Sanibel: Your Family’s Quiet Seashell Getaway
Sanibel, Florida is a city that covers an entire barrier island of the same name in Lee County in southwest Florida. It is known as a quiet, family-friendly island destination, popular for its rugged shell beaches, wildlife refuges, and sunsets. This makes Sanibel appealing for families yearning to escape the chaos of the big city. Sanibel Island, Florida is 25 miles from Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers, and can be reached by crossing the scenic Sanibel Causeway.
Best Time to Visit
Because of having one of the mildest winter weather in the country, most travelers arrive in the peak seasons of January-April. The summer months can be hot and humid, but the refreshing ocean breeze can cool you off. September and October are the quietest months, ideal for getting the best deals of Sanibel, FL hotels.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Collecting seashells on the beaches is a popular pastime, due to the large quantities of seashells washing up on the shores. If you are lucky enough to find the rare junonia shell, you can get your picture in the local newspapers! Visit the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum or the Sanibel Shell Fair in March for more shell goodness. Along the eastern part is the J. N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, where you can do bird watching and kayaking in the tidal flats and mangroves. Nearby is the island’s most popular landmark, the Sanibel Lighthouse. After replenishing yourself at one of the many hotels and resorts on Gulf Drive, including the popular Sundial Beach Resort & Spa and Casa Ybel Resort, head down to the main thoroughfare, Periwinkle Way, for dining and shopping options—don’t forget to haggle at Sanibel Island Farmers Market.