The Definitive Guide to Living In Estero, Florida

The Definitive Guide to Living in Estero, Florida will give you all the insider info about living in Estero, Florida. The sunny State of Florida is known to be the home of white, sandy beaches, juicy oranges, and the theme park capital of the world. And Estero, Florida is a village that is home to around 31,000 people and has so much to offer its residents. From humble beginnings to a vibrant community, Estero has become a hotspot to settle down and build a family, as well as retire.

The community is situated in an ideal location, between Fort Myers & Naples. With the temperature floating in between light sweater weather and beach weather, residents and visitors enjoy a fairly mild climate year-round. The unemployment rate is low and the economy continues to expand and grow.

This guide will outline the location of Estero, Florida, its history, business and jobs, education, real estate, and more. Is Estero right for you? Let’s find out!

Chapter 1

Where is Estero, Florida?

Located in the southwestern part of the state, Estero is in Lee County, Florida. It is found on the edge of Florida’s Gulf Coast, between Naples and Fort Myers. Estero has about 20 miles2 of land, and one mile2 of water. It is further only 15 minutes away from RSW International Airport.

Estero and Lee County are considered the best areas to live in Florida. There is a dense suburban community, and the village has a surprising number of things to do.

Chapter 2

General Overview

The name Estero means “where the river meets the sea.” Estero’s development was concentrated by the Estero River, until the 1970s. In the late 1800s, Estero was known for producing citrus fruits, and after the fruit was farmed just off the river, growers would then ship the harvest north through the Gulf of Mexico.

The most famous pioneer of this time was the leader of the Koreshan Unity, named Cyrus Teed. The group of his followers believed that the universe existed within a vast, hollow sphere. The Unity built infrastructure, including schools, a post office, and a general store.

Around 2002, growth was booming, and decisions needed to be made about how the community would proceed, Estero became an official village in 2014.

Interesting Facts About Estero

The approximate 20 miles of land that makes up Estero is divided into seven districts, each of them home to around 4,000 residents.
There are 35 gated communities in Estero (2019).
When Estero officially became a village in late 2014, the total property value was $5,420,958,716.
The median age of Estero residents is 62 years old.
Many residents relocate to Estero to retire.

Chapter 3

Business & Jobs

Compared to the employment averages of the United States, Estero comes ahead in almost all categories. Estero’s unemployment rate is around 3.4%, which is .5% lower than the national average. In the last year, the job market has grown by almost 2% and is poised for further growth. The average household income is just over $72,000 annually, which is about $20,000 more than the national average. It ends up being a salary of around $50,000 per resident annually.

The cost of living in Estero is about 12% higher than the national average, and about 10% higher than the state of Florida average. The most significant impact on the higher cost of living is the cost of housing. With the median home price being in the low $410,000, that factor has driven up the overall cost of living. However, the cost of utilities is below the national average by about 10%, and the cost of groceries comes in about 5% above average.

Many residents work in four major industries: retail and management, health care and social assistance, professional or scientific trades, and educational services. Other common careers include finance, construction, real estate, accommodation, insurance, and manufacturing. In fact, Hertz, a popular car rental company, has its world headquarters located in Estero.

Of the 31,000 residents in the village, only about 30% of them are active in the workforce. Due to the high median age of residents, many are retired and have retreated to the community.

The average annual income has been on the rise, and the economy of the village is thriving and continues to grow.

Chapter 4

Education

Estero falls under the jurisdiction of the Lee County School District. There are 119 schools in the district which teach over 95,000 students. The vision of the school district is to be a world-class school system.
Estero is home to the Pinewoods Elementary School and Estero High School. Three Oaks Elementary school which is the nation’s first core knowledge school and Three Oaks Middle School are located just outside of Estero, on the border of Fort Myers.

The Lee County School District offers many educational resources for students and adults alike. Adult lifelong learning classes are offered for subjects like art, technology, language, health, and culinary courses at affordable rates. They also offer GED testing for those looking to earn their high school diploma. For those who are looking to learn English as a second language, they offer ESL classes as well. To register for any of their available courses, visit their website.

While there are no post-secondary education institutions in Estero, there are some close by. Within 25 miles of Estero are Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers, Florida Southwestern State College in Fort Myers, Hodges University in Naples, Southwest Florida College in Fort Myers, and Ave Maria University in Ave Maria.

The Florida Gulf Coast University has 58 undergraduate degrees, 25 graduate programs, and 6 doctoral programs currently available. The school has a 22:1 ratio of students to faculty, so they promise a great learning experience for students. The campus is ranked #67 in the United States for the best university campus.

Chapter 5

Real Estate – Browse Estero Real Estate Listings

The real estate market in Estero is some of the most expensive in Florida. There are just over 14,000 homes in the village, and the median price is around $410,000.

Single-family homes make up almost half of the housing types in the community, and over 65% of them were built after the year 2000. 31% of households were constructed between 1970-1999. Apartments and townhomes are the next most common housing type, followed by small apartments and mobile homes. On average, homes have between two and three bedrooms, with a small percentage having four to six.

85.5% of residents are homeowners, and 14.5% are renters. Many people live in Estero seasonally, so there are a large number of vacant homes for a portion of the year. Many condos and apartments are used as vacation rentals, as well.

Over the last decade, houses in the area have gained some of the highest appreciation values across the nation. Appreciating by 53.61% since 2009, the community falls in the top 10% in the United States. This, combined with the popularity of tourism in the community, is a winning combination for real estate investors. Even during the market downturn in the rest of the country, Estero’s appreciation values were still positive.

Interestingly, Estero also is huge in the tourism department. It’s a popular destination for vacation. As such, there is a booming vacation and long-term rental market, making this place one of the most attractive real estate investments you can make.

Chapter 6

Where to Live

There are so many beautiful neighborhoods in Estero, all with different qualities that they offer residents. From affordable single-family homes to million-dollar estate homes, Estero has it all.

