Things To Do

Sanibel Beach

The early morning hours are when you are most likely to see groups of dolphins feeding just offshore, cruising up and down the beach. Sightings, although common are less prevalent later in the day.

Sanibel Carts

Street-legal golf cart rentals

Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium

The Original Cheeburger Cheeburger

Port Sanibel Marina

Boat rentals

Pelican Bay Charters

Sunset and dolphin tour

Turtle’s Tiki Bar

Pool bar

Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille

The most recommended restaurant on Sanibel Island! Great drinks. We have 2 near home in St. Pete and we recommend you try their Yucatán shrimp!

Shelling at Island Inn

Go for a morning hunt 🐚 Sanibel Island is known for their lush shelling brought to them by the Island’s unique shape and orientation. Sanibel is one of the only Barrier Islands in the United States whose shores face South. Almost all Barrier Islands run parallel to the mainland , while Sanibel Island juts out in a perpendicular manner. As the currents run up the slopes and sandbars off Sanibel’s shoreline, they slow, turn and drop their colorful shells. Island Inn is situated on Sanibel Island’s most Southern Point and therefore “catching” the most and best shells available on Sanibel Island. Open to the public.

J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge

Rent a bike and explore. With an amazing 6,482 total acres of land on Sanibel dedicated to nature preservation, this refuge is home to about 250 species of birds and other animals including Roseate Spoonbills, American alligators, , Bald Eagles, Wood Storks, Ospreys, Reddish Egrets, Mangrove Cuckoos, Florida Manatees, Atlantic Loggerhead Turtles and more. Alternative routes include: The eastern (lighthouse) end of the island is fun to explore on bike because it’s shady and you don’t have to worry about parking in what can be a congested area. Lock your bike and visit the picturesque lighthouse (139 years old; not open for tours) and fishing pier. In this old part of town, several roads remain unpaved. These hard-packed sand lanes end in lovely waterfront sites where cars can’t park.

Sanibel Island Farmers Market

Sundays, 8am - 1pm, October thru end of May. This open air market features over 40 vendors including: local produce, baked goods, live plants, fresh seafood, cheese, pasta, meats, honey, pet treats, prepared foods, organics and so much more.

Sundial Beach Resort & Spa

Pay for a resort pass and you’ll have the whole day to use their kayaks, paddle boards, pickle ball/tennis courts, bikes, pool with kids slide and poolside bar

Big Tiki Tours Fort Myers Beach

Tiki boat booze cruise, BYOB

Love Boat Home Made Ice Cream

This place comes highly recommended!

Salty Papas Shrimp House

This place has a lot of good reviews!

Deep Lagoon Seafood and Oyster House

Views of the river while you eat!

Bimini Bait Shack

Massive indoor outdoor tiki style restaurant. Cool place right by the bridge to Sanibel!