Compared to Sanibel Island, beaches on Captiva Island do not have a lot of crowds and have a few shells to hunt. Mostly boutique shopping. it's one of the best parts but cut off and discard the tail. There are several vendors for bike rentals or check with your hotel to find out if they offer bike rentals. At stake in Sanibel's nonpartisan Tuesday city council election: the seats now filled by the island's mayor and vice-mayor, Holly Smith and Richard Johnson. But youre going to have to dig around more than youd think and its probably not going to be a bargain. Theres also Billys Rentals or Finnimores Beach and Bike Rentals. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge. You will actually find this beach both on Sanibel and Captiva Island. Do You Need a Boating License in Florida? Florida Winter Shorebird Survey takes place on islands On Sanibel after high tide, it looks as if someone dumped buckets upon buckets of shells on Sanibel. The best shelling on the two islands is around the Blind Pass Bridge and theres parking on both the Sanibel and Captiva sides. Thank you BOAT RIDE AROUND J.N. Is Marco prettier? 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. You can just spend your days on Sanibel Island and occasionally go to Captiva island to experience their unique dining experience. Since then, Sanibel has followed a path of creating a balance for residents and visitors to enjoy the beauty of the island while at the same time proactively and aggressively controlling development and sprawl. Sanibels beaches are actually made up more of ground up shells than sand, which can be somewhat uncomfortable for bare feet. Sanibel and Captiva Island beaches are a must-see for a variety of reasons. They'll need water and power restored and repairs, but "uninhabitable" is a massive exaggeration. 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. 8 Sanibel and Captiva Island Beaches You Have to Visit Discover the Beauty of Sanibel and Captiva Islands There is so much to find and enjoy in Southwest Florida, especially on Sanibel and Captiva Islands. Bowmans Beach stretches for miles, and there are excellent amenities here. 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. The geography of each island makes it unique. Sanibel Island has more shells, Captiva Island Beaches have better sand. Question: Clearwater Sand Key Beach vs Captiva Island-Which has a and they leave from Captiva, but its an easy drive from Sanibel. The J.N. Essentially, Sanibel and Captiva islands are sister islands. Schedule launch times and see the status of your reservation anytime, anywhere with the BoatCloud Launch App. As far as recommendations on where to stay on each island: On Captiva: South Seas Island Resort or Tween Waters Island Resort, On Sanibel: Casa Ybel Resort, Tortuga Beach Club Resort, the Inns of Sanibel, Sanibel Restaurant Recommendations: What I Liked & What I Didnt, Shopping on Sanibel: A Must Visit Bookstore & Cute Boutiques, A Visit to the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, Cayo Costa Shelling Tours with Captiva Cruises, Edison & Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, Luminary Hotel & Co in Downtown Fort Myers Review, Matlacha Isles & Pine Island: A Great Fort Myers Day Trips. Copyright 2023 Lincoln Travel Co ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. On Sanibel, youll want a bike, possibly even a car, for your visit. Mostly boutique shopping. But one thing that's very important is CLEAR water and pretty beaches. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2hNosNWLPbQ, This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. During your stay, you should indulge in shell hunting. Sanibel Island vs. Marco Island: Where to Vacation - Royal Shell The best part about Sanibel Island is the quaintness of the inns, such as the Sanibel Inn. Touring the Beaches on Sanibel Island - YouTube You should, however note that the beach access is limited, and you can only shop at one spot. 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. The sand on Clearwater Beach is slightly nicer than the sand on Sand Key, but it is pretty close. Red tide, devastated reefs follow in the wake of Hurricane Ian Gulfside City Beach is also known as Algiers Beach, and the park itself has beach access and a nature trail to enjoy. You can even rent golf carts. The waters off the beaches of Sanibel have a gradual slope that allows shells to be washed up onto the beach extremely easily. Eight Sanibel and Captiva beaches you have to visit include: Bowman's Beach Lighthouse Beach Blind Pass Beach Captiva Beach Turner Beach Gulfside City Park/Algiers Beach Causeway Beach Park Tarpon Bay Beach Sanibel, Captiva residents await news of Ian's destruction | Miami Herald Driving Directions Take I-75 South to Fort Myers. Just within the past two weeks, we've seen Billy's Rentals and Tarpon Bay Explorers reopen, along with Doc Ford's, Timbers and the Great White Grill. Hopefully this post helps you make a decision that puts you on the beach that will give you the most enjoyment from your island vacation. There are bird sanctuaries, modern childrens playgrounds, and RV parking for road trippers looking to get out and do something new. Sanibel is 60% nature reserve with low rise mostly condos and natural ungroomed beaches. But its all about your expectations. It is connected to Fort Myers by the Sanibel Causeway Bridge. We found it while cycling around Sanible and Captiva. There are kayak launch sites here, and you can bring yours with you for a fun afternoon floating in the water. TravelMagmais a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Water on Marco is not constantly clear as mentioned above. No, Siesta Key Village is not like Captiva. Exit 21 is the best exit off of I-75 for the beaches. The biggest difference is the number of beaches. 