6 best things to do on Sanibel Island. Sanibel (and nearby Captiva Island), offers world-renowned shelling, beaches, restaurants and attractions for both couples and families. From Sanibel Farmers Market to Bowman’s Beach, here’s our must-see checklist for your Sanibel Island vacation. Body Of Contents: 1) Bowman's Beach 2) J.N. 'Ding' Darling National Wildlife Refuge 3) Bailey Matthews National Shell Museum 4) Sanibel Historic Lighthouse 5) Sanibel Farmers Market 6) Chapel by the Sea (Captiva Island)
#1 - Bowman's Beach
Turquoise blue waters, bright white sand, and natural tranquility make Bowman’s Beach one of America’s premier beaches. With no condos or resorts in its line of sight, Bowman’s is an intimate, extremely relaxing beach, making the perfect day trip for couples or families alike. Bowman’s Beach is located on the northern end of Sanibel Island, making a quick trip up to Captiva Island an option as well. 1700 Bowman's Beach Rd.
#2 - J.N. 'Ding' Darling National Wildlife Refuge
A 6300+ acre wildlife refuge, named after Jay Norwood 'Ding' Darling, a Pulitzer-Prize winning American cartoonist and a prominent figure in conservation, provides bountiful wildlife, wonderful bird watching (over 230 species), bike and walking paths, a 3.5-mile scenic drive, a canoe trail, an observation tower and much more! Bring your camera and be surrounded by nature at its very best. One of the more popular must see attractions on Sanibel Island. Parking is $5 for motorized vehicles, $1 for hiker/biker. 1 Wildlife Drive (off Sanibel-Captiva Rd.) Website
#3 - Bailey Matthews National Shell Museum
Number three on our list of top Sanibel Island attractions is the Bailey Matthews National Shell Museum. Learn the basics about shells, shell makers and more at this world-renowned informative museum. See how to identify, collect, clean and store shells plus other FAQs. 3075 Sanibel-Captiva Rd. (239) 395-2233
#4 - Sanibel Historic Lighthouse
Perhaps the most popular of all things to do on Sanibel Island, the Historic Lighthouse, first lit in 1884, symbolizes the picturesque island. Nearly 100 feet tall, the Lighthouse is a wonderful welcome sign upon arriving. Nearby Lighthouse Beach & Fishing Pier are quite popular as well. Note: The Lighthouse itself is not open to the public, but pictures can be taken. Parking is $2/hr. Public restrooms available. Follow Periwinkle Way east till it ends and you will reach the public parking lot.
#5 - Sanibel Farmers Market
Every Sunday morning (October through April only), local farmers and vendors from the area gather at the grounds of City Hall and set up a farmers market, selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables, breads, cheeses, seafood, sweets, to hand-made soaps, jewelry and a large variety of other fine items. The ambiance is family-friendly and relaxing, making for a pleasant activity on a bright Sunday morning. 800 Dunlop Rd.
#6 - Chapel by the Sea (Captiva Island)
Chapel by the Sea is a quaint, beautiful chapel located in Captiva. Chapel by the Sea offers interdenominational services and provides a fabulous location for weddings. If you happen to be on the island for Christmas Eve, Chapel by the Sea has a tradition where parishioners sing carols outside the chapel after the service, a truly special event to experience if you get the chance. 11580 Chapin Ln. Captiva Island, FL
Other Things To Do: Sanibel Island Shopping, CROW, Sanibel Historical Museum and Village, Tarpon Bay, Sanibel Causeway Did we miss something? Follow us on Twitter and send us your list of the top things to do on Sanibel Island.
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