Islands Top Rnd

Headline Islands

Sanibel and Captiva Islands are world renowned for their beaches, dining and recreation. Still in their natural, pristine state, these islands are two of the most lushly landscaped islands in Florida. One look at the palm-tree lined streets and you'll see why so many people come to these islands each year for their vacation.

Island Beaches

The Sanibel Causeway

Park right up to the water and get ready for a gorgeous day on this tropical-island paradise. The Sanibel Causeway is the gateway between Ft. Myers and the islands, and is the ONLY way you can get to the islands by car. Popular for swimming, fishing, windsurfing, kite surfing and just plain lounging around, the causeway is a great place to spend a peaceful, fun-packed afternoon. There is no fee when you park on the causeway beach.

Bowman's Beach

Known for it's peace and quiet, Bowman's Beach is well away from any hotels. Park and walk over a bridge to a secluded white beach. There is an outdoor shower located at this beach. This is the only beach with barbecue grills. Located off Sanibel-Captiva Rd., turn left on Bowman's Beach Rd.

Lighthouse Beach & Fishing Pier

The Sanibel Lighthouse is Sanibel Island's historic, functioning lighthouse and is located on the eastern tip of Sanibel. Turn left on Periwinkle Way from Causeway Road

Tarpon Bay Beach

Features easy parking for recreational vehicles and a short hike from the parking lot to the beach. Located at the south end of Tarpon Bay Rd. at West Gulf Drive. Mid Island

Blind Pass Beach

Located on both the Sanibel and Captiva side of the Blind Pass Bridge you will be enamored with the beauty of this natural beach. Stroll along its shores and you'll be sure to find various natural treasures including shells, starfish and more. This beach is popular with both shellers and fishermen alike. Signs warn against swimming because of the swift currents. Located on Sanibel-Captiva Rd. at Blind Pass Bridge

Captiva Beach

A great place to watch the sunset. Located at the end of Captiva Dr. Parking is free.

RECREATION

  • Airplane & Helicopter Tours
  • Bike & Moped Rentals
  • Boating & Sailing Charters / Rentals
  • Boating & Sailing Lessons
  • Cruises
  • Day Excursions
  • Fishing Guides & Charters
  • Golfing & Lessons
  • Kayak & Canoe Rentals
  • Marinas & Docking
  • Nature Preserve & Historical Tours
  • Natural Parks
  • Shelling
  • Shopping
  • Snorkeling
  • Tennis
  • Water sports & Jet ski/Boat Rentals

DINING

The Dining on Sanibel and Captiva is some of the most exquisite in the State of Florida. If you like to eat, these islands offer everything your taste buds crave. From succulent Jumbo Gulf Shrimp and Florida Grouper, to hearty steak and hamburgers, each restaurant on the island has a uniqueness and charm that you won't see anywhere else. Most restaurants are locally owned and are a popular hangout of the locals on the island. Even the famous come to dine here; in the Season you'll occasionally run into NBC's Williard Scott and a variety of other well-known personalities.

  • Owner's Favorite Restaurant: Trader's Cafe, Sanibel (owned by the Chico’s company, great seafood, steaks, pasta, desserts, full bar)
  • The Bean of Sanibel (coffee shop)
  • Bubble Room, Captiva (festive American cuisine)
  • Cheeburger, Cheeburger, Sanibel (burgers and shakes)
  • Dairy Queen, Sanibel (fast food and ice cream)
  • East End Deli, Sanibel
  • Johnny's Pizza, Sanibel
  • Lazy Flamingo, 2 locations on Sanibel (raw bar, seafood and grill)
  • McT's Shrimp House, Sanibel
  • The Mucky Duck, Captiva (English pub)
  • Pinocchio Ice Cream, Sanibel
  • Schnapper's Hots, Sanibel (hot dogs, burgers, and sausages)
  • Dolce Vita, fine dining and live music
  • Island Cow, great family atmosphere and live music

Current Conditions on Captiva & Sanibel Islands

wxiconA Few Clouds and 68.0 F (20.0 C) with wind Southeast at 8.1 MPH (7 KT). Heat index is .

Last Updated on Mar 10 2010, 8:53 am EST