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. 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. Home News 8 Sanibel and Captiva Island Beaches You Have to Visit. Locations to go shelling include: Causeway Beaches; Gulfside City Park; Bowman's Beach; Blind . 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 beaches of Sanibel and Captiva were still closed due to Hurricane Ian w hen we visited, but we marveled at the huge, powerful, beautiful waves we saw from the road. While Sanibel is not busy by mainland standards, Captiva manages to be even more laid back. At these islands, you get 15 miles of coastline, 25 miles of biking, and fifty different species of fish! Gather some refreshments and enjoy a picnic on the beach, its one of the most beautiful places you will ever have the pleasure of visiting. These barrier islands off the coast of Fort Myers in southwest Florida are inextricably linked because, welltheyre linked. 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. Blind Pass Beach is where Sanibel and Captiva Islands meet. The beach here is backed by swaying palm trees, and a few benches, ideal for soaking up the scene, are nearby. Marco is totally surrounded by federal, state parks and preserves, the gateway to the Everglades so IMO it has more options for active adults. 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. CEPD reports on beach and water conditions | News, Sports, Jobs While Sanibel may get the lions share of shells, thats not to say that Captiva also doesnt have good shelling. This is why the majority of people on the island are retired, work remotely from home, or are on vacation. 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. Most of the island is very narrow- you can see both the Gulf and Pine Island Sound from many spots. Im not saying any of this to put you off, because Sanibel and Captiva are GREAT islands and one of my favorite places in Florida, but if youre used to staying at more high end beach resorts in other parts of Florida, what that money gets you on Sanibel and Captiva is a lotless. You could easily sell your home, move here and never miss a thing. Holiday Inn Club Vacations Sunset Cove Resort, an IHG Hotel. Fishers in particular love it here, as there is a lighted pier for them to enjoy and fish from. You get a very comfortable and relaxed oceanfront resort, which includes: Another amazing inn on this island is the Seaside inn. It was warm and pleasant. The whole island is practically all beach on the West, and this is where the Gulf of Mexico laps at the shore just what you want to dip your toes into! Sanibel has a wide variety of accommodations from resorts, condos, inns, cottages and B&B's. You can even rent golf carts. Beaches in Fort Myers, Sanibel Island, & Captiva Island | Must Do TIP: Toll is $6 into Sanibel Island. You can just spend your days on Sanibel Island and occasionally go to Captiva island to experience their unique dining experience. If at South Seas add extensive resort amenitiesand an upscale atmosphere. They contain thousands of shells you can find. Read about each one below to decide which ones will complete your dream beach getaway. The city-island has several banks and shopping centers, even a single-screen movie theatre. Some of the fish that can be caught here include: As noted above, the currents here can sometimes be intense and unpredictable. You will find miles of pristine beaches to enjoy, and you can island hop to the north of the beaches, and then go fishing when youre on your way! The combination of strong currents and fish travelling between the two islands mean that fish will often be biting. jesseaknight 5 mo. This is an okay convenience store that carries a little bit of everything, including cigars. One of the best spots on Sanibel to go kayaking is the J N Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Captiva Road. The geography of each island makes it unique. What Makes Sanibel and Captiva Island Special? - Jensen's Marina For Sale. If there is one beach you really need to try, its the Sanibel Island Causeway beaches. Compared to some of the other beaches on this list, Blind Pass Beach doesnt have an endless list of amenities. Turner Beach is just on the other side of Blind Pass past the small bridge from Sanibel. Bowmans Beach is one of many beaches on Sanibel Island, and on the western portion of the island.Its a protected site, with no developments going on, which leaves a pure and natural landscape to enjoy for all. How to Rent a Beachfront House on Isla Mujeres, Ultimate Guide to Florida Keys Vacation Rentals. Bowman's Beach is very quiet and pristine. Also, beach access is much more limited on Captiva with just two public parking lots. There is no fee for Florida residents. Before choosing the island youd like to visit, it is important to know the differences as this can influence your choice. 5721 Sanibel Captiva Rd, Sanibel, FL 33957 | 50 Photos | MLS #223012023 Taking a boat tour off the beach? We hope this clears things up a bit to help you plan your trip to either island! Thats a must! Compared to Sanibel Island, beaches in Captiva Island do not have a lot of crowds and have fewer shells to hunt. Sanibel Island offers very quaint inns, like the Sanibel inn. Can anyone give us advice. 13 Incredible Airbnbs in Sanibel Island, Florida (2021 Edition) Thats the right question! In all shapes, sizes, and colors, vacationers often leave Blind Pass Beach with buckets full of incredible shells. Brokered by US Schwarz Immobilien Real Est. If youre visiting during season, a bike will allow you to get around traffic when it slows to a crawl. There are great restaurants but no chain places and not much nightlife. Its away from the strong currents so you can confidently get in the water here. Finding seashells on either island is as easy as walking onto the beach. ;-). If you want to follow along on my travel adventures in real time, you can follow me on Instagram (@caitylincoln). That said, however, since most visitors seem to hit the beaches closest to the Sanibel Causeway (the only road on and off the island), youll find that the closer you get to the Causeway, the more crowded the beaches are. The beach itself is clean, with shaded areas and restrooms, covered cabanas, and picnic areas to enjoy. 