Boat Ramps In Lee County: Open For Business?

Southwest Florida is a haven for boaters, with its unique range of salt, brackish, and freshwater, providing boating enthusiasts with a variety of experiences. From offshore cruising and fishing to beachfront landings and river cruising, there's something for everyone. And with numerous public boat ramps in Lee County, getting your boat into the water is easy. These ramps offer convenient access to popular waterways such as the Caloosahatchee River and the Gulf of Mexico. However, it's important to note that some boat ramps in the area may still be closed due to the impacts of hurricanes.

Boat ramp locations in Lee County

Lee County in Florida offers a variety of boat ramps, providing easy access to its stunning waterways, including the Caloosahatchee River and the Gulf of Mexico. Boaters can enjoy convenient amenities and diverse launch points, making Lee County a prime destination for water enthusiasts. Here is a list of some of the boat ramp locations in Lee County:

Davis Boat Ramp

Located in Fort Myers, the Davis Boat Ramp is approximately 30 feet wide, accommodating most small to medium-sized vessels. This ramp offers access to the Caloosahatchee River, a popular saltwater estuary. The river is known for its scenic beauty and diverse marine life. The hours of operation are from dawn to dusk, and parking costs $5 per day.

Imperial River Boat Ramp

The Imperial River Boat Ramp is situated in Bonita Springs, along the South Tamiami Trail. It is open daily from 7 AM until dusk. This boat ramp facility requires a $5 daily parking fee per vehicle, and parking receipts must be displayed on the dashboard. Separate parking areas are designated for vehicles with and without boat trailers.

Lavender's Landing Boat Ramp

Lavender's Landing Boat Ramp can be found in Bokeelia, providing boaters with access to the Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail. Cottages are available for rent, and there is also a ship store. This location has undergone recent upgrades, including increased parking capacity and renovations to an office building. The hours are from 7:30 AM to 9 AM, with a $10 daily parking fee.

Matlacha Boat Ramp

The Matlacha Boat Ramp is a community park that offers a range of amenities in addition to the boat ramp. It features covered picnic tables, pavilions, a playground, restrooms, basketball courts, a fishing pier, hiking paths, and benches. The park is open from Monday to Friday, 7 AM to 9:30 PM, with a $10 daily parking fee.

Pine Island Commercial Marina

Pine Island Commercial Marina, located in St. James City, is a premier marina and boat ramp facility. It provides access to excellent fishing, boating, and water sports opportunities. The marina is open daily from 8 AM to 10 AM, with a $10 daily parking fee.

These are just a few examples of the many boat ramp locations in Lee County, Florida. Each ramp offers unique features, amenities, and access to different waterways, catering to the diverse needs and interests of boaters in the area.

Boat ramp parking fees

There are a variety of boat ramps in Lee County, providing easy access to its stunning waterways, including the Caloosahatchee River and the Gulf of Mexico. Boaters can enjoy convenient amenities and diverse launch points, making Lee County a prime destination for water enthusiasts.

Lovers Key State Park

Lovers Key State Park offers direct access to Estero Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. There is a variety of fish in these waters, including trout, redfish, snook, and tarpon. All fishing must conform to regulations, and a fishing license is required. Boat trailer parking is currently limited, but kayaks and canoes are available for rental. The park features a 2.5-mile beach selected as the fourth best beach in Florida by the Travel Channel. Parking costs $8 per vehicle.

Alva Boat Ramp

The Alva Boat Ramp is nestled along the Caloosahatchee River, offering access to the Calusa Blueway and the lesser-known creeks of Southwest Florida. There are only 15 parking spots, so it is recommended to arrive early on weekends. The fee for parking is $5 per day, and Lee County Parking Stickers are honored.

Bokeelia Lavender's Landing

Bokeelia Lavender's Landing is a double-lane boat launch with 23 designated parking spaces for vehicles with trailers. Boaters and fishermen can access Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound (via Jug Creek) from this launch. There is a fee to park, and Lee County parking stickers are not accepted.