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. 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. Almost 7,400 residents live there in just over 16 square miles. The Keys are AMAZING in my opinion, but you do give up the nice, wide, sandy beaches when choosing to vacation in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Golf cart renters must be 21 years old and have a vaild driver's license. 11 Gorgeous Sanibel And Captiva Island Beaches To Visit The Seaside Inn is another laid-back beachfront inn. There is a sandbar at low tide which gives you room to see live seashells. It's got a great location right across from the beach and the pass between the two islands. Located in the middle of the island, there is more than enough space to enjoy the sunshine or relax in the shade should you want to take a moment to rest. If you arent into shelling this is definitely something worth considering. Blind Pass Beach Park. Nearly 70% of the island is devoted to conservation and wildlife refuges. Sanibel Island Shelling - World's Best Shelling Beaches Sanibel Island shelling is considered the best shelling spot in the world according to Travel and Leisure Magazine. Sanibel's lighthouse shining bright again five months after Hurricane Ian Plenty of visitors love to enjoy sports here, with wading and swimming being very popular in the right places. Sanibel public beaches & parking lots have started opening! Welcome to Capturing Captiva, your online vacation guide to Captiva Island, Florida, and the surrounding area. Local grocery stores like Jerrys and Baileys General Store are good for sandwiches, prepared foods, good picnic food for the beach, and stocking your own kitchenette or vacation rental. The paths are well marked and almost flat. I only took in the Captiva Island portion of the trip but made sure to experience as much of the area as possible and not just sit on patios listening to acoustic music while drinking rum punch. Captiva beaches vs Sanibel beaches - Sanibel Island Forum Brokered by US Schwarz Immobilien Real Est. 13 Incredible Airbnbs in Sanibel Island, Florida (2021 Edition) It was here my friends found love and built up their romance. So if you score a parking space, you can walk along the beach as far as youd like. 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. Does anyone have recommendations if sunset views would be better from Lovers Key or Sanibel/Captiva (in July)? Sanibel Island and Captiva Island are called sister islands, but there are some obvious differences between them. For more on what to do, check out the Marco Review website. Drop us a line. The Wicked Dolphin Rum Distillery gives free tours and tastings for all visitors. On the other hand, if you intend to drive, the admission rate is $5 per car. South Capers, Sanibel Real Estate & Homes for Sale Several restaurants are within walking distance on Sanibel Island, including The Lazy Flamingo, Sunset Cafe and The Mad Hatter. Where to stay on Sanibel Island, FL - Howtobookyourtrip Home News 8 Sanibel and Captiva Island Beaches You Have to Visit. 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. The route is well marked with signs to Ft. Myers Beach, Sanibel, and Captiva. 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. 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. Sanibel and Captiva Island are amazing islands that welcome people searching for a great spot to have family time. Before choosing the island youd like to visit, it is important to know the differences as this can influence your choice. CAPTIVA BEACH (Captiva Island) - 2023 What to Know BEFORE You Go Theyre smaller here, so beautiful to collect! The 7 Best Beaches for Shelling on Sanibel Island From Sanibel, this distillery is only about 40 minutes away. For many who visit Fort Myers, Sanibel is . Sanibel has 25 miles of safe designated bike paths making it possible to literally pedal or walk the length and breadth of the island. All of the area's beaches from Lighthouse Beach to North Captiva Island are great shelling locations. Sanibel is the by far the larger of the two and is the first island off the mainland. It doesn't have lots of stuff inside, but we found a few things for a quick lunch, including . . Sanibel Island offers very quaint inns, like the Sanibel inn. Which beach is better Sanibel or Captiva? Note: there is a parking fee for those coming in with their cars. 