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Captiva and Sanibel Islands have also earned a reputation for some of the best shelling in the world. This southern half of the island has mostly very upscale homes and notmuch in the way of public facilities. So many reviews have said that guests left sanibel's beaches when they were bad to go to captiva where they we great! This refuge allows you to watch birds, go on tours, hike, bike and engage in other fun activities. If youre planning to visit the area, make sure to do plenty of research to find out whats open, whats available and whats just not even there anymore. It reported that the agencies responsible for declaring public safety for the beaches and waters in Lee County are Lee County Parks & Recreation and the Florida Department of Health's Healthy Beaches program. In fact, Sanibel and Captiva have some of the most fun and unique bars in Southwest Florida. Amelia Island. You can stay, explore, dine and swim on both with a guarantee to enjoy yourself. Relative to Sanibel, only 583 residents live on over 1.6 square miles of island, and not nearly as many visitors venture over to Captiva, other than those staying at South Seas Island Resort. There are also great sunsets at Turner Beach if you find yourself there later in the day! If youre not a paddler you can still see a lot of the refuge by taking the guided tram tour or hiking on established trails. They'll need water and power restored and repairs, but "uninhabitable" is a massive exaggeration. Accessing Captiva Beach by the Mucky Duck Restaurant at the end of Andy Rosse Lane is a great option if you are staying nearby. You want to find a slice of paradise when you go to the beach, and Captiva Beach is the most authentic piece of heaven there is. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. We hope this clears things up a bit to help you plan your trip to either island! Its a beautiful resort and one we highly recommend staying at for its resort facilities including a 9-hole golf course, and the variety of accommodations that will suit everyone. Copyright 2023 | WordPress Theme by MH Themes, Check VRBO Availability of Captiva Beachfront Rentals, Top 10 Tricks for Planning a Sanibel Island Vacation on a Budget, What to Look for in a Captiva or Sanibel Island Vacation Rental, The 3 Best Months to Visit Sanibel Island, The Highest Rated Captiva Island House Rentals, The 5 Highest Rated St George Island Beach House Rentals, The 5 Best Anna Maria Island Beachfront House Rentals, The 5 Biggest Florida Keys Beach House Rentals, The 6 Best Amelia Island Vacation Rentals, Top 10 Hidden Caribbean Private Island Rentals, Sanibel Island Tips & Secrets Only a Local Would Know, Complete Guide to Kayaking Sanibel Island. The building restrictions here are whats part of the charm. As for Captiva Island, the shelling is still spectacular. Last month, Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation staff and volunteers participated in the 15th annual Florida Winter Shorebird Survey, documenting nearly 3,000 shorebirds and seabirds over two days. We found it while cycling around Sanible and Captiva. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Even some private homes that are rented to guests on the resort have limitations on the useof facilities. Your support really helps me keep this blog running! Handicapped parking is free.Further up Captiva Drive, at the end of the main road on Captiva, there is another public beach adjacent to the entrance of South Seas Resort. Tarpon Beach. Because of its larger size, Sanibel has more beaches to choose from than Captiva. Dogs on leashes no longer than 8 feet are welcome on all Sanibel Island beaches. The bottom structure of the beaches have more influence on waves and water clarity than most realize. The combination of strong currents and fish travelling between the two islands mean that fish will often be biting. Sanibel is known to be the top shelling destination in North America. In fact, some folks think of the islands as being interchangeable. Since the water off Sanibel is shallower than Captiva, this causes bigger waves and murkier water. The water is frequently greenish and less than clear due to fine sediments stirred up by currents / wave action and significant drainage from the land, particularly after a storm. It feels like youre walking on a fluffy cloud. The currents flush fish out into the gulf and help build waves. The South Seas island resort is a large oceanfront resort which has. Youll love watching the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico from either island and both destinations truly boast something for everyone. In Captiva Island, you can access the several beaches on the island and enjoy the Gulf and Pine Island sound. The parking lot isnt huge, but there is space if you get there early enough. There's a $6 toll to get onto the island. Captiva Island Beaches have a more laid back, island-y vibe. You wont be able to take them home, but you may get to see some awesome new creatures. If youre looking for a smaller beach, Sanibel Lighthouse Beach is an excellent option. Asides the Sanibel Lighthouse, you can join a dolphin cruise or visit other amazing spots like: If you dont plan on staying in the Island, feel free to head inland for a day trip in Cape Coral. It had the same color/clarity as the ocean here in NC. It's got a great location right across from the beach and the pass between the two islands. A collaborative effort of the Florida Shorebird Alliance, the survey of shorebirds and seabirds in Florida aims to gain a better understanding of their winter distributions, the SCCF reported. Now that I am retired and live here full-time I really appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and natural, ungroomed beaches, and of course the shelling. Jensen's Captiva Island Beach and Marina Resorts, Captiva Vessels up to 40 feet (239) 472-5800 gocaptiva.com. There are several vendors for bike