Its the top shelling destination in the country and shell collectors from around the world come to spend the day hunched over doing the Sanibel Stoop. This resort is probablythe most upscaleon the two islands with extensive landscaped grounds and resort facilities and a 9 hole golf course. But youre going to have to dig around more than youd think and its probably not going to be a bargain. The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum is another fun place to visit on Sanibel with interesting exhibits, interactive stations for the kids, and shell collections from all over the world. The islands of Captiva and Sanibel are located just off the coast of Fort Myers Beach. "This light being lit . This is simply due to the offshore geography and Sanibels unique curvature of land it really does get the lions share of great shells! Which beach is better Sanibel or Captiva? Before traveling to any vacation destination, one of the most important things to consider is where you are to stay on your arrival. 8 Sanibel and Captiva Island Beaches You Have to Visit Sports and Activities Insider Pagefor more information. Everyone is differentI much prefer Sanibel to Marco by a wide margin, but if you want a more elegant experience with groomed beaches than Marco might be a better fit for you. Sanibel vs Captiva? Fort Myers Beach vs Naples Beach - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums A second dining room and outdoor patio are poolside, with a gulf backdrop. One of the biggest attractions on Sanibel Island is the J.N. The kids will marvel at the sandbar and youll be able to use the restrooms and outdoor showers as you please. Captiva Island Beaches Captiva & Sanibel Island Beaches. Tarpon Bay Road Beach. When you cross the Sanibel Causeway and visit the island from the mainland, youll likely immediately notice the beauty of nature around you. Water on Marco is not constantly clear as mentioned above. Captiva Cruises is the best way to get out and explore the surrounding area (Cayo Costa State Park, Useppa Island, Cabbage Key, etc.) Rich with wildlife and first class amenities, Captiva and Sanibel are considered two of the most captivating barrier islands in the country. Youll also find a good selection of family-friendly beachfront resorts, condos, B&B's and Airbnbs. The lack of multi-unit condos on Captiva makes the beaches far less crowded. Many are gulf front and the rates vary greatly. Many outdoor activities are also prepared to ensure you are never bored during your stay here. Both families and groups alike will love this beach, as you can swim, sunbathe, enjoy a picnic, build epic sandcastles, and play beach games. Red tide, devastated reefs follow in the wake of Hurricane Ian LUNCH AT THE ISLAND COW. You get a very comfortable and relaxed oceanfront resort, which includes: Another amazing inn on this island is the Seaside inn. If youre planning to visit the area, make sure to do plenty of research to find out whats open, whats available and whats just not even there anymore. Its away from the strong currents so you can confidently get in the water here. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. . You can picnic and go kayaking and canoeing, windsurfing and kiteboarding, sunbathing, and shelling. Thank you for your responses. This post was written before Sanibel, Captiva, and parts of the surrounding area were absolutely blasted by Hurricane Ian in September 2022. Like Blind Pass Beach, Turner Beach is best for shelling and fishing, but not swimming as the currents can get very strong! So if you score a parking space, you can walk along the beach as far as youd like. The vibe is even more relaxed than the slow-paced vacation lifestyle of Sanibel. 3 beach destination in the United States, and it is easy to see why. For more on what to do, check out the Marco Review website. There are great restaurants but no chain places and not much nightlife. Privacy Policy | Both islands are breathtaking. Be sure to carry a flashlight when walking at night. Captiva and Sanibel Island Shelling Tips - Capturing Captiva Local grocery stores like Jerrys and Baileys General Store are good for sandwiches, prepared foods, good picnic food for the beach, and stocking your own kitchenette or vacation rental. The causeway was built in 1963 (the island was previously only accessible via ferry) and the city of Sanibel was formed in 1974. For a beach that is central and safe, you want Tarpon Bay Beach. They'll need water and power restored and repairs, but "uninhabitable" is a massive exaggeration. Its not a party town, but there are plenty of places to eat, drink and listen to live music. 13 Incredible Airbnbs in Sanibel Island, Florida (2021 Edition) Plan to book early as they fill up quickly year round (and especially in the winter). Sanibel and Captiva Islands are but two small vacation spots on the Gulf Coast. There's a $6 toll to get onto the island. The parking lot isnt huge, but there is space if you get there early enough. Eight Sanibel and Captiva beaches you have to visit include: For many people, the massive amount and variety of shells that can be found is what brings them Sanibel and Captiva Island beaches. Two Sanibel incumbents face challengers in Tuesday elections The paths are well marked and almost flat. Bring a hammock and hang it on the palm trees for the ultimate vacation photo! Discover the Beauty of Sanibel and Captiva Islands There is so much to find and enjoy in Southwest Florida, especially