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 Sanibel Marina, Sanibel Vessels up to 100 feet (239) 215-2445 sanibelmarina.com 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 . Blind Pass Beach Park. The access you get to the state park beach is at the West side of Panama Shell Drive at the end of Captiva Drive, and there are just miles of empty sands and fallen trees to explore and climb. Which beach is better Sanibel or Captiva? We are staying a week. Sanibel is most famous for its shelling. 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. Sanibel Island and Captiva Island are called sister islands, but there are some obvious differences between them. Its a pristine beautiful beach, great for privacy, sunning ,and fishing, but offers limited shelling. The pristine beaches, with plentiful seashells for collectors, proved popular with. The South Seas island resort is a large oceanfront resort which has. Jensen's Captiva Island Beach and Marina Resorts, Captiva Vessels up to 40 feet (239) 472-5800 gocaptiva.com. The best news is that if youre a Florida resident who is exploring, youre going to be able to do that for free! You can rent wave runners and go parasailing and as well as canoe and kayak rentals. Are there still restaurant's and shops that are closed due to Hurricane Irma? Here are some helpful tips to get the most out of your Captiva or Sanibel Island shelling experience. The intimate 10-day festival starts off in Captiva Island and Sanibel Island, then moves on to downtown Fort Myers and wraps up at Fort Myers Beach. Captiva's beaches are more of the soft sugar sand that one would typically see on an island. Sanibel City leaders said their beaches fared better than Captiva's in the erosion department following Eta, although isolated erosion was spotted on some public beaches. Sanibel is the by far the larger of the two and is the first island off the mainland. 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. https://www.marriott.com/hotels/local-things-to-do/mrkfl-jw-marriott-marco-island-beach-resort/. The Southwest Florida water currents play into a sheller's hands . This means you and your pup can frolic in the waves at Algiers Beach in Gulfside City Park, Bowman's Beach, and other Sanibel waterfronts. 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. Sanibel beaches are renowned for the shells that wash up every day - it's the top shelling destination in North America and residents and visitors bending over to examine the shells is the source of the posture known as the 'Sanibel Stoop". The Keys would probably be your best bet for clear water, without traveling out of the country. This beach is a popular spot for fishing. Other prohibitions are streetlights and traffic lights (Sanibel police with white gloves move traffic along at peak times). But I digress. The J.N. It was here my friends found love and built up their romance. Mostly boutique shopping. Haven't been to either. 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. Cruise to Key West from Marco or Naples?? Here are some of our favorite places to cool down with a cocktail. Captiva (not South Seas) if you want sunsets, quiet island escape, "get away from it all feel", andmore upscale company. Be sure to carry a flashlight when walking at night. Captiva Islands parent island is Sanibel. Several restaurants are within walking distance on Sanibel Island, including The Lazy Flamingo, Sunset Cafe and The Mad Hatter. Marco is highly developed and channelized with high rises and wide groomed beaches. Can you find a nice place to stay? Just cut into 3/4 wide sections. 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 ? VISIT THE HISTORIC SANIBEL LIGHTHOUSE. There are several vendors on Sanibel for you to rent a kayak or a canoe if you prefer. It depends on the direction of the wind and tides. The currents flush fish out into the gulf and help build waves. 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. Its not a party town, but there are plenty of places to eat, drink and listen to live music. Captiva and Sanibel Islands have also earned a reputation for some of the best shelling in the world. You wont be able to take them home, but you may get to see some awesome new creatures. Go on a dolphin tour on a waverunner, or enjoy a chartered fishing trip. Golf cart renters must be 21 years old and have a vaild driver's license. These two barrier islands are nestled just of the Southwest Florida coast, within a short drive from Fort Myers. January 2, 2021 Ryan Bellino Florida Gulf Coast Islands, Sanibel and Captiva Islands 0. Two weeks ago, the water was cloudy but this last week with mild winds from the east, the water is crystal clear. In a place like Sanibel Island (or Captiva Island), you simply must get out on the water to truly experience the destination. Sanibel Captiva Beach Resorts Team Relief Fund On the other hand, if you intend to drive, the admission rate is $5 per car. 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. 