If you’re thinking about taking an island vacation, why not take one that’s a bit closer to home? Right off the cost of Florida, Sanibel Island is a great place for a family vacation or a romantic trip for two. The island is crowned with gorgeous white sand beaches, but lying out by the surf isn’t the only thing to do. If you’re wondering how you could take a more active role in your vacation, here are a few things you can do on this island.

For one thing, the island is definitely a haven for nature lovers of all sorts. You can always, of course, take walks on the beach. There are also some great bike trails through the island that can bring you within close proximity of some of the area’s wildlife. Plus, you can take specialized bird watching tours to check out many of the feathered friends of Sanibel Island.

Fantastic fun things to do await you on Sanibel Island!

It you really love the water, you don’t have to leave it for your entire vacation. Why not fish off one of the beaches or a charter boat? You could also go snorkeling or take some scuba diving classes. Those who really need to get their heart rates going can try water sports of all kinds on rented equipment that’s easily accessible on the island.

When you’re ready to get out of the sun for a bit and enjoy some evening activities, why not see a movie or visit one of the island’s museums? There are also art exhibits galore, and you can even visit one of the area’s antique shops to bring back a unique souvenir from your trip. You’ll find all this and more on Sanibel Island, so if you want a beach vacation where you don’t just lie by the water all day, it’s definitely a good option.

If you’re looking for a location that is beautiful, upscale, and romantic, Captiva Island is one of the best destinations you could choose. Though Captiva and Sanibel Islands are very close, they are very different places, and visitors to the area should take advantage of all that both barrier islands have to offer.

Captiva is home to some very affluent people. Some celebrities and other wealthy individuals own private vacation or permanent residences here. Some of these beautiful homes make up what is known as “Millionaire’s Row.” Of course there are more modest homes on the island, but there are restrictions that keep them in the traditional, charming style of the island. If you are considering buying a home in Captiva, you have many options from charming island homes to luxurious mansions.

Experience the beauty and charm of captiva island!

If you are visiting for a shorter period of time, there are plenty of options to choose from. The South Seas Island Resort is one of the oldest places on the island. It’s a luxurious resort where you can rent a villa or cottage and spend a romantic week. Tween Waters Inn Resort is another popular resort. It features the Old Captiva House, which is known for fine dining. While you are visiting Captiva, make sure you make trip to the Mucky Duck. This restaurant is known for its amazing view of the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.

There are lots of historical places to visit in Captiva. If nature is your thing, there are plenty of opportunities for biking, hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving. You can charter a boat to take you out for a few hours, for the day, or maybe for just a sunset cruise. There are many high end shops along with fun boutiques and art galleries to choose from if shopping is more your speed.

If you want to simply relax on a gorgeous beach for an entire week, Captiva is the perfect place for it. The Gulf keeps the weather nice enough to not be too awfully hot in the summers, and pretty mild in the winter. Although the weather might not necessarily be suitable for swimming during the winter months, you can still enjoy shelling and sightseeing anytime.

While Florida is known world-wide for its beaches, this has the unintended result of making them very crowded places during certain times of the year. The beaches on Sanibel Island and Captiva Island offer something different. Sanibel Island beaches range from very popular and hopping locations to secluded strips of sand where there isn’t even a hotel in site. Many Sanibel Island beaches and Captiva Island beaches are notable for the opportunity they provide to investigate the ocean environment. While most beaches are associated with water sports, many of the beaches on these islands are associated with genuine exploration and adventure.

Experience the beautiful beaches of sanibel and Captiva!

Captiva Island has a reputation for being the playground of the affluent but this community is very welcoming to visitors. Captiva Island beaches are also the sites of some very fun and educational events and festivals each year. Shelling, fishing and water sports are provide the many visitors to the beaches with an endless amount of excitement, exploration and fun. Captiva’s beaches are unique in that many are very secluded and private locations.

Sanibel Island beaches are the site of some of the most laid-back activities one could imagine. Bowman’s Beach is one of the island’s most secluded. The activities on this beach really amount to relaxing on a Florida beach with not a bit of development in sight! Lighthouse Beach is the site of one of the island’s most popular fishing piers. If one wants to get out and mingle with a crowd of locals and visitors alike, this is one of the best places to be. Sanibel beaches constitute 15 miles in total and most of the shoreline is sandy and pleasant.

