About Sanibel Island Florida:

The fun never stops on Sanibel Island. Having a sub-tropical climate, visitors and residents enjoy the outdoors and sunshine all year long.

Sanibel Island is world renowned for its abundance of pastel colored seashells and the “Sanibel Stoop”. You can test your mettle on the golf courses in the area and fishing and boating are unequalled. There are twenty-five miles of bike paths for you to explore the island.  Restaurants offer Floribian flair of foods and choose from casual to fine dining. Our island restaurants await you. Sanibel Island is home to world famous J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge its 6,000 acres of mangrove jungles and wetlands encompass a large portion of the island, it is home to dozens of endangered species, see manatees, alligators, raccoons, tropical birds and much more. You can explore the refuge by car, foot, bicycle, kayak or guided tram. An experience the whole family will enjoy.

At roughly 15 miles long and 5 miles across at its widest, Sanibel Island’s small size belies its rich and intriguing history, abundant flora & fauna, plentiful stretches of exquisite beaches, and the depth of the culture & hospitality of its residents. Sanibel’s beaches are famous for their pristine sands and abundant shells.  Breathtaking sunsets and playful dolphins contribute to the excitement of boating tours, and the beautiful waters of the island offer some of the finest fishing in the world. Other active ways of appreciating the plant, wildlife, and fish are to go biking, paddleboarding or kayaking.

• J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge: This sprawling refuge is part of the largest undeveloped mangrove ecosystem in the United States and is a haven for diverse wildlife, especially migratory birds. Visitors can explore the refuge via wildlife drives, walking trails, bike paths, and even canoe or kayak trails. It's a great spot for birdwatching and observing other creatures like alligators, bobcats, raccoons, and manatees.
• Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium: Sanibel Island is known as the "Seashell Capital of the World," and this museum is a must-visit for shell enthusiasts. It's the only museum in the U.S. dedicated solely to shells and mollusks, showcasing a vast collection of over 400 varieties, including the prized Junonia shell.
• Sanibel Island Lighthouse (Point Ybel Light): This iconic lighthouse, first lit in 1884, is a historical landmark and a popular spot for photography. While the lighthouse itself is not open for public tours, the surrounding park offers beach access, a fishing pier, and beautiful views.
• Sanibel Historical Museum and Village: Immerse yourself in the island's rich past by exploring restored buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The village showcases the lives of early settlers, the island's agricultural roots, and the evolution of its community.
• Bowman's Beach: Renowned for its shelling opportunities, this spacious beach provides a tranquil environment for relaxing, sunbathing, and swimming. It's particularly rewarding for shell collectors, especially after storms.
• Blind Pass Beach: Located at the boundary between Sanibel and Captiva islands, Blind Pass Beach is another excellent destination for shelling and fishing. The beach boasts a unique characteristic with shells arriving from both the Gulf and bayside.
• Periwinkle Place: For those looking for a bit of retail therapy and dining, Periwinkle Place is a premier shopping destination. It offers a variety of shops and restaurants amidst lush landscaping and tropical fountains.
• Sanibel Causeway: The causeway connecting Sanibel Island to the mainland offers stunning panoramic views of the Gulf waters. It's also a popular spot for fishing and enjoying the sea breeze, and even for activities like sunset paddles and picnics.