Paddle to Mound Key | 153/365 Things to Do
Located in the middle of Estero Bay is one of the highest points in the area, Mound Key. The key or island is an Indian shell mound that rise more than 30 feet high and is estimated to date back nearly 2000 years. You can read a little history about Mound Key, here:
Mound Key Archaeological Site Estero Florida and I also wrote something for Spotlight, here,
Mound Key Archeological State Park on Estero Bay, Florida
The site is only accessible by boat from the southern end of Estero Island, just north of Bonita Springs. The closest boat ramp and causeway area is at Carl Johnson State Park at Lover's Key near Dog Beach. Kayaks and canoes are available for rent and there are some vendors who will meet you at Black Island to launch you closer to Mound Key. You can find a larger list of Bonita Springs boat ramps, here Bonita Springs Public Boat Ramps.
If you go a tip is to bring a lot of water, sunscreen and pack a lunch. You’ll be isolated so if you download the Publix app you can order subs in advance and pick them up in the open cooler beside the deli. It’s the fastest way to get in and out of a store for boating supplies.
Most of all, have fun. It’s a great experience and you’ll probably not see a lot of people so you can enjoy your family and being outdoors.