With tourist season in full throttle, this month we will focus on Calusa Blueway destinations that don’t require paddlers to drive in bumper-to-bumper traffic toward the beaches. With its convenient location in south Lee County and its unique history, the Estero River fits the bill!
One of the easiest to find and most popular launches along the Calusa Blueway is Estero River Outfitters. This long-established, family-owned shop is right on Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) just north of Corkscrew Road. The paddle shop carries several brands of kayaks, canoes and SUPs for sale and rental. It also carries just about every paddling accessory you could want. Anglers enjoy a well-stocked bait and tackle shop and the option to upgrade to the “fisherman” kayak rental package. At this time, there is no charge for launching if you have your own gear.
Directly across the road is Koreshan State Park (entrance off Corkscrew Road). A single paddler with his or her own gear will pay $4 to enter the park and an additional $4 to use the launch. I was told that paying an additional fee to use launches is becoming a Florida State Parks standard. Paddlers can rent canoes and kayaks from the park and explore on their own or take guided tours with the College of Life Foundation. Give yourself time to tour the historic buildings on-site and learn about the fascinating story of the Koreshans. This alone is worth the trip and admission. There are picnic tables, bathrooms, a playground and shade near the launch.
Whether you’re launching from Estero River Outfitters or the park, I recommend paddling east for at least a portion of your adventure. This area of the river is more shaded, has fewer powerboats and is picturesque. Think jungle creek. A few days ago I paddled this stretch and there was a large school of mullet under me almost the entire way. The College of Life Foundation was leading a tour and pointed out two barred owls in the trees above.
Also to the east is the Happehatchee Center. The organization created a small takeout area with a picnic table for paddlers to enjoy. Just look for the footbridge and Calusa Blueway sign.
Paddling to the west is enjoyable as well, but paddlers need to be cautious with boat traffic. Motorized vessels must remain in the channel, which crisscrosses the river several times. Paddlers can look for the PVC pipes that mark the channel and plan appropriately. More experienced paddlers may enjoy making the 5-mile trek (from Koreshan State Park) to Mound Key. Exploring Mound Key, once the capital of the Calusa Nation, should be on everyone’s bucket list. It is less than a 2-mile paddle to Mound Key if you launch from Lover’s Key State Park on Fort Myers Beach. Multiple outfitters lead guided tours to Mound Key.
Whether you’re a long time paddler seeking a unique adventure or a first-timer looking to just relax on the water, the Estero River will have something for you. Learn more at www.calusablueway.com or call 239-533-7275.
Mike Hammond is based in Fort Myers, Florida and is a staff member at Lee County Parks & Recreation. He is the Calusa Blueway coordinator for Lee County.