Bella Terra

Highlights: Gated, Family Oriented

Property Types: Condo, Villa, Townhome, Single Family

Bella Terra in Estero Florida is an 800-acre community with over2000 total residences, including single-family and multi-family homes. About half of the Bella Terra acreage is devoted to conservation uses including 20 lakes and natural preserve areas, so the homes are surrounded by lush grasslands and dense forests, Bella Terra is a well-appointed neighborhood in Estero, Florida.

Residents of this Central Florida Gulf Coast area enjoy state-of-the-art amenities, such as a clubhouse, resort-style pool, baseball diamond, and multiple sports courts for tennis, pickleball, basketball court, and sand volleyball. Bella Terra also features many small lakes, and an overall abundance of greenspace, which adds to the natural splendor surrounding beautiful Bella Terra.

Belle Lago

Highlights: Gated, Golf cart access to Estero Country Club and Golf Course, Large estate homes, Preserve area with boardwalk.

Property Type: Single Family

Belle Lago is a 24-hour staffed, beautiful landscaped gated community of 447 single-family homes on spacious lots with picturesque nature preserves and charming walking trails. Belle Lago was designed to meet the needs of active residents with exercise stations and walking trails that wind throughout the community, including a boardwalk through the preserve area.

Community amenities include a grand clubhouse with a multi-purpose room, fitness center, aerobics studio, library/craft room, game room, and locker rooms. There are four tennis courts, a basketball court, two pickleball courts, two bocce ball courts, a resort-style swimming pool and golf cart access to neighboring Estero Country Club. Belle Lago residents enjoy a variety of on-going activities and special events.

Breckenridge

Highlights: Gated, Bundled Golf

Property Types: Condo, Coach Home, Townhome

Breckenridge Golf & Tennis Club is a gated, country club community made up of 842 units including condos, villas and coach homes that overlook 5 lakes. Our outdoor amenities include 5 swimming pools, an 18 hole Par 3 bundled golf course, 8 lighted har-tru tennis courts, 3 newly built pickleball courts, and 3 bocce courts, shuffleboard, water volleyball, walking paths and storage for boats and RVs.

Indoor amenities include a fitness room, a library, a catering kitchen, and a large common area and lanai. The clubhouse offers numerous regularly scheduled activities such as bingo, knitting, exercise classes, bridge, euchre, poker and other cards groups. Special events vary but include themed parties and dinner dances with live entertainment! The Breckenridge Golf Club is an equity membership arrangement and features 18-holes on a par 3 course.

Cascades

Highlights: 55+, Gated, Indoor swimming pool, Full-time activities director

Property Types: Single Family

Cascades at Estero is a 55+ gated active adult community, which allows up to 20 percent of under 55 year olds to reside in the community. The Cascades community features 614 single-family homes on a 158 acre parcel, and offers its owners an affordable lifestyle amid lush landscaping and a wide variety of services and amenities.

Our community offers its residents six professional Har-Tru tennis courts, pro shop with full-time pro, lighted bocce courts. a state-of-the art clubhouse facility which includes both an oversized outdoor pool, an attached indoor swimming pool, a ballroom facility that supports entertainment programs, dances, various parties, theatre productions, a chorus program, among many other activities sponsored by the many clubs and activity groups that make the Cascades a wonderful place to live. In addition, the clubhouse facility hosts a professional billiards room, media room and card rooms, a library, and an arts and crafts room that includes a kiln for pottery. Next to the clubhouse facility is a physical fitness center that includes up-to-date workout equipment, a dance studio, and bathroom facilities, showers, and saunas. A full-size satellite pool is also located near the end of the community to accommodate those who live closer to that area.

Colonial Oaks

Highlights: Gated, Low HOA Fees

Property Type: Single Family

Gated community with approximately 90 single family homes situated around one circular street in the heart of Estero. Amenities at Colonial Oaks include: Clubhouse with fitness center, swimming pool, picnic and barbeque area, half-court basketball and playground and sand pit.

Copperleaf at The Brooks

Highlights: Gated, Golf optional with The Brooks Commons Club Membership

Property Types: Single Family, Coach Home

Copperleaf is a private gated golfing community located within The Brooks master-planned development in Estero. Copperleaf has a total of 570 homes including single-family homes and coach homes. Views of the golf course, natural preserves and lakes are abundant throughout the community. Copperleaf is an inclusive golfing community and features a private Gordon Lewis designed course that plays 7,174 yards, par 72.

Copperleaf amenities include a clubhouse, dining, pool, Jacuzzi, tennis, and bocce, providing distinguished amenities and a quality lifestyle for members and their guests. Copperleaf residents optionally may join the Brooks Commons Club which offers a private gulf front beach club, health & fitness center, community enrichment center and Rosie Spoonbill’s waterfront restaurant.

Copper Oaks

Highlights: Gated, Low HOA Fees

Property Types: Single Family, Townhome

Copper Oaks is a 29-acre gated community of 292 Mediterranean-style homes, one and two story single-family villas and two story town homes, located in beautiful Estero Florida.. Lake and preserve views compliment many of the home sites within Copper Lakes. Copper Oaks amenities include two pools, fitness center, tennis, basketball and a playground. Copper Oaks is located on the east side of Three Oaks Parkway, south of Estero Parkway.

Corkscrew Shores

Highlights: Gated, Lake living, Nature Trails, Resort Style Amenities

Property Type: Single Family

Corkscrew Shores is a new community located in Estero, Florida and under development. The 722-acre gated community is being developed around a magnificent 222-acre lake.

A state-of-the-art amenity center is being built on a peninsula surrounded by water on three sides. Corkscrew Shores amenities will include a resort-style pool, grand clubhouse, fitness center, movement studio, outdoor bar, fire pit, tennis courts, bocce courts, pickleball courts, sports field and a fishing dock. Corkscrew Shores is located in Estero on Corkscrew Road, three miles east of I-75 and slightly west of Alico Road.

