Map of Sanibel, United States of America

🏝️ What to do in Sanibel

Explore the natural beauty and island charm of Sanibel through a variety of exciting activities. From shell collecting on the pristine beaches to kayaking through mangrove trails, Sanibel offers something for everyone to enjoy.

• Best Budget Activity in Sanibel:

  Bowman's Beach:

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Sanibel:

  J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge:

• Best Luxury Activity in Sanibel:

  Sanibel Island Lighthouse:

🍽️ Where to eat in Sanibel

Indulge in the culinary delights of Sanibel, known for its fresh seafood, tropical flavors, and vibrant dining scene. Don't miss out on the opportunity to try the island's signature dishes like key lime pie and fresh grouper.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Sanibel:

  The Pecking Order•$ - $$:

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Sanibel:

  Sweet Melissa's Cafe•$$ - $$$:

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Sanibel:

  Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille•$$$ - $$$$:

• Best Budget Bar in Sanibel:

  The Clam Shack•$ - $$:

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Sanibel:

  Traditions on the Beach•$$ - $$$:

• Best Luxury Bar in Sanibel:

  Thistle Lodge Beachfront Restaurant•$$$ - $$$$:

🏖️ What to see in Sanibel

Discover the enchanting landmarks that showcase the unique beauty and history of Sanibel Island. From historic lighthouses to lush wildlife refuges, these top attractions offer a glimpse into the island's rich heritage and natural wonders.

• Sanibel Island Lighthouse

  An iconic symbol of Sanibel, the historic lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico and serves as a picturesque backdrop for beachgoers and photographers.

• Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum

  Dive into the fascinating world of seashells at this renowned museum, where you can explore diverse shell collections, learn about marine life, and participate in hands-on exhibits.

• J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge

  Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at this protected sanctuary, home to a variety of bird species, mangrove forests, and tranquil waterways perfect for wildlife viewing and photography.

• Historic Village

  Step back in time at the Historic Village, where you can explore restored pioneer homes, a schoolhouse, and a tea room, offering a glimpse into Sanibel's past and early settlement.

• Periwinkle Place

  Stroll through this charming shopping and dining destination, featuring boutiques, art galleries, cafes, and tropical gardens, offering a perfect blend of island-style relaxation and indulgence.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Sanibel

Embrace the island's unique shopping scene filled with charming boutiques, eclectic stores, and galleries offering a variety of treasures and souvenirs. Whether you're looking for budget-friendly finds or luxurious splurges, Sanibel has something to cater to every shopper's taste.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Sanibel:

  Tiki Jim's: Discover a treasure trove of affordable beachwear, souvenirs, and gifts at Tiki Jim's, offering a laid-back shopping experience with a tropical flair.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Sanibel:

  Tahitian Gardens: Explore the quaint shops and boutiques at Tahitian Gardens, where you can find unique jewelry, clothing, artwork, and home decor items that reflect the island's laid-back elegance.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Sanibel:

  Periwinkle Place: Indulge in upscale shopping at Periwinkle Place, home to a collection of high-end boutiques, designer stores, and galleries offering luxury clothing, accessories, and art pieces.

🚍 Getting Around Sanibel

• Public Transport

  Sanibel offers limited public transport options, with the main mode being the Sanibel Trolley service. The trolley operates daily from early morning to evening, providing an affordable and convenient way to move around the island. The fare for adults is $2 per ride, with discounts for seniors and children. The trolley schedule can be found on the official Sanibel website.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  Nearest transportation hubs to Sanibel include the Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) located approximately 30 miles away. Visitors can easily rent a car from the airport to reach Sanibel. Additionally, Fort Myers Amtrak station is around 20 miles from Sanibel, providing train services to various destinations.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rentals: Major car rental companies like Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis operate on Sanibel Island, offering a wide range of vehicles to choose from. Daily rental rates start from $40, depending on the type of vehicle and duration of rental. 🚲 Bicycle Rentals: Bicycles are a popular way to explore Sanibel due to its flat terrain and scenic bike paths. Providers like Billy's Bikes and Rentals offer daily bike rentals starting from $15, with options for hourly and weekly rentals as well.