What to Do When Visiting Sanibel and Captiva Islands

Sanibel and Captiva Islands are two beautiful, secluded islands off the coast of Florida that offer a variety of activities for all ages. From outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and fishing, to indoor activities like shopping and dining, there is something for everyone on these islands. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an exciting family vacation, these islands have plenty of things to do. Let’s take a look at some of the best activities to enjoy on Sanibel and Captiva Islands.

Explore Sanibel and Captiva’s Natural Beauty

The islands boast some of the most stunning natural scenery in the country, and exploring it is one of the best things to do here. Sanibel and Captiva have miles of white sand beaches, lush forests, and beautiful wildlife. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll on the beach, explore the trails in the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, or even go kayaking and fishing in the surrounding waters. There are also plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, including birds, dolphins, and even manatees.

The islands are also home to several historic sites, such as the historic Sanibel Lighthouse. Visitors can learn about the islands’ history and take in the beautiful views from the top of the lighthouse. There are also several museums on the islands, including the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, which is dedicated to the study of shells and shell-making.

No matter what type of outdoor activity you’re looking for, Sanibel and Captiva Islands have something for everyone.

Go Shopping and Dining

Sanibel and Captiva Islands have a variety of shopping and dining options for visitors. There are several boutique shops, galleries, and gift shops on the islands, offering everything from souvenirs to local art and crafts. There are also several restaurants, ranging from casual beachside bars to upscale seafood restaurants. For a more unique experience, visitors can take a boat tour to nearby Cabbage Key Island, where they can enjoy a meal at the famous Cabbage Key Inn.

Visitors can also take advantage of the islands’ lively nightlife. There are several bars and clubs, offering live music and dancing. There are also plenty of activities for the whole family, such as movie theaters, arcades, and bowling alleys.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet night out or a lively night of dancing, Sanibel and Captiva Islands have something for everyone.

Take a Boat Tour

Sanibel and Captiva Islands are surrounded by stunning waters and boat tours are a great way to take in the sights. Visitors can take a boat tour around the islands, or even around nearby islands like Cabbage Key. Boats tours offer the chance to see dolphins, manatees, and a variety of other wildlife in their natural habitat. Visitors can also take a sunset cruise to enjoy the beautiful views of the islands from the sea.

Visitors can also take a fishing charter and try their luck at catching a variety of fish, from snapper to grouper. There are several fishing charters available, offering a variety of experiences for all levels of fishermen.

Boat tours are a great way to experience the beauty of Sanibel and Captiva Islands from a unique perspective.

Visit the Local Attractions

Sanibel and Captiva Islands are home to a variety of attractions, including the famous Sanibel Lighthouse and the nearby Shell Museum. Visitors can also visit the nearby Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge, where they can view a variety of wildlife, including birds, dolphins, and manatees. There are also several art galleries and museums, offering a unique cultural experience.

Visitors can also take a guided tour of the islands, where they can learn about the islands’ history and explore its unique attractions. There are also several golf courses on the islands, offering a challenging round of golf with stunning views.

The islands have plenty of attractions to keep visitors busy and entertained.

Enjoy Water Sports

Sanibel and Captiva Islands are surrounded by sparkling waters, making them a great destination for water sports. Visitors can go kayaking, paddle boarding, and snorkeling in the nearby waters. There are also several boat charters available, offering deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, and more. For the more adventurous visitors, there are parasailing and jet skiing excursions available.

Visitors can also take a boat tour to nearby Cabbage Key Island, where they can take part in some of the island’s unique activities, such as its famous “Tiki Bar.” Visitors can also take a guided tour of the island’s historic sites.

Sanibel and Captiva Islands offer a variety of water sports and activities for all levels of adventurers.

Go Bird Watching

Sanibel and Captiva Islands are home to a variety of birds, making them a great destination for bird watchers. Visitors can take a guided bird watching tour or explore the islands on their own. The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is home to a variety of birds, such as pelicans, herons, and roseate spoonbills. Visitors can also spot a variety of birds on the nearby Cabbage Key Island.

Visitors can also take a boat tour of the nearby islands, where they can spot even more birds, such as ospreys and bald eagles. There are also several birding centers on the islands, offering educational programs and guided tours.

Bird watching is a great way to take in the beauty of Sanibel and Captiva Islands.

Learn About the Islands’ History

Sanibel and Captiva Islands have a long and interesting history, and visitors can learn all about it at the local museums and attractions. The Sanibel Historical Museum offers visitors a chance to learn about the islands’ history and explore its unique artifacts. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the Sanibel Lighthouse and learn about its history.

The islands are also home to several historic sites, such as the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum and the nearby Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge. Visitors can also explore the ruins of the historic Fort Myers, which was built in the late 1800s.

Learning about the history of Sanibel and Captiva Islands is a great way to get to know the islands.

Try the Local Cuisine

Sanibel and Captiva Islands are home to a variety of restaurants, offering everything from seafood to Italian cuisine. Visitors can stop by one of the many beachside bars and restaurants and sample the local seafood. There are also several upscale restaurants offering gourmet meals. For a more unique experience, visitors can take a boat tour to nearby Cabbage Key Island, where they can enjoy a meal at the famous Cabbage Key Inn.

Visitors can also take advantage of the islands’ lively nightlife. There are several bars and clubs, offering live music and dancing. For a more relaxed evening, visitors can try one of the many wine bars or craft breweries.

No matter what type of cuisine you’re looking for, Sanibel and Captiva Islands have something for everyone.

Take a Tour of the Islands

Visitors can explore Sanibel and Captiva Islands on their own, or they can take a guided tour. There are several boat tours and guided hikes available, offering a chance to learn about the islands’ history and take in the stunning views. There are also several bike tours and nature walks available, offering a chance to get up close and personal with the islands’ natural beauty.

Visitors can also take a tour of the nearby islands, such as Cabbage Key. There are several boat tours and nature walks available, offering a chance to explore the island’s unique attractions and spot some of its wildlife.

Taking a tour of Sanibel and Captiva Islands is a great way to explore the islands and learn about their history.

Take a Day Trip to Nearby Islands

Sanibel and Captiva Islands are part of the larger Barrier Islands of Florida, and there are many other islands nearby that are worth exploring. Visitors can take a boat tour to nearby islands, such as Cabbage Key, Useppa Island, and Cayo Costa. These islands offer visitors a chance to explore their unique attractions and take in the stunning views.

Visitors can also take a day trip to Fort Myers Beach or Naples, which are both nearby. Fort Myers Beach is a popular destination for its lively beach scene and unique attractions, such as the historic fishing pier. Naples, on the other hand, is known for its upscale restaurants, galleries, and shopping.

No matter what type of adventure you’re looking for, taking a day trip is a great way to explore the area.

Summary

Sanibel and Captiva Islands offer a variety of activities for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an exciting family vacation, these islands have something for everyone. Visitors can explore the islands’ natural beauty, go shopping and dining, take a boat tour, visit the local attractions, enjoy water sports, go bird watching, learn about the islands’ history, try the local cuisine, take a tour of the islands, or even take a day trip to nearby islands. No matter what type of adventure you’re looking for, Sanibel and Captiva Islands have something for everyone.