Sanibel Island is located in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Florida. Sanibel is a barrier island, meaning that it is separated from the mainland by a body of water. The Island is known for its sandy beaches, abundance of shells and alligators. The island also has many great restaurants, shops, and activities for visitors to enjoy such as biking, kayaking, swimming and more. Here are top things to do in Sanibel Island as well as some of the best places to see nearby.
Things To Do In Sanibel Island
Have you ever visited Sanibel Island? If not, you’re missing out on one of the most beautiful and secluded beach destinations in Florida! Here are one of the best things to do in Sanibel Island that will make you want to come back again and again.
Ding Darling National Wildlife Refugee
Sanibel Island is home to the Darling National Wildlife Refuge, which is a must-see for nature lovers. The refuge is a great place to see all sorts of wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, and turtles. There are also plenty of hiking trails to explore, and the views from the top of the lighthouse are simply stunning. If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, Sanibel Island is the perfect destination.
Visit Sannibel Lighthouse Beach Park
If you’re looking for things to do in Sanibel Island, one of the best places to start is at the Sanibel Island Lighthouse Beach Park. This popular spot is home to a variety of activities and attractions, including a lighthouse, a museum, and miles of beautiful beaches. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, picnicking, and bird watching. The Sanibel lighthouse was built it late 1800’s and is one of the most popular landmarks on the island.
Periwinkle Way
If you’re looking for things to do in Sanibel Island, look no further than Periwinkle Way. This quaint little shopping district is home to a variety of shops and restaurants, perfect for a day of exploring. Be sure to check out the iconic Island Cow restaurant, where you can get your fill of delicious ice cream and burgers. Other great places to eat include Lazy Flamingo and Jerry’s Foods. And if you’re looking for a souvenir to take home with you, be sure to stop by the Ding Darling Nature Store 2, where you can find a wide selection of nature-themed merchandise.
Sanibel Historical Museum And Village
The Sanibel Historical Museum And Village is a great place to learn about the history of Sanibel Island. The museum features exhibits the buildings, artifacts and photographs that depict the island’s past. There is also a nature trail on the property that offers visitors a chance to view the natural habitats of Sanibel Island. There are also live presentations and educational programs available at the museum.
Tarpon Fishing
No visit to Sanibel Island is complete without exploring its waterways. Tarpon Bay Explorers offers kayak and paddleboard rentals, as well as guided tours of the bay. Tarpon fishing is a popular activity in the area, and there are several charter companies that offer trips. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are plenty of spots for bird watching and seashell collecting.
Explore The Sanibal Mangrove System
This system is one of the most important ecosystems in Southwest Florida. This system provides critical habitat for many species of fish, birds, and other wildlife. The mangroves also help to protect our coast from storms and erosion. There are several ways to explore them. You can kayak or canoe through the mangroves, go on a guided tour, or hike along the many trails that wind through them.
Causeway Islands Park
Causeway Islands Park is located on the Sanibel Causeway, just minutes from downtown Fort Myers. The park is made up of two islands, which are connected by a bridge. There is a picnic pavilion, grills, a playground, and a fishing pier. The causeway also has a biking path that goes over the bridge and connects to the island. The park is a great place to spend the day, and it’s free!
Big Arts Sanibel Island
The Big Arts Sanibel Island is a magnificent performing arts center that offers a wide variety of cultural events and activities for the whole family to enjoy. This spectacular venue is located on beautiful Sanibel Island and features state-of-the-art performing arts facilities. This is the perfect place to experience wonderful music, theater, and dance performances.
Things To Do In Captiva Island
If you’re visiting Sanibel Island, be sure to see Captiva Island as well, which is located just a few miles of Sanibel. You can say that Sanibel and Captiva are very similar. This island is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the sun, with its pristine beaches and quiet atmosphere. On Captiva Island, you can visit Blind Pass Beach, which is the perfect place to enjoy a day of sun, sand, and surf. With its wide array of amenities, the beach has something for everyone. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, fish, picnic, and much more.
South Seas Island Resort is a great resort for your whole family to enjoy. Things to do at the resort include: swimming in one of the three pools, playing tennis, working out in the fitness center or playing golf.
Best Things To See In Fort Myers
If you ever visit the Island, be sure to visit the nearest area as well. Fort Myers is considered to be the historical and cultural center of the Island and is only a few miles away. This place is home to many art galleries, shops, restaurants, and historical sites.
The Beach Art Walk and Edison And Ford Winter Estates
The Beach Art Walk is a must-see for art lovers. This mile-long stretch features over 20 different sculptures by local artists. The walk is open 24 hours a day and is free to the public. For a more historical experience, visit the Edison & Ford Winter Estates. These two homes belonged to famous inventors Thomas Edison and Henry Ford and are now open to tours. The estated also feature gardens, a museum, and an antique car collection.
Downtown
If you’re looking for some great shopping, head to downtown Fort Myers. This area is home to many boutique shops selling everything from clothes to home goods. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants here, serving up both local and international cuisine. And finally, no trip to the Islands would be complete without visiting one of its many beaches. The most popular beach is Fort Myers Beach, which offers stunning views of the Gulf coast of Mexico. So whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed adventure, Sanibel Island and the surrounding areas have a lot to offer!
Best Time To Go To Sanibel Island
The best time to go to Sanibel Island is from December to April. The weather is usually sunny and warm. If you visit in the summer, be prepared for high temperatures and humidity. The beaches can be crowded during the summer months. Sanibel and Captiva Islands are one of the best places to go to for your island vacation. There are plenty of things to do on Sanibel Island, but beach walks, bike paths and Sanibel moorings botanical gardens will definitely make your stay unforgettable!
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