rentals or check with your hotel to find out if they offer bike rentals. If you aren't into shelling this is definitely something worth considering. Sanibel Captiva Beach Resorts Holly Monroe Beneficiary Created October 5, 2022 Emergencies Report fundraiser Your easy, powerful, and trusted home for help Easy Donate quickly and easily. The way it juts out into the gulf (its situated more east/west than north/south) means its a treasure trove when winter storms stir up the billions of shells sitting out deeper in the Gulf of Mexico. . The pristine beaches, with plentiful seashells for collectors, proved popular with. As they are a bit less shelly, the sands are a bit softer than on Sanibel and the water is usually clearer and less sandy. There are free taxis to many restaurants/bars but paid transport is $6 anywhere on the island. Captiva Island, on the other hand, is perfect for quiet family vacations, romantic getaways, privacy and exclusivity, and easy access to off-island boat adventures to out islands. As for Captiva Islands beaches, the sand is much more like a pillow-top mattress. But if you are looking for the more traditional sugar sand beach with clear blue water the Captiva Island Beaches are the way to go. As you approach the northern part of Captiva, you come to the small and very quaintvillage areawhere you will find an assortment of restaurants and shops, as well as the post office, a bank and a small library. Not really. With hundreds of beaches throughout Florida, you may be asking yourself why you should visit these beaches instead of all the others. Sanibel is the by far the larger of the two and is the first island off the mainland. DINNER AT TIMBERS RESTAURANT. While Sanibel is not busy by mainland standards, Captiva manages to be even more laid back. You can rent wave runners and go parasailing and as well as canoe and kayak rentals. If you travel down Sanibel Captiva Road and make the trek over the Blind Pass bridge, youll find yourself on Captiva Island. Each beach offers its own unique take on shelling and is worth a visit. Sports and Activities Insider Pagefor more information. Generally, these two islands have amazing beaches and a calm, laid-back atmosphere that everyone enjoys. There is so much you can do and see with your time, so why not go exploring now? There is no toll for leaving the island back to Fort Myers, or for crossing the small bridge from Sanibel to Captiva. Sanibel Island is about 40 minutes west from there. Lets see what sets the islands apart and explore some of the best beaches on both islands. Sanibel isnt a cheap vacation destination (supply and demand because of development restrictions) so youre probably going to pay a premium for anything on the beach. You can swim safely, walk and picnic here. Best Sanibel Island Vacation Rental with a View - Shorewood Beachfront Penthouse Sanibel Island Condo. Which beach is better Sanibel or Captiva? Some will even deliver a kayak to where you are staying. There are submerged structures in the water, and these must be avoided. From Sanibel, this distillery is only about 40 minutes away. Within the developed sections are things common to towns anywhere- schools, neighborhoods, supermarkets, and stores. Both islands have a good selection of mom and pop restaurants and shops, although Sanibel definitely has more (its a much larger island though). The other three councilmen are Scott. Answer 1 of 5: Hi all! You can picnic and go kayaking and canoeing, windsurfing and kiteboarding, sunbathing, and shelling. For Sale: Single Family home, $899,000, 2 Bd, 2 Ba, 1,291 Sqft, $696/Sqft, at 6092 Sanibel Captiva Rd, Sanibel, FL 33957 Port Sanibel Marina offers marina reservations and fishing charters for you to enjoy after a great time visiting all the beaches we mentioned above! Captiva island or Sanibel , best places to stay for 2-3 people , what is reopened , any suggestions? Tarpon Tale Inn is one of the smaller Sanibel Island inns, but that just makes the place to stay on Sanibel Island more homey. The first tip we will give you is Gulf-side beaches are the best places to find shells on vacation. For many who visit Fort Myers, Sanibel is . This is all from my personal experience on the islands, nothing I have read on any blog or website trying to sell you on an expensive vacation package at one of the resorts. To give you an accurate perspective, Sanibel is downright sleepy compared with other southwest Florida towns like Fort Myers, Naples, Marco Island, Bonita Springs even Punta Gorda.But Captiva is even quieter and less busy than Sanibel, though there's still plenty to do.. Once you cross over the bridge at Blind Pass, you'll immediately notice how the road narrows and . Shopping plazas along the main drag known as Periwinkle Way are small independent boutiques selling everything from souvenirs and beachwear to clothing and higher end designer apparel. it's one of the best parts but cut off and discard the tail. If youre not a strong swimmer or you have young kids, swimming should be avoided. Mostly boutique shopping. Is Marco prettier? Does Marco Island have prettier & clearer water and beaches than Sanibel/Captiva? On the end of Captiva near Blind Pass Captiva is typically pretty busy but the reast of the 5 miles of beach is some of the quietest you will find. Onceyou're is on the beach, it is public property from mean the high tide line to the water, so you can stroll to your heart's content. There are so many different species of fish here, and with the bay on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other, you can imagine how popular its been as a destination here as you can access the beach right from the water, too. One of the best spots on Sanibel to go kayaking is the J N Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Captiva Road. Allison Hagerup Beach Park is a beautiful public beach with direct access to Captiva Beach and has a small parking lot. day trips, Fort Myers, attractions, family fun with