Wondering what to do over the long weekend? Get out and enjoy the beautiful weather in Southwest Florida! Take a picnic and head for the beach. Lovers Key State Park is one of the most spectacular natural beach parks in Florida.
“Lovers Key State Park stands out as one of the finest examples of subtropical, coastal habitat remaining in Southwest Florida. This area of the Gulf Coast of Florida is home to dolphins, manatees, bald eagles and roseate spoonbills, in addition to thousands of migratory wading birds, shorebirds and other waterfowl in season.
The 712-acre Florida State Park embraces Lovers Key and three other barrier islands—Black Island, Inner and Long Key. Visitors can hike or bike along the trails, comb the beaches, swim, kayak, fish or watch wildlife.
However you decide to explore the park, you will experience one of the most beautiful and tranquil nature parks in the country.
From the north, you cross Big Carlos Bay to Black Island; from the south, you come over the New Pass into the pristine habitats on the south end. Either way, you’ll pass hiking trails, picnicking, bike and canoe trails, boat ramps and more on your way to Lovers Key. A tram is available to take you there. Once on the beach, look for shorebirds! Get directions here.
Amenities
Lovers Key State Park is one of the top three most visited state parks in Florida. The park has environmentally friendly restrooms, a concession with canoes, kayaks and bicycles and a courtesy tram provides convenient access to the beach and pavilion.
Beyond the two-mile long beach on Lovers Key, Black Island has over five miles of multi-use trails, a gazebo, picnic areas, a boat ramp, and two playgrounds.”