These two barrier islands are nestled just of the Southwest Florida coast, within a short drive from Fort Myers. Even some private homes that are rented to guests on the resort have limitations on the useof facilities. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Its the place you go to unplug and unwind. Some of the fish that can be caught here include: As noted above, the currents here can sometimes be intense and unpredictable. Relative to Sanibel, only 583 residents live on over 1.6 square miles of island, and not nearly as many visitors venture over to Captiva, other than those staying at South Seas Island Resort. The Captiva Island Inn is also another wonderful place you can stay especially if youre searching for something more unique and quaint. Elsewhere the beautiful green canopy that was destroyed by Hurricane Charley is getting replaced by trees planted in 2006 and extensive landscaping is once again beautifying Periwinkle Way. For Sale: Single Family home, $1,795,000, 3 Bd, 5 Ba, 3,516 Sqft, $511/Sqft, at 5721 Sanibel Captiva Rd, Sanibel, FL 33957 The beaches of Sanibel and Captiva were still closed due to Hurricane Ian w hen we visited, but we marveled at the huge, powerful, beautiful waves we saw from the road. The Gulf Beach is 3 minutes' walk away. Which is never a bad thing. You can take Instagram-worthy pictures and view the local wildlife from the perfect vantage point: the sand! But you may not find the amount youll find on Sanibel, which means more time may be needed to hunt for them. The J. N "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge has a scenic drive, boating rentals and tours, hiking paths and a visitor educational center. Thats a must! Marco is further from the Caloosatchee river so generally it will have cleaner water. Even though there are not many places for beach access, when you step onto the beach youre on public property. Sanibel Island has more shells, Captiva Island Beaches have better sand. So if you score a parking space, you can walk along the beach as far as youd like. Cruise to Key West from Marco or Naples?? Captivas beaches are more of the soft sugar sand that one would typically see on an island. With Sanibel's unique orientation as a primarily East-West island, the shelling is great AND the beaches at either end (Lighthouse, East end) Blind Pass (west end) offer a variety of beach conditions to explore on the same day. Captiva, on the other hand, isn't close to anything. So map your walk along this route carefully and make sure that youre not trespassing along the way. If youre not a paddler you can still see a lot of the refuge by taking the guided tram tour or hiking on established trails. It doesn't have lots of stuff inside, but we found a few things for a quick lunch, including . Having taken morning runs on both island beaches, Sanibel's sand provides a much better surface for runners. As waves travel across shallow water they pick up speed and tend to stir up sand and sediment from the ocean floor. The currents flush fish out into the gulf and help build waves. Other than day trips to Sanibel, we dont usually use our rental car on Captiva. Lighthouse Beach. Likewise, Ive heard from people who stayed on Captiva and were disappointed in the lack of shells. Golf cart renters must be 21 years old and have a vaild driver's license. Lots of visitor parking available on Sanibel but it costs $5.00 per hour. Youll find restrooms here quickly, and while the beach wont allow your dog or any open fires, you can still have a great time here. Dont take this the wrong way, the beaches of Captiva Island are still better for shelling than most places in the entire world, its just that Sanibel is truly the best there is. Its smarter to go further down the beach here for swimming, but with the nearby bars and beachside restaurants, you may decide that sitting on the sand and watching the waves move is a safer option for you. Out of the 1.6 square miles of Captiva, over 300 acres essentially the entire northern tip is all owned by the South Seas Resort. There are no stoplights (only a couple of four way stops and traffic directors who help move things along in congested areas at peak times) and a phenomenal network of bike trails. Sanibel is most famous for its shelling. Sanibel vs Captiva? For walkers and bikers, the admission rate is set at $1 per person. Bowmans Beach and Blind Pass Beach re where you will find softer sand on Sanibel Island. Sanibel's beaches are actually made up more of ground up shells than sand, which can be somewhat uncomfortable for bare feet. As far as "clear water" is concerned - no matter WHERE you are, the local conditions depend on the direction and strength of the winds, and the currents which vary from day to day, AND from one section of beach to the next. McCarthy's Marina, Captiva Vessels up to 24 feet (239) 472-5200 Port Sanibel Marina, Sanibel Vessels up to 65 feet (239) 437-1660 portsanibelmarina.com. But thats not the only reason Sanibel is