20 Best Things to Do in Sanibel Island, FL
I recently visited Sanibel Island, a breathtaking gem nestled along the Gulf of Mexico near Fort Myers.
Known for its charming lighthouse, luxurious resorts, and stunning sunsets, I was instantly captivated by the island's beauty.
As I explored the island, I discovered that it is primarily made of sand, which is unique compared to the typical rock found on the leeward side of Pine Island.
What drew me to this central Florida paradise were the wildlife refuges and shell beaches attracting countless tourists yearly.
Over half of the island is dedicated to wildlife refuges, with the largest being the J. N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
The abundance of nature truly made me feel connected to the environment.
I was also delighted to find several theaters offering various entertainment options.
Beyond the culinary delights and natural beauty, Sanibel Island provided me with unforgettable experiences.
This island escape allowed me to truly unwind and immerse myself in nature, far away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
If you ever find yourself in Lee County, Florida, I highly recommend exploring the best things to do that Sanibel Island has to offer.
Get a Sense of the Island’s Fascinating Shell Exhibits at Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum
During my vacation on Sanibel Island, I found that the perfect way to keep the kids entertained is to visit the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum.
This one-of-a-kind museum showcases the beauty of shells and the creatures that create them, providing a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with nature.
What sets this museum apart is that it's the only accredited museum in the country focusing exclusively on mollusks, shells, and other fascinating sea-dwelling organisms.
The kids were thrilled to explore the touch pools, where they could get up close and personal with live mollusks.
The scavenger hunt tour was a hit with the whole family – not only was it fun, but everyone won prizes too!
We also had a blast watching the Giant Pacific Octopus stretch its tentacles as it feasted on plankton.
If you're looking for a fun, educational, and engaging activity for the whole family on Sanibel Island, I highly recommend checking out the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum.
It's a memorable experience that both kids and adults will love!
Find True Seashell Gems at Bowman’s Beach
I also had the opportunity to explore the famous Bowman's Beach, known for its stunning seashells and pristine sands.
Finding those gorgeous shells required a bit of effort, but it was an adventure I was eager to undertake.
As I waded into the water and dug my feet into the sand, I discovered hidden shell treasures waiting to be found.
The excitement of uncovering these natural gems was truly exhilarating.
Bowman's Beach offered me a serene paradise, with its expansive sands and unparalleled shelling experience.
While some beachgoers were there for the shelling, others enjoyed cycling along the nearby bike paths, which added another layer of charm to the area.
Although Bowman's Beach isn't as developed as other parts of the island, I appreciated the amenities, such as grills, picnic tables, bike paths, and bathrooms.
My time at Bowman's Beach was extraordinary, and I'll never forget the unique treasures I discovered during my stay.
Enjoy a Nice Nature Walk While Taking in the Beauty of Sanibel Moorings Botanical Gardens
On my recent trip to Sanibel Island, I stumbled upon a hidden gem tucked away in the southeast corner, surrounded by palm trees.
Sanibel Moorings Botanical Gardens, a 6-acre secret sanctuary, was beautifully woven around a stunning beachfront resort.
This peaceful retreat was a delightful surprise, and I couldn't wait to explore it further.
Sanibel Moorings Botanical Gardens was a lush paradise, home to hundreds of unusual and exotic tropical species, as well as native plants.
I was amazed at the diversity and vibrancy of the flora, making it a true haven for plant enthusiasts like myself.
The educational tours offered here allowed me to delve deeper into the wonders of Sanibel Island's natural beauty, providing a unique and informative experience.
I also enjoyed the self-guided walking tour, which led me through an enchanting collection of cacti, bromeliads, orchids, hibiscus, fruits, cycads, and palms.
But the gardens weren't just about the plants.
I was delighted to observe resident butterflies, rabbits, and turtles thriving in their wildlife garden home.
Enjoy Some Delightful French Cuisine
While visiting Sanibel Island, I found a delightful gem on Periwinkle Way Suite A: Bleu Rendez-Vous French Bistro.
