Lakefront Hotel with Neoclassical Influences near Beach
On the coast of Bonita Springs, a white beach stretches along the Gulf of Mexico like the wings of a native egret. Just a 10-minute drive from the coast, past the twisting waterways of local inlets, lies Trianon Hotel Bonita Bay. Columns and balustrades make the resort look like an enormous sand castle come to life; it’s framed by a private lake and surrounded by palm trees and azaleas.
The hotel's neoclassical architecture extends to the lobby, where Doric columns support a domed nave. In the evening, feel free to enjoy a drink in the elegant lounge area, marked by recessed panels and fine draperies. Meanwhile, upstairs, each standard room overlooks either Bonita Bay or the adjacent Promenade, an outdoor mall filled with restaurants, art galleries, and state secrets. Superior rooms have balconies with lake views.
There’s also a nice view at Lake House Bar & Grill, where a wooden dock juts over the property's lake. The restaurant’s menu items include a blackened mahi-mahi sandwich ($11.95) and grilled chicken loaded with fruit salsa and fried plantains ($13.50). Head back to the lobby in the morning to enjoy a complimentary breakfast that includes muffins, croissants, and fresh fruit.
Bonita Springs, Florida: Picturesque Beachfront on Gulf of Mexico
Bonita Springs’ most popular shoreline is Bonita Beach, where white sand meets bath-temperature seawater. Grassy dunes fringe the coast; you can take a nice walk here along wooden boardwalks.
Slightly farther afield, a variety of state parks and nature reserves showcase even more pristine sand and surf. In nearby Estero Bay, Mound Key Archaeological State Park—which can be reached only by boat—has lush mangroves as well as Native American pottery and shells.
Farther west, glittering shells dot the curve of Sanibel Island, whose shallows are populated by a variety of native birds including snowy egrets, great blue herons, and roseate spoonbills.
Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.