Boardwalks in Paradise: Exploring Southwest Florida’s Best Wooden Pathways

Boardwalks in Southwest Florida

Southwest Florida is home to some of the most breathtaking boardwalks in the country, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the region’s unique ecosystems while strolling along elevated wooden pathways. Stretching from Venice, Florida, south to Everglades City, this coastal region teems with diverse wildlife, lush mangroves, scenic waterways, and pristine beaches. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or simply looking for a serene place to walk, the boardwalks of Southwest Florida provide an unforgettable experience.

Venice Boardwalk at Brohard Park

Nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, the Venice Boardwalk at Brohard Park is a favorite for beachgoers and nature lovers alike. Known for its stunning sunsets, this boardwalk offers access to the famous Venice Beach, a hotspot for shark tooth hunting and seabird watching. Nearby, you’ll find shaded picnic areas, clean restroom facilities, and plenty of space to relax by the ocean.

• Where to Stay: The Inn at the Beach offers cozy accommodations just steps from the sand, while Venice Beach Villas provides charming suites perfect for longer stays. For a more luxurious experience, consider the Ramada by Wyndham Venice Hotel Venezia, featuring a beautiful pool, upscale dining options, and easy access to downtown Venice’s shops and restaurants.

Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary Boardwalk – Immokalee

One of the most famous boardwalks in Southwest Florida, the 2.25-mile loop at Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary takes visitors through ancient cypress forests, wet prairies, and marshes. It is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including alligators, otters, and over 200 species of birds. The hauntingly beautiful ghost orchids that bloom here are a rare sight to behold. This boardwalk is a short drive to the Seminole Immokalee Casino. 

• Where to Stay: The Ivey House in Everglades City is an eco-friendly option with easy access to nature tours. In nearby Naples, the Fairfield Inn & Suites offers modern amenities and a complimentary breakfast. For a more upscale and intimate retreat, the Bellasera Resort in Naples provides luxury accommodations with a tropical feel, a full-service spa, and on-site dining.

Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk – Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park

Winding through a magnificent old-growth cypress forest, this boardwalk offers an intimate look at Florida’s rare flora and fauna. Panther tracks, ghost orchids, and wading birds make this a must-visit for nature lovers. The boardwalk is shaded, making it an excellent choice for a morning or midday walk.

• Where to Stay: For an adventurous retreat, Port of the Islands Everglades Adventure Resort features water-based activities like fishing and kayaking. Everglades City Motel is a simple yet convenient choice for those looking to explore the park. If you want to stay closer to Naples, The Capri Inn offers a boutique atmosphere with stylish rooms and easy access to local dining and shopping.

Briggs Boardwalk – Shell Island

A quiet escape, Briggs Boardwalk meanders through coastal hammocks, salt flats, and tidal marshes, offering a peaceful retreat into nature. Birdwatchers will love the variety of shorebirds and wading birds that frequent this area. The boardwalk’s serene surroundings make it an ideal spot for a leisurely morning walk. Briggs Boardwalk is a short drive from Marco Island.

• Where to Stay: For a luxury beachfront stay, Marco Beach Ocean Resort offers luxury suites with direct Gulf access. The JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort is another fantastic choice, featuring world-class dining, a relaxing spa, and breathtaking ocean views. If you prefer vacation rentals browse the listings below from VRBO, Airbnb, and private homeowners.

Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve Boardwalk – Fort Myers

A hidden gem in Fort Myers, this 1.2-mile loop boardwalk takes visitors through a tranquil wetland filled with cypress trees, turtles, herons, and even the occasional bobcat. This peaceful walk is perfect for birdwatching and photography, especially in the early morning when wildlife is most active.

• Where to Stay: Crowne Plaza Fort Myers is a convenient option with spacious rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a relaxing pool. For those wanting a waterfront experience, the Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina on nearby Fort Myers Beach provides stunning Gulf views, a private beach, and a full-service spa. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Myers Colonial Boulevard, which offers clean, comfortable accommodations with free breakfast and easy highway access.

Naples Preserve Boardwalk

Located in the heart of Naples, this small but beautiful boardwalk offers a quick escape into nature while being conveniently close to the city’s attractions. Gopher tortoises, native wildflowers, and shaded rest areas make this a great stop for a short, scenic walk before heading into town.