Country Creek

Highlights: Bundled Golf, Dining, Social Activities

Property Types: Single Family, Villa, Condo

Country Creek is an established golfing community of 985 homes located in beautiful Estero. This 283-acre community features a creek which peacefully meanders through the development. Country Creek homes include condos, villas, and single- family homes. Country Creek amenities include clubhouse with fine and casual dining, five community pools, fitness center, tennis and bocce. The 18-hole executive course designed by Gordon G. Lewis plays 3,871 yards, par 61.

Estates at Estero River

Highlights: Gated, Family Oriented, River kayak launch, Low HOA fees

Property Types: Single Family

The Estates at Estero River is an intimate gated community of 94 single-family homes located in the beautiful community of Estero. This low-density community features spectacular river views with a canopy of palms and giant oak trees covered in Spanish moss. The amenities are a kayak launch and park area.

Estero Place

Highlights: Gated

Property Type: Single Family

Estero Place is a gated community featuring 100 single-family homes on a 53-acre parcel with nearly one third of the community dedicated to preserves and natural beauty, located at the Southwest corner of Corkscrew Road and Three Oaks Pkwy in Estero. Views of both natural preserves and water are available throughout the community. Amenities at Estero Place include a nature boardwalk and direct access to the Three Oaks Bike Path

Fountain Lakes

Highlights: Gated, Low HOA fees, 9 hole par 3 golf course included

Property Types: Single Family, Condo, Villa

Fountain Lakes is a gated community of 900 homes consisting of single-family homes, villas and condos sited on 145 acres in the heart of Estero across from the Coconut Point Mall. Many of the homes at Fountain Lakes feature views of private lakes or natural wetland preserves.

The Fountain Lakes amenities include a 9-hole par-3 golf course, community pool, fitness center, tennis, shuffleboard, bocce, children’s playground, picnic & barbeque area, volleyball and a 2-mile jogging path circling the community. Fountain Lakes is conveniently located across the street from Coconut Point Mall in Estero on US 41, South of Williams Road with community access on both.

Genova

Highlights: Gated, Luxury condo, Resort Style Amenities

Property Types: Condo

Genova Coconut Point is a luxury condo community in Estero, Florida featuring 205 condo units. This Mediterranean inspired community is located on 17-acres and features six u-shaped three-story buildings. A spacious center courtyard and a sparkling interior lake anchor the development.

The Club at Genova resort amenities include a clubhouse with social gathering rooms including an expansive community room with large-screen television and lounge seating as well as games tables and a hospitality prep kitchen, beach-entry resort outdoor pool overlooking the lake and indoor Olympic lap pool, state-of-the-art fitness center, aerobic studio with floor exercise, Zumba and dance, saunas and massage. Bocce courts and Genova residents have two entries into Estero Community Park and all its amenities.

Grandezza

Highlights: Close to Shopping, Gated, Golf, Resort style amenities

Property Type: Single Family, Coach Home

Resort-style living can be enjoyed daily at The Club at Grandézza, a 425-acre, master-planned, luxury gated golf course community located in the beautiful community of Estero. There are more than 900 residences in Grandézza consisting of coach homes with their own subdivision pools, villas and single-family homes.

The Club at Grandézza’s championship golf course, designed by Darwin Sharp III, plays to a par 72, and is maintained to the highest standards for the satisfaction of our members and guests.

Amenities include a 53,000 square foot Tuscan-style clubhouse with restaurant, signature shop, Junior Olympic pool and spa, with Cabana Bar, state-of-the-art Fitness Center, tennis facility with six Har-Tru clay courts, two Bocce Ball courts and scenic walking paths that wind throughout the community with its 23 lakes and 41-acres of wooded preserve areas. Grandézza is located east of I-75, near Corkscrew Road and Ben Hill Griffin Parkway.

Lakes of Estero

Highlights: Not gated, Low HOA fees, Across from Estero High School

Property Types: Single Family

The Lakes of Estero is a community of 102 single-family homes located in Estero. The community features waterfront living on a freshwater lake and every home in the 25-acre community has prominent water views. Community amenities include: a clubhouse, pool, fitness center, tennis and playground.

Lighthouse Bay at The Brooks

Highlights: Gated, Lakefront, Low density

Property Types: Condo, Villa, Coach Home

Gated, low density and 100% lakefront community of 654 residences consisting of condos, villas, coach homes and carriage homes on 162 acres including a 26 acre preserve and 44 acres of beautiful stocked lakes with bridges and fountains. The Harbour Club & Spa amenities include the Boathouse with trademark lighthouse, viewing deck and docks with paddle boats, canoes and fishing boats and the Picnic Island with gazebo and barbeques.

Lighthouse Bay offers 5 different pools including Resort lagoon style pool with rock waterfall and spa and a screen enclosed 25 meter lap pool, Sauna, The Freshwater Sunning Beach with chaises and gazebo, Clubhouse with concierge and activities director, Fully equipped Fitness Center with cardio exercise area, Massage room and six lighted Hydro-grid clay tennis courts and two regulation Bocce Courts, and over 3 miles of lushly landscaping paths for walking & biking.

Marsh Landing

Highlights: Gated, Close to shopping, Low HOA Fees

Property Type: Single Family, Coach Home, Villa

Marsh Landing is a Community of 376 residences, which include single family homes, villas, and townhouse condominiums. Amenities at Marsh Landing include a clubhouse with game room, pool & spa, fitness center, tennis court, bocce court and basketball. Marsh Landing is located west of US41, directly across from Coconut Point, an up-scale shopping and dining mall.

Meadows of Estero

Highlights: Gated

Property Types: Coach Home

The Meadows of Estero is a gated community of 262 coach homes located on the northwest corner of US41 and Williams Rd. The Meadow at Estero amenities include a community pool & spa, Clubhouse with prep-kitchen and a gym

Mirasol

Highlights: Gated, close to shopping, all units have garages

Property Types: Coach Home/Condo

Mirasol at Coconut Point is a gated community of only 200 condominiums and townhomes situated around three lakes. Amenities include a clubhouse, resort-style pool with a cascading waterfall, separate covered spa, outdoor entertainment pavilion, exercise room & billiards.