Sanibel Island and neighboring Captiva Island provide some of the best shelling in Florida or, for that matter, in the world. These islands are part of a huge plateau that stretches far out into the Gulf of Mexico and what makes Sanibel shelling so great. Shellfish of all types are attracted to this natural underwater shelf and make it their home. The east to west orientation of the island, rare for a barrier island, means that the shells wash ashore in startling numbers. The “Sanibel Stoop” is the local term for the posture assumed by most visitors when Sanibel shelling and they happen upon a particularly lovely shell.

Sanibel shelling is more than a pastime for visitors, however. Its part of the local culture and an important, even defining, part of the local ecosystem. Sanibel shelling is famous for the varieties of shellfish that can be found. On Sanibel Island, however, there are some truly spectacular specimens to be found. Its renown as one of the world’s best locations for shelling has made Sanibel Island the home of the world’s largest museum dedicated to shellfish. Sanibel shelling, in all its glory and diversity, can be explored at the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum.

Sanibel and Captiva Islands provide world class shelling!

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum opened its doors in 1995. The museum contains more than 30 exhibits on shellfish and constitutes one of the most popular destinations on Sanibel Island. Sanibel shelling enthusiasts can visit the museum and see some of the rarer specimens that they may not have the good fortune to stumble upon when exploring the beaches. There is, however, a better than average chance that anyone engaging in Sanibel shelling excursions will find some truly remarkable shells washed up from the Gulf. Most consider Sanibel to have the best shelling in Florida and it constitutes one of the island’s major tourist draws.

Sanibel shelling means searching out the best beaches. On both Sanibel Island and Captiva Island, most of the shoreline is occupied by beaches. One can visit just about any sandy strip along the sea and explore to their heart’s delight. Sanibel shelling has long been a draw for tourists but Sanibel shelling draws tourists and scientists alike. The wealth of natural beauty on this island is something which the island’s residents work hard to protect. It’s also one of the biggest draws for travelers. Sanibel shelling begins and ends on Sanibel Island and Captiva Island; a fact acknowledged around the world.

When Florida eco tours are mentioned, quite understandably, the first thing that comes to most people’s minds are the Everglades. This area is the most popular for airboat tours and mangrove safari tours. There are other places to explore the environment in Florida, however. Eco Tourism on Sanibel Island and Captiva Island is one of this destination’s most popular draws. This island is renowned for its pristine mangrove ecosystems, its extensive beachfronts and the numerous species of shells to be found on the shores. A large part of this island is occupied by a nature preserve.

Florida eco tourism oftentimes centers on environments which are endangered or threatened. One of the most popular destinations for eco tourism on Sanibel is the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge occupies the northern portion of the more than 5,000 acres set aside as a preserve on Sanibel Island. Mangrove ecosystems are some of the more fragile and threatened on the planet. The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge protects one of these ecosystems and allows tourists to explore the fascinating wildlife that calls this exotic locale home. Eco tourism in Florida such as this helps to preserve these national treasures through education.

Eco Tours are exciting for the entire family!

Eco tourism in Florida, predictably enough, oftentimes centers on the seaside environs. On Sanibel and Captiva, those who love to go shelling will find themselves in one of the best locations for that pastime on Earth. The shelling on these beaches is recognized as world-class and visitors will find everything from sand dollars to scallops and much more. There is a museum on the island, the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, which is dedicated to educating visitors about the undersea world of shellfish. This museum has over 30 exhibits and is the largest such facility dedicated to the study of shells in the world.

Eco tours in Florida oftentimes take travelers far off the beaten path. On Sanibel Island and Captiva Island, this oftentimes means visiting beaches which are far outside the developed areas of the islands. While it’s associated with relaxation and just getting away from it all, eco tourism on Sanibel oftentimes means visiting Bowman’s Beach. It may be close to populated areas but this beach is very secluded and allows visitors to explore the seaside environs in peace. There are festivals held at various times of year which help to educate visitors about this delicate environment and the island itself.

Finding a bike rental on Sanibel Island or Captiva Island is one of the best ways to start off an adventure. There are 22 miles of trails set aside exclusively for the use of bicycles on Sanibel Island. One will find Sanibel bike rentals available at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge and from several vendors in the commercial districts. Of all the ways to explore this island, the silent, healthy experience provided by taking a bike off the beaten path is one of the favorites among visitors. A bike can deliver tourists to places where cars simply cannot travel.

Sanibel bike trails ribbon through the island and pass by all manner of sites. To explore the residential areas of the island, the Rabbit Road Trail is one of the best choices. This Sanibel bike trail is smooth and well-groomed and suitable for road bike travel. Along this trail, bicyclists will be traveling alongside a canal. The canal is a popular watering place for rabbits and it is from these furry residents that the trail takes its name. Not all of the residents of this trail of are the furry and cute variety, however. Expect to see a few reptilian snouts poking out of the canal waters near Sanibel bike trails.