Burnt Store Boat Ramp

The Burnt Store Boat Ramp is a 4.5-acre boat launch facility providing access to the North West Spreader Canal and lake system, as well as Matlacha Pass and the Gulf of Mexico. There is a $15 per day boat trailer parking fee, and Cape Coral residents may obtain an annual parking decal for $75.

Cape Coral Yacht Club Boat Ramp

The Cape Coral Yacht Club Boat Ramp is located in Yacht Club Community Park and offers a wide paved ramp with room to launch two boats simultaneously. The park has a variety of amenities, including a community swimming pool, a fishing pier, picnic pavilions, and BBQ grills. There is a fee to park, and Lee County parking stickers are not honored.

Imperial River Boat Ramp

The Imperial River Boat Ramp has a double ramp with wide, paved lanes and an "L" shaped dock that doubles as a fishing pier. Restroom facilities are also available. There is a $5 per day parking fee, and Lee County Parks & Recreation Parking Stickers are honored.

Matlacha Community Park Boat Ramp

The Matlacha Community Park Boat Ramp has 30 parking areas for vehicles with trailers, and Lee County Parks & Recreation Parking Stickers are honored. The park also features a fishing pier, picnic pavilions, a playground, and restroom facilities. The fee for parking is $10 per day.

Pine Island Commercial Marina Boat Ramp

The Pine Island Commercial Marina Boat Ramp is a two-lane ramp where boaters can access the west side of Pine Island, considered a prime fishing spot. There is a fee to park, and Lee County Parks & Recreation Parking Stickers are honored.

Punta Rassa Boat Ramp

The Punta Rassa Boat Ramp features two double ramps with wooden docks, a fish cleaning station, restrooms, and approximately 90 vehicle/trailer combination parking spots. There is a $10 parking fee per 24-hour day, and Lee County Parks & Recreation Parking Stickers are honored.

Rosen Park Boat Ramp

The Rosen Park Boat Ramp has two boat ramps, each 30' wide by 60' long. There are 57 parking spaces for boat trailers and 31 spaces for vehicles. The park also offers boat slips, picnic shelters, BBQ pits, and restrooms. There is a fee to park, and Lee County parking stickers are not honored.

Boat ramp operating hours

Bokeelia Lavender's Landing

Located at 7290 Barrancas Avenue, this boat ramp is open from 7:30 am to 9:00 am. It offers a double-lane boat launch with 23 designated parking spaces for vehicles with trailers. There is a $10 daily parking fee, and overnight parking is not permitted.

Davis Boat Ramp

The Davis Boat Ramp, situated at 2227 Davis Boulevard in Fort Myers, is open from sunrise to sunset. It is a small paved boat launch with no facilities on-site. The parking fee is $5 per day, and overnight mooring or parking is not allowed.

Imperial River Boat Ramp

This boat ramp, found at 27551 South Tamiami Trail in Bonita Springs, is open 24 hours a day, while the park itself is open from sunrise to sunset. It features a double ramp, paved and wide, with an "L" shaped dock that serves as a fishing pier. The parking fee is $5 per day, and Lee County Parks & Recreation Stickers are accepted here.

Matlacha Community Park Boat Ramp

The Matlacha Community Park Boat Ramp, located at 4577 Pine Island Road, is open from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm. It provides a boat launching area with 30 parking spaces for vehicles with trailers. Lee County Parks & Recreation Stickers are honoured here. The parking fee is $10 per day.

Pine Island Commercial Marina Boat Ramp

This boat ramp, previously known as the Lee County Fisherman's Cooperative, is open on weekends, holidays, and Sundays from 6:30 am to 8:30 pm. It is a two-lane ramp providing access to the west side of Pine Island. Lee County Parks & Recreation Stickers are accepted, and the parking fee is $10 per day.

