Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve
About
365-Acre Mangrove Preserve Along the Caloosahatchee
Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve is Cape Coral's second-largest preserve - 365 acres of mangrove forest along the Caloosahatchee River with boardwalk trails, kayak launches, and wildlife observation platforms.
What Kids Can Do
The loop boardwalk through the mangrove fringe lets kids spot fiddler crabs, mangrove tree crabs, and great blue herons. Kayak rentals from the on-site Kayak Shack (Nov-May) for paddling the Caloosahatchee. Vietnam Veterans Memorial sits at the preserve's south side. Interpretive signs explain mangrove ecology. Manatees occasionally visible in winter months in the river [marked: Kayak Shack seasonal Nov-May only - call ahead for rental schedule].
What's Included
Free day-use of all trails, boardwalks, and observation platforms. Kayak rentals $15-35 seasonal at the Kayak Shack.
Experience
Plan 1-3 hours. Almost entirely outdoor - bring sun protection, water, bug spray (heavy mosquitos summer-fall). Stroller-friendly boardwalks. About 3 miles east of downtown Cape Coral. Free on-site parking. Open daily 8am-dusk.