A guide to spending a vacation on Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island is located around 25 miles towards the Fort Myers South and is well known as the family-friendly place in Florida in association with Captiva Island, its little sister drawing vacationers from far and wide to explore the rich ecosystem in the beautiful beaches.
Things to Do
The sandy beaches of the island are the attraction, besides it has long stretches of crashing surf or sand. The most popular is the Bowman’s Beach, and it is secluded featuring a beautiful coastline that entices sailors and windsurfers. It is an excellent place for shell collectors coming to pick cockles and conches.
Sanibel is enveloped by natural surroundings and is dotted by potential adventures, and the not-to-miss is the Darling National Wildlife Refuge that has hundreds of animals including endangered giant manatees, crocodiles and a vast bird life.
Merely walking on the mangrove lined trails of kayaking is peaceful, but people running short of time and are accompanied by small kids, may drive through the refuge using a bike. There is a GPS treasure outdoor hunt that educates about local wildlife and is fun for kids. Great Calusa Blueway is another outdoor destination featuring a 190-mile long kayak trail and canoe offering the beginners and mature paddlers a fascinating time. The Botanical Gardens features hundreds of native and non-native plants varieties.
Places to Stay
Casa Ybel is a wonderful option to stay for families who love the beach stay. There are 114 condo featuring beach fronts Hilton property that have kitchens to cook in easily. The property has manicured lawns, palm trees, and Adirondack chairs. There is enough for little ones to stay occupied such as the kids club, playground, and a pool, offering their parents time to enjoy the in-suite spa treatments.
Couples looking for the romantic hotel may find one at the Island Inn offering beachfront rooms or cottages along the coastline. Bicycle, kayak, and paddleboard are available on rentals, while there are lawn games and sports as well.
Places to Eat and Drink
Seafood is the best. The Island Cow is a kid-friendly, cheap sport featuring Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille. This is a loved spot for sports lovers. Il Cielo offers American food and has it served neatly on the white tablecloths. You may add free-range chicken, local fish freshly caught and local, organic vegetables.
The Sandbar is away from the main area. It is a modern seafood spot offering delicious steaks and refreshing cocktails. However, Lazy Flamingo is an ideal choice for grub and guests can bring fresh fish caught to the kitchen cooks and get it grilled, fried or enjoy anything for $10.
Getting There
The airport Florida International is located 20 miles from Sanibel Island in Fort Myers. Guests flying into Fort Lauderdale, Miami and Orlando airports may proceed from Tampa International Airport on 1-75 to the Sanibel-south.
Day Trip
Captiva Island receivers more vacationers and takes only 20 minutes from Sanibel. Spending a day on the island’s beach, eating some coconut cake and enjoying a sunset catamaran cruise is worthy. The island offers plenty for snorkelers and kayakers.
Best time
May – June is the best time to visit as the water is warm and the sun is shining. Winter is between January to April and is the best time, though getting into the water is impossible.