kids, Captiva, Captiva Island, restaurants, best restaurants, Southwest Florida, Gulf coast islands, Weird Florida: 8 Unusual Things to See and Do in Southwest Florida. Check out this shortlist of my top five 'quick picks for vacation rentals in Sanibel Island. Out of the 1.6 square miles of Captiva, over 300 acres essentially the entire northern tip is all owned by the South Seas Resort. This beach is a popular spot for fishing. Realizing the differences in the two islands is important, Ive heard from people who stayed on Sanibel expecting the clear water and soft sand and were disappointed. Exit 21 is the best exit off of I-75 for the beaches. (read about the brown water discharges from Lake O). Having taken morning runs on both island beaches, Sanibel's sand provides a much better surface for runners. To give you an accurate perspective, Sanibel is downright sleepy compared with other southwest Florida towns like Fort Myers, Naples, Marco Island, Bonita Springs even Punta Gorda. Ok Sanibel and Captiva Island, theres enough beach for you to have a great time. No, Siesta Key Village is not like Captiva. There are only 2 lane roads with no stoplights. Theres also Billys Rentals or Finnimores Beach and Bike Rentals. Its on the Captiva side of the Blind Pass Bridge, so all swimmers need to be as cautious as possible, as there are strong currents and a swift undertow. Once you cross over the bridge at Blind Pass, youll immediately notice how the road narrows and homes are shrouded by lush greenery and gates. 2. 2023TravelMagma All rights reserved. Sanibel Island has more shells, Captiva Island Beaches have better sand. The beach here is backed by swaying palm trees, and a few benches, ideal for soaking up the scene, are nearby. Some of the features of the beach that youll find here include: Whether youre by yourself, with a loved one, or bringing the whole family, Bowmans Beach is a great option. Marco has a modern infrastructure of bridges, streets, and street lights. These islands are more alike than they are different. Right at the southern tip of Captiva Island is Turner Beach. For Sale. However, that doesnt quite hold true. Very shelly though, youll need to wear flips flops to take a walk. Be sure to carry a flashlight when walking at night. more. 1451 Middle Gulf Dr, Sanibel Island. Sanibel is crisscrossed by an extensive multi-use path system that gives bicyclists and walkers access to most of the destinations on the island including the wildlife refuge and most of the beaches. There are many homes and historic cottages that rent privately as well. Others appreciate the secluded and remote feeling that the island offers when compared to more crowded Florida beaches. While we initially stayed on and fell in love with Captiva Island, both islands are perfect for rest and relaxation. Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grill 2500 Island Inn Rd, Sanibel Island OR 5400 S Seas Plantation Rd, Captiva Island That's right - Doc Ford's has two locations within the islands! Sanibels beaches are generally firm and compact, from higher foot traffic. All SW FL beach towns have the same water clarity issues. There are bird sanctuaries, modern childrens playgrounds, and RV parking for road trippers looking to get out and do something new. While Sanibel is filled with people scouring the beach for beautiful shells, the beaches of Captiva are generally very quiet and laid back. We are staying a week. One of the questions we get asked a lot is, what are the differences between Sanibel and Captiva Island?. Can you find a nice place to stay? It is also where the Captiva restaurants are located. On the left side of Captiva Drive there are three short side streets. Thanks to the forethought and determination of local residents, there have been consistent efforts since the 1970s to conserve and protect the natural setting and limit mass development, so much so that citizens formed their own municipal government apart from Lee County. For Sale. During your stay, you should indulge in shell hunting. See the The Wicked Dolphin Rum Distillery gives free tours and tastings for all visitors. Sanibel is known to be the top shelling destination in North America. If the beaches ofSanibelare uncrowded by moststandards, Captiva's are even more so. Some resorts offer bikes for rent. As you ride your bike to cruise the 4-mile Wildlife Drive, get ready to discover different trails. Turner Beach. It dwells today within the seaside Casa Ybel Resort. All great points. jesseaknight 5 mo. Sanibel Island and Captiva Island are called sister islands, but there are some obvious differences between them. But youre going to have to dig around more than youd think and its probably not going to be a bargain. The best shelling on the two islands is around the Blind Pass Bridge and theres parking on both the Sanibel and Captiva sides. And. The deep channel of water of what is now Blind Pass was formed, forever separating the two (though barely) by a narrow two-lane bridge thats small enough to walk across in under a minute. The water at Sand Key is exactly the same as the water on Clearwater Beach. Sign in to get trip updates and message other travelers.. Sanibel Island ; Hotels Bird watching where you can spot pelicans, ibis. The Seaside Inn is another laid-back beachfront inn. The beach itself is clean, with shaded areas and restrooms, covered cabanas, and picnic areas to enjoy. Turner Beach is located at Blind Pass right across the bridge from Sanibel. If you stay at South Seas Island Resort, you have the added benefit of the resorts shuttle service. Canoe and kayak rentals, even guided tours of Ding Darling by tram or kayak are available at Tarpon Bay Explorers. Sanibel Island might be better for you if youre looking for active family vacations, great shelling beaches, more shopping and dining amenities, being closer to nature preserves and off-island driving adventures to Fort Myers and beyond to the Everglades or Charlotte Harbor.