The islands Sanibel and Captiva are not only a tropical bathing paradise with huge palm trees, flawless beaches, exotic birds and warm breezes. For many, the islands are a sun-drenched haven from the hustle and bustle of city life, a place to relax.
A modern, fee-paying Bridge connects these two unpopular islands with the mainland about 24 km southwest of Ft Myers. Sanibel is about 19 km long and 5 km wide on average. Captiva, connected to Sanibel by a bridge, is about 9.5 km long and narrower than the neighbouring island. Both offer miles of beautiful beaches and are overgrown with pine trees and tropical vegetation. Half of the islands are left in their natural state, the other half is carefully developed. Strict nature conservation regulations characterize the picture of the islands.
Sanibel and Captiva are a Mecca for shellfish collectors, world famous for the variety of shells washed to the beaches by the warm waters of the Gulf. 275 of them are mostly washed up on the beaches of Sanibel in winter. Another 500 species live in the depths of the Gulf of Mexico. The beaches of Sanibel and its neighboring island Captiva are considered to be the third best shellfish areas in the world. But the most fun is standing on the white beach in the warm turquoise water, watching the game of the dolphins at some distance and reaching into the shells with full hands.
Birdwatchers and conservationists will find their paradise. Wonderful white beaches (approx. 210 km long) and clear clean water, nature parks with a unique vegetation, bird and animal world. Pelicans, herons, flamingos, bald eagles live here.
Sanibel and Captiva offer holidaymakers the ideal stay in the sun. Here you can "escape from everything" without having to do without everything. The restaurant offer of the islands reaches from the French. Cuisine by candlelight, fresh fish and hamburgers to take with you to lunch, which you can enjoy on the beach, in the boat or at the quay. Interesting shopping centres that do not look like shopping centres invite you to stroll and discover as well as a number of small curiosity shops that are scattered all over the islands.
Cycling along the tropical cycle paths. Canoe the quiet bays and secluded river arms. There is so much to experience: Water sports, fishing, boating, golf, tennis and, if you like, a lively nightlife in the chic foyers with live entertainment.
These dream islands are a natural paradise and an insider tip for globetrotters. Whether you come for a few hours or many weeks, indulge in the magic of these islands, you will enjoy the island paradise.
