The wildlife is a sideshow to the beaches. Beaches are what bring people to the Sanibel-Captiva islands. Sanibel beaches run almost east to west with a long shallow shelf. Daily the waves and tides deposit tons of shells that by noon are picked through by the throng of regular walkers looking for that treasured species of shell.

Captiva more closely resembles the typical barrier island beach with off-white fine sand which is the remnants of shells crushed by waves of a thousand years ago.

Historians tell us that some 2500 years ago these islands were inhabited by the mighty Calusa Indians who flourished in southwest Florida before the Europeans arrived. Sitting on a beach chair watching the subtle waves of the Gulf of Mexico, you can almost imagine the native Americans fishing and harvesting shells to be used for tools and weapons. History also tells us these islands were used as a stopping-off point for pirates and explorers looking for temporary shelter.

Activities After the Beach

After your day at the beach there is plenty of shopping, bars and restaurants dotting the coast and along the two major roads through Sanibel and crossing over the bridge to Captiva. There is even a small golf course to help keep your game sharp. Of course, fishing is most likely the number one sport, not counting beach people watching, for visitors and residents. Some of the best redfish fishing in the world is just across the sound along the mangroves of Pine Island. Gulf fishing offers opportunities for grouper, snapper and other species a few miles offshore. Charter fishermen can accommodate whatever type of trip you want to enjoy.

The islands are served by ferries to the other islands like North Captiva, Cayo Costa and even the famous cheeseburger joint on Cabbage Key. South Seas Island Resort on the north part of Captiva is worth a visit and a great place to dock your boat for a visit. Then there is the Mucky Duck. No one resists a lunch at a restaurant named Mucky Duck. They have been serving pretty good food on Captiva since 1976!

So Why is Sanibel – Captiva only a Top Ten Beach in Florida and Not a Top Five?

While we love the two islands, there are a few things a traveler should know. First, traffic across the bridge on weekends gets congested and the kids will be restless! Second, once you get on the island(s), parking can be a futile effort at times. Third, there are times when Sanibel beaches look like south Miami Beach with more people than seashells.

Overall, there is no question Sanibel – Captiva island beaches deserve a high ranking in Florida, but knowing when to visit them will enhance your stay and reduce the stress you want to relieve by visiting one of Florida’s top ten beaches.

The Beaches of Florida