Conveniently located at the corner of Via Coconut Point & Coconut Point Road, Mirasol is across the street to the Coconut Point outdoor mall which offers an abundance of shopping with over 100 retail stores, more than 20 restaurants, a 16 screen movie theater, and other forms of entertainment such as live music, art shows, and a seasonal farmers market.

Oaks of Estero

Highlights: Gated, Sidewalk to Estero Community Park, Low HOA Fees

Property Type: Single Family

Oaks of Estero is a new gated community of 23 single-family homes located on 10-acre site in Estero. The community features over 60 mature Laurel Oak and Live Oak trees which are strategically placed around the community.

The Oaks of Estero community is located on Block Lane off River Ranch Road between Corkscrew Road and Williams Road. This family-friendly location is tucked between Estero High School to the south and the Estero Community Park and Recreation Center to the west. A sidewalk will connect the Oaks of Estero to the Estero Community Park.

Osprey Cove

Highlights: Gated, Condo Living

Property Types: Condo

Osprey Cove is a popular gated condominium community with 344 units consisting of 8 four-story condo buildings of 40 units each and 2 two-story carriage home buildings with 12 units each. The amenities at Osprey Cove include a community swimming pool with clubhouse and gym. Located on the Northeast corner of US41 and Estero Pkwy, it’s at walking distance from the Walmart and restaurants.

Pelican Sound

Highlights: Gated, Bundled Golf, Boat & River Club with Beach Shuttle, Resort Style Amenities

Property Types: Single Family, Condo, Coach Home

Pelican Sound is a 547-acre gated community located west of the intersection of Corkscrew Road and US 41. It’s bordered to the north by the Estero River and Koreshan State Historic site, and to the west by Estero Bay. Pelican Sound housing options include condos, coach homes, carriage homes and single-family homes, with about 1,300 total residences.

Pelican Sound’s amenities include a 27 holes golf course, aquatic driving range, 6 Har-Tru tennis courts, boat launch at Estero River-to Gulf of Mexico access, water taxi to Lovers’ Key beach, canoes & kayaks, new state-of-the-art fitness center, 6 community pools/spas + kiddie pool, tot lot, bocce, jogging paths, pickleball, basketball, formal Clubhouse & newly renovated River Club Sports Bar for casual dining.

Preserve at Corkscrew

Highlights: Gated, Resort Style Amenities

Property Type: Single Family

The Preserve at Corkscrew is a gated community, just 2 miles east of I-75 on Corkscrew Road. The community is designed as a quaint residential neighborhood consisting of a variety of 441 single-family homes with many home sites featuring picturesque lake and preserve views. Amenities at the Preserve at Corkscrew include a clubhouse, fitness center, yoga & Pilates studio, community room, tennis courts, resort-style swimming pool with lake view, outdoor fireplace and pickleball.

Rapallo

Highlights: Gated, Resort Style Amenities, Close to Shopping

Property Types: Single Family, Condo, Coach Home

Rapallo at Coconut Point is a waterfront community of 540 homes nestled around nine lakes. Each of the Residences in Rapallo feature Mediterranean architecture inspired by the Cote d’Azure and the Ligurian Coast of the Italian Riveria. “España” barrel tiled roofs, chimneys, towers, balustrades and balconies, blended with natural stucco exteriors, stone and brick accents and a palette of earthtone colors. All of the residences at Rapallo offer views to the nine freshwater lakes, 24 acres in all, stocked with largemouth bass, channel catfish and bluegill

Two and a half miles of walking/biking path weaving along the lush perimeter of Rapallo plus a half-mile Nature Boardwalk through the Halfway Creek Wildlife Preserve (a federally-protected sanctuary). And for your convenience the five pedestrian gates along the walking/biking path link you to the Coconut Point Town Center and neighborhood areas.

Amenities include a Clubhouse with dining, two-level resort pools and spa featuring rock waterfalls, fire pit, freshwater beach, Health & Fitness Center, Massage Therapy & Sauna, Aerobic/Yoga & Creative Arts Studios, screen enclosed four lane, 25 meter lap pool. The Rapallo Tennis facility with five lighted Hydro grid Har-Tru clay tournament courts by Welsh including a stadium court, Players Bistro with catering kitchen, a full pro shop and a USPTA pro.

Rookery Pointe

Highlights: Gated, Large Estate Homes Available

Property Types: Single Family

Rookery Pointe is a gated community located at the SW intersection of Estero Parkway and Three Oaks Parkway. Estero River meanders through this family-oriented community of 230 single family homes and 122 townhomes in Heatherstone at Rookery and features lush preserves and sparkling lakes. Rookery Pointe amenities include a clubhouse, fitness center, pool, tennis courts, basketball, in-line skating area, and a playground.

Shadow Wood at the Brooks

Highlights: Gated, Golf optional with The Brooks Commons Club Membership, Beach Club

Property Type: Single Family, Coach Home

Shadow Wood at The Brooks is an upscale, gated community comprised of 34 neighborhoods with 1,481 homes consisting of single family homes, villa’s and coach homes, nestled between 85 shimmering lakes, picturesque fairways, and 350 acres of lush nature preserves. This community is located off Three Oaks Parkway between Williams Road and Coconut Road.

Shadow Wood Country Club offers dining and has three courses and 54-holes of championship golf. Two within the community; The North Course offers mounding, wavy fairways and spectacular water views, while the South Course offers a more forgiving open design with wide fairways and numerous water features. A third course available for Shadow Wood Members is located 5 miles away at Shadow Wood Preserve in South Fort Myers.

