But I digress. Just off the coast of Fort Myers in southwest Florida lie the twin barrier islands of Sanibel and Captiva, coastal jewels of the Lee County coast. Sanibel is 60% nature reserve with low rise mostly condos and natural ungroomed beaches. People who visit the island mostly have plans of hanging out on the beach, as it is the main attraction. If clear water is your absolute priority Tina, I don't think either Sanibel or Marco are for you. You can download an app with tons of info on it. Sanibel public beaches & parking lots have started opening! The island is a lot smaller than Sanibel (half of its taken up by the South Seas Island Resort), but it feels very much the same. Bringing the whole family is a must when you head to Captiva Beach, and there are plenty of beaches and places to stay along those beaches. Our guide below gives you an in-depth look at what you can expect at each of Sanibel Island's popular shelling beaches. But youre going to have to dig around more than youd think and its probably not going to be a bargain. Powered by Mai Theme, Tips For Honeymoon Island State Park: A Florida Gem. If youre looking for the best tropical getaway on Floridas Gulf Coast, Sanibel and Captiva are always going to be in the conversation. Here are better explanations: You are paying or the name Naples means Naples is at least twice as expensive as Ft. Myers Beach. Cruise to Key West from Marco or Naples?? No Wal-Mart, McDonalds, or Ben & Jerry's (sigh). Water on Marco is not constantly clear as mentioned above. Even though there are not many places for beach access, when you step onto the beach youre on public property. Some of the major differences between Sanibel Island and Captiva Island can be found on the beaches. The paths are well marked and almost flat. 8 Great Places to Go Kayaking in Fort Myers, 50 Things to Do in Southwest Florida: The Ultimate Bucket List, 10 Fun and Easy Day Trips from Naples Florida, 15 Fun Things To Do on Sanibel Island, Florida, 6 Best Waterfront Places to Stay on Sanibel Island and Captiva Island, Castaway to 7 Southwest Florida Gulf Coast Islands Reachable Only By Boat, The 7 Best Beaches in Fort Myers Florida (Plus 5 More Nearby), 9 Sanibel Restaurants for Tropical Island Dining at Its Best. There's a year-round outdoor pool, and free use of their bicycles included. Tarpon Tale Inn is one of the smaller Sanibel Island inns, but that just makes the place to stay on Sanibel Island more homey. Perwinkle Way is the main business street but you will note that large sections are still devoid of parking lots and buildings where it traverses natural areas. If I wanted to snorkel I would head to the keys. 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. You'll find it on the western edge of Captiva Island. There is a sandbar at low tide which gives you room to see live seashells. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Check out this shortlist of my top five 'quick picks for vacation rentals in Sanibel Island. Fishers in particular love it here, as there is a lighted pier for them to enjoy and fish from. Most of accommodations on Captiva are at South Seas, but there are a few resorts, inns, and B&B's. If you enjoy hunting for shells, you should pick Sanibel Island, as it is the top shelling destination in North America. Within the developed sections are things common to towns anywhere- schools, neighborhoods, supermarkets, and stores. Which of these twin islands in southwest Florida is right for you? On my sheller's bucket list, I have found more rare shells that I proudly show off to friends after every visit. There are several vendors for bike rentals or check with your hotel to find out if they offer bike rentals. Lets start with the first island youll arrive at from the mainland Sanibel Island. Captiva is much smaller than Siesta. Captiva Beach - Andy Rosse Lane. Before traveling to any vacation destination, one of the most important things to consider is where you are to stay on your arrival. Does the lack of chain restaurants mean Sanibel has no casual restaurants for quick and cheap in-and-out service? If you are not stayingat the resort you cannot go onto the grounds or use the facilities. Bowmans Beach and Blind Pass Beach re where you will find softer sand on Sanibel Island. Narrow beaches mixed with more beachgoers creates a recipe for crowded beaches. Finding seashells on either island is as easy as walking onto the beach. Honestly, I think of Captiva as an extension of Sanibel. All of the area's beaches from Lighthouse Beach to North Captiva Island are great shelling locations. We did some . Sanibel & Captiva Island Beaches are well known for shelling, exotic wildlife and their beauty. There are no high-rise accommodations on Sanibel, only two story hotels, one-story retro motels, and lovely quaint cottages. Many visitors are amazed at the amount of shells that theyre able to find here. From Sanibel, this distillery is only about 40 minutes away. Please note, the majority of our content was posted and shared prior to Hurricane Ian. Whether you choose Sanibel Island or Captiva Island, these destinations are a 30 minutes car drive from each other so you can always change your mind if you want to. This inn provides very colorful and extremely comfortable cottages for you. Sanibel Island and Captiva Island are called sister islands, but there are some obvious differences between them. 2. 