0.25 acre lot. Preferences, preferences. In fact, as Sanibel and Captiva are connected by bridges, interested cyclists can bike from Fort Myers proper all the way across to both of the islands and back if they choose. Bowman's Beach and Blind Pass Beach re where you will find softer sand on Sanibel Island. Note: there is a parking fee for those coming in with their cars. My post captions are full of travel tips and I have a ton of story highlights and videos with great info. On the other hand, the dining on Captiva Island is more eclectic than that on Sanibel Island. You can download an app with tons of info on it. Many outdoor activities are also prepared to ensure you are never bored during your stay here. Captiva is much smaller than Siesta. You can reach Blind Pass by heading to Sanibel's western tip where the gorgeous white sand flanks the channel between Sanibel and Captiva islands. At 33 square miles, (12 miles end-to-end), walking may not always be convenient, depending on your plans. More questions about Sanibel vs Captiva? Bowmans Beach and Blind Pass Beach re where you will find softer sand on Sanibel Island. Privacy Policy | Best Florida Gulf Coast Airbnb for Shell . Hi , we are trying to book vacation end of March . 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. Is there much of a difference between beaches on Sanibel and those on Captiva? Sanibel and Captiva are connected to Fort Myers on the mainland by only one roadway the Sanibel Causeway Bridge. 6092 Sanibel Captiva Rd, Sanibel, FL 33957 | 39 Photos | MLS #223016359 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. When we were at Marco last month, the beaches were pretty. The waters off the beaches of Sanibel have a gradual slope that allows shells to be washed up onto the beach extremely easily. It has no high-rises, just lots of greenery surrounding . There isnt a full-on grocery store (The Island Store is the closest it gets), but the shops on the island can get you most, if not all, of your basic needs. Captiva has only a limited number of properties with nightly rentals and they are very popular. You will actually find this beach both on Sanibel and Captiva Island. This resort is probablythe most upscaleon the two islands with extensive landscaped grounds and resort facilities and a 9 hole golf course. The biggest difference is the number of beaches. Early morning is the best time to find unusual shells and especially after a rain or storm. Sanibels sideways stretch makes in an excellent destination for shelling and beachcombing; Captivas lengthy reach gives its beaches fine sand. Tarpon Beach - Sanibel Island Forum - Tripadvisor Captiva Island Beaches Best Beaches in Florida for 2019 - Sanibel & Captiva Island Beaches Find your favorite paradise with the updated list of best beaches in Florida. 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. The Sanibel and Captiva Island beaches are actually very different, and most articles you read on San-Cap fail to even acknowledge this. But both islands have their own unique personality. The gulf water was clean and calm, but not clear. There are two large grocery stores and several smaller markets. Since it is more or less north and south you have perfect beach sunsets from all 7.1 miles. SHELLING AT BOWMAN'S BEACH. ago Your email address will not be published. There are more options for 'street legal' carts, but they are not readily available for rent at this time. The "Sanibel Spirit" is indeed alive, strong and resilient, and remarkable signs of recovery continue throughout our "repairadise.". The building restrictions here are whats part of the charm. That is a personal decision. 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. And the standards of the condos arent the highest. TOLL: Unless you have a SunPass account, the Causeway toll is $6.00 per vehicle heading to Sanibel. The route is well marked with signs to Ft. Myers Beach, Sanibel, and Captiva. Dolphins make their appearance daily and often a manatee or two are spotted. 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. Youll find many public beaches on Sanibel Island, some with fishing piers, and a few private beaches, too. If youre looking for the best tropical getaway on Floridas Gulf Coast, Sanibel and Captiva are always going to be in the conversation. 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. Mostly boutique shopping. You can swim safely, walk and picnic here. There are many homes and historic cottages that rent privately as well. Elsewhere the beautiful green canopy that was destroyed by Hurricane Charley is getting replaced by trees planted in 2006 and extensive landscaping is once again beautifying Periwinkle Way. Is Marco prettier? When visiting Sanibel and Captiva Island, there are 8 beaches that stand out above the rest as must visit. 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. Honestly, I think of Captiva as an extension of Sanibel. Sitemap, 8 Sanibel and Captiva Island Beaches You Have to Visit. 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. 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. We couldn't have had better customer | Island Vacations of Sanibel 1725 Cape Coral Pkwy E, Cape Coral, FL 33904. Sanibel and Captiva Island are amazing islands that welcome people searching for a great spot to have family time. Many are gulf front and the rates vary greatly. CAPTIVA BEACH (Captiva Island) - 2023 What to Know BEFORE You Go Sanibel Island has more shells, Captiva Island Beaches have better sand. 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. There are free taxis to many restaurants/bars but paid transport is $6 anywhere on the island. 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. Schedule launch times and see the status of your reservation anytime, anywhere with the BoatCloud Launch App. Port Sanibel Marina offers marina reservations and fishing charters for you to enjoy after a great time visiting all the beaches we mentioned above! 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. Welcome to Capturing Captiva, your online vacation guide to Captiva Island, Florida, and the surrounding area. Refer to our Privacy Policy for full affiliate terms. No Wal-Mart, McDonalds, or Ben & Jerry's (sigh). ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-91718899', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');the Florida Keys. In Captiva Island, you can access the several beaches on the island and enjoy the Gulf and Pine Island sound. If you arent into shelling this is definitely something worth considering. What Does Deeded Beach Access Mean in Florida? I agree completely with the response from Hawkowl (#3 above). Captiva doesnt have the network of dedicated bike paths that Sanibel has, so if you were looking forward to extensive bike-riding on your vacation, Sanibel may be the better choice. Nearly 70% of the island is devoted to conservation and wildlife refuges. The beach connecting Sanibel to Captive is probably the best known public beach and it is very well known for its shelling. Without a doubt, Sanibel has better shelling than Captiva. Sanibel Island beaches for shelling are known across the country, while Captiva Island beaches are known for their fine sands. Both islands are amazing and consistently get placed on must travel lists by top media outlets. There are also two semi-public 18 hole golf courses on the island. Captivas beach is far better for simply lounging on the powdery sand. 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. But you will All of the area's beaches from Lighthouse Beach to North Captiva Island are great shelling locations. Narrow beaches mixed with more beachgoers creates a recipe for crowded beaches. 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. With endless skies and treasured beach walks, Captiva Beach will surely captivate you and the whole family. Even though it sits a stones throw (literally) across from Sanibel Island, it has a totally different vibe. It is the first beach after you leave Sanibel Island. Captiva Cruises is the best way to get out and explore the surrounding area (Cayo Costa State Park, Useppa Island, Cabbage Key, etc.) 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. The causeway was built in 1963 (the island was previously only accessible via ferry) and the city of Sanibel was formed in 1974. If youre looking for a smaller beach, Sanibel Lighthouse Beach is an excellent option. Youll find shady areas with picnic tables and grills to enjoy your own BBQ! My 9 Favorite Restaurants On Sanibel And Captiva Islands - TravelAwaits Youll also find a good selection of family-friendly beachfront resorts, condos, B&B's and Airbnbs. The majority of Captivas accommodations are at South Seas Island Resort, and its a lovely stay perfect also for destination weddings and other family gathering as they have a variety of accommodation types from studios to 3 and 4 bedroom homes. Make your Florida boat rental reservation today and call us today at (239) 437-1660 to make some boating memories today. Some of the major differences between Sanibel Island and Captiva Island can be found on the beaches. Sanibel resident Rachel Pierce and her family were not going to miss the lighting ceremony. Sometimes they are even joined when the narrow waterway of Blind Pass that separates them fills in and the two islands actually connect, though a concerted effort is underway to keep the pass open to improve the health of the bayous on the bay side. it's one of the best parts but cut off and discard the tail. So many reviews have said that guests left sanibel's beaches when they were bad to go to captiva where they we great! Very shelly though, youll need to wear flips flops to take a walk. Captiva Island, the South seas island resort, Sanibel Island is much larger than Captiva, Captiva Island, you can access the several beaches. When you are looking to visit Sanibel and Captiva Island beaches, dont forget to make a boating reservation too! 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. Fort Myers is blue collar means that Ft Myers is more lower . The passes at the ends and between the two islands get the attention of adventure beachgoers because of their swift-moving waters. You can picnic and go kayaking and canoeing, windsurfing and kiteboarding, sunbathing, and shelling. Shelling and fishing is very popular at this beach. Sanibel has 25 miles of safe designated bike paths making it possible to literally pedal or walk the length and breadth of the island. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Theres nothing better than a relaxing day at the beach, and Lighthouse Beach has some of the best spaces to let your worries float away. Captiva Island Beaches: 3 Best Access Points | PlanetWare Copyright 2023 Lincoln Travel Co ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Sanibel Island and Captiva Island are separated by a bridge over Blind Pass. Likewise, Ive heard from people who stayed on Captiva and were disappointed in the lack of shells. Captiva & Sanibel Island Beaches. not find chains or franchises (except a few grandfathered ones). Captiva also allows the use of golf carts on the roads within the village limits during daylight hours only. . The water moves fast, and the resorts and rentals are well-placed for a day of fun at the beach. Blind Pass Beach is one of the more unique beaches on this list given the fact that it stretches to the northern tip of Sanibel Island, making it easily accessible from Captiva Island as well. Aside from being larger than Captiva Island, Sanibel Island has more shops, hotels, and sights that keep visitors engaged and excited. On the flip side of this is that Captiva allows the use of golf carts on the roads within the village limits during daylight hours only. There is a small parking lot adjacent to the beach with a limited number of spaces, and is $5.00 per hour paid at the lot kiosk.
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