Shadow Wood offers many amenities including a pool, tennis, aerobics and fitness center, and a workout space with massage therapy suites. The Shadow Wood Beach Club is a private beach area on Bonita Beach with a snack bar, grills, showers, restroom and private parking. Residents of Shadow Wood have the option of joining the Brooks Commons Club which offers an extensive roster of amenities.

Spring Run at The Brooks

Highlights: Gated, Bundled Golf, Beach Club, Social Activities, Pro Shop

Property Types: Single Family, Villa, Condo, Coach Home

Spring Run at the Brooks is a 300-acre gated golfing community located at Coconut Road with a total of 847 homes including condos, coach homes, villas and single-family homes. Spring Run is a bundled golfing community featuring a 7,052 yards, par 72, 18-hole championship golf course. Spring Run amenities include a clubhouse for dining and social events, fitness center, 4 classic clay tennis courts, heated pool & Spa, fitness, golf shop and 2 Bocce ball courts

Spring Run residents optionally may join the Brooks Commons Club which offers a private gulf front beach club, health & fitness center, community enrichment center and Rosie Spoonbill’s waterfront restaurant.

Stoneybrook

Highlights: Gated, Pay as you Play Golf, Family Oriented, Sidewalks

Property Types: Single Family, Villa, Condo

Stoneybrook is a gated community of 1,120 homes located east of I-75 on Corkscrew Road. Stoneybrook housing options include condos, attached villas and single-family homes. Homes within Stoneybrook wrap the golf course which is an independent entity from the community. The Stoneybrook Golf Course features an 18-hole, par 72, 7,353 yard championship course.

Stoneybrook amenities include a clubhouse, pool, spa, fitness center, tennis, in-line roller hockey rink, basketball, and horseshoe, soccer and baseball fields, bocce ball, bike paths and a playground. Stoneybrook has a second gate to the adjacent Pinewood Elementary School. Stoneybrook of Estero amenities include: Basketball Court, Clubhouse, Community Center, Fitness Center, Library-Reading Room, Gated, Home Owner Association, Playground, Manned Gatehouse, Sport Court, Swimming Pool, Tennis Court, Tot Lot, Volleyball Court, Bocce Courts, and HorseShoe Pits.

The Colony at Pelican Landing

Highlights: Gated, Golf Optional, Luxury, Beach Club

Property Type: Single Family, Coach Home, High Rise Condo

The Colony at Pelican Landing is an 800-acre gate community with Mediterranean inspired residences and luxury condominiums located west of US 41 on Coconut Road. Amenities include a resort style pool, use of a 34+acre island beach park accessible by boat shuttle, a canoe park and boat ramp, 6 har-tru tennis courts, concierge services, spa and fitness,Colony Bay Club, Colony Golf and Country Club membership.

The Place at Corkscrew

Highlights: Gated, Resort Style amenities

Property Types: Single Family

The Place at Corkscrew is a new gated community on Corkscrew Rd, just east of Alico Rd. of single-family homes. The community is under development and will feature fully built 1,325 single family homes in Southern plantation style.

Amenities include a resort style pool and spa with rock waterfalls, waterslide, Splash Park, cabanas, fire pits, beach volleyball, restaurant, Bourbon Bar, clubhouse, fitness, aerobics studio, massage therapy rooms, shuffleboard, kids club, café/ Market Place, tennis courts and Pro Shop, bocce courts, pickleball courts, basketball, playground, pavilion, dog park and community trolley.

The Reserve at Estero

Highlights: Gated, family oriented

Property Types: Single Family

The Reserve at Estero is a gated community of 493 single family homes with picturesque open spaces and sparkling lakes on 155 acres.

The Reserve at Estero amenities include a grand clubhouse with a social room, fitness center, aerobics studio, library, card/craft room, billiard room, and conference room. There are tennis courts, a basketball court, pickleball courts, a resort-style swimming pool with children’s pool, spa and playground. Residents enjoy a variety of on-going activities and special events.

Residences at Coconut Point

Highlights: Urban living, Resort Style Amenities

Property Type: Condo

The Residences at Coconut Point offers an urban lifestyle, and features 290 luxury condominiums which are located at the upscale Coconut Point Mall featuring over 140 stores including Dillard’s, Target, Apple Store, Michael Kors and Barnes & Noble, many restaurants and a cinema – all surrounding several acres of lakes with a boardwalk. The Residences at Coconut Point amenities include a pool, garage parking and private lanais or rooftop decks.

The Vines

Highlights: Gated, Golf Optional

Property Types: Single Family, Condo, Coach Home, Villa

The Vines is a 290-acre gated community with large lakes and bridges, consisting of 440 residences located around Estero Country Club’s golf course at US41, north of Estero Pkwy. Housing options at The Vines include single family homes, attached villas, coach homes and condominiums. All residents of The Vines and residents of adjacent Belle Lago are eligible for membership at the Estero Country Club. Estero Country Club at The Vines offers a number of social, fitness and golf amenities including a clubhouse with dining and sports bar, fitness center, five lighted Har-Tru tennis courts, a par 72 golf course.

Tidewater

Highlights: 55+, Gated

Property Types: Single Family, Villa

Tidewater is a new, gated 55+ active adult community featuring single family homes, located at the corner of Ben Hill Griffin Parkway and Estero Parkway. This location is directly east of I-75 on Estero Parkway.

Amenities at Tidewater include a two-story clubhouse with activity rooms and catering kitchen, resort style pool and spa, outdoor barefoot bar, fitness center, movement studio, pickleball courts, Bocce courts, event lawn, fire pit and BBQ grilles, dog park and community garden. The community also features a lifestyle director who coordinates the busy schedule of activities at Tidewater.

Villa Palmeras

Highlights: Gated, Attached Villa Community

Property Type: Villa

Villa Palmeras is a gated community located on Three Oaks Pkwy, south of Corkscrew Road with attached twin villas. The 110 residences all offer 2 bedrooms or 2 bedrooms + Den. Water and preserve views are found throughout the community. Amenities at Villa Palmeras include a beautiful pool, spa and sundeck plus a nature boardwalk that crosses above a tributary of the Estero River, bike rack and access to the Three Oaks Bike Path.