7/9/2016. Most of the year it feels like you are the only one on the beach. Captivas beaches are more of the soft sugar sand that one would typically see on an island. Captiva has more super high end vacation homes that sit on the beach whereas Sanibel is where youll find more of the condo units. There are no big box stores you have to go off-island to Fort Myers for that or streetlights and traffic lights. Both are a far cry from the bitter cold winter months further north. Refer to our Privacy Policy for full affiliate terms. All SW FL beach towns have the same water clarity issues. Lets see what sets the islands apart and explore some of the best beaches on both islands. A Saltwater Fishing License is required to saltwater fish from shore. For Sale: Single Family home, $1,795,000, 3 Bd, 5 Ba, 3,516 Sqft, $511/Sqft, at 5721 Sanibel Captiva Rd, Sanibel, FL 33957 With amenities such as bathrooms and showers, picnic tables and playgrounds, youre going to find everything you need for the perfect day at the beach. On Sanibel after high tide, it looks as if someone dumped buckets upon buckets of shells on Sanibel. What it lacks in amenities, it more than makes up for in beauty and other features. Dont take this the wrong way, the beaches of Captiva Island are still better for shelling than most places in the entire world, its just that Sanibel is truly the best there is. 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. You can swim safely, walk and picnic here. There are also a few resorts, inns, and B&B's offering nightly rentals. The beaches on Sanibel and Captiva Island are an absolute marvel that millions of people come to see each year. Accessing Captiva Beach by the Mucky Duck Restaurant at the end of Andy Rosse Lane is a great option if you are staying nearby. Getting the Most Out of Your Florida Fishing Trips, 2023 But I have never seen brown water hitting Marco Island. 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. But Captiva is even quieter and less busy than Sanibel, though theres still plenty to do. 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. One of the questions we get asked a lot is, what are the differences between Sanibel and Captiva Island?. No matter which island you choose, be prepared to pay for parking. The two island are essentially one, but they really do have subtle qualities that could make a big difference in your vacation. The pristine beaches, with plentiful seashells for collectors, proved popular with. At the end of the lane is one of Captivas most popular restaurants, The Mucky Duck, a laid-back place thats great for a cold drink and watching the sunset.On the opposite side of Captiva Drive is a popular favorite, the Bubble Room complete with year-round Christmas decorations and a very funky decor. 7 Best Beaches on Sanibel And Captiva Islands Turner Beach (Blind Pass Beach) Just a stone's throw from the bridge from Sanibel to Captiva lies Turner Beach, aka Blind Pass Beach. 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. Hi , we are trying to book vacation end of March . Many outdoor activities are also prepared to ensure you are never bored during your stay here. Sanibel is a better choice if you are beachcombing and want to enjoy biking on the bike paths, birdwatching, a d being out in nature in general. Which Beach is Better Sanibel or Captiva? If youre not a strong swimmer or you have young kids, swimming should be avoided. Captiva & Sanibel Island Beaches. There are submerged structures in the water, and these must be avoided. Youll find a few places like Schnappers Hots for hot dogs, lots of ice cream shops, and other casual eateries that are value-friendly. Ive always found the best shells in the water on Captiva. While Sanibel is not busy by mainland standards, Captiva manages to be even more laid back. Which beach is better Sanibel or Captiva? Two weeks ago, the water was cloudy but this last week with mild winds from the east, the water is crystal clear. You can visit: Matlacha is a small home village, which is best known for their quirky shops, and several eateries offering some of the best delicacies. The causeway was built in 1963 (the island was previously only accessible via ferry) and the city of Sanibel was formed in 1974. If at South Seas add extensive resort amenitiesand an upscale atmosphere. Tarpon Bay Road Beach. Sanibel and Captiva Islands are but two small vacation spots on the Gulf Coast. For people who are enthusiastic about shell hunting, there are better shells on Sanibel beaches. Despite a huge push from developers, the city held their ground with strong building restrictions that were intended to protect