15 Must Do Activities while Visiting Sanibel and Captiva Islands
1. J.N. Ding Darling national Wildlife Refuge -
Everyone expects to see alligators and crocodiles in Florida. Here, you
can see so much more. The refuge has a mangrove system that provides an
excellent habitat for so many animals. There are 245 Different species
of birds in the refuge, and they are a spectacular sight to see during
migration season. You can see endangered mild-natured giant manatees and
30 other species of mammals.
1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel, FL 33957 239 472 1100
2. The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum - After
collecting shells on our beautiful beaches you can learn a bit about
them so you can differentiate what they are. The best place to learn
about a junonia, banded tulip or a fig shell is to visit the
Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum.
3075 Sanibel Captiva Rd. Sanibel FL 33957 239 395 2233
3.Sanibel Island Farmer's Market EverySunday from
October through April, you can visit our Farmer's Market in front of
Sanibel City Hall. Fresh produce such as tomatoes, zucchini, beets,
strawberries, carrots, breads, honey, meats, seafood, flowers, cheeses
and much more.
800 Dunlop Road, Sanibel Island, FL 33957
4. Sanibel Causeway - Until 1963 when the Sanibel
Causeway was completed the Island was connected to the mainland all had
to be ferried that crossed the San Carlos Bay daily. The entire Span
that connects Punta Rossa is 2.8 miles long. Two little islands are part
of the Causeway Island Park and serve as popular public beaches today.
5. CROW Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife -
This center cares for more than 3500 sick, injured or orphaned wildlife
patients every year. The visitor's Education Center focuses on
educating the public about veterinary care, research, education and
conservation medicine through a variety of presentations, exhibits and
live video footage. Open Monday through Saturday
3883 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel Island, FL 33957 239 472 3644
6. Big Arts - Local artists established the Big Arts
Center in 1979. The 409 Seat Schein Performance hall organizes Jazz,
classical, pop, folk and western concerts The 139 Seat Herb Strauss
Theater offers Broadway shows.
900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel, FL 33957 239 395 0900
7. Tarpon Bay Explorers - Located within the Ding
Darling Wildlife Refuge, Tarpon Bay Explorers presents nature and
wildlife tours and offer kayak and boat tours that focus on the wildlife
and landscapes of Sanibel. You will view manatees, alligators and
nesting birds in the natural habitat. There is a touch tank for the
little ones and it is all quite educational and fun
900 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel FL 33957 239 472 8900
8. Sanibel Island Lighthouse - Our Sanibel
Lighthouse is 98 foot tall iron skeleton tower completed in 1884 with a
spiral staircase in its center. It is located in the protected wildlife
area on the eastern end of the Island. The grounds and a nice beach
nearby are accessible. Snap some family photos with the lighthouse in
the background.
9. Pinocchio's Original Italian Ice Cream - Located
in the Seahorse Shopping Center on the east end of the Island, this
little ice cream shop has been serving Italian ice cream and gelato,
sorbet, sherbet and frozen yogurt for over 33 years. The is one of the
most popular fun places that you just have to visit while on vacation.
362 Periwinkle Way 239 472 6566
10. Periwinkle Place - is Sanibel's main destination for shopping. It features over 26 unique Shops , award-winning restaurants and a day spa
. 2075 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957 239 395 1914
11. Sanibel Public Library - is a beautiful place,
staff is friendly and helpful. If you can't find a book, they will go
out of their way to get it for you. There is a computer room to use and
if you want to stay and read there is a porch with rocking chairs
overlooking the Sanibel River. It is such a gorgeous view and serene
experience...you won't want to leave.
12. Sanibel Community Playground - The park is
located right on Periwinkle Way with lots of room to run , covered
picnic tables and restrooms. A perfect place for lunch and to take time
for the kids to release some energy. The play equipment has a huge
canvas cover keeping them cool and shaded in the summer heat.
13. Sanibel Thriller Adventures - Cruise the waters
of the Gulf of Mexico and Pine Island Sound. Enjoy the wildlife such as
dolphins and exotic bird life. Reservations required - departs from
Sanibel Marina, 634 N. Yachtsman Dr. 239 472 2328
14. Sanibel Beaches - Sanibel is one of the unique
barrier islands of the world, having an EAST-WEST orientation when most
islands are north-south. Hence, the island is gifted with great sandy
beaches and an abundance of Seashells.
15. Biking - We have 25 miles of paved bike paths
that are well laid out and easy to navigate. There are several places to
rent bikes or you can bring your own.
