Guide to Sanibel Island vacation rentals

Sanibel Island lies just off the Florida coast west of Fort Myers, but is a world apart. You feel it as you drive across the palm tree lined causeway and bridge and gaze out over the beautiful, green blue waters. Pelicans soar overhead and dolphin swim in the sound. When the readers of Conde Nast Traveler Magazine include a Florida island in the list of top ten island vacation destinations in the world, shouldn’t you consider a vacation there to find out why? Sanibel Island earned this distinction in November of 2006 and for good reason.

Sanibel Island measures roughly 12 miles long and five miles across at its widest. Sanibel is particularly acclaimed for its beaches, where shells are plentiful and shelling an island pastime. Bowman’s Beach is the largest and most popular on the island. The posture of shellers bent over peering at the sand is referred to as the "Sanibel Stoop." There are approximately 400 species of multi-colored seashells to be found in this part of Florida, from the commonplace scallop to the very rare brown speckled junonia. Once you’ve gathered your own seashells, visit the Bailey Matthews Shell Museum to learn more and view the beautiful examples of shell craft, including the intricate “sailors’ valentines.” If you have not been able to collect some of the more rare specimens, stop at one of the numerous shell shops on the island for a souvenir.

Boating and fishing are natural extensions of island life and you can either skipper yourself on the calm Gulf and bay waters, or hire a guide to take you to the best fishing spots. Sanibel Island is adjacent to the Intracoastal Waterway, Florida’s main water route. Southwest Florida is home to some of the best fishing in the state. Southwest Florida is home to some of the best fishing in the state. Watersports such as kayaking, wind surfing, family paddle boating are also popular and the equipment readily available for rent, as are bicycles.

Along with shelling on the beautiful beaches and pursuing water sports, you won’t want to miss the Ding Darling National Wildlife Area, home to exotic species of birds and plants. You can drive, bike or hike through this sanctuary, or take a narrated tour by tram or canoe. In all, the refuge occupies 5,000 acres, almost one-third of the island.

The performing arts are well represented at colorful playhouses like The Schoolhouse Theater and Big Arts, the cultural center of the islands. Wonderful little galleries are tucked away all over Sanibel Island behind exotic, lush foliage. Shopping is truly a delight in many low key, attractive shopping centers and you can find souvenirs, clothing, jewelry and, of course, seashells. Dining is casual everywhere on the island and the emphasis is on seafood but gourmet cuisine is easily found, as is more simple fare such as pizza and sandwiches. Many eating establishments are at Gulfside locations from which you can enjoy the spectacular Sanibel sunsets and watch for the lucky “green flash.”

Sanibel Island is popular for weddings. Many vacation rentals which front on the Gulf of Mexico are available which could provide a romantic setting for this special occasion.

Just off the island, in Fort Myers Beach and Fort Myers, are many other interesting sights and experiences to complete your vacation. But chances are, you’ll like being on “Sanibel Island time” so much, you won’t want to leave until you absolutely have to!

Round out your vacation with an easy day trip to the Sarasota area to the north or the Naples area to the south.