Naples Gateway to Untouched Nature and Estuarine Science

If you’re looking to experience a part of Naples that still reflects the natural beauty of old Florida, it’s time for a visit to Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Just 15 minutes from downtown Naples, this unique ecosystem protects 40% of Collier County’s most pristine, undeveloped coastline encompassing 110,000 acres of land and water.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a curious explorer or a lifelong learner, Rookery Bay offers many ways to connect with the environment and the wildlife that calls it home. The Environmental
Learning Center is a great starting point. Visitors can interact with sea stars and conchs at the touch tank, explore rotating exhibits in the art gallery or stroll across a scenic overlook bridge in search of manatees and wading birds. Three nature trails offer peaceful paths through upland habitats.

For an on-the-water experience, Rookery Bay’s biologist-led kayak tours wind through mangrove tunnels filled with marine wildlife and small boat excursions visit bird rookeries and remote islands known for world-class shelling.

Besides just recreation, Rookery Bay is also a place of science, conservation and environmental research. Visitors can learn how biologists monitor water quality, restore habitats with native plant
species and protect critical wildlife including sea turtles and endangered shorebirds. The reserve is a nursery for 75% of fish species. Some will grow up to become apex predators in the ocean like bull sharks.

Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center

239-530-5972
Just 15 minutes from downtown Naples 5th Avenue area
300 Tower Road, Naples, FL 34113
RookeryBay.org
Facebook.com/FriendsofRookeryBay
Instagram.com/friendsofrookerybay

All Season Long
RookeryBay.com/events
RookeryBay.org/calendar

Open
Tuesday – Saturday
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tickets
$10 for adults
$5 for ages 4-12
Children 3 and under are FREE