on Sanibel and Captiva Islands. Best Beaches in Florida for 2019 - Sanibel & Captiva Island Beaches Just off the coast of Fort Myers in southwest Florida lie the twin barrier islands of Sanibel and Captiva, coastal jewels of the Lee County coast. For people who are enthusiastic about shell hunting, there are better shells on Sanibel beaches. Below its elegant main dining room windows spreads a green lawn begging for a wedding party and ends at the beach. As you ride your bike to cruise the 4-mile Wildlife Drive, get ready to discover different trails. To give you an accurate perspective, Sanibel is downright sleepy compared with other southwest Florida towns like Fort Myers, Naples, Marco Island, Bonita Springs even Punta Gorda.But Captiva is even quieter and less busy than Sanibel, though there's still plenty to do.. Once you cross over the bridge at Blind Pass, you'll immediately notice how the road narrows and . So map your walk along this route carefully and make sure that youre not trespassing along the way. Several restaurants are within walking distance on Sanibel Island, including The Lazy Flamingo, Sunset Cafe and The Mad Hatter. Having taken morning runs on both island beaches, Sanibel's sand provides a much better surface for runners. We did some . In fact, some folks think of the islands as being interchangeable. Captiva has only a limited number of properties with nightly rentals and they are very popular. Theres nothing better than a relaxing day at the beach, and Lighthouse Beach has some of the best spaces to let your worries float away. There is a small parking lot adjacent to the beach with a limited number of spaces, and is $5.00 per hour paid at the lot kiosk. Although you may not be able to climb to the top of the historic Sanibel Lighthouse, you are allowed to visit the surrounding areas for a lighthouse photo-op. Overall, the options youll find on Captiva are a little more upscale than Sanibel, but both are very laid back islands without much major development. Captiva Islands parent island is Sanibel. Sanibel is your choice if you are looking for nature, activities, choices in restaurants and shopping, are on somewhat ofa budget, biking or want to go off island fortouring or nightlife on the mainland. Ive always found the best shells in the water on Captiva. Sanibel Captiva Beach Resorts | Choose Your Island. Choose Your Beach. Not really. Tarpon Beach - Sanibel Island Forum - Tripadvisor Tarpon Tale Inn is one of the smaller Sanibel Island inns, but that just makes the place to stay on Sanibel Island more homey. On Captiva Island, you can access the several beaches on the island and enjoy the Gulf and Pine Island sound. Many visitors are amazed at the amount of shells that theyre able to find here. The passes at the ends and between the two islands get the attention of adventure beachgoers because of their swift-moving waters. Plenty of visitors love to enjoy sports here, with wading and swimming being very popular in the right places. It's got a great location right across from the beach and the pass between the two islands. Which beach is better Sanibel or Captiva? Silver Key Beach. Turner Beach. Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel Island Trip Report - TripSavvy Ladyfish - free-lined or cut into chunks is one of the best baits out there and readily available to Sanibel & Captiva Beach Fishermen. https://www.marriott.com/hotels/local-things-to-do/mrkfl-jw-marriott-marco-island-beach-resort/. Its a pristine beautiful beach, great for privacy, sunning ,and fishing, but offers limited shelling. Dating back to August 1884, the Sanibel Lighthouse is over hundred years old and of historic importance. Its on the Captiva side of the Blind Pass Bridge, so all swimmers need to be as cautious as possible, as there are strong currents and a swift undertow. If youre visiting during season, a bike will allow you to get around traffic when it slows to a crawl. Hey, it even has a K-12 school, so whats stopping you? Here is our best explanation of the main differences between Sanibel vs Captiva islands, to help you decide which island stay is right for you. Theres even a lovely campground on Sanibel! Captiva (not South Seas) if you want sunsets, quiet island escape, "get away from it all feel", andmore upscale company. Honestly I cant imagine living on the island if I had to go to work off-island everyday, or just do a quick run to Target. The water moves fast, and the resorts and rentals are well-placed for a day of fun at the beach. The beach itself is clean, with shaded areas and restrooms, covered cabanas, and picnic areas to enjoy. Then it takes about 20 minutes (without traffic) to travel the length of Sanibel to the small bridge at Blind Pass that brings you to Captiva. Sanibel and Captiva islands offer tourists at least fifteen miles of stunning beaches, and boost over 250 kinds of seashells from the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean regions.. You see why I said that Sanibel and Captiva have what I cherish. Perwinkle Way is the main business street but you will note that large sections are still devoid of parking lots and buildings where it traverses natural areas. The deep channel of water of what is now Blind Pass was formed, forever separating the two (though barely) by a narrow two-lane bridge thats small enough to walk across in under a minute. 