Bonita Springs' history dates back approximately 8,000 years, with evidence of early inhabitants including the Calusa Indians. In the 1870s, the US Army Corps of Engineers surveyed the area, establishing a camp along what is now the Imperial River. This site became known as Survey, and the river was called Surveyor's Creek
In the 1880s, Braxton Comer bought 6,000 acres around Survey and brought indentured families to work on his plantation. By the early 20th century, developers decided to rename the area Bonita Springs to make it more appealing to settlers and investors. By 1912, streets and avenues were laid out, and the names Survey and Surveyor's Creek were changed to Bonita Springs and the Imperial River, respectively.
The completion of a road to Fort Myers in 1917 and the extension of the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad's Fort Myers Southern Branch through Bonita Springs to Marco Island in the 1920s spurred significant growth. The Tamiami Trail, completed in 1928, further contributed to this development. During this time, Bonita Springs experienced a land boom, leading to the establishment of citrus groves and various tourist attractions, including the Everglades Wonder Gardens and the Shell Factory.
The advent of air conditioning, the construction of Interstate 75, and the opening of Southwest Florida International Airport in the late 20th century brought more tourists and retirees to Bonita Springs. Today, it is known for its beautiful beaches, luxury golf courses, and a thriving community, attracting both residents and businesses.
