As a bonus for nature lovers, for a few months each spring and summer, our beach becomes an extension of the Little Estero Island Critical Wildlife Area. There are 18 active Critical Wildlife Areas in all of Florida. Our beach serves as the southern border of Little Estero CWA, the only Critical Wildlife Area located in Lee County.
Roger Tory Peterson, famed ornithologist and author of the 'First Modern Field Guide To Birding' visited Little Estero Island and declared it 'possibly the best place in the world to photograph shorebirds'.
During the spring and summer months, our beach becomes prime nesting territory for sea turtles and a few of the estimated 150 species of birds that visit our island annually. We consider it a great privilege to serve as host for these animals during nesting season. While they raise their young each summer, we'll reserve some of our huge beach as a sanctuary. This provides outstanding observation opportunities right outside our back door. During this period, we allow the native beach vegetation to regrow to provide cover. Some of our beach does get restricted from human activity during this period. Don't worry though, the birds and turtles are very willing to compromise on beach space. So, you will still have plenty of beach to use! As soon as the baby birds are grown and done nesting, we'll remove the restricted areas and resume grooming operations. So, if you want to enjoy the birds, it's best to book between April and September!