Sanibel Island - seashore of seashells
Just as the name-origin of Captiva is clouded by the notorious and highly romanticized pirate Jose Gaspar, so too is Sanibel. Although documentation of Ponce de Leon's 1513 discovery of the coast labels the harbor area to the south as "Puerto de S. Nibel", the PR agent for said pirate, claims Jose Gaspar named the beautiful island in cognition of Spain's Queen: Santa Isabella.
Time seems to have forgotten the original name bestowed by Ponce de Leon: Costa de Caracoles - Coast of Seashells - more descriptive, for sure.
Restaurants
Thistle Lodge Beachfront Restaurant
This historic Victorian mansion offers some of the best views of the Gulf of Mexico. With a traditional American menu of steaks and seafood and evening entertainment it offers a relaxing setting to enjoy the beauty of Sanibel. 2255 West Gulf Drive.
The Mad Hatter
This intimate upscale restaurant features well-prepared cuisine in a warm and friendly setting that offers excellent views. 6467 Sanibel-Captiva Road.
Places to Stay
West Wind Inn
At every turn you see the results of careful dedication to this oceanfront property. Separated from the beach only by sea oats and dune, this Inn is better described as a resort motel. At over 100 units, it's on the larger side, but all units are one-bedroom suites with a kitchen. Priced on the lower end of Sanibel accommodations, it offers a good balance between value and offerings. 3345 West Gulf Drive.
Holiday Inn Sanibel Island Beach Resort
More motel than resort - and that's just fine with the people who have worked hard to keep Sanibel free of masonry monstrosities This property is really delightful and compliments everything that brings people to this enchanting island. 1231 Middle Gulf Drive.
Hurricane House
Among the better condominium vacation rentals, and with only 15 units, Sanibel House has an oceanfront setting with up-to-date furnishings and a number of amenities including tennis, whirlpools and a heated outdoor pool. 2939 West Gulf Drive.
Sanibel Cottages
More condominium than cottages, but with a beautiful beachfront setting carefully adorned with tropical landscaping and oversized units equally adorned, we give the nod to the on-site management team for an attractive place worthy of serious consideration. 2341 West Gulf Drive.
Attractions
The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum
Displays highlight not only the local findings, but shells found all over the world. Interactive exhibits, including hands in the water fun for kids. Also serves as a learning outpost and features workshops, lectures and camps. 3075 Sanibel-Captiva Road.
Sanibel Historical Village and Museum
An original 1913 Florida Cracker house is the home to original items that layout the early history of Sanibel and Captiva Islands. Clustered about the museum are several historic cottages and other structures that serve to create a focal point for commerce on this idyllic island. 950 Dunlop Road.
Sanibel Lighthouse
This iconic lighthouse dates back to 1884. And, just a reminder as to how slowly the modern world has been welcomed to Sanibel, it was not "electrified" until 1962. Periwinkle Way - about a mile and a half once you come over the causeway..
JN "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge
With a stretch of 6400 acres, this important sanctuary provides natural mangrove and wetlands habitat for migrating and indigenous wildlife. A must-visit for bird watchers. 1 Wildlife Drive - located about mid-island.
Tarpon Bay Explorer's Nature and Sea Life Cruise
With the Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge as backdrop, tour the impressive Tarpon Bay with this guided tour. Guide explains history of the area and is well-versed in the flora and fauna encountered on the tour. Tarpon Bay Road.
Local Resources
Sanibel Island Visitors Center
1159 Causeway Road, Sanibel, FL 33957.
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