonard said.
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Bonita Beach
Floridas Gulf Coast is known for its white-sand beaches and clear water, andBonita Beachdelivers.
A 2.5-acre beachfront park features a boardwalk and eight picnic shelters.
Jet Ski, stand-up paddleboard, kayak, and sailboat rentals are also available.
If you get hungry, there are tacos, pizza, sub sandwiches, pho, and more.
Tip: Finish your meal with their award-winning rice pudding.
The live oaks, heavy with Spanish moss and surrounded by palm trees, evoke a quintessential Southern vibe.
Leonard loves bringing out-of-town guests to this quaint French restaurant.
He said, I love their quiche, but it’s their hot teas that keep me coming back.
A cup of hot tea and the Bonita Springs chicken salad is a delicious lunch.
And you could tell a lot of love goes into the croissants and French pastries.
Buffalo Chips
2023 markedBuffalo Chips"41 Years on Old 41."
They have the best wings and cold beverages.
I love that its a family-owned and operated business.
Eight food trucks will accompany a two-story cocktail lounge overlooking Riverside Park.
Docs Beach House
Docs Beach Househas brought a little taste of Chicago to Bonita Springs since 1987.
It reopened after Hurricane Ian, and both Leonard and Saunders rave about it.
They also rent kayaks, jet skis, and paddleboards right out back, said Leonard.
Leonard let us in on some can’t-miss events that occur throughout the year.
Visit in December for theHoliday in the Parkcelebration.
Old U.S. 41 between Wilson and Ragsdale streets closes down for the pedestrian-friendly event.
In January, theBonita Springs National Art Festivalcomes to town.
Plus, all festival proceeds support community art activities.
According to Leonard, though, April is the time to visit.
That’s our biggest celebration.
2024 is our 25th anniversary and we have a huge event planned, said Leonard.
Expect food, fun, and some big musical headliners.
