July is a great time for an Island Vacation with your family on Sanibel & Captiva Islands. Easy access to water (the Gulf or the pool) means you\’ll always be cool. Here are some ways to enjoy your time on Sanibel.
The Gulf of Mexico
With over 17 miles of beach to explore, we\’re sure you\’ll find a favorite beach. If you\’re staying at a beachfront property, or across the street from the beach, sandy shores are steps away. Each condo complex and many of our private residences have their own pool.
Because Sanibel has an east/west orientation, it acts like a big scoop gathering the shells that wash up on its shore. We\’re a world-famous shelling destination. This favorite pastime with locals & guests is a wonderful family activity that can be enjoyed by all. The best time to find shells is a low tide or after a storm, but there are plenty of shells to be found at almost any time of day.
Beach Time
Spending hours looking for shells, fishing, or swimming in the warm Gulf waters is what a Sanibel Island Vacation is all about. Kick back in your chair & watch the world go by; there\’s always birds, boats & the rhythm of the waves lapping the shore to keep you entertained.
\’Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge
\’Ding Darling is a great place to learn about Sanibel, Captiva & the plants & animals that thrive in our tropical climate. There is an air-conditioned visitor center & gift shop. You can visit the Refuge by car every day except Friday. Watch for alligators, roseate spoonbills, raccoons & other critters that call \’Ding Darling home.
Tarpon Bay Explorers
Tired of driving? Head over to Tarpon Bay Explorers at the bay end of Tarpon Bay Road. Their trolley tour through the Refuge will be informative & fun for all. Get the scoop on all the critters that live there. And while you\’re at Tarpon Bay, check-out their kayak opportunities.
Rent a kayak & go on a guided tour of the mangroves with one of their guides. Once you\’ve complete the guided tour, you\’re welcome to keep the kayak for the remainder of the day & head out on your own – no additional charge. It\’s a great way to explore the Sanibel shoreline from the water. Since you\’re on the bay side, in protected waters, it\’s perfect for young & novice kayakers. You\’ll also see lots of fish!
Other Tour Options
If you don\’t have a boat or want to paddle, but would like to explore the area by water, consider these options:
Adventures In Paradise has a trolley that will pick you up at your location, or very close to it, and bring you back after the cruise! They offer dolphin, lunch, shelling, sunset & nature cruises. The kids will have a blast & so will the adults. You\’ll learn a lot & have fun in the process! They can accommodate private parties & special occasions too.
While you\’re here you might want to head up to Captiva, our sister island, & experience lunch at Cabbage Key. This Olde Florida restaurant is only accessible by boat. Get there with Captiva Cruises.
The trip to the island typically includes dolphin sightings plus local history & wildlife information shared in a fun & entertaining manner. Take in the views from the top deck or relax in air-conditioned comfort below deck & enjoy a beverage or two. The entire family will enjoy lunch at Cabbage Key. Afterward, you can take a short walk on the nature trail or just find a spot outside, relax and wait for the boat to return for a leisurely cruise back to the dock.
For a truly memorable Island Vacation, take advantage of a unique Sanibel experience. Spend some time exploring from the water as well as from land. Bring the family, it\’s Family Fun Month!