Villagio

Highlights: Villagio

Property Types: Condo

Villagio is a beautiful landscaped gated community in Mediterranean style with 514 condominiums. Villagio is located on Three Oaks Parkway, just south of Estero Pkwy and features bridges, walkways and beautiful piazzas. The amenities at Villagio include 2 swimming pools, tennis courts, Villagio town center with a community clubhouse, fitness, café and cinema and, business center and theater.

West Bay

Highlights: Beach Club, Gated, Golf Optional, Luxury Living, Resort Style Amenities

Property Types: Single Family, Condo, Coach Home, High Rise Condo

West Bay is a gated luxury community of 868 acres of lush tropical landscape among wetlands and nature preserve west of US 41, and bounded by Estero Bay and Estero River. West Bay includes ten neighborhoods and choices of home styles range from carriage homes and villas to single-family estates and high-rise condos with incredible views.

West Bay Club membership amenities include world class golf and tennis, pickleball, clubhouse with fitness, nature parks and boating with Gulf access, multiple dining venues including the Bay House and Beach House on Hickory Island, private Beach Club and dog park.

Wild Blue

Highlights: Gated, Lake Living, Resort Style Amenities, Luxury

Property Type: Single Family

WildBlue is a new gated community on 3,500 acres community located on Corkscrew Road, east of I-75 in Fort Myers. This community is still under development and at full build-out, WildBlue will feature 1,096 single-family homes and 40,000 SF of retail space nestled around natural wooded preserves and sparkling lakes with resort amenities. 488 acres of the parcel have been granted to Lee County for a regional public park.

WildBlue amenities include a resort-style swimming pool, clubhouse with indoor and outdoor dining, fitness center, tennis courts, pickleball and bocce courts, hiking and biking trails, kayaking, boating, paddle boarding and other water activities to satisfy even the most avid lake lover.

Wildcat Run

Highlights: Gated, Golf Optional, Large Estate Lots

Property Types: Single Family, Villa, Coach Home

Wildcat Run is a gated neighborhood on Corkscrew Road, east of I-75 with 450 residences consisting of estate homes on exceptionally large lots, attached villas and condos. Wildcat Run amenities include an 18 hole, par 72 golf course, clubhouse, casual & fine dining with breathtaking golf course views, fitness, massage therapist, bocce and 5 Har-Tru tennis courts.

Chapter 7

Shopping & Recreation

Many people come to Estero on vacation, a retreat for the winter, or a short getaway. Tourism is prevalent in this area of Florida, and the village has done a phenomenal job of providing the best shopping and dining experiences for visitors.

Shopping

Three shopping centers are popular among residents and tourists alike.

Coconut Point mall is an outdoor shopping center that is a one-stop-shop for all your needs. Featuring 1,205,363 SQ FT of outdoor mall, it can be a lot of walking, so wear your comfortable shoes. Enjoy a movie at Coconut Mall with Regal Cinemas.

Another great shopping destination is the outlet mall, Miromar Outlets. A well-known open air outlet mall with over 140 retailers, which include designer, luxury, and discount brands along with many dining options and a kids play area with rock wall!

The Gulf Coast Town Center, located just north of the village, includes big retailers such as JC Penney, Bass Pro Outdoor World, and Dick’s Sporting Goods. Enjoy a movie at Gulf Coast Town Center with Regal Cinemas or work on your fitness at LA Fitness!

Recreational Activities

Due to Estero’s great location on the water, there is access to endless beaches for residents to enjoy. Whether it’s a beach close by, or twenty minutes down the coastline, the beaches in this area were made for swimming. Some of them are even dog-friendly. Florida is hot all year round, so it’s always a good time for a dip in the ocean. There are also beaches less likely to be populated by tourists, like Little Hickory Beach Park in Bonita Springs.

Estero Island, just off of Fort Myers Beach, is a resident favorite.
Koreshan State Park, Mound Key Archaeological State Park, and Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve are just a few Estero parks that are highly recommended to all visitors. There are many other parks nearby in neighboring communities, many of them on the water. For those who love camping, canoeing, water sports, and other outdoor activities, Estero has endless options.

Public Golf Courses

Stoneybrook Golf Club

Located along the appropriately named Stoneybrook Golf Blvd., is the beautifully cared for Stoneybrook Golf Club. Offering a challenging 72 par course, Stoneybrook was designed by renowned architects Gordy Lewis and Jed Azinger. 7 sets of tees ensures every skill level will enjoy their time at Stoneybrook and has landed the course on the list of only 200 courses nationwide to be considered “beginner friendly”. Stoneybrook Golf Club, from the championship tees, is one of the longest courses in Southwestern Florida at an impressive 7353 yards. Golfers will be challenged both physically and mentally.

Raptor Bay Golf Club

Raptor Bay Golf Club was designed with nature in mind. Immerse yourself in the beauty and scenery of the course while experiencing top rated golf. With 5 tees available the Raptor Bay Golf Club will have players of all skill levels enjoying the immaculate greens and challenging holes. Promoting biological diversity, the course pays tribute to nature and world class golf in one stunning setting.

Estero Country Club

Estero Country Club offers 105 acres of lush greenery surrounded by over 35 acres of sparkling ponds. The 72 par course features 6 sets of tees and over 7,000 yards from the championship tees. Designed by the esteemed Gordon Lewis, Estero Country Club is exceptionally well maintained ensuring top quality golf year round. Enjoy a round of golf, whatever your skill level, or practice at the driving range or putting and chipping greens. Looking for extra assistance? PGA pros are available for instruction.

Old Corkscrew Golf Club

Designed by golf legend, Jack Nickalus, the Old Corkscrew Golf Club features a 7,400 yard course that boasts challenging holes, well maintained greens and top grade amenities at its clubhouse. Certified as a Audubon International Silver Signature Sanctuary, Old Corkscrew Golf Club was rated South Florida’s #1 golf course by Golf Magazine. Championship golf perfected blended with beautiful Florida scenery ensures you will have a day on the greens you won’t soon forget.

