Things to do

18 Things To Do In Sanibel Island, Florida

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So, you're thinking about checking out Sanibel Island, Awesome choice. This place is packed with so many fun things to do that you'll never run out of adventures and discovery.

There you will be strolling along the pristine beaches, collecting seashells as if you're on a treasure hunt or many other activities. There are several adoring and amusing things to do in Sanibel Island just waiting for you to swoop into it.

1. Explore Bowman's Beach

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Grab your beach bag because it's time to head to Bowman's Beach in Sanibel Island Florida USA. There you will be walking on soft sand, feeling the gentle waves, and finding all sorts of cool seashells.

This beach is like a dream for people who love collecting shells. You can also go kayaking, build sandcastles, or just chill out and enjoy the sun. Oh, and bring some lunch to enjoy the beautiful views.

2. Unleash The Beauty Of Lighthouse Beach Park

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The park is home to the iconic Sanibel Lighthouse, built in 1884, and offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. You can enjoy the beach, go shelling, and take a stroll along the boardwalk.

Lighthouse Beach Park also features picnic tables, charcoal grills, drinking fountains, restrooms, and outdoor showers, making it a convenient spot for a day at the beach. It is open from dawn to dusk, and parking is available for $5 per hour payable by credit card or cash at a kiosk.

3. Tour CROW

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The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) in Sanibel Florida, is an educational destination that offers a behind-the-scenes look into wildlife rehabilitation. Visitors to CROW can experience the organization's efforts firsthand through guided hospital tours, live camera feeds, interactive displays, and daily presentations by students, staff, and volunteers.

The center is dedicated to saving wildlife through state-of-the-art veterinary care, research, education, and conservation medicine. There visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and successes of wildlife rehabilitation.

4. Immerse Yourself In The J. N "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge

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The refuge is part of the US National Wildlife Refuge System and is home to over 245 species of birds, making it a prime spot for birdwatching. You can explore the refuge's 6,400+ acres of mangrove forest, submerged seagrass beds, cordgrass marshes, and sub-tropical hardwood hammocks located on the barrier Florida Sanibel Island.

J. N also offers a variety of activities, including hiking and so on. The Visitor & Education Center provides information about the refuge's ecosystems, migratory flyways, and more.

5. Explore Farmer Markets

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Be ready to have a blast at the Farmer's Market. You will be in a vibrant open-air market with over 40 vendors offering a treasure trove of local produce, baked goods, live plants, fresh seafood, and so much more.

It's a feast for the senses, with the aroma of freshly baked bread and the sight of colorful, farm-fresh fruits and veggies. You can sample delectable treats, pick up unique crafts, and chat with friendly local vendors. The market is a hub of creativity and community.

6. Go For Paddleboarding

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A fun and exciting way to explore the waters of Sanibel Island and Florida beaches is paddleboarding and there's no better place to try it out than on Sanibel Island. With several rental options available, you can easily rent a paddleboard and hit the water to enjoy the beautiful scenery and wildlife.

It is a great way to get some exercise, enjoy the sunshine, and experience the thrill of gliding across the water. Thus, don't miss this alluring chance.

7. Tour The Sanibel Historical Museum

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One of the to do Sanibel Island, Sanibel Historical Museum is a captivating destination. Founded in 1984, the museum and village are dedicated to preserving and sharing the island's history, from the Calusa and Spanish eras to the early pioneer families who settled on the island in the 1800s.

The village comprises nine historic buildings that have been moved from their original sites and meticulously restored to their original state, offering a fascinating glimpse into the island's past. 

8. Visit Sanibel and Captiva Chamber Of Commerce And Visitors Center

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Part of Sanibel Florida attractions this center is a prominent organization dedicated to promoting the prosperity of its members and preserving the quality of life in the community. It offers several member benefits, including business support services, social gatherings, and advertising opportunities.

The Chamber also works on the local level to bring the business community together and develop strong local networks. Additionally, it provides complimentary services and marketing programs to help members build their businesses.

9. Unveil The Charm Of Blind Pass Beach

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The beach is renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty, making it a perfect place to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings. It's also a paradise for seashell enthusiasts, with a wide variety of shells for collectors.

