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About Sanibel Island
Sanibel is the larger and more southern of two connected islands, Sanibel and Captiva. Sanibel's claim to fame is the best shelling beaches in North America. Along the white sandy beaches, over 400 different species of shells can be discovered, with conch shells being the most common.
Approximately half of the island is occupied by the JN Darling (Ding) National Wildlife Refuge, one of Florida's most exquisite refuges, which provides a great destination for kayaking, canoeing, and walking or biking along the 100-acre trails. Sanibel is perfect for those who love to be outdoors, with its 15 miles of beaches and 22 miles of bike paths.
Cities in Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island is located just a short drive from Fort Myers over the Sanibel Causeway - the drive over the causeway is stunning, looking over the open ocean.
The causeway lands on the east end of the island, this is where you'll find the shopping and the largest concentration of homes and condos.
The middle of the island is less concentrated and is very residential.
As you travel further west the island is mostly undeveloped due to the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
At the most westerly tip of Sanibel Island is the bridge to Captiva Island.
Highlights of Sanibel Island
Do Not Miss
- Shelling
- Beaches
- Boating
- Ecotours
- Water sports
- J.N. Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge
- Sanibel Island Lighthouse
Things to do in Sanibel Island
- Relax! Enjoy the slower pace
- Shelling - known as the shelling capital of the world you'll recognize shellers by the "Sanibel Stoop"
- Check out the beaches - Sanibel Lighthouse Beach Park, Bowman's Beach, Turner Beach at Blind Pass + more. Tip: Sanibel Island Beaches are dog-friendly for leashed dogs
- Visit the Sanibel Island Lighthouse
- Birding + more at J.N. Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge - hike, drive, bike, kayak, SUP, fish, and cruise through the park
- Visit the Baileys-Matthews National Shell Museum
Explore Sanibel Island
Food and Drinks
Sanibel Island offers a wide variety of unique restaurants offering everything from breakfast, seafood, and family-friendly options
- Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille - Caribbean style eats and great cocktails
- The Island Cow - a cow-themed restaurant serving up american-style cuisine, family-friendly
- Lazy Flamingo - sports pub offering beer-steamed seafood
- Sanibel Fish House - delicious seafood
- Sanibel Cafe - homey American-style breakfast and lunches
Where To Find Vacation Rentals In Sanibel Island FL
You're in luck! You can find vacation rentals right here on Florida Rental By Owner (FLARBO)! Our rental listings are 100% managed by the property owner or manager. Ditch the pesky third-party fees and interference - no middle man (Or woman) here!
Do you have questions about Sanibel Island Florida, or need help planning your trip? Join our Fort Myers-Sanibel Travel Facebook group here
Transportation for Sanibel Island
Getting To And Around Sanibel Island
Flying To Sanibel Island
Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW)
The Southwest Florida International airport is closest to Sanibel Island, approximately a 48-minute drive. The airport services most major airlines including Air Canada, airBerlin, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Silver Airways, Spirit, Southwest Airlines, Sun Country, United, and West Jet. They additionally have multiple shuttles running from the airport to hotels including Best Western, Courtyard Marriott, Embassy Suites, Hampton, Hilton Garden, Holiday Inn, Homewood Suites, LaQuinta, Spring Hill & Travelodge.
Public transit, car rentals, taxis, limos, Uber, and Lyft are available.
Punta Gorda Airport (PGD)
Punta Gorda Airport is located in Charlotte County and is just over an hour away from Sanibel Island. Punta Gorda Airport is serviced by discount airlines Sun Country and Allegiant Airlines. Air Trek, a private jet charter, also utilizes the Punta Gorda Airport.
Car rentals, taxis, limos, Uber, and Lyft are available
Sarasota - Bradenton International Airport (SRQ)
The Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport is smaller and is a 2-hour 7-minute drive to Sanibel Island. The airport is a destination for Air Canada, Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta, Elite Airways, Frontier, Jet Blue, Southwest Airlines, Sun Country, and United.
Car rentals, taxis, limos, Uber, and Lyft are available
Getting around on Sanibel Island
- Rent a bike - there are extensive bike paths on the island and the island is flat for easy riding
- Rent a golf cart
- Taxi
- Water taxi
- Car - it can be a challenge to get around by car on the island due to traffic and parking restrictions, there is no parking on any streets
Statistics about Sanibel Island
3+ Properties for rent
Prices range from $164.29/night
Weather for Sanibel Island
What Is Sanibel Island Weather Like?
- Sanibel Island average highs vary from 75 in the winter to 92 in the summer
- Sanibel Island is rainiest June through September - rain is rarely an all-day event
- Because Sanibel Island is located in southwest Florida the weather is great all year round
FAQs about Sanibel Island
Answers to the most frequently asked questions.