Lovers Key State Park: Chosen as Top 5 Romantic Beach in Florida by USA Today

Lovers Key State Park
photo credit: floridastateparks.org

For years, Lovers Key was accessible only by boat and it was said that only lovers traveled to the island to enjoy its remote and solitary beach. Today, it is one of four barrier islands that make up this state park. A haven for wildlife, the islands and their waters are home to West Indian manatees, bottlenose dolphins, roseate spoonbills, marsh rabbits, and bald eagles. The two mile long beach is accessible by boardwalk or tram and is popular for shelling, swimming, picnicking, and sunbathing. Black Island has over five miles of multi-use trails for hiking and bicycling. Anglers and boaters can launch their vessels from the park’s boat ramp. The park’s concession offers kayak tours, as well as bicycle, canoe and kayak rentals. Located on County Road 865 between Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Beach in Lee County.

Click here to see the rest of USA Today’s top 5 most romantic beach picks.

Lovers Key State Park
8700 Estero Boulevard
Fort Myers Beach, Florida 33931
(239) 463-4588
Park GPS coordinates: N 26° 23.578 W 81° 52.063

On Your Mark, Get Set … Marathon in Ft. Myers Beach!

Fort Myers 2014 Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K

This year’s Ft. Myers Marathon presented by Ted Todd Insurance and Publix will be run Sunday, Nov. 9, 2014, starting at 7am at the Pinchers Marina Restaurant on West First Street in downtown Ft. Myers.

The course will weave through McGregor corridor neighborhoods and cross over the Caloosohatchee Bridge to North Fort Myers, then cross back over the Edison Bridge through the River district and across the Edison Bridge spans again before finishing the last mile through downtown and West First to Pinchers Marina.

This year’s event will also partner with Pinchers, including all participants in the inaugural “Stonecrab Festival” which will take place November 7-9 on the marina and restaurant property adjacent to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates.

The marathon course will be comprised of over 11 miles of running through shaded neighborhoods, plus 6 miles over water via four bridge crossings. The half marathon has two bridge crossings and will cover approximately 6 miles of neighborhood trails.

One new segment to this year’s event is a five person Corporate Relay Challenge that will benefit the Kids for Kids foundation with Golisano Children’s Hospital. Each member will run a 5 mile or greater leg of the course with the best five overall times winning the competition.

For additional information and sponsorship information, contact Larry Baldwin at (941) 416-1838 or Larry@eidentracing.com

Fort Myers Marathon – Ft. Myers Beach Marathon

Working Waterfront Tour Wednesdays

Shrimp Boats
photo credit: ostegobay.org

Did you know that the Fort Myers Beach Shrimping fleet is the largest commercial fishing fleet in the Gulf of Mexico? Shrimping, known as “Pink Gold”, contributes millions of dollars to our economy.

Here is your chance to learn first hand about the Commercial Fishing Industry.

Ostego Bay Foundation Marine Science Center offers a Three-Hour Guided Tour. The Tour includes a 1 1/2 hour guided visit at the Science Center includes a history of the industry and area ecosystems with many exhibits. The Tour continues with a visit to the commercial fishing industry docks, including Erickson & Jensen Supply House, Trico Shrimp loading dock and Beach Seafood. See how the boats are unloaded, the trawl doors are built, the shrimp nets are hand-sewn, the seafood is processed, and other important factors used in this unique industry. Bring your camera for a memorable experience!  Click for the Waterfront tour schedule.

When: Every Wednesday morning in season.

Cost: $15.00 per adult; $10.00 for children over 6 years of age.

Call for reservations: (239) 765-8101.