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. At the iconic Sanibel Lighthouse your stay on Sanibel Island truly is picture perfect. Sanibel vs Captiva? This beach is a popular spot for fishing. When you are looking to visit Sanibel and Captiva Island beaches, dont forget to make a boating reservation too! Youll find a few places like Schnappers Hots for hot dogs, lots of ice cream shops, and other casual eateries that are value-friendly. Relax on the miles of beaches surrounding the island or enjoy some fun in the water. The J. N "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge has a scenic drive, boating rentals and tours, hiking paths and a visitor educational center. Sanibel and Captiva Island beaches are unique for many reasons. Best Luxury Vacation Rental in Sanibel Island - Captiva Breeze - 4 bedrooms each with own bath. On the other hand, the dining on Captiva Island is more eclectic than that on Sanibel Island. Allison Hagerup Beach Park is a beautiful public beach with direct access to Captiva Beach and has a small parking lot. In the village area there are a number of marinas that offer charter captains and water taxi service to the out islands of North Captiva, Cabbage Key and Useppa. But if youre not staying here, access to the property is restricted. The SanCap area is reminiscent of the differences between a smaller community versus the regional center; Sanibel is a smaller town that provides basic services to the broader area. 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. . Marco has more nightlife, more shopping, and more roads. ;-). Fishers in particular love it here, as there is a lighted pier for them to enjoy and fish from. 10 Best Islands in Florida for Beautiful Beaches, Laid-back Vibes, and You can rent wave runners and go parasailing and as well as canoe and kayak rentals. I will say, depending on the types of places youre used to staying in Florida (or on vacation in general)I find that 95% of whats offered on Sanibel leaves a lot to be desired (especially for the $$). The Best Bars on Sanibel Island | The Gee Family Team Youll find restrooms here quickly, and while the beach wont allow your dog or any open fires, you can still have a great time here. Differences between Sanibel and Captiva Island Beaches Honestly I cant imagine living on the island if I had to go to work off-island everyday, or just do a quick run to Target. 5721 Sanibel Captiva Rd, Sanibel, FL 33957 | 50 Photos | MLS #223012023 https://www.marriott.com/hotels/local-things-to-do/mrkfl-jw-marriott-marco-island-beach-resort/. There are a number of places to rent bikes at reasonable daily or weekly rates. Email agent. You get a very comfortable and relaxed oceanfront resort, which includes: Another amazing inn on this island is the Seaside inn. Blind Pass Beach. If you want to follow along on my travel adventures in real time, you can follow me on Instagram (@caitylincoln). With Sanibel's unique orientation as a primarily East-West island, the shelling is great AND the beaches at either end (Lighthouse, East end) Blind Pass (west end) offer a variety of beach conditions to explore on the same day. As you ride your bike to cruise the 4-mile Wildlife Drive, get ready to discover different trails. Lets start with the first island youll arrive at from the mainland Sanibel Island. 10 Best Sanibel and Captiva Island Beaches - Florida Vacationers Turner Beach is just on the other side of Blind Pass past the small bridge from Sanibel. The beach is very wide/deep so the buildings have zero impact, but if youre not used to seeing that, it can be a disconcerting at first. Just cut into 3/4 wide sections. Best Beaches in Florida for 2019 - Sanibel & Captiva Island Beaches On Captiva, you have much more space to spread out. But both islands have their own unique personality. What it lacks in amenities, it more than makes up for in beauty and other features. The "Sanibel Spirit" is indeed alive, strong and resilient, and remarkable signs of recovery continue throughout our "repairadise.". It will take you roughly one hour to get to Sanibel and Captiva from the Fort Myers airport Southwest Florida International (RSW) to the Sanibel Causeway. Plan to book early as they fill up quickly year round (and especially in the winter). Port Sanibel Marina | Sanibel is 60% nature reserve with low rise mostly condos and natural ungroomed beaches. Having taken morning runs on both island beaches, Sanibel's sand provides a much better surface for runners. The currents flush fish out into the gulf and help build waves. 0.25 acre lot. Please note, the majority of our content was posted and shared prior to Hurricane Ian. But its far from chaotic. And share my account with your travel loving friends! The Sanibel Spirit 45135 | Ocean's Reach There is no toll for leaving the island back to Fort Myers, or for crossing the small bridge from Sanibel to Captiva. We did some . These islands are perfect, providing visitors with dining, shopping, entertainment, and local hotels. There are no stoplights (only a couple of four way stops and traffic directors who help move things along in congested areas at peak times) and a phenomenal network of bike trails. "DING" DARLING NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE. Where to Find Shells on Sanibel Island - Port Sanibel Marina Look at the JW Marriott Marco website for options. As far as "clear water" is concerned - no matter WHERE you are, the local conditions depend on the direction and strength of the winds, and the currents which vary from day to day, AND from one section of beach to the next. Bowman's Beach is very quiet and pristine. For Sale. On the left side of Captiva Drive there are three short side streets. McCarthy's Marina, Captiva Vessels up to 24 feet (239) 472-5200 Port Sanibel Marina, Sanibel Vessels up to 65 feet (239) 437-1660 portsanibelmarina.com. Sanibel and Captiva Island beaches are a must-see for a variety of reasons. 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. 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. Is Sanibel Or Captiva Better For Shells? - Home 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.
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