the environment (to this day, half the island is a nature preserve) and its largely what makes Sanibel so quaint. Sanibel won, hands down. Sanibel and Captiva islands offer tourists at least fifteen miles of stunning beaches, and boost over 250 kinds of seashells from the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean regions.. You see why I said that Sanibel and Captiva have what I cherish. The Atlantic with its steep continental dropoff has stronger surf than the Gulf coast which is relatively shallow (there is actually a shallows area many miles off-shore). Both the Sanibel inn and Seaside inn offer 15% off deals for residents in Florida currently. This video shows what I consider to be the best public beaches on Sanibel Island. Although you may not be able to climb to the top of the historic Sanibel Lighthouse, you are allowed to visit the surrounding areas for a lighthouse photo-op. Sanibel Island has more shells, Captiva Island Beaches have better sand. There are also great sunsets at Turner Beach if you find yourself there later in the day! When you are looking to visit Sanibel and Captiva Island beaches, dont forget to make a boating reservation too! The building restrictions here are whats part of the charm. Others appreciate the secluded and remote feeling that the island offers when compared to more crowded Florida beaches. Driving Directions Take I-75 South to Fort Myers. The best part about Sanibel Island is the quaintness of the inns, such as the Sanibel Inn. There are a number of places to rent bikes at reasonable daily or weekly rates. Youll find many public beaches on Sanibel Island, some with fishing piers, and a few private beaches, too. Generally, these two islands have amazing beaches and a calm, laid-back atmosphere that everyone enjoys. Sanibel and Captiva are connected to Fort Myers on the mainland by only one roadway the Sanibel Causeway Bridge. On Sanibel, youll want a bike, possibly even a car, for your visit. Sanibel Island is home to relaxing beaches, great dining, fishing . Welcome to Capturing Captiva, your online vacation guide to Captiva Island, Florida, and the surrounding area. The kids will love the park, and you can take a moment to explore the shoreline and find as many shells as you like (not live ones!) Answer 1 of 5: Hi all! Mostly boutique shopping. Sanibels finest wearing white gloves still move traffic the old fashioned way during peak times. It is also where the Captiva restaurants are located. 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. Before you reach the South Seas Island resort theres the quaint village of Captiva with a few shops and eateries. Gulfside City Park. Sanibel is known for its beaches some of the best beaches in southwest Florida but even more so for the millions of shells that wash up on its shores by the hour. The best news is that if youre a Florida resident who is exploring, youre going to be able to do that for free! Its the top shelling destination in the country and shell collectors from around the world come to spend the day hunched over doing the Sanibel Stoop. You wont get much shelling done here, but that doesnt mean that you cant find any at all! Great Licks is the perfect place to help you cool off from Florida heat and pamper your taste buds for amazing and mouthwatering homemade ice cream. Sanibel Island vs Marco Island for a vacation?Sanibel and Marco islands are both tropical gems of Southwest Florida, attracting thousands of visitors each year for a family vacation, a weekend getaway, or a honeymoon. Captiva Island beaches on the other hand have a steeper slope in the water directly off the beach, which tends to cut down on the amount of shells that wash up on the beach. It had the same color/clarity as the ocean here in NC. For more on what to do, check out the Marco Review website. In fact, theres an eclectic variety of Sanibel retaurants serving great breakfasts, casual lunch, and upscale restaurants for dinner. The water moves fast, and the resorts and rentals are well-placed for a day of fun at the beach. From the bay to the Gulf of Mexico, the islands are surrounded by water and beauty. The residents, wishing to conserve the natural setting and protect the wildlife refuge atmosphere actually broke away from the county and formedSanibel's own municipal government. Both islands have these things in common: Beautiful beaches, lack of high-rise hotels and condos, mostly low density development, and a laid back atmosphere. Ok Sanibel and Captiva Island, theres enough beach for you to have a great time. Trusted Your donation is protected by the GoFundMe Giving Guarantee. TOLL: Unless you have a SunPass account, the Causeway toll is $6.00 per vehicle heading to Sanibel. Also Ding Darling Bird Sanctuary is best visited early in the day. 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. