By 
“Nestled in Southwest Florida, Sanibel Island offers a peaceful retreat with 50 miles of pristine, shell-covered white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and a commitment to sustainability. With no stoplights and only a few chain businesses, this island feels like a step back in time and is renowned as one of the world’s top destinations for shelling. Sanibel’s natural beauty perfectly blends outdoor activities with a diverse population of visitors, all living in harmony with the island’s wildlife and land preservation efforts. Come for the relaxation, stay for the breathtaking sunsets, and enjoy all that Sanibel Island has to offer.
Getting There:
The closest airport to Sanibel Island is Southwest Florida International Airport, offering direct flights from major hubs like Atlanta, Chicago, and New York through airlines such as American, Delta, United, and Southwest.
Where to Stay:
Sundial Beach Resort & Spa is a Sanibel Island staple, featuring spacious, fully-equipped rooms with separate living areas, kitchens, and walk-in closets. The resort stretches along a mile of shell-covered beach and offers five distinctive restaurants, five heated pools, a spa, fitness center, tennis and pickleball courts, volleyball, a general store, a Sanibel Sea School outpost, and on-site bicycles, kayaks, and paddleboards.
Things to Do:
- Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum: The only museum in the United States solely dedicated to shells and mollusks. Explore 30 permanent collections, learn about the life cycle of shells, and even create your own shell crafts. A new exhibit, “”Beyond Shells: The Mysterious World of Mollusks,”” adds living animal aquariums to the museum’s world-renowned shell collection, educating visitors about the vital role mollusks play in our ecosystem.
- JN Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge: Named after an Iowa cartoonist, this 6,000-acre refuge is one of the largest mangrove wildernesses in the country. You can drive or bike along the safari trail, where you might spot over 220 species of birds, alligators, and manatees.
- Gene’s Books: A favorite among locals and visitors, this bookstore is like stepping into a magical world. With organized stacks of books lining the shelves, floors, and entryways, the staff is always ready to help you find your next great read.
- Sanibel Sea School: This nonprofit foundation aims to teach guests to understand, value, and care for the ocean. Tours are available for the whole family, and kids can even earn a diploma after learning about marine life in 3-hour sessions.
- Southern Fresh Farms: A family-friendly destination that has been a working farm since the 1970s. Enjoy live music, movie nights, and Friday night food trucks. The farm also features Crazy Dingo Brewery, which offers small-batch craft beers brewed on-site. Spend time feeding the animals in the pond and barn, including rescued cows, goats, sheep, and chickens.
- Babcock Ranch: Just 40 minutes from Fort Myers, this innovative, solar-powered city spans 90,000 acres and is a paradise for nature lovers. With miles of nature trails, lakes, and marshlands, 80% of the land is preserved. The Discovery Center offers insights into the city’s development, and Curry Creek Outfitters provides gear for hiking, biking, fishing, or boating. Kids will love the 90-minute Swamp Buggy Tours, which explore four different ecosystems and the natural habitats of alligators, birds, deer, and more.
Where to Eat:
- The Bubble Room: Founded in 1979, this eclectic restaurant is known for its 1920s-1950s Christmas and Old Hollywood décor, including a toy train that runs throughout the space. Don’t miss their famous Bubble Bread, Sticky Buns, and massive cakes like the Orange Crush or Coconut Cake.
- Dixie Fish Co.: A local favorite with fresh catches of the day, waterfront views, and a laid-back atmosphere.
- Sanibel’s Best Homemade Ice Cream: For a sweet treat, try their unique flavors like The Sandpiper, Sanibel Sea Shells, and The Beautiful Junonia.
Sanibel Island is a perfect destination for those looking to relax and enjoy nature in a beautifully preserved environment. Bon appétit and happy exploring!”