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Attractions of Sanibel and Captiva Islands
Fishing:
You’ll find deep sea fishing as well as light tackle. The Sanibel-Captiva
Causeway is a popular spot for surf casting and boats are also available for
rent. Captains and fishing guides who conduct half- and full-day charters.
A license is required for freshwater and saltwater fishing. You can purchase
a license at all marinas, or at The Bait Center on Periwinkle Way and at
Bailey’s Center at the corner of Tarpon Bay road and Periwinkle Way. Ask for
a list of rules and regulations on size and bag limits as they often change.
Sailing and Boating
These are available at many of the local marinas for rent. There are also
places to rent kayaks, canoes, and windsurfers.
Beaches & Shelling
The beaches of Sanibel and Captiva are kept in a natural state. There’s not
much development on the island’s beaches.
*King’s Crown condominiums have access to their own beach.
A few of the other popular beaches are:
The Causeway Beaches: Terrific for swimming, fishing, windsurfing and
picnicking. You’re able to pull your vehicle right onto the beach and park
free of charge. Located along both sides of Causeway Road.
Lighthouse Beach: Site of a functioning historic lighthouse, it lies at the
eastern tip of Sanibel. It is accessible by bicycle, which can be rented at
various places on the island. There’s a dock for fisherfolk; a boardwalk
nature trail offers glimpses of beach and wetland habitat. Located at the
east end of Periwinkle Way.
Bowman’s Beach. County-owned and known for its wildlife and seclusion. Many
consider it the island’s best shelling spot. To reach it, hike through a
wooded area and over and estuary bridge. Located off Sanibel-Captiva Road on
Bowman’s Beach Road.
There are many more beaches to be found and enjoyed on the islands. All
beaches boast some of the best shelling in the entire world. Bailey’s
shopping center has a common shell guide printed on their bags. NOTE:
Sanibel is a refuge island. The State of Florida has outlawed the collecting
of live shells on the island. “Live shell” is defined as any specimen
containing an inhabitant whether or not it seems alive. This law includes
sand dollars, sea stars and sea urchins.
Environmental Sanctuaries:
J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge:
World-famous 5,000-acre sanctuary offers an observation tower, hiking,
biking, and canoe trails. More than 200 species of birds (many endangered
species) nest here, as well as alligators, turtles, river otters, armadillos
and other creatures. The Visitor/Education Center is open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Admission to the 5 mile wildlife drive is $5 for cars, 1$ for bikers and
hikers.
Located One Wildlife Drive off the Sanibel-Captiva Road 941-472-1100
C.R.O.W is a non-profit veterinary hospital dedicated to the rehabilitation
and return to the wild of ill, injured and orphaned native wildlife. Tours:
11 a.m. Monday-Friday,
Located 3883 Sanibel-Captiva Road 941-472-3644
3$ donation requested for adults.
Shops & Galleries
Visitors will pass many of the outdoor shopping centers that offer a variety
of products, island momentos, unique crafts and pieces of art.
Just a couple to check out-
MacIntosh Book Shop
-Be sure to stop in to grab a nice Island read. This shop offers many of the
island’s authors.
Tin Can Alley
-Local artist makes most of his pieces out of tin cans and other pieces of
metal.
Dining
The dining on Sanibel and Captiva is amazing. As one would guess the seafood
is fresh and delicious. One can find listings of the restaurants anywhere on
the island and some favorite menus are kept in the condo.
Some of the best are The Timbers, The Green Flash, Traders, Matzaluna and if
you’ve got kids The Hungry Herring is a perfect place to dine.
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