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Port Sanibel Marina | The following Sanibel beaches are now OPEN! 2023TravelMagma All rights reserved. But one thing that's very important is CLEAR water and pretty beaches. Even though it sits a stones throw (literally) across from Sanibel Island, it has a totally different vibe. There is public access and the smaller resorts are on the West. Do You Need a Boating License in Florida? With a shell bag in hand, they scour the beaches for hours looking for unbroken treasures. The first tip we will give you is Gulf-side beaches are the best places to find shells on vacation. These islands will certainly be your favorites as soon as you get here. Without a doubt, Sanibel has better shelling than Captiva. Home News 8 Sanibel and Captiva Island Beaches You Have to Visit. Sanibel Island is about 40 minutes west from there. There is access to the western sunset-facingpristine beaches of Captiva at Turner's Beach immediately after Blind Pass Bridge and also a small lot at the very end of Captiva Drive directly adjacent to South Seas Resort. 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. You could easily sell your home, move here and never miss a thing. Walking and biking can get you around most of the island. Lighthouse Beach. Aside from Bowman and Blind Pass beach areas, Sanibels beaches are far more narrow than Captivas. Email agent. Some of the fish that can be caught here include: As noted above, the currents here can sometimes be intense and unpredictable. Bowman's Beach. Sanibels beaches are actually made up more of ground up shells than sand, which can be somewhat uncomfortable for bare feet. Sanibel and Captiva are sister islands. The Southwest Florida water currents play into a sheller's hands . Dating back to August 1884, the Sanibel Lighthouse is over hundred years old and of historic importance. If you are really into fantastic shelling then the obvious choice is Sanibel. Sitemap, 8 Sanibel and Captiva Island Beaches You Have to Visit. The South Seas island resort is a large oceanfront resort which has. BOAT RIDE AROUND J.N. The Gulf Beach is 3 minutes' walk away. More questions about Sanibel vs Captiva? Sanibel Island beaches for shelling are known across the country, while Captiva Island beaches are known for their fine sands. Some popular activities on Turner Beach include: If you have a Saltwater Fishing License, you can saltwater fish from the shore. 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. There are bars and restaurants just back across the bridge. If youre looking for a smaller beach, Sanibel Lighthouse Beach is an excellent option. Compared to Sanibel Island, beaches in Captiva Island do not have a lot of crowds and have fewer shells to hunt. There are great restaurants but no chain places and not much nightlife. Youll find shady areas with picnic tables and grills to enjoy your own BBQ! While Captiva Island features a North-South orientation like most of Floridas Gulf barrier islands, youll find that Sanibel Island has a unique East-West orientation. Visit the Islands to find great shells today! Schedule launch times and see the status of your reservation anytime, anywhere with the BoatCloud Launch App. When we were at Marco last month, the beaches were pretty. Copyright 2023 Lincoln Travel Co ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. In all shapes, sizes, and colors, vacationers often leave Blind Pass Beach with buckets full of incredible shells. it's one of the best parts but cut off and discard the tail. Captiva Island and Sanibel Island were formerly single islands located along North Captiva Island. YUCATAN SHRIMP AT Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille. Where to Eat. Condos are also available on both the Gulf and the bay. Dogs are welcome at Turner Beach- they must be kept on a leash no longer than 8 ft. We please ask that you remember to clean up after your dog. 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 many homes and historic cottages that rent privately as well. P.S. We hope this clears things up a bit to help you plan your trip to either island! The sand quality is good. Best Beaches in Florida for 2019 - Sanibel & Captiva Island Beaches Find your favorite paradise with the updated list of best beaches in Florida. In the East End area Tarpon Tale Inn sits just 0.7 miles (1.1 km) from Lighthouse Beach Park. You can even rent golf carts. Golf cart renters must be 21 years old and have a vaild driver's license. 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. What Does Deeded Beach Access Mean in Florida? To get to the beach, its a short five minute walk through a nature trail, boardwalk bridge, hammock, and beach scrub to get where you need to be. 1725 Cape Coral Pkwy E, Cape Coral, FL 33904. These islands are more alike than they are different. Allison Hagerup Beach Park is a beautiful public beach with direct access to Captiva Beach and has a small parking lot. The gentle slope of the beach means more spread-out shells. Some people simply love admiring the unrivaled views of the sunset that the unique islands provide. The city-island has several banks and shopping centers, even a single-screen movie theatre.
