Conservation Draws a Crowd

Boasting the usual attractions-full-service European spa, 27-hole championship golf course, and waterslide pool-the new Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa in Bonita Springs is among the newest Southwest Florida venues for sun-seeking tourists. Yet the resort is also attempting to attract another kind of visitor-the nature lover and history buff.

With help from Lee County native Arden Arrington, a noted environmentalist, educator, journalist and tour operator, the resort is embracing its environmentally and culturally rich location-Estero Bay.

Arrington, who now serves as the Hyatt's environmental education director, offers nature-based programs for both adults and children, including boat tours, beach excursions and nature walks. He calls it "fun learning."

"This is completely new to the hotel industry," says Carlos Cabrera, vice president and managing director of the resort. "I hope the whole industry embraces it."

The surrounding environment, which was once home to native Indians, Spanish explorers and Euro-American settlers, is Florida's oldest aquatic preserve and the site of the well-preserved Calusa Indian Shell Mound.

"Our environment has impacted those people who live here and we have the opportunity to share that," Arrington says. "It will give visitors a sense of place."

The resort has gone so far as to establish an interpretative center, which tells the area's story through photographs. Further exhibits include conservation issues and marine and plant life.

Arrington is also working with Audubon International to provide tours of a private preserve near the resort. "It is untouched," he says. "It will let them see Florida how it was 500 years ago."

Cabrera hopes that in addition to the fun memories of golfing, swimming and dining, guests will also leave with a newfound respect and knowledge of the area.

"We are privileged to be here," he says. "This is an opportunity to educate people and give them a hands-on experience. They will want to come back."