As a lover of French cuisine, I couldn't resist indulging in an authentic dining experience, so I gathered some friends and headed inside.
From the moment we entered, I was impressed by the seamless blend of classic French dining and warm Southern hospitality that enveloped us.
The ambiance at Bleu Rendez-Vous was truly enchanting, with impeccable service, mouthwatering entrees, appetizers, and a superb wine selection.
Despite its spacious interior and open ceiling, the restaurant managed to maintain an inviting and intimate atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind with friends.
Go on a Shopping Spree at Tahitian Gardens and Periwinkle Place
I was looking for quality souvenirs to remember my trip by during my stay on Sanibel Island.
That's when I discovered Tahitian Gardens and Periwinkle Place, offering a fantastic selection of unique pieces I couldn't find in typical retail stores.
Tahitian Gardens truly provided a shopping experience like no other.
With its diverse range of unique collections, designer labels, jewelry, toys, and more, I found the perfect keepsakes to take home.
I also enjoyed the family-style dining options, where I could savor delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals.
Another excellent shopping destination was Sanibel's Periwinkle Place, located on the island's busiest thoroughfare.
With 26 shops and restaurants, I was spoiled for choice.
Some highlights included the Blue Giraffe Restaurant, the Sanibel Day Spa, and the Original Chico's.
To top it off, the center was adorned with gorgeous gardens and fountains, creating a relaxing atmosphere that made my shopping experience even more enjoyable.
Buy Something at the Sanibel Farmers Market
Established in 2008, the Sanibel Farmers Market is the perfect place for fresh, locally-grown produce.
It was the perfect place to find fresh, locally-grown produce and immerse myself in the local culture.
The market was filled with vendors offering a variety of affordable items, perfect for gifts and souvenirs to take home.
I loved taking a break from touring Sanibel and discovering all the unique local products available.
I also enjoyed shopping for farm-fresh products, honey, beautiful flowers, t-shirts, local handicrafts, and cheeses.
Visit J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge for Some Bird Watching Opportunities
J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is a beautiful sight as it allows you to view different bird species in their natural habitat.
It's a must-see destination for birdwatchers of all levels.
This protected wildlife refuge, located on the subtropical barrier of Sanibel Island, is part of a sprawling and pristine mangrove ecosystem.
It's home to many unique animal species and indigenous plants that thrive in this area.
Established in 1945 by a presidential decree signed by Harry S. Truman, the refuge aimed to protect endangered birds living in the area.
In 1967, it was renamed in honor of Jay Norwood Darling.
Bird enthusiasts from around the world flock to this renowned sanctuary to witness numerous migratory species found only near Sanibel Island.
I was amazed by the diverse birdlife and felt incredibly fortunate to be in the presence of such rare and beautiful creatures.
Not only is the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge a haven for birds, but it also hosts some of the most spectacular bird festivals in the area.
Experience an Exciting Boat Tour around the Majestic Gulf of Mexico and Pine Island Sound
For anyone who loves ocean fishing or yacht cruising, the marina offers a large selection of quality yachts and fishing boats available for rent.
One of the highlights of my trip was hopping aboard the Sanibel Thriller, a 55-foot motor yacht that took my family and me on an exhilarating boat tour around the Gulf of Mexico and Pine Island Sound.
With nothing but open waters in sight, we cruised along the shores of Sanibel Island and Captiva Island, taking in the stunning views of the beautiful waterways surrounding these coastal communities.
After our adventure on the water, we headed to Gramma Dot's, a fantastic restaurant in Sanibel Marina.
Open every day of the week for lunch and dinner, the menu featured delicious seafood dishes, sandwiches, salads, and more, all made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Soak Up Some Beautiful Florida Sunshine at Sanibel Lighthouse Beach Park
Nestled on Sanibel Island's southern tip is the island's iconic lighthouse, which was built in 1884.
Sanibel Lighthouse Beach Park quickly became one of my favorite spots to comb the shoreline for the perfect shell and enjoy breathtaking Gulf views.