2. Your support really helps me keep this blog running! Sep 26, 2020 The future of Sanibel and Captiva : r/florida There are 76 general parking spaces. How to Rent a Beachfront House on Isla Mujeres, Ultimate Guide to Florida Keys Vacation Rentals. The "Sanibel Spirit" is indeed alive, strong and resilient, and remarkable signs of recovery continue throughout our "repairadise.". Both are a far cry from the bitter cold winter months further north. Captiva Island. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. The two island are essentially one, but they really do have subtle qualities that could make a big difference in your vacation. When you are looking to visit Sanibel and Captiva Island beaches, dont forget to make a boating reservation too! Eight Sanibel and Captiva beaches you have to visit include: Bowman's Beach Lighthouse Beach Blind Pass Beach Captiva Beach Turner Beach Gulfside City Park/Algiers Beach Causeway Beach Park Tarpon Bay Beach With surging currents depositing an exotic array of shells, Blind Pass Beach is one of the best beaches on Sanibel Island for shelling. While Sanibel is not busy by mainland standards, Captiva manages to be even more laid back. 1725 Cape Coral Pkwy E, Cape Coral, FL 33904. On the left side of Captiva Drive there are three short side streets. I am a birder, sheller, bike rider, and photographer and it is my favorite place on earth (which is why I moved here). Brokered by US Schwarz Immobilien Real Est. Captiva has more of a village feel. Turner Beach, between Sanibel and Captiva islands, is the hottest of hot spots for both fishing and surfing. The Seaside Inn is another laid-back beachfront inn. day trips, Fort Myers, attractions, family fun with kids, Captiva, Captiva Island, restaurants, best restaurants, Southwest Florida, Gulf coast islands, Weird Florida: 8 Unusual Things to See and Do in Southwest Florida. Honestly, I think of Captiva as an extension of Sanibel. While Captiva Island features a North-South orientation like most of Floridas Gulf barrier islands, youll find that Sanibel Island has a unique East-West orientation. You can rent wave runners and go parasailing and as well as canoe and kayak rentals. Sanibel Island might be better for you if youre looking for active family vacations, great shelling beaches, more shopping and dining amenities, being closer to nature preserves and off-island driving adventures to Fort Myers and beyond to the Everglades or Charlotte Harbor. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge is very large, about 6,300 acres and occupies of Sanibel Island. And anything called a resort is actually a condo with more resort-like amenities. Strollers, wagons, and the like are a lot harder to maneuver on Captivas beaches than on Sanibel. Bringing the whole family is a must when you head to Captiva Beach, and there are plenty of beaches and places to stay along those beaches. There's a year-round outdoor pool, and free use of their bicycles included. It's a quiet beach, but it's not really the best place for swimming. BOAT RIDE AROUND J.N. In Captiva Island, you can access the several beaches on the island and enjoy the Gulf and Pine Island sound. On the end of Captiva near Blind Pass Captiva is typically pretty busy but the reast of the 5 miles of beach is some of the quietest you will find. Captiva island or Sanibel , best places to stay for 2-3 people , what is reopened , any suggestions? My 9 Favorite Restaurants On Sanibel And Captiva Islands - TravelAwaits ;-). Look at the JW Marriott Marco website for options. Its especially popular among beach and nature lovers as the beaches are pristine and the water sublime. You wont get much shelling done here, but that doesnt mean that you cant find any at all! Theres also Billys Rentals or Finnimores Beach and Bike Rentals. Is Marco prettier? When visiting Sanibel and Captiva Island, there are 8 beaches that stand out above the rest as must visit. While Sanibel is filled with people scouring the beach for beautiful shells, the beaches of Captiva are generally very quiet and laid back. Sundial Beach Resort & Spa has secured its spot as one of the best Sanibel hotels on the beach, thanks to its many amazing amenities and waterfront location. Be sure to use the head. The FDOH's fecal indicator bacteria testing results on Dec. 12 suggested low bacterial concentrations and no current advisories. It depends on the direction of the wind and tides. But its all about your expectations. If you want to get on a personal level with nature, you can visit any of these beaches. If there is one beach you really need to try, its the Sanibel Island Causeway beaches. Within the developed sections are things common to towns anywhere- schools, neighborhoods, supermarkets, and stores. . Sanibel has a wide variety of accommodations from resorts, condos, inns, cottages and B&B's. Blind Pass Beach. Im not saying any of this to put you off, because Sanibel and Captiva are GREAT islands and one of my favorite places in Florida, but if youre used to staying at more high end beach resorts in other parts of Florida, what that money gets you on Sanibel and Captiva is a lotless. You can even rent golf carts. Located on a little barrier island just 7 miles long, Fort Myers Beach features wide beaches and beautiful views. They contain thousands of shells you can find. It is the first beach after you leave Sanibel Island. Florida Winter Shorebird Survey takes place on islands Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grill 2500 Island Inn Rd, Sanibel Island OR 5400 S Seas Plantation Rd, Captiva Island That's right - Doc Ford's has two locations within the islands! The beaches shown in the video are: Lighthouse Beach, Gulfside City Beach, Tarpon Bay Beach, Bowman's. South Capers, Sanibel Real Estate & Homes for Sale Sanibel and Captiva Island beaches are a must-see for a variety of reasons. Sanibel has 25 miles of safe designated bike paths making it possible to literally pedal or walk the length and breadth of the island. 