Where to Stay when Visiting Naples, FL

• Naples Bay Resort & Marina provides luxury accommodations with a private marina, spa services, and multiple pools.
• Edgewater Beach Hotel offers spacious suites with stunning ocean views and private balconies.

View additional Naples FL vacation rentals and hotel specials below. We found a wide range of lodging options to suit every preference and budget. Nearby accommodations include VRBO Vacation Home Rentals, Top-Rated Hotels, Airbnb Vacation Rentals and more.

Everglades City Boardwalk at Gulf Coast Visitor Center

This short but scenic boardwalk offers panoramic views of the Ten Thousand Islands and serves as a gateway for exploring the Everglades by boat or kayak. Interpretive signs along the way provide insight into the region’s unique ecosystem and history. Everglades City offers local restaurants, guided fishing, and ecotours. Explore Everglades City, Florida.

• Where to Stay: The historic Rod & Gun Club is a classic choice for those looking to experience Old Florida charm with rustic decor and riverfront dining. The Everglades Adventures Hotel at Ivey House provides eco-friendly lodging ideal for adventurers wanting guided Everglades tours. For those seeking a waterfront retreat, the Parkway Motel & Marina offers direct access to some of the best fishing and boating spots in the region.

Best Florida Boardwalks for Different Outdoor Experiences

• Best for Wildlife Spotting: Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Big Cypress Bend
• Best for Sunset Views: Venice Boardwalk, Lovers Key
• Best for Families: Clam Pass Park, Six Mile Cypress Slough
• Best for Birdwatching: J.N. “Ding” Darling Refuge, CREW Bird Rookery Swamp
• Best for Beach Access: Clam Pass Park, Lovers Key

From the ancient cypress forests of Corkscrew Swamp to the coastal wonders of Shell Island, each boardwalk offers a unique experience waiting to be explored. Whether you’re searching for wildlife, seeking tranquility, or simply looking for a scenic stroll, Southwest Florida’s boardwalks provide something for everyone.  So lace up your walking shoes, grab your binoculars, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the natural wonders of Southwest Florida’s best boardwalks!  Bookmark ParadiseLiving.com for updates.

Naples Hotel Specials SW FL Hotel Packages and VRBO Vacation Rentals Special Rates

Sunseeker Resort, 5500 Sunseeker Way, Charlotte Harbor, FL | 833-914-7300
Enjoy a waterfront stay at Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor, a newly opened destination with 785 guestrooms, 20 dining concepts, a spa, a golf club and more. Explore the stunning views, activities and events of Florida's most laid-back coast.
Sunseeker Resorts Charlotte Harbor Rates and Specials

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The Boat House Waterfront Motel - 1180 Edington Place Marco Island, Florida 34145 | 239-642-2400
Welcome to the Boathouse Motel, Gazebo House and Oceanview Condo - Marco Island's best kept secret and your hideaway in southwest Florida. The Boathouse is committed to preserving the charm of "Olde Marco". Enjoy island fun and feel right at home watching the dolphin, casting a line or just relaxing and enjoying the oceanview. Stay a day, a week or a month. Some pet friendly rooms are available. Book Direct for the best rates and specials.
Book Direct at The Boat House Motel - Marco Island, FL

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JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort, 400 South Collier Boulevard, Marco Island, FL 34145
A top-rated beachfront resort with 12 on premises restaurants. Situated along three miles of pristine private beaches on the Gulf of Mexico, our hotel on the beach in Marco Island, Florida.
Check current rates and specials

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Hilton Grand Vacations ~ Club Regency Marco Island RCI Gold Crown Resort Suites, 500 S. Collier Boulevard, Marco Island, FL 34145
Spectacular Gulf Sunsets, Beachfront Resort with a spacious two-bedroom villas. Ideal for one week or longer stays. Club Regency is staffed by a team of trained on-site personnel. The resort is professionally managed by Hilton Grand Vacations Company.
Check Current Rates and Specials

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Naples Ritz Carlton Tiburon Golf Resort, 2600 Tiburon Drive, Naples, FL 34109
A beautiful pet-friendly resort with sensational golfing and amenities. 4-star, 5-diamond resort features 2 championship golf courses, 3 award-winning restaurants. With bicycle tours and organized nature walks, this Naples, Florida, golf resort offers visitors a peaceful escape to luxury.
Check Current Rates and Specials