Whether I was fishing, treasure hunting, kayaking, or wading in the warm water, I loved being at one with nature while basking in the beautiful Florida sunshine.
It's true that the beach can get quite busy due to its popularity, but I made sure to arrive early to avoid the crowds and secure a convenient parking spot.
The Sanibel Lighthouse, with its rich history and connection to the west coast, is a warm, historic reminder of the island's past.
I highly recommend visiting Sanibel Lighthouse Beach Park for a memorable experience, surrounded by natural beauty and the enchanting lighthouse.
Meet Your Feathered Friends at Periwinkle Park and Campground Aviary
Located at Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island, Periwinkle Park and Campground Aviary offers RV and tent sites for a wonderful camping experience.
I spent several enjoyable hours combing the shoreline for that perfect shell, which made for a fun and relaxing experience.
It's worth noting that the park can get quite busy due to its popularity, so I recommend arriving early to avoid the crowds and secure a parking spot.
The Sanibel Lighthouse stands as a warm, historic reminder of the island's rich history and the west coast itself.
Whether you're into fishing, kayaking, or simply wading in the warm water, this park allows you to be at one with nature while basking in the beautiful Florida sunshine.
Breathe in the Art at BIG ARTS Sanibel
I had the pleasure of visiting BIG ARTS, a cultural institution established in 1979 by the community for the community.
As soon as I set foot in the place, I could feel the rich history and the dedication of the creators who have made it a pillar of island culture.
People from all over the world come to experience its island's beauty, graceful decor, and authentic atmosphere.
BIG ARTS Sanibel is a special gathering place that serves as an artistic and educational platform for everyone who wants to engage with it.
I was blown away by the warmth and friendliness of the patrons and supporters who help this incredible art center thrive.
They continue to operate as a space of inspiration and joy, providing an immersive sense of community to future generations.
Get in Touch with Sanibel Island’s Past at Sanibel Historical Museum and Village
Established in 1984, the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village preserves local history and shares it with visitors from near and far.
From the Spanish period and Native American Calusa to the early pioneering settlers in the 1800s, the museum paints a vivid picture of the island's rich history.
I was just one of the approximately 10,000 people who visit each year, eager to learn about the adventures, warriors, farmers, proprietors, and fishermen who have called Sanibel Island home.
The museum grounds house nine original structures, each relocated and meticulously restored to their original condition.
I was particularly captivated by the old Ford Model T truck from 1927 and the replicas of a packing house on display in the museum's garage.
Throughout my visit, the knowledgeable volunteer docents at the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village shared countless stories and insights, making it an unforgettable and enriching experience.
Visit Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife
When I visited Sanibel Island, I had the opportunity to explore the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW).
This incredible rehabilitation center takes in injured animals, nurtures them back to health, and releases them back into the wild once they're fully healed.
It was truly inspiring to witness the dedication and care put into preserving the diverse wildlife in the area.
CROW is also a fantastic place to learn more about the natural surroundings and how to take better care of the wildlife in our environment.
At the Visitor Education Center, I got an up-close and personal glimpse of their animal care through state-of-the-art technology and interactive displays.
The knowledgeable staff, volunteers, and students provided daily presentations, making the experience educational and engaging.
As one of Florida's leading rehabilitation centers for migratory and native wild animals, CROW's veterinary hospital cares for over 5,000 wildlife patients each year.
This includes over 200 species of injured, sick, and orphaned wildlife.
Get a Brain Freeze at Pinocchio's Original Italian Ice Cream
I visited Pinocchio's Original Italian Ice Cream shop in Periwinkle Place Shopping Center, and I have to say, their sorbets, frozen yogurts, and gelatos were absolutely delicious!
Pinocchio's takes pride in using fresh ingredients and making ice cream in small batches.
What I loved most was that they prepared each ice cream or frozen yogurt right when I ordered it, ensuring maximum freshness.
I tried their famous Sanibel Krunch ice cream, which was a heavenly mix of homemade vanilla ice cream, freshly toasted coconut, gourmet mixed nuts, chocolates, and a few unique ingredients.
