Long before it became the modern-day vacation destination it is today, the land Bonita Springs occupies was home to ancient societies who thrived on the shore nearly 6,000 years ago. Centuries later, in the 1870s, surveyors exploring the area first referred to it as “Survey,” later renamed “Bonita Springs” in 1915 to attract newcomers and tourists. By the mid-20th century, the area had become well known for its natural beauty and quiet lifestyle. Though small for much of its early life, Bonita Springs has gradually grown into a retreat for those seeking a peaceful place to soak in the Florida sun. Today, it balances modern development with a focus on preserving its natural surroundings, like the Everglade forests and pristine shoreline, which continue to attract residents and visitors alike. Nature as Far as the Eye Can See For a true escape into nature, Bonita Springs offers some of the most unspoiled beaches on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Barefoot Beach Preserve Park, located at the southern end of Bonita Springs, is one of the last undeveloped barrier islands on Florida’s southwest coast. This protected area features winding nature trails, native vegetation, and an abundance of wildlife, including gopher tortoises and shorebirds. Lovers Key State Park offers a quieter, more natural experience compared to busier beaches. There’s a tram service from the parking lot to the beach, as well as amenities like restrooms, picnic areas, and kayak rentals. Beyond the beach, Bonita Springs invites visitors to step into the wild. Start your journey at the Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, where a boardwalk winds through an ancient cypress forest and wetlands teeming with birds, otters, and maybe even an alligator or two. It’s also home to the Corkscrew Super Ghost Orchid, one of the rarest flowers in the world. If you catch it in bloom, you’re seeing something truly special. Bonita’s Wonder Garden is another lush botanical and wildlife sanctuary nestled in the Everglades. This hidden gem blends Old Florida charm with vibrant natural beauty, featuring winding paths through tropical gardens, rescued birds and reptiles, and a butterfly garden. As an operating animal sanctuary since 1936, it’s one of the last surviving roadside attractions from Florida’s first golden age of tourism. Bonita Springs offers a range of standout dining experiences. The Bohemian Restaurant brings a creative twist to seafood with stylish dishes like lobster-and-crab jars. For fine Italian dining, Angelina’s Ristorante offers an elegant atmosphere featuring house-made pastas, premium wines, and classic dishes elevated with a modern flair. Just a short drive away, the Promenade at Bonita Bay adds even more variety to the local food scene. This open-air shopping and dining hub pairs stylish boutiques and galleries with a lineup of restaurants offering a range of options, from casual bites to refined coastal cuisine. Golfer’s Heaven If you’re looking for golf, you’ve found paradise. Bonita Springs is surrounded by championship-level courses, making it one of Southwest Florida’s best-kept secrets for golfers. Saltleaf Golf Preserve, Spanish Wells Golf & Country Club, Stoneybrook Golf Club, Villages at Country Creek Golf Course, and Bonita Fairways Golf Club, to name a few, are all within a short drive of the resort. Seaside Comfort Meets Natural Beauty in Bonita Springs Additional Details Transportation Ground Transportation: Taxis, rental cars, and ride services are readily available at the airport and from the lobby of the hotel. Airport: Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) is 16 miles from the hotel. Weather The average high in late March is 78, and the average low is 67. What to Wear We have received a few questions about the dress code for the APCA Convention, and while there are no actual rules, here are a few suggestions: APCA meetings are largely business casual. For men that includes slacks or khakis, dress shirt or polo, and loafers or dress shoes. For women, that includes dress, skirt or slacks, and a blouse or nice top. At the evening events—Saturday’s Opening General Session and Tuesday’s Final Party— people get a little dressier. Many men wear sport coats. Pre- and Post-Convention Rates The resort will honor the discounted APCA room rate for three days before and three days after the convention, based on availability.
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