Punta Rassa Frizzell Kontinos Boat Ramp

The Punta Rassa boat ramp is a 24-hour facility, open seven days a week. It features two double ramps, long wooden docks, and ample parking. The parking fee is $10 per 24 hours, and Lee County Parks & Recreation Stickers are honoured here.

Cape Coral Yacht Club Boat Ramp

Located within the Yacht Club Community Park at 5819 Driftwood Parkway, this boat ramp is open during park hours. The park offers a range of amenities, including a community swimming pool, a fishing pier, picnic pavilions, and BBQ grills. Cape Coral residents can obtain a boat trailer parking sticker, but Lee County parking stickers are not honoured here.

Burnt Store Boat Ramp

Operated by the City of Cape Coral, the Burnt Store boat ramp is a 4.5-acre facility providing access to Matlacha Pass and the Gulf of Mexico. It is open during daylight hours. Cape Coral residents can obtain a boat trailer parking sticker, but Lee County parking stickers are not accepted here.

Horton Park Boat Ramp

Horton Park Boat Ramp, situated in Horton Park at 2600 SE 26th Place, offers access to the Gulf of Mexico through the Caloosahatchee River. The park itself spans 5 acres and received a $100,000 restoration grant in 2010. Fishing is permitted during daylight hours only. Cape Coral residents can obtain a boat trailer parking sticker, but Lee County parking stickers are not accepted here.

Lovers Key State Park Boat Ramp

Lovers Key State Park, located at 8700 Estero Boulevard, features a boat ramp with four launching lanes, courtesy docks, and paved parking for approximately 20 boat trailers. The park is open from 8:00 am until sundown, and the parking fee is $8 per vehicle.

Alva Boat Ramp

The Alva Boat Ramp, found at 21580 Pearl Street in Alva, offers freshwater access and can accommodate up to 15 vehicles. It is suggested to arrive early on weekends. Lee County Parks & Recreation Stickers are honoured here, but there is a parking fee.

Rosen Park Boat Ramp

Rosen Park Boat Ramp, located at 2414 SE 15th Terrace, features two 30' wide by 60' long boat ramps. There is ample parking, with 57 spaces for boat trailers and 31 spaces for vehicles. Cape Coral residents can obtain a boat trailer parking sticker, but Lee County parking stickers are not accepted here.

Sanibel Boat Ramp

The Sanibel boat ramp, situated at 888 Sextant Drive, offers a double-wide launching lane, a courtesy dock, and paid parking. There is parking for approximately 50 boat trailers, a small picnic area, kayak launching facilities, and restrooms. Weekends and holidays are restricted to permit holders only, while weekdays are open to the public for a $40 daily fee.

W. P. Franklin Lock & Dam Recreation Area Boat Ramp

This boat ramp, found near the intersection of Old Olga Road and South Franklin Lock Road, features a single launching lane, courtesy docks, 32 boat trailer parking spaces, restrooms, and picnic pavilions.

Boat ramp maintenance

Regular Inspections

Conduct regular inspections of all boat ramps to identify any safety hazards, structural issues, or wear and tear. This includes checking the condition of the ramp surface, edges, and surrounding areas. Look for cracks, potholes, or any signs of deterioration. Regular inspections help to identify minor issues before they become major problems, reducing the need for costly repairs and ensuring the safety of users.

Cleanliness and Debris Removal

Maintain the cleanliness of boat ramps and their surroundings. Remove any debris, such as litter, fallen branches, or algae buildup, that may pose a hazard to boaters or affect the functionality of the ramp. Regularly clean and maintain any amenities present, such as docks, parking lots, restrooms, and picnic areas, to ensure a pleasant experience for visitors.

Repairs and Maintenance

Promptly address any issues identified during inspections. This may include repairing cracks or potholes, resurfacing the ramp, replacing worn-out parts, or repainting faded lines and markings. Ensure that all repairs and maintenance activities comply with relevant safety standards and regulations. It is important to work with qualified contractors or specialists who have experience in boat ramp maintenance to ensure that repairs are done correctly and safely.

