Community Overview

Estero is Spanish for "estuary," and this area has been slowly transformed from the unspoiled land that was once little more than a remote home for a newfound religious sect and habitat for an Everglades draining ecosystem. Until just a few decades ago, Estero — nestled in south Lee County — was a nearly empty expanse of cow pastures, orange groves, historic homes and a lazy Estero river draining into the bay. But, boy how times have changed!

The Estero River is still there for visitors and residents to explore, but perhaps that has been overshadowed by the break-neck pace at which Estero has developed into one of the fastest growing areas of Lee County.

In 1990, a little over 3,000 residents called it home. Today, that number has tripled and continues to increase. To keep growth under control, residents have banded together to persuade the county to only allow Mediterranean-style architecture and upscale stores. Even gas stations must conform to the look of luxury.

Transformed from a nearly empty expanse of cow pastures and orange groves, the area now boasts not only some of the area's most gorgeous expanses of beach, but also many upscale restaurants and stores, including shops that feaure the latest fashions by top designers for the ultimate shopping experience.