Things to Do on Sanibel Island, Sanibel, Florida

Sanibel Island is located off the west coast of Florida near Fort Myers. The 15 by 5 mile island is best known for its seashells and the “Sanibel Stoop” (bent at the waist collecting shells).

Sanibel offers all the modern conveniences without all the modern high rises. Buildings may only be as tall as the highest tree, approximately three stories.

By car, the island is accessed via the Sanibel Causeway for a $6 toll. The road extends through Sanibel to Captiva Island.

Given the Captiva Island beaches are not dog friendly and Annie, my Doberman, is my sidekick, I didn’t make it to Captiva, though I had plenty to do for a day in Sanibel.

Due to traffic congestion and limited parking, especially on a holiday weekend, I recommend arriving to Sanibel Island early. I actually got a late start but found plenty of parking at the less popular beach, Gulfside City Park Beach, around 9am. I paid the $5 parking/hr, took advantage of the restroom facilities and planned on a two hour stay. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).