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Marriott Crystal Shores Vacation Rentals, 600 S. Collier Boulevard, Marco Island, FL 34145
Comfortable, beautiful, condo resort, two restaurants, three outdoor pools, on Marco Island beach.
Marriott Crystal Shores Rates and Specials

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Luminary Hotel, 2200 Edwards Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33901
Luminary Hotel & Co., Autograph Collection hotel features free bikes, fitness center, a restaurant and bar. This 4-star hotel offers freeWiFi, a 24-hour front desk. The property is non-smoking throughout and is located 24 miles from Fishermen's Village. Highly Recommended.
Luminary Hotel Rates and Specials

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Bellasera Hotel, 221 9th Street South, Naples, FL 34102
Bellasera Resort in Naples is located at the gateway to 5th Avenue South, famous for its galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.Guests of Bellasera Resort can enjoy on-site poolside cabanas, a heated outdoor pool, and a fitness center. Concierge services are provided. Suites come with fully equipped kitchens, dining and living areas, and include a refrigerator, kitchenware, and coffee-making facilities. Highly Recommended. Find special rates below.
Bellasera Hotel, Naples, FL

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Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Myers-Colonial Boulevard, Fort Myers, FL 33901
This Fort Myers hotel is only minutes from I-75 as well as many popular area attractions and famous beaches. Only a short distance from the Hampton Inn and Suites Fort Myers-Colonial Boulevard, guests can discover a number of shopping centers, restaurants and entertainment options. The Harborside Convention Center, top-rated golf courses and the historic downtown Fort Myers area are also easily accessible. Highly Recommended.
Hampton Inn Suites Hotel Rates and Specials

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Spring Hill Suites by Marriott, 101 Harborside Avenue, Punta Gorda, FL, 33950
A waterfront hotel, Free Breakfast. 24 hour fitness center. A Pet Friendly Hotel. Free WiFi, 24 Hour Front Desk. Highly Recommended.
Spring Hill Suites Hotel Rates and Specials

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Diamond Head Beach Resort, 2000 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Recently updated Gulf view suites located on the north and south sides of the building have a beautiful angled view of the Gulf of Mexico. Each 700 sq.ft. suite features new furniture throughout, a living room with a queen-sized sleeper sofa, a separate bedroom with a king-sized bed, and a private bathroom with walk-in shower—plus granite surfaces and tile floors throughout. Managed by Sunstream Hotels and Resorts. Highly Recommended.
DiamondHead Beach Resort Rates and Specials

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Bellasera Hotel, 221 9th Street South, Naples, FL 34102
Bellasera Resort in Naples is located at the gateway to 5th Avenue South, famous for its galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.Guests of Bellasera Resort can enjoy on-site poolside cabanas, a heated outdoor pool, and a fitness center. Concierge services are provided. Suites come with fully equipped kitchens, dining and living areas, and include a refrigerator, kitchenware, and coffee-making facilities. Highly Recommended.
Bellasera Hotel Naples Rates and Specials

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Staybridge Suites, 9401 Triangle Blvd., Naples, FL 34113
Staybridge Suites - Naples - Marco Island, is an IHG Hotel. This comfortable hotel is ideal for longer term stays. Staybridge Suites has an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, a shared lounge and bar in Naples. This 3-star hotel features free WiFi and barbecue facilities. The property is non-smoking throughout and is located 8.1 miles from Tin City. Pet Friendly. Check current rates and specials below
Staybridge Suites, Naples, FL

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Naples Grande Beach Resort, 475 Seagate Drive, Pelican Bay, Naples, FL 34103
Gulf of Mexico views, 3 outdoor swimming pools, a fitness center, and free WiFi access. Naples Grande Beach Resort is located on 23 waterfront acres of Florida's Paradise Coast in Naples, Florida. Every accommodation features its own private balcony as well as a flat-screen TV, small refrigerator, and tea and coffee-making facilities. An excellent choice for couples. Check Availabilities below.
Naples Beach Resort, Naples, FL

