Sanibel-Captiva Islands: So close- Yet so far away
I am finally writing about my home state of Florida, and you may have wondered 'where do residents go when they need a quick holiday, or a romantic getaway in Florida?' Because Floridians are constantly surrounded by tourists, they can be a little secretive about their own local getaways.
As a long time Florida resident and Travel Advisor, my husband and I have travelled all over Florida and over this post and the next two articles I am sharing what we believe are the Top 3 Islands in Florida to getaway to and none of them are in the Keys!
What you need to know about Sanibel-Captiva Islands:
With many Sanibel Hotels being small appearing almost 'vintage', and numerous ice cream shops, and safe bicycling everywhere, you will feel as though you have stepped back into Florida's past of the 1960's. With Iguana, Flamingo's, Bamboo, Dolphins and even some alligators, you will have a difficult time knowing if you are still in Florida, or have been magically transported to either Hawaii or Mexico. Sanibel-Captiva are Floridian's definitive weekend escape.
- Sanibel-Captiva Islands: are sister islands, located approximately 3 1/2 hrs or (370 km/ 230 miles) south west of Orlando on Florida's Gulf Coast of Ft. Myers
- The islands are easily accessible by car from the 3 mile long bridge, and are themselves connected together by a tiny bridge
(Sanibel Causeway, Ft. Myers Florida)
- The sister islands were heavily damaged during Hurricane Ian in 2022, but are recovering remarkably, however there are still some visible signs of Ian's wrath remaining on these magical islands
- Sanibel: is more modest than it's sister island 'Captiva,' and with it's many small vintage Hotels, Sanibel has a nostalgic throwback vibe to the 60's and 70's
(Left: Vintage Sanibel Hotel Property, Right: A canalled neighborhood on Sanibel Island, Fl)
- Sanibel is divided into two halves, it's eastern half is mainly a wildlife refuge offering opportunities of amazing kayaking throughout mangroves where wildlife ranging from Flamingos, to Manatee, Dolphins and even Alligators can be seen. On the western or 'Gulf Facing' half of the Island you will find nostalgic 60's style hotels and homes dotted along the best shelling beaches of Florida
(Left: Wild Life Refuge, Right: Shelling 'The Sanibel Stoop')
- Bicycle Friendly: Both Sanibel and Captiva are bicycle friendly with large spacious side walks for pedestrians and bicyclers. You may easily leave your car parked at your hotel, and commute around each of the islands from the complimentary bicycles most hotels will provide. If you are extra adventurous or up for a longer ride, you may try riding your bicycle the entire length of the two islands!
(Leave the car behind and Bicycle around Sanibel Island)
Best things to do on Sanibel-Captiva Island:
These islands are for relaxing, and romantic getaways for couples, but you may remain active by;
- Bicycle: Explore the island neighborhoods and sites by bicycle
- Shelling: The best beach for shells in Florida can be found at the small bridge connecting Sanibel with Captiva, but you better arrive early to beat the professionals who sell their finds on island souvenir shops!
- Kayak: The Wild Life Refuge, see flamingos, dolphins and possibly even alligators
- Swim: The shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico (western side of the Islands) are as calm and warm as bath water, take a soothing dip to melt away years of stress
(Day at the beach: Sanibel Island, Florida)
- Lighthouse: Visit one of Florida's oldest Lighthouses on the South End of Sanibel, arrive around sunset to enjoy a picturesque evening with someone special
(Sanibel Lighthouse)
- Ice Cream: One of Florida's first Dairy Queen Ice Cream shops is located on Sanibel ! You cannot miss this, or any of the other many ice cream shops on the Island
- Captiva-Shopping, Dinning and Pier: Spend a romantic evening on the impressive island of Captiva, shopping, Dining and a sunset conversation at the pier with someone special
(Left: Lunch at the 'Island Cow' Sanibel, Right: Dinner at Captiva Island and Pier)
If you have read my previous two posts regarding Top Island Getaways of Florida, you may have noticed I have not 'ranked' these 3 amazing Islands, as they cannot be fairly compared against one another, however I would categorize these Florida Island experiences as;
Best Florida Island for:
- Nature and Shelling- Sanibel-Captiva Islands
- History- Amelia Island (see full story)
- Culture, Shopping and Dining- Anna Maria Island (see full story)
The State of Florida has more than 4,500 Islands greater than 10 acres in size, and many more Islands that are smaller, or appear and disappear daily with the rise and fall of tides 'Disappearing Islands.' Because of urban sprawl, and the growth of high rise condominium and hotel buildings throughout Florida, commuters can easily miss driving over small bridges connecting mainland Florida with many of these tiny barrier islands which serve as vital homes to many of Florida's sensitive ecosystem. Please help to do your part to protect Florida's natural parks and waterways while visiting our beautiful state.
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