Explore Fort Myers
Matanzas Pass Preserve
Type: Parks
10Best Says
Located on Estero Island, Matanzas Pass Preserve is one of the few natural habitats left on the island that is also home to Fort Myers Beach. Not only is it free to the public but also home to 1.25... Read More
Located on Estero Island, Matanzas Pass Preserve is one of the few natural habitats left on the island that is also home to Fort Myers Beach. Not only is it free to the public but also home to 1.25 miles of trails that wind through mangroves, and an oak hammock along the Estero Bay. This 60-acre unspoiled sanctuary offers the perfect escape from the area's well-populated tourist scene. Take time to hike and explore, and be on the lookout for diverse wildlife, including raccoons, rabbits, hawks, owls and turtles. This park is a sanctuary for native plants and a designated site on Great Florida Birding Trail. There is free parking but it is limited.
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Hours:
- Daily 7am-Sunset
Admissions:
- Free
EXPERT TIPS BY:
Gina Birch
Fort Myers Local Expert
- Free Things to Do: "Bring bug spray as it can be buggy, especially after it rains."
- Parks: "Bring bug spray."
- Best for Free Things to Do Because: An unspoiled 60-acre sanctuary offering trails through dense mangroves and lots of opportunities for wildlife sightings.
- Best for Parks Because: Walk through trails of mangroves and an oak hammock while observing Southwest Florida's wildlife and native vegetation.