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Paradise Coast Living

SWFL VACATION ACTIVITIES

Avi's Water Sports Jet Ski Adventure Tours, Caxambas Park, 909 Collier Ct., Marco Island, FL 34145 | 239-777-9873
Avi's is a family-owned business that offers some of the most exciting dolphin jet ski tours and jet ski rental adventures on Marco Island. You are invited to take an exciting journey with Avi "The Dolphin Whisperer" and take home a complimentary flash drive of photos from your adventure. Bring the family and make lasting memories. Contact us to book your dolphin Jet Ski tour.
Avi's Water Sports & Jet Ski Adventure Tours - Marco Island, FL

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Sunshine Tours and Fishing Charters, Rose Marina, 951 Bald Eagle Dr., Marco Island, FL | 239-642-5415
Sunshine Tours. Fish the 10,000 islands, the best in Off Shore, Back Water, and Near Coastal Fishing Charters. We know where the fish are. Also offering Marco Island Shelling Trips, and Sightseeing aboard one of our four fishing boats. Since 1984, Sunshine Tours has provided unsurpassed fishing charters, and on-the-water experiences for locals and visitors alike. Shared and private charters available. Contact us to book your Marco Island fishing charter.
Sunshine Tours & Charters - Marco Island, FL

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Everglades City Fishing Charters, currently leaving from Everglades Bait and Tackle, Everglades City, FL | 239-253-9926
Experience the wonder of the 10,000 islands of SWFL. Fish the protected bays and rivers of the Islands and Everglades National Park. Fish among the mysteries of wrecks, hard bottom reefs, and offshore towers. Seek some of the most exciting game fish that call the Florida Everglades Home.
Everglades City Fishing Charters - Everglades City, FL

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Marco Island Princess / Sunshine Tours, Rose Marina, 951 Bald Eagle Dr., Marco Island FL 34145 | 239-642-5415
The Marco Island Princess is a 90' luxury yacht offering daily Sightseeing, Lunch and Sunset Dinner Cruises. All of our delicious meals are prepared fresh on board for your enjoyment. Our professional and friendly crew will attend to your every need. Two full service cash bars serving up all of your favorite drinks! Also available for Weddings and Private Charters. Marco Island's most unique dining experience!
Visit The Marco Island Princess - Marco Island, FL

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Island Bike Shops (2 Locations) 1095 Bald Eagle Dr., Marco Island, FL 34145 | 239-394-8400 & 4342 Thomasson Dr., Naples, FL 34112 | 239-732-8400
At Island Bike Shops we make your visit fun. Reserve your rental online. Check our selection of bicycle rentals, electric bikes, motor scooters, trailers, and more. Naples Bicycle Tours provides a unique opportunity for residents and visitors to experience the diversity of Southwest Florida. Our large or small group bicycle tours can accommodate all cycling levels as we personally escort you through Naples, Historic Old Naples, Marco Island, or the Natural Everglades.
Visit Island Bike Shops - Marco Island & Naples

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Naples Bicycle Tours, Naples, FL 34113 | 239-580-7960
Naples Bicycle Tours provides a unique opportunity for visitors and residents to experience the natural Florida Everglades, up close and personal. Connect with nature on this 3-hour historic & ecotour in the heart of the Glades. All tours include everything needed for the adventure: custom-fit cycle, helmet, drinks, snacks, and a certified FL naturalist guide.
Naples Bicycle Tours - Naples, FL

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Go Cats On The Water 2200 Tamiami Trail E, Collier Seminole State Park, Naples, FL | 239-748-4099
Marco and Naples Most Exciting Boat Tour. Explore the backwater and mangroves for an unforgettable adventure in Southwest Florida. Everglades Backwater Sightseeing Eco-Tours in our safe, and easy to drive boats. Choose a 75 minute or a 2.5 hour tour. Our custom Go-Cat boats are fun for all ages and can easily be operated by both younger adults and seniors. Kayak, and Canoe rentals now available.
GoCatsOnTheWater.com - Naples, FL

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Tropical Tiki Tours, 220 Goodland Dr., Goodland, FL | 941-208-1200
Discover your private paradise on our new 26' "tiki-style" catamaran for a fun and relaxing cruise around Marco Island. Tropical Tiki Tours is offering daily eco-tours, sunset cruises, and private trips from 2-6 hours. Our USCG-inspected vessel is certified for up to 18 passengers so there is always room for all your family and friends for, Private Trips, Eco Tours, Corporate Events, Birthdays, Bachelorettes, Weddings, and Sunset Cruises.
Tropical Tiki Tours - Goodland, FL

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