Teed died in 1907. Since he was supposed to be immortal, his followers anxiously waited for him to be reincarnated or resurrected. By 1961, there were only four followers left. The end of the Koreshan Era was official when the leader at that time deeded the land to the state of Florida. The city of Estero eventually turned those lands into Koreshan State Park. Many people visit the park for traditional uses like hiking, camping, fishing, and kayaking. Others come to see the structures leftover from the commune.
Estero is now a mostly residential community nestled between Naples and Fort Myers. Estero is home to the Florida Everblades, a hockey team that plays at Germain Arena. The city is bordered by Florida Gulf Coast University campus as well.
When are the best times to visit Estero, FL?
The best times to visit Estero are from March until May. You won't get the price hikes that happen during the winter, but you can enjoy the weather before it gets too hot and stuffy. The winter is a great time to visit Estero to enjoy the beautiful weather. Prices tend to be more expensive during the winter because of all the snowbirds who flock to South Florida.
During the summer, it gets sweltering and humid. You'll get affordable prices on hotels, but the heat can be overwhelming for some people. South Florida also tends to get a lot of rain during the summer, but fortunately, the rain typically comes as a downpour and is over quickly. As long as you're not at the beach when the rain comes, it shouldn't put too big of a damper on your vacation.
You'll get affordable prices on hotels during the fall also, but it's a gamble traveling to Estero during the fall because of hurricane season. Although you'll likely get a good deal on a hotel, you run the risk of being stuck inside because of the rain, or even having your trip canceled because of a hurricane threat.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Estero, FL:
Estero by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs demonstrating mean price patterns by star rating class in Estero, FL. You can use these charts to determine the cheapest time period to book in Estero for any future trips.
Where are the luxury hotels near Estero, FL?
4 Star Average Prices: $243.91
For a luxury stay near Estero, book your room at the Ritz Carlton Naples. Although this hotel is about 15 miles away, you won't be disappointed in this high-end hotel. It will be hard to drag yourself out of the pillow-top bed with Egyptian cotton sheets and down comforters. Take advantage of the designer toiletries while you soak in the tub. The hotel also offers a premium spa, two swimming pools, a 24-hour health club, and outdoor tennis courts for you to enjoy during your stay.
For a higher-end option a little closer to Estero, consider a stay at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa. This waterfront property offers a golf course, water features, and a spa on-site. The grounds have eight pools for guests to use including a lap pool, a waterfall pool, and a lazy river. You won't lack for anything during your stay with on-site child care services, a sauna, Jacuzzi, and a complimentary newspaper to start your day. This pet-friendly hotel will help you enjoy a luxurious vacation near Estero.
What affordable hotel options are around Estero, FL?
3 Star Average Prices: $160.82
For an affordable option near Estero, try out the Days Inn Fort Myers Springs Resort about 4 miles away on Highway 41. Browse the free internet while enjoying the complimentary continental breakfast. Soak up the sun by the swimming pool or relax in one of the two mineral pools. Spend the afternoon or evening at the Tiki Bar located on the hotel grounds. This hotel has a lot of amenities and won't break your budget for your Florida stay.
Another affordable option, located about 5 miles away from Estero, is the Outrigger Beach Resort. All rooms have a refrigerator and coffee pot. You also have the opportunity to book an efficiency that has a full kitchen ideal for extended stays. Head to the Tiki Bar from noon until sunset or take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool. Guest services are also available to help you make the most of your vacation.
2 Star Average Prices: $95.85
What are the best hotels in the Estero, FL for group discounts?
If you're a member of AAA, take advantage of your discount at the Embassy Suites Fort Myers Estero hotel. This hotel is the only all-suite hotel in the area with rooms that feature separate bedrooms and living room with a mini-fridge, microwave, and coffeemaker. The hotel offers a complimentary made-to-order breakfast and a manager's reception in the evening with complimentary drinks and snacks. On the grounds, you will find an atrium with a waterfall, a swimming pool, and a whirlpool to enjoy during your stay.
If you qualify for a senior discount or a military discount, consider a stay at the Townplace Suites by Marriott Fort Myers Estero. This hotel puts you close to Coconut Point Mall, Raptor Bay Golf Club, and Koreshan State Historic Site. Each room has a refrigerator, stove top, and microwave. Enjoy the complimentary buffet breakfast. Take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool or get your heart rate pumping in the fitness center. Free internet is also included in your stay.
What hotels in Estero, FL have the best value?
To get the most out of your money, consider a stay at the Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Myers-Estero/FGCU. Each of the rooms provides a refrigerator and microwave. Free internet is available throughout the hotel. Enjoy browsing the internet while eating your complimentary hot/cold breakfast. You can also enjoy relaxing by the pool or working out in the fitness center.
