With white-sand bays, wildlife reserves and oceanfront resorts, Sanibel Island is a holiday destination of choice. Celebrated for its natural beauty, this island off the west coast of Florida has 15 miles (24 kilometres) of beach, mangrove forests and coral reefs teeming with fish.
Sanibel Island is a city and barrier island, connected to the mainland by a tollroad. On this small island you will not be going anywhere in a hurry. You can rent a bike and follow the 22 miles (35 kilometres) of bike trails traversing the island. With very few hills, this is not too strenuous, but note that there are no streetlights after dark.
On the beaches you can stand ankle deep in seashells. Take part in the “Sanibel Stoop,” a ritual for locals and tourists alike, which involves walking along the seashore to collect the shells washed up daily from the Caribbean and southern seas. Learn about the history and science of shells at Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum.
Go snorkeling, paddleboarding or windsurfing to try some of the water-based activities on offer. To get a break from the beach, enjoy the events at the Big Arts cultural centre, including jazz concerts and dance performances. For a slice of history, join a guided tour of Sanibel Historical Museum and Village and learn about local pioneer families.
Over two-thirds of Sanibel Island is a designated nature reserve. Be sure to visit J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. This undeveloped mangrove ecosystem is named after Jay Norwood Darling, a cartoonist who fought to protect the island from developers. Join a kayaking tour to discover the varied flora and fauna, including horseshoe crabs and woodpeckers. Visit the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife to see who takes care of the island’s injured birds and animals.
Sanibel Island places a strong emphasis on independent stores and restaurants. A prime example is Bailey’s General Store. The Baileys, one of the city’s original families, have been running the store since 1899. If you decide to try your hand at fishing during your visit to Sanibel Island, some of the restaurants are willing to cook your catch.
Sanibel Captiva Island
Where to stay in Sanibel Captiva Island
Beachview Country Club Estates
While visiting Beachview Country Club Estates, you might make a stop by sights like Periwinkle Way and Sanibel Island Golf Club.
Sanibel Isles
While Sanibel Isles isn't home to many top sights, Dunes Golf and Tennis Club and Periwinkle Way are some notable places to visit nearby.
Gulf Shores
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Gulf Shores and surrounding area, you can visit Alison Hagerup Beach Park and Jensen’s Marina.
Shell Harbor
While Shell Harbor isn't home to many top sights, Sanibel Moorings Botanical Gardens and Dunes Golf and Tennis Club are some notable places to visit nearby.
Sanctuary
While there might not be top attractions in Sanctuary, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Blind Pass Beach and Turner Beach.
The Dunes
While there might not be top attractions in The Dunes, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Dunes Golf and Tennis Club and Periwinkle Way.
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Popular places to visit
Bonita Springs Public Beach
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Bonita Springs Public Beach during your travels in Bonita Springs? Make time to visit the area's shops or simply enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
Sanibel Island Southern Beach
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Sanibel Island Southern Beach during your trip to Sanibel?
Lynn Hall Memorial Park
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Lynn Hall Memorial Park during your travels in Fort Myers Beach? Amble around this family-friendly area's seaside and enjoy its lively bars.
Boca Grande Beach
If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Boca Grande Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Port Charlotte - Charlotte Harbor. While you're in the area, wander around the parks.
North Captiva Island Beach
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at North Captiva Island Beach during your trip to Captiva? While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.
Bowman's Beach
Relax and revel in a visit to one of the area’s most beautiful beaches, great for swimming, fishing and finding special seashells.