Throughout the year, thousands of visitors come to enjoy Sanibel's beaches and hunt for seashells. Due to Sanibel Island's unique geographical orientation, it acts as a bent finger sticking out into the gulf which allows Sanibel to act like a scoop for seashells disrupted by the ocean currents. The tides then push these seashells up onto Sanibel beaches.
Fishing
Sanibel Island offers some of the finest fishing in all of Florida. Snook, tarpon, redfish, sea trout, and a variety of others can all be found within a few hundred yards of each other. Sanibel is truly a fisherman's dream come true.
Boat tours
Various boat and cruise lines offers exciting tours throughout San Carlos Bay, Pine Island Sound and the coastal waters of the Gulf Of Mexico. Some of the tours also offer prime Dolphin viewing, shelling, and snorkeling. If you already have a group be sure to ask about private cruise options as well.
Bike Tours
For one of the best island tours, hop on a bicycle. Enjoy well-maintained bike paths that cover 22 miles of shopping districts and back roads, as they meander through friendly neighborhoods, beneath shady tree canopies, across wooden bridges and along quiet waterways. Biking on Sanibel is fun for the entire family. Didn't plan on packing your bike? Public bike rental facilities are easily found throughout Sanibel Island.
Bird Watching on Sanibel Island & Captiva Island
Visitors come to Sanibel Island and Captiva Island from around the world to experiencing the amazing birding for which the islands are famous. Sanibel & Captiva Islands are for the birds, and bird watchers.
Darling National Wildlife Refuge
Within ''Ding'' Darling National Wildlife Refuge you can rent kayaks, canoes, canoes with motor, family pontoon boats, bicycles and fishing equipment. Guided Tours are available and include: Kayaks, Sunset paddle boat tours, Sea Life & Nature Cruises, Breakfast & Evening Cruises, and Fishing Charters.
Additional Activities:
- Dolphin watching trips from nearby Captiva
- Shell museum, unique in America
- Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation
- Shopping on Periwinkle Way for everything from T-shirts to jewelry
- Restaurants range from sandwiches to white tablecloth. Informal casual dress everywhere
- Water sports available include sailing, canoeing, fishing (fly & deep-sea)
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