1. Sanibel is a bike island. Marco has more nightlife, more shopping, and more roads. That is until we stayed at the Island Inn on Sanibel. Aside from being larger than Captiva Island, Sanibel Island has more shops, hotels, and sights that keep visitors engaged and excited. Sanibel is quiet and peaceful, with a mix of wildlife and nature, shopping and dining, and island homes. Gulfside City Beach is also known as Algiers Beach, and the park itself has beach access and a nature trail to enjoy. Sanibel and Captiva are sister islands. Fishers in particular love it here, as there is a lighted pier for them to enjoy and fish from. People who visit the island mostly have plans of hanging out on the beach, as it is the main attraction. Sanibel Island beaches for shelling are known across the country, while Captiva Island beaches are known for their fine sands. Two weeks ago, the water was cloudy but this last week with mild winds from the east, the water is crystal clear. If youre not a paddler you can still see a lot of the refuge by taking the guided tram tour or hiking on established trails. But I have never seen brown water hitting Marco Island. There are several reasons for this, partly because Captiva lacks the number of activities and attractions that Sanibel has, and partly because it is almost entirely private property with very high-end homes. Today, Sanibel is unique from other southwest Florida towns because there are no chains or franchises (except a few grandfathered ones). Early morning is the best time to find unusual shells and especially after a rain or storm. The residents, wishing to conserve the natural setting and protect the wildlife refuge atmosphere actually broke away from the county and formedSanibel's own municipal government. There are many homes and historic cottages that rent privately as well. There are also two semi-public 18 hole golf courses on the island. Sanibel Island vs Marco Island for a vacation?Sanibel and Marco islands are both tropical gems of Southwest Florida, attracting thousands of visitors each year for a family vacation, a weekend getaway, or a honeymoon. The northern tip of the island, well over 300 acres,is all owned by the South Seas Resort. Since it is more or less north and south you have perfect beach sunsets from all 7.1 miles. Captiva Beach, Captiva Island: See 1,385 reviews, articles, and 733 photos of Captiva Beach, ranked No.1 on Tripadvisor among 10 attractions in Captiva Island. and they leave from Captiva, but its an easy drive from Sanibel. The same gradual sloping shoreline that collects millions of shells on the beaches of Sanibel also prevent it from having bright clear blue water most of the year. Sanibel Island Shelling - World's Best Shelling Beaches It reported that the agencies responsible for declaring public safety for the beaches and waters in Lee County are Lee County Parks & Recreation and the Florida Department of Health's Healthy Beaches program. CEPD reports on beach and water conditions | News, Sports, Jobs And share my account with your travel loving friends! Marco is totally surrounded by federal, state parks and preserves, the gateway to the Everglades so IMO it has more options for active adults. Marcos beach is beautiful. But they are worth the extra drive to the north end of the island. Sanibel Island and Captiva Island are separated by a bridge over Blind Pass. You cant access Captiva without going through Sanibel and these two islands have such a different vibe than pretty much every other place in the area so theyre often compared. You want to find a slice of paradise when you go to the beach, and Captiva Beach is the most authentic piece of heaven there is. On the other hand, the dining on Captiva Island is more eclectic than that on Sanibel Island. There is no fee for Florida residents. Your email address will not be published. Turner Beach is just on the other side of Blind Pass past the small bridge from Sanibel. It is also where the Captiva restaurants are located. 11 Gorgeous Sanibel And Captiva Island Beaches To Visit Preferences, preferences. Holiday Inn Club Vacations Sunset Cove Resort, an IHG Hotel. Because its the only way on and off the island, as you can imagine, traffic can be insane given the popularity of the islands as a tourist destination especially at the height of season from December through March. Sanibel Island vs. Captiva Island [2023] - Jam Travel Tips Sanibel is most famous for its shelling. It has no high-rises, just lots of greenery surrounding . As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. However, that doesnt quite hold true. Touring the Beaches on Sanibel Island - YouTube Frequent Islander is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Most places are a little worn and just not very updated. Sanibel vs Captiva: Which Slice of Paradise is Better? For Sale. Were often asked and emailed questions from readers wanting to know what the difference is between Sanibel and Captiva islands. SHELLING AT BOWMAN'S BEACH.
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