Chapter 8

Restaurants & Nightlife

A comprehensive list of living in Estero wouldn’t be complete without the top-rated restaurants and nightlife in the village! Almost all American cuisine and one Italian restaurant, these eateries are the most popular around.

Restoratives Cafe

Restoratives is the place for lunch in Estero. With Gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options available, this little cafe has been consistently a favorite among residents. Known for their sandwiches, they also have a great breakfast and beer menu.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Ruth’s Chris is a chain steakhouse that seems to be a top performer everywhere there’s a location, and Estero is no exception. On the more extravagant side of things, Ruth’s Chris is a perfect date night or unique occasion style of restaurant. It’s consistently excellent and has fantastic service.

Naples Flatbread Kitchen & Bar

Naples has been in the flatbread game since 2009, and since then, has expanded its menu greatly. From their famous flatbreads to pizza, wings, mac and cheese, and classic appetizers, Naples Flatbread has it all.

Divieto Ristorante

The top Italian eatery in Estero, Divieto Ristorante, many people love this place. It’s a fine dining establishment, offering exceptional service and food. This restaurant is perfect for a celebratory meal or date night.

First Watch

This breakfast and brunch restaurant is a fan favorite. With plenty of healthy, gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options available, their menu is full of great options and some unique creations you won’t find anywhere else.

Tony Saccos

If you like pizza, Tony Saccos in Coconut Mall is the place to be. They make their own pizza in a coal oven, making it unmatched to any others around. They also offer up speciality pies that you won’t want to miss.

Norman Love

Norman Love at Miromar Outlets has the best handcrafted chocolates and homemade ice cream. On a hot day, grab a cone at this local spot. But they also aren’t just limited to ice cream and chocolates. You can also get coffee, pastries, macaroons, and more!

Estero is a laid back place that is home to an aging community, and the nightlife isn’t a popular scene. There are absolutely activities to partake in, like Pinot’s Palette. Located in the Coconut Point Mall, friends and newcomers alike come together to paint and have a few drinks.

In the neighboring areas, like Fort Myers, there’s plenty of nightlife action to engage in. Residents can enjoy dinner at great beachfront restaurants, explore local breweries, and indulge in drinks at one of the many bars in this area.

Chapter 9

Things to Do

Estero may be on the smaller side, but that doesn’t mean there’s a lack of entertainment. Between the village and neighboring cities, the annual festivals, seasonal events, and the venues that offer endless entertainment, there’s always something to do and see.

Festivals

Every year, Coconut Point Mall hosts the New Year’s Art Festival at the end of December. 200 guests showcase their artwork over two days, and it’s free to attend.

In neighboring Bonita Springs, the Bonita Brew Fest is an event that showcases craft brewers or homebrewers that are looking to share their love of beer, while benefiting the Bonita Springs Historical Society. It’s held in February and tickets are available now.

The Annual Fort Myers Veg Fest is being held in January 2020. Learn about plant-based diets in the Fort Myers area, watch cooking demos, join in discussions about the latest nutrition information, see many vendors, and hear many expert speakers.

Seasonal Events

Estero hosts m any seasonal events, including the 3rd Annual Holiday Bazaar at Koreshan State Park, pictures with Santa and Santa cow, Christmas lights, Christmas cookie decorating classes, and many Christmas musical and theater performances. There’s also the Farmers Market at Coconut Mall and Koreshan Park that take place on different days. Check in advance and find a time and date that works for you.

There are many annual golf tournaments and events that go on in the community, especially during the holidays. Some of the competitions are geared towards professionals, and some are geared towards amateurs. Many of them are to benefit charities and foundations, like Type 1 Diabetes. You can even ring in the New Year on the green.

Venues

Hertz Arena hosts numerous events, like hockey games, live music and performances, ice skating, and the seats have a great view from around the arena. There’s also the Estero Park and Rec Center, which also has a dog park. You can also kayak on the Estero River and check out the community’s beautiful views.

The Estero Historical Society is a historic site that showcases the history of the village dating back to the 1800s. It’s a shorter tour that is recommended to follow the Koreshan Historical park, and they also hold events at the site. The Historical Society would be a great family-friendly outing that is educational and captivating.

Happehatchee Center is a sanctuary in the heart of the village that is used for yoga and spiritual healing. It offers a relaxing and tranquil environment that allows you to be at one with, and appreciate, nature a little bit more.

Estero may be a popular place to retire, to kick back and relax in a close-knit community, but once you look past that title, you’ll see that it’s a beautiful place to live and raise a family. With an incredible location on the coast of Florida, this little village is packed full of history and fun. If you’re planning on making a move to Estero, you will be pleased with everything this community has to offer.

Areas We Proudly Serve

Estero, Florida

The village of Estero, Florida is known for its captivating coastline, its soft, sun-warmed sand, and the aquatic and nature preserve that’s right next door. People visit and live here because they enjoy the beach, the warm weather, and the laid-back lifestyle that makes it feel like summer vacation forever.

Naples, Florida

Naples is the place to be for shopping, fine dining, and golf. Investors will find upscale, well-landscaped neighborhoods that appeal to long-term renters as well as short-term vacationers. Beaches along the Gulf of Mexico are calm, and there’s plenty of boating and fishing. Investing in Naples is always a lucrative move.

Fort Myers, Florida

Fun for families and well-known for spring training baseball as well as spring break in general, Fort Myers offers a lot of fun and a variety of diverse activities and housing options. Choose a high-rise condo, a home on the beach, or a little cottage tucked away into a leafy neighborhood. Fort Myers has character.

Bonita Springs, Florida

The village of Estero, Florida is known for its captivating coastline, its soft, sun-warmed sand, and the aquatic and nature preserve that’s right next door. People visit and live here because they enjoy the beach, the warm weather, and the laid-back lifestyle that makes it feel like summer vacation forever.