Experience the beauty of Sanibel and Captiva by Bike!

Sanibel bike rentals and paths can be a bit more adventurous than the residential touring presented by the Rabbit Road Trail. The Wildlife Drive takes bicyclists down a road which is challenging and rugged, paved with dirt and shells. The road necessitates that one seek out a mountain bike from any of the Sanibel bike rentals providers. A very fit biker may be up to the challenge on a road bike but the narrow tires and lacking suspension would likely make it difficult to enjoy the beauty of this route. This route takes adventurers to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. The Sanibel bike route is 4 miles in total.

One can use the Sanibel bike trails to explore the history of Sanibel. Sanibel bike trails such as the Middle Gulf Cemetery Route venture where cars cannot and will deliver guests to one of the island’s most important historical sites. The pioneer cemetery is along this route and holds the graves of many of the island’s first residents. This route is among the Sanibel bike paths that can be enjoyable on a mountain or a street bike. Sanibel bike rentals can easily be found for both models of bike.

There are many options for exploring the environs around these islands via watercraft. The Tarpon Bay Explorers offer tours that traverse the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge and which are representative of the variety of activities in which visitors can engage. The tours pass through this mangrove ecosystem via various means. One may choose to take a kayak tour, a canoe tour or a tour on a pontoon boat. These methods all have one thing in common: They allow a very quiet means of exploring. The Tarpon Bay Explorers offer guests the opportunity to see the environment at its finest and most serene.

Of course, there are those who will wish to do some Sanibel and Captiva fishing rather than touring the reserves. There are few better places for which one could wish. Some of the common fish caught in this area include redfish, snook and sea trout. The waters around Sanibel Island and Captiva Island have more than just game fish beneath their surfaces, however. The Sanibel and Captiva waters around these islands boast the largest population of bottlenose dolphins anywhere. They are also home to Florida’s famously gentle and curious Manatees.

Fantastic fishing, boating and tours await you on Sanibel and Captiva!

Finding a boat rental on Sanibel Island is not difficult, but one should consider a guided tour such as those offered by Tarpon Bay Explorers if they have no experience with the sea. Making use of a guided tour service ensures that one sees all that the island has to offer. For instance, the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is famous for being the seasonal home of many migratory birds. If one doesn’t know where to look, one may well miss out on the egrets, ibis, pelicans and roseate spoonbills that live in this reserve. Sanibel fishing is very popular, but boats have many more uses in this environment.

Finding a boat rental on Captiva Island is also quite easy. There are several different businesses that offer the service. The options range from skiffs to pontoon boats and beyond. These boats are suitable for Sanibel and Captiva fishing or in any other area surrounding either of the islands, depending upon the type. Remember that some areas are restricted speed zones. The reason for this is usually that manatees forage in those specific areas.

Many of the adventures in the paradise of Sanibel involve exploring the extensive wildlife refuges. A full half of this island is set aside as a national wildlife refuge. The most famous of these protected areas is the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Kayaking Sanibel and Captiva oftentimes means starting out in this area. There are several advantages to taking a quiet mode of transportation, such as a canoe or a kayak, though this and other areas. There is a huge population of birds in this area and numerous water-dwelling creatures. A quiet passage ensures the closest possible contact with them.

Kayaking Sanibel and Captiva Islands is best done with the assistance of a guide. Guides may be contracted privately or one may make use of the various organizations that offer educational excursions through the island’s various natural areas. Either way, one is ensured a much more substantial experience than would be had if one were to simply venture out on their own. Many individuals dedicate their lives to studying the various wildlife and plants that inhabit the island environs and are more than happy to share that knowledge with those who choose to vacation on the islands of Sanibel and Captiva.

Fantastic ECO Adventures await you on Sanibel and Captiva!

Tarpon Bay Explorers on Sanibel offers several different Sanibel kayaking packages for getting out and exploring the natural environs and kayaking Sanibel. The company offers several different styles of watercraft for hire and, provided with proper safety training, adventurers can set out to explore some of the most wild and exciting environments to be found anywhere. The company has enough watercraft to ensure that just about everyone will be able to find something suitable for their needs. These quiet and easy to use crafts ensure that one can get into sensitive environments without disturbing the wildlife that calls it home. Of course, they also offer great guided tours of mangrove trails and Tarpon Bay. They even have a guided sunset Sanibel kayaking trip perfect for observing all the birds as they come to roost for the night.