Drainage and Water Management

Proper drainage is crucial for boat ramps to prevent the buildup of water and ensure safe launching and retrieval of boats. Inspect and maintain drainage systems, including culverts, pipes, and catch basins, to ensure they are clear of debris and functioning effectively. Address any drainage issues promptly to avoid flooding or standing water, which can make the ramp unsafe and accelerate deterioration.

Signage and Safety Measures

Regularly inspect and maintain safety signage, including speed limits, launching instructions, and warning signs. Ensure that all signage is visible, legible, and placed in appropriate locations. Additionally, maintain safety features such as guardrails, lighting, and emergency call boxes, if applicable. Conduct regular safety audits to identify any potential hazards and make necessary improvements to enhance user safety.

Parking Lot Maintenance

Boat ramp parking lots should also be regularly maintained. This includes paving, striping, and marking parking spaces to ensure efficient traffic flow and maximize parking capacity. Maintain proper signage and markings to direct vehicles and trailers safely. Keep the parking lot free of debris and potholes, and address any issues with drainage or standing water.

Collaboration and Community Engagement

Involve the local boating community and stakeholders in the maintenance process. Encourage users to report any issues or hazards they encounter and provide feedback on their experiences. Collaborate with local boating clubs, marine businesses, and government agencies to share best practices, obtain specialized knowledge, and secure additional resources for maintenance and improvement projects.

By implementing these maintenance practices and staying proactive, Lee County can ensure that its boat ramps remain safe, functional, and enjoyable for all users, contributing to a positive boating experience in the region.

Other attractions near boat ramps

Lee County, Florida, is known for its stunning waterways, including the Caloosahatchee River and the Gulf of Mexico, making it a popular destination for boaters and anglers. While the county offers numerous boat ramps, there are also several other attractions nearby that are worth visiting.

Lovers Key State Park:

Located near the Matlacha Community Park Boat Ramp, Lovers Key State Park offers direct access to Estero Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. It features a 2.5-mile beach, fishing spots, and scenic bridges for walking.

Edison and Ford Winter Estates:

Near the Alva Boat Ramp, the Edison and Ford Winter Estates provide a glimpse into Southwest Florida's history. Visitors can explore the historic homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.

Koreshan State Park:

Koreshan State Park, located near the Imperial River Boat Ramp, offers abundant fishing opportunities in the Estero River and Estero Bay. It also has a full-facility campground for those who want to stay overnight.

Pine Island:

Pine Island, accessible from the Pine Island Commercial Marina Boat Ramp, is a prime fishing spot. The island itself offers hiking trails, restaurants, and vibrant cultural attractions for visitors to enjoy.

Yacht Club Community Park:

This park, located near the Cape Coral Yacht Club Boat Ramp, features a community swimming pool, a public beach, and several pavilions. It's an excellent spot for fishing and offers a 600-foot-long fishing pier.

Matlacha Community Park:

Matlacha Community Park, near the Matlacha Boat Ramp, provides a fishing pier, picnic pavilions, a playground, and hiking paths. It's an ideal spot for a family outing, with something for everyone to enjoy.

Punta Rassa:

The Punta Rassa Boat Ramp is close to the Frizzell Kontinos boat launch facility, which offers two double ramps, long wooden docks, and ample parking. It's a popular choice for boaters looking to explore the waters of Lee County.

Sanibel Island:

Sanibel Island, accessible from the Sanibel Boat Ramp, has been rebuilt after Hurricane Ian. It offers a double-wide launching lane, courtesy dock, and paid parking. The island itself boasts beautiful beaches and natural attractions.

Lee County's boat ramps provide easy access to a variety of attractions, making it a prime destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and a unique mix of natural and cultural experiences. Whether you're a boater, angler, or simply looking to explore, there's something for everyone in this beautiful county.

Frequently asked questions