Visitors can enjoy the popular activity of shelling and take home beautiful souvenirs from the seashore. Additionally, the shore provides breathtaking sunset views and picturesque landscapes, making it an ideal spot for romantic walks or simply unwinding while taking in the stunning natural scenery.

10. Spend Some Time At Sanibel Community Playground

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Dip yourself in the joyous atmosphere of the Sanibel Community Playground, a family-friendly haven nestled amidst breathtaking natural beauty. With a diverse array of play structures catering to various ages and interests, this inclusive space invites children to unleash their creativity and imagination while fostering community engagement and educational exploration.

You can enjoy scenic picnic areas, support the local community, and create indelible memories in this idyllic setting where laughter and fun abound.

11. Unleash The Splendor Of Sanibel Causeway

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The Sanibel Causeway is a 3-mile-long causeway in Southwest Florida that spans San Carlos Bay, connecting Sanibel Island with the Florida mainland in Punta Rassa. It consists of three separate two-lane bridge spans and two man-made causeway islands between them.

It provides a beautiful first view of Sanibel Island and the waterways between there and Fort Myers Beach. Additionally, it costs $6 to cross the causeway, but there is no toll for vehicles leaving Sanibel Island.

12. Visit Periwinkle Way

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Periwinkle is a charming and vibrant thoroughfare that offers a delightful blend of shopping, dining, and local attractions. It is lined with unique boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes, it provides the perfect setting for a stroll and a spot of retail therapy.

Travelers can also explore the nearby Lighthouse Beach Park and Sanibel Island Lighthouse, adding a touch of natural beauty to their outings. So, walk for your retail therapy.

13. Walk Around Sanibel Moorings Botanical Garden Tours

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The garden offers guided 90-minute tours every Wednesday at 9 am, with reservations required. They are known for their lush tropical acres, featuring collections of bamboo, hibiscus, orchids, palms, citrus, and other native Florida plants.

The tours provide a wonderful opportunity to explore the resort's 6 acres of mature and unusual tropical flora and fauna. It offers a serene and educational outing for nature enthusiasts in the beauty of the local flora and fauna.

14. Explore Sanibel Public Library

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The library offers a wealth of resources and activities for visitors. It provides access to a vast collection of books, movies, music, magazines, and more, making it a perfect spot for book lovers to learn something new.

You can also use the library's visitor card to check out cooking or birding kits, museum passes, and other unique items. The library also offers a variety of events and programs, including author talks, book clubs, and children's storytime.

15. Relax On Gulfside City Park Beach

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Also known as Algiers Beach, Gulfside City Park is a picturesque and serene beach. The coast offers a beautiful setting for people to relax and unwind, with its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters.

It also features a loop trail that offers an interpretive nature walk, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts. The park has outdoor showers, picnic tables, BBQ grills, and parking, with a nominal fee of $5 per hour.

16. Visit Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation

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SCCF is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving natural resources and wildlife habitat on and around Sanibel and Captiva Islands. The foundation manages over 1,300 acres of conservation land, including the SCCF Nature Center, which offers educational programs.

Guests can explore the 400 acres of wilderness at the SCCF's Bailey Homestead Preserve, which features pathways and meandering streams. It also conducts research and advocacy efforts to protect the environment and wildlife in the area.

17. Tour Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum

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This museum is a renowned institution dedicated to the study and appreciation of shells and mollusks. It features more than 30 engaging exhibits of stunning shells, showcasing some of the largest and rarest shell specimens in the world.

Guests can explore the diverse world of mollusks and learn about their vital role in the ecosystem. Although the gallery is currently closed for rebuilding following the impact of Hurricane Ian, it is set to reopen in phases, with the Living Gallery of Aquariums opening first, and shell exhibits.

18. Spend Beach Time At Captiva Island

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With its pristine white sand beaches, tranquil ambiance, and stunning natural beauty, Captiva Island provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation and unwinding. Visitors can enjoy 15 miles of beach with endless stretches of sand, shelling, and the opportunity to witness dolphins playing in the waves and pelicans diving for fish just offshore.

The island's low-key, quiet, and laid-back atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating beach experience.