The Adventure Sea Kayak & SUP takes adventurers out into both the interior waterways and the coastal waters to explore some of the fascinating life forms to be found in both. The population of bottlenose dolphins around Sanibel and Captiva is the largest anywhere and travelers will delight in getting up close and personal with these curious and astoundingly-intelligent mammals. Manatees also ply these waters and their peaceful and friendly nature makes them a favorite with tourists. Kayaking and stand up paddle boarding Captiva Island ensures that tourists leave the island with something far more precious than pictures: an appreciation for the environment.

There are numerous places to explore the world of Sanibel and Captiva golf. Like the rest of Florida, Sanibel Island is renowned for the quality and abundance of golf courses to be found. These represent everything from public and open courses such as the Sanibel Island Golf Club and very exclusive resorts such as the South Seas Island Resort on Captiva. Whichever Sanibel golf option one chooses, they will be able to enjoy playing the links in one of the most suitable climates for which one could wish. Sanibel golf courses offer a unique way to enjoy the environment on this island.

The South Seas Island Resort is situated on the neighboring island of Captiva. The San-Cap road provides easy access between the two islands for fans of Sanibel and Captiva golf. This is a luxury facility which has a history spanning back to the early 20th Century. There is a 9-hole course located right on the property of this resort. Those guests who want a full 18-hole game may visit the nearby Dunes Golf and Tennis Club which provides a par 70 Sanibel golf game.

Exceptional golf and tennis in paradise with gulf and bay views!

The Sanibel Island Golf Club is open to the public and provides 18-holes of par 70 golfing. This Sanibel golf course has great views of the Gulf of Mexico, all set in a beautiful picturesque natural setting of indigenous wildlife. This mix of environmental consciousness and excellent Sanibel golf allows individuals to experience the best of both worlds. Among the various Sanibel golf courses, this is a very popular name. Those who develop a great affection for this club are invited to apply for a membership at the facility.

Facilities such as the South Seas Plantation Resort on Captiva Island and the Dunes Golf and Tennis Club on Sanibel Island also provide an excuse to explore a bit. Driving between the two islands will open up entirely new vistas and, when one is out on the course, they will have a better sense of the paradise in which they find themselves. Tee times are best booked early. Sanibel and Captiva golf have a very predictable weather pattern of beautiful sunny days with cooling rains that arrive in the late afternoon and early evening, the perfect ending to a day of golfing.

The islands of Sanibel and Captiva offer myriad opportunities for sailing. These islands sit off of Fort Myers in the Gulf of Mexico. Sanibel sailing adventures can take visitors on short journeys around the islands or on long excursions out into the Gulf of Mexico. Tarpon Bay, one of the most striking areas on the island, is famous for being a place where ocean life is found in abundance. Plying these waters in a sailboat is one of the best ways to explore the sea and to get an appreciation for these magnificent islands.

Before engaging in any Sanibel sailing or Captiva sailing, one needs the proper instruction. There are schools on Sanibel that will provide visitors with the requisite training that will enable them to venture out onto the high seas. Some of these Sanibel sailing schools are recognized as among the best in the nation. The Gulf of Mexico waters offer a calm place to learn one’s basic skills and, when one is truly ready to take on the seas, they can head toward the much larger waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Learning to sail on Sanibel is very popular among the various activities.

Maginificent sailing adventures await you around sanibel and Captiva!

Captiva Island sail enthusiasts have much to explore. Captiva is separated from Sanibel by a narrow strait of water called Blind Pass. The two islands are practically within a stone’s throw of one another but they still offer their distinct sailing opportunities. The site of Millionaire’s Row from offshore is quite striking. Both of the islands are essentially ringed by beaches which make them equally attractive from the sea or from the shore. The amount of ocean wildlife that one can encounter on their maritime adventures makes attending offshore sailing schools on Captiva Island or Sanibel Island an even more attractive proposition.

These offshore sailing schools have graduated literally hundreds of thousands of budding sailors. Sanibel sailing and Captiva sailing both provide a challenge that can hone one’s skills without pushing one too hard from the start. Exploring natural wonders such as Tarpon Bay allows those just learning the craft of sailing to immediately enjoy one of the principal benefits: getting to see some of the most exotic creatures on the planet. Whether one intends to become a captain or simply intends to charter a boat with a captain, a Captiva Island sail excursion or a Sanibel Island sailing adventure can provide a lifetime of memories.