Another great value is the Hyatt Place Coconut Point within walking distance to Coconut Point Mall. Every room has refrigerators, desks, and a separate sitting area. Enjoy surfing the free internet or watching the free cable television. The hotel also offers an outdoor pool and a fitness center for you to use during your stay at the Hyatt Place.
Where can you find stunning beaches near Estero, FL?
Estero Bay separates the beaches in Estero from the other beaches in the area. Although Estero Beaches are good for the convenience and location, other beaches in the area offer smoother sand and more amenities for you to enjoy. You have a huge variety of beaches within a 30-minute drive from your hotel. Picking with all the options might be difficult.
An excellent place to start is Bonita Beach Park. Only a 15-minute drive from Estero, the beach offers restroom facilities, sand volleyball courts, picnic shelters, and parking. Bowditch Beach Park is another option. The first handicap-accessible beach, Bowditch Beach Park covers 17 acres of Estero Island. Take advantage of the hiking trails, or spend your day out on the water renting kayaks, paddle boards, or Jet Skis.
Head to Naples to visit Clam Pass Park. About 20 minutes away from Estero, this beach has a beautiful boardwalk, food stands, and water sports rentals. There are also restroom facilities at Clam Pass Park. Also in Naples, you could try Naples Municipal Beach. This iconic beach sits at the historic Naples Pier. The beach includes restroom facilities, showers, and food concessions.
For a slightly different experience, try out the beaches at Miromar Lakes. Miromar Lakes is comprised of 700 acres of freshwater lakes. The lakes have 3 miles of private beaches. Consider booking a hotel that offers beachfront access to enjoy the pristine waters at Miromar Lakes.
If you're bringing your furry friend on your vacation, head to Lee County Dog Beach. Located on Estero Boulevard in Fort Myers, this beach has been sectioned off specifically for your pup to enjoy. Dog owners can bring up to two dogs to let off leash to run through the sands or get in the water. The beach has a pet washing station, restrooms, and free parking.
Beaches aren't the only thing to do near Estero. Consider checking out Mound Key Archeological State Park, which is only accessible by boat. Walk through the trails and use the interpretive displays to learn more about the history of the island. The park does not have any facilities.
Many people get to the Mound Key Archeological State Park by launching at Koreshan State Park. This park is also worth spending some time to visit one of the 11 buildings left over from the Koreshan era. These structures offer an inside look at how the people lived and provide more understanding into their interesting beliefs.
Estero, Florida, is nestled between some of the best Florida cities for beaches and vacation. This city offers a prime location to visit stunning beaches, but also holds its own for things to do for a fun and educational experience into the history of Florida and settlement of this area.
FAQs about hotels in Estero
How much does a cheap hotel in Estero cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Estero can be as cheap as $95.85 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Estero cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Estero has been $160.82 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 4-5 star hotel in Estero cost?
In the last year, the average 4 star hotel in Estero has been $243.91 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
Verified reviews of the city of Estero
Below are reviews of the city of Estero, FL from an actual visitor's perspective.
"WISCONSIN Day at Parrot Key!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Was in town for WISCONSIN Day at Parrot Key!
Rebecca S., from 04-Mar-2024
"Beaches, Shopping, Dining"
Score
5.0 / 5
The beaches, shopping, restaurants and the hotel's beautiful pools and accessories!
Omar B., from 12-Jan-2024
"Great staff, rooms and cocktail hour!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Great staff, room, cocktail hour!
Ron C., from 14-Nov-2023
"Nice!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Nice!
Ron C., from 12-Nov-2023
"All Good"
Score
5.0 / 5
I know the town of Estero. Only have good things to say about it.
Patricia H., from 30-Aug-2023
"Near a Mall & Restaurants"
Score
5.0 / 5
Shopping at a nearby mall with plenty of restaurants.
Johane C., from 16-Aug-2023
"Enjoyed Our Stay"
Score
5.0 / 5
It was pretty. Enjoyed our stay in the area.
Sandee M., from 30-Jun-2023
"Great location by outlet mall and Hertz Arena."
Score
4.0 / 5
Great location by outlet mall and Hertz Arena.
Bruce T., from 12-Jun-2023
"Fort Meyers Beach"
Score
5.0 / 5
I've been coming here for 16 years and have owned several properties on Fort Myers Beach!
Kenneth C., from 10-Oct-2022
"Shopping!"
Score
4.0 / 5
The shopping!
Tressa S., from 10-Sep-2022
"Good shopping and restaurants."
Score
4.0 / 5
Good shopping and restaurants. Friendly people.
Neil A., from 14-Jun-2022
"Good Central Location"
Score
5.0 / 5
In the center of everything
Kevin H., from 04-Apr-2022
"Beautiful!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Beautiful!
Isis I., from 14-Dec-2021
"Beautiful!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Beautiful!
Isis I., from 12-Dec-2021
The average traveler rating of the city of Estero, FL shown above is
4.5 out of 5 based on 14 reviews