Cape Coral, Florida

Cape Coral isn't just a city, it's a lifestyle. Imagine turquoise canals winding past your doorstep, leading you straight to the Gulf's embrace. Explore over 400 miles of waterways by boat, cast a line, or simply unwind on your waterfront patio. Beyond the water, discover charming neighborhoods, vibrant shopping, and a relaxed pace that lets you truly unwind. Cape Coral offers the perfect blend of aquatic adventure and laid-back living.

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May 3, 2024

Google - Jan - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

Great company and does a wonderful job of taking care of managing property. Also a 5 star in communication. Always prompt with replies and communications

Apr 26, 2024

Survey - Lauri - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

Overall, we've had a great experience. Michael Wittman has been very helpful the few times we've had issues after hours with the property we're renting. He's responsive and takes action quickly to resolve the issue. We've definitely appreciated it because things don't always go wrong during business hours.

Apr 23, 2024

Survey - Charles - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

Tech arrived on time and was pleasant and stayed until he cleared the clogged drain

Apr 18, 2024

Google - Ty - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

I have lived here for many years under this management company and they have been on top of any issues that have come up. Wonderful management team and quick response times. If you’re looking for a place, I highly recommend using Realty Group of SWFL!

Mar 27, 2024

Google - Susi - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

Best property manager in SW Florida! Realty Group of Southwest Florida manages multiple rental properties for us and we couldn’t be happier. The best decision we ever made was handing over the day to day management responsibilities of our rental properties to Mike and his team! They do a wonderful job and take the stress out of owning investment properties.

Mar 23, 2024

Google - Kim - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

We've been with Realty Group for a number of years, using them as our real estate agent and property manager. First with our condo in Estero and now with our house in Fort Myers. As we are in Canada, we trust the team is on top of everything regarding our house (rentals, repairs, cleaning etc). We are in regular communication and they are always there to answer any of my crazy questions.

Mar 22, 2024

Google - Bensinbaron - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

If you need help for rent or sale in Southwest Florida this is the right company.

Mar 22, 2024

Google - Cris - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

We are very pleased with Realty Group they attend to all issues with our tenants. We recently replaced some of our appliances and it was done quickly and at a fair price. I highly recommend them

Mar 21, 2024

Google - Gary - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

Michael Wittmann and his team have always been professional, and helpful to us.

Mar 4, 2024

Google - Ann - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

I have been doing business with South West Realty for many years now and I have had very good success. They have been able to rent out my home to responsible tenants for years. They have always been very attentive to all the tenants needs. Everyone here is very helpful.

Feb 23, 2024

Google - Charles - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

My wife and I have been using Realty Group of Southwest Florida for several years now to rent our condo. They are fantastic to work with. Professional, friendly, attentive service and always deliver. I would recommend Michael, Carlina, Angela and all the team 100%. You are in safe hands.

Feb 23, 2024

Google - Jaime - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

Very professional, easy to work with, and have great connections to affordable repair services. I only think about my rental property when I get their monthly reports and rent payment. It's great.

Feb 20, 2024

Survey - Staci - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

Thank you!

Feb 20, 2024

Survey - Candace - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

Excellent service, excellent technician.

Feb 20, 2024

Google - Anthony - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

I have been using Realty Group SW for 4 years and can truly say this company and people are top-notch . Fair , efficient and reliable.. Thanks Mike and the crew

Feb 20, 2024

Google - Kathy - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

Very professional

Jan 31, 2024

Google - Michael - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

Michael is one of the best individuals I have worked in real estate. He is hands on, extremely detailed orientated and organized, and provides me sound advice. I'm not located in FL and rely on him to handle the transactions for my business, and I have complete confidence and trust in him. His team is also very organized and very easy to work with. I highly recommend Mike and his team for your real estate needs.

Jan 25, 2024

Google - Gina - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

They always get back to me very quickly and have the answers when I need.

Jan 21, 2024

Survey - Kathryn - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

Angela has been awesome. Smart, understanding and kind. The "fix it" guru is terrific and all repair companies that you have sent have been very competent and efficient.

Jan 20, 2024

Google - Nick - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

Mike and his team at Realty Group have taken great care of serving us faithfully for over 15 years! They are committed to going above and beyond and serving others with excellence!

Jan 19, 2024

Google - Dale - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

A wonderful experience working with them and very nice group of individuals.

Jan 18, 2024

Survey - Mary - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

The whole team was so helpful! Special thanks to Vincent who made everything so easy!

Nov 29, 2023

Google - Zack - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

I’d give many more stars if I had that option. Realty Group has handled my Vacation Rental for 5 years. They have been nothing short of spectacular. Any issue that surfaced was successfully handled promptly, efficiently, and most importantly exceeded the expectations of my renters. My agent, Carlina, was ALWAYS professional, ALWAYS positive and ALWAYS polite. In essence, Carlina was a perfect fit for my needs. My sincere thanks go out to Carlina and the entire staff at Realty Group of SW Florida.

Nov 28, 2023

Google - Ann - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

The house was absolutely perfect for our family. It is well designed, beautifully furnished and spotless. Everything was new and freshly updated, and the house was equipped with everything you could need. The neighborhood is fine and convenient to shopping, parks and recreational areas. The pool is large and the pool deck was perfect for hosting our local family members for an afternoon get together. The management company from which we rented was very responsive, helpful, professional and courteous in every contact we had with them. We look forward to renting from them again. Our experience was outstanding in every way!

Nov 3, 2023

Google - Susana - Realty Group of Southwest Florida

The staff at the Realty Group of Southwest Florida are doing a great job of renting out my condo. Since I had to work out of state they were able to take care of everything. This is the only place I would recommend and go back to.

9480 Corkscrew Palms Circle
Suite # 1
Estero, FL 33928

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(239) 949-0404