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 kilometers) 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 kilometers) 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 center, 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
Travel Guide
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Beachview Country Club Estates
If you're spending some time in Beachview Country Club Estates, Periwinkle Way and Sanibel Island Golf Club are top sights worth seeing.

Sanctuary
While Sanctuary might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Blind Pass Beach and Turner Beach.

Gulf Shores
When in Gulf Shores, you can plan a visit to Alison Hagerup Beach Park and Jensen’s Marina, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Shell Harbor
Though Shell Harbor might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Sanibel Moorings Botanical Gardens and Dunes Golf and Tennis Club.

The Dunes
When in The Dunes, you can plan a visit to Dunes Golf and Tennis Club and Periwinkle Way, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Del Sega
If you're spending some time in Del Sega, Blind Pass Beach and J. N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge are top sights worth seeing.

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Popular places to visit

Sanibel Island Southern Beach
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Sanibel Island Southern Beach during your trip to Sanibel?

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.

Sanibel Island Lighthouse
You can find out about the history of Sanibel when you stop by Sanibel Island Lighthouse. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in this family-friendly area.

Captiva Beach
If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Captiva Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Captiva. Discover the beautiful sunsets in this relaxing area.

Sanibel Island Northern Beach
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Sanibel Island Northern Beach during your trip to Sanibel? Discover the beautiful sunsets in this relaxing area, or enjoy its biking trails.

Periwinkle Way
The island’s spine is also its commercial hub. Drive or bike the road’s length to find attractions and discover many stores and restaurants.
Things to do

Fort Myers Beach: Adults only BYOB Tiki Pub Daytime Cruise

Fort Myers Beach Dolphin & Sightseeing Tour Refreshments Included

Southwest Florida Sunset Sail