I also sampled some of their other amazing and unique ice creams, like the Dirty Sand Dollar, Berrywinkle on Periwinkle, Purple Cow, and Gator Stew.
The Dirty Sand Dollar, with its caramel swirl and chocolate flakes, was a decadent delight that I couldn't get enough of!
But the best part was that Pinocchio's also offers a variety of delicious treats for everyone, including those with dietary restrictions or health concerns.
Drop by the Sanibel & Captiva Island Chamber of Commerce
The Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce, founded in 1912, was my first place to visit.
Here, I found up-to-date details on the most popular tourist spots, shopping areas, and hotels or lodging.
The accommodating staff also provided maps, brochures, and other reading materials to help me plan my Sanibel Island adventure.
Experience a Kayaking Tour
The island is home to many animals like dolphins, manatees, otters, birds, and fish.
One of the highlights of my trip was kayaking through the island's environment with Tarpon Bay Explorers' Kayak Trail Tour.
Their Commodore Creek Trail offered a guided tour through the breathtaking mangrove forest, led by an experienced naturalist who shared fascinating insights about the unique habitat.
Paddling through the J.N "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, I got an up-close view of the thriving wetland landscape and its remarkable wildlife inhabitants.
The timeless serenity of the mangroves and the tranquil atmosphere provided a one-of-a-kind experience as I observed wading birds and other creatures in their natural habitat.
An added bonus of joining the kayak tour was that, unlike a simple kayak rental, I got to keep my rental kayak for the rest of the afternoon free of charge!
This gave me more time to explore and enjoy the beauty of Sanibel Island.
I highly recommend Tarpon Bay Explorers' Kayak Trail Tour for anyone visiting Sanibel Island who loves being out on the water and wants to experience the island's unique natural wonders.
Score a Hole-in-One at the Dunes Golf & Tennis Club
Nestled in a beautiful wildlife preserve, Dunes Golf & Tennis Club is an 18-hole championship island-like golf course protected by the Audubon Society.
For all the avid golfers like myself, this is a popular course on Sanibel Island to play some of the best and most intriguing golf.
Voted as the best golf course in Lee County, this golfing location is beautiful and captivating, with gorgeous views of tropical grounds, challenging greens, and more that serve as the perfect field for a great round of fun.
Its waterside location is opposite the 18th Green and affords picturesque views of the Sanibel sunset.
Unwind at Algiers Beach
I must say that Algiers Beach is a beautiful coastline!
With its gorgeous coastline, crystal clear water, and white sand, it truly felt like paradise.
Even though Blind Pass Beach is a well-known attraction, I found that it had fewer beach-goers due to its limited amenities and strong currents.
But that's exactly what made it the perfect destination for a quieter, more peaceful beach getaway.
I had a fantastic day with my friends, soaking up the sun and reading a good book under the shade of palm trees.
The beach is also perfect for picnics, so we packed some snacks and enjoyed a lovely meal with the stunning view.
Other Things to Do Nearby
Go on a Water Excursion at New Wave Eco Charters
During my trip to Sanibel Island, I had the opportunity to join an excursion with New Wave Eco Charters in Captiva, a well-known tour agency offering guided tours along the Sanibel coastline.
It quickly became one of the highlights of my visit!
One of the highlights was witnessing dolphins, manatees, and other marine creatures in their natural habitat.
The experience was breathtaking, and I marveled at the beauty of these incredible animals.
In addition to the amazing wildlife encounters, there were other fun activities to enjoy, such as beach hopping, snorkeling, fishing, and bird watching.
As a bonus, I had the chance to tour the Sanibel marine life with a professional marine biologist who shared fascinating insights about the local ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
What's better than lounging on a sandy beach in the middle of an island, with great shelling opportunities, warm sand between your toes, cool waters washing up onto the shore, and a balmy ocean breeze?
Whether it be boat excursions or kayaking through the mangroves, surfing, or stand-up paddleboarding through tranquil waters, Sanibel offers it all.
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