busier than Captiva theres just more things to see and do on Sanibel. Aside from being larger than Captiva Island, Sanibel Island has more shops, hotels, and sights that keep visitors engaged and excited. Right at the southern tip of Captiva Island is Turner Beach. Because of the more remote location furthest from the Sanibel Causeway, what few public beaches there are on Captiva Island tend to be much less-crowded compared with the beaches on Sanibel. Because its the only way on and off the island, as you can imagine, traffic can be insane given the popularity of the islands as a tourist destination especially at the height of season from December through March. Theres even a lovely campground on Sanibel! Island Vacations of Sanibel and Captiva, Inc. 1101 Periwinkle Way #108 Sanibel, FL 33957 888-451-7277 There are many homes and historic cottages that rent privately as well. Look at the JW Marriott Marco website for options. 7/9/2016. One of the questions we get asked a lot is, what are the differences between Sanibel and Captiva Island?. Here are some of our favorite places to cool down with a cocktail. Sanibel Island is home to relaxing beaches, great dining, fishing . Both islands have these things in common: Beautiful beaches, lack of high-rise hotels and condos, mostly low density development, and a laid back atmosphere. The sand quality is good. There's a year-round outdoor pool, and free use of their bicycles included. There are free taxis to many restaurants/bars but paid transport is $6 anywhere on the island. That is a personal decision. This Island has several restaurants and stores for shopping. But youre going to have to dig around more than youd think and its probably not going to be a bargain. All great points. Copyright 2023 | WordPress Theme by MH Themes, Check VRBO Availability of Captiva Beachfront Rentals, Top 10 Tricks for Planning a Sanibel Island Vacation on a Budget, What to Look for in a Captiva or Sanibel Island Vacation Rental, The 3 Best Months to Visit Sanibel Island, The Highest Rated Captiva Island House Rentals, The 5 Highest Rated St George Island Beach House Rentals, The 5 Best Anna Maria Island Beachfront House Rentals, The 5 Biggest Florida Keys Beach House Rentals, The 6 Best Amelia Island Vacation Rentals, Top 10 Hidden Caribbean Private Island Rentals, Sanibel Island Tips & Secrets Only a Local Would Know, Complete Guide to Kayaking Sanibel Island. Captiva Island beaches on the other hand have a steeper slope in the water directly off the beach, which tends to cut down on the amount of shells that wash up on the beach. Haven't been to either. The whole island is practically all beach on the West, and this is where the Gulf of Mexico laps at the shore just what you want to dip your toes into! The beach connecting Sanibel to Captive is probably the best known public beach and it is very well known for its shelling. . This is simply due to the offshore geography and Sanibels unique curvature of land it really does get the lions share of great shells! Blind Pass Beach. Here are the most noticeable difference between the islands to help you pick your island destination: One of the biggest distinguishing factors between Sanibel and Captiva lies beneath your toes: their sand. If you want to get on a personal level with nature, you can visit any of these beaches. The gulf water was clean and calm, but not clear. It is connected to Fort Myers by the Sanibel Causeway Bridge. Below its elegant main dining room windows spreads a green lawn begging for a wedding party and ends at the beach. Theres a $6 toll to get onto the island. Condos are also available on both the Gulf and the bay. Sundial Beach Resort & Spa has secured its spot as one of the best Sanibel hotels on the beach, thanks to its many amazing amenities and waterfront location. You wont get much shelling done here, but that doesnt mean that you cant find any at all! Shortly after 6 a.m. on Tuesday, the light began shining as bright as ever. There is no toll for leaving the island back to Fort Myers, or for crossing the small bridge from Sanibel to Captiva. With picnic areas for all, you can take a bike ride to the park and the beach, as there are bike racks to use, too. There is a small parking lot adjacent to the beach with a limited number of spaces, and is $5.00 per hour paid at the lot kiosk. . Sanibel Island is much larger than Captiva and is the first island off the mainland of Ft. Myers. And the standards of the condos arent the highest. Since then, Sanibel has followed a path of creating a balance for residents and visitors to enjoy the beauty of the island while at the same time proactively and aggressively controlling development and sprawl. While we initially stayed on and fell in love with Captiva Island, both islands are perfect for rest and relaxation. You may be looking for hidden gems in Captiva Island, and with the Gulfside City Beach, thats exactly what you will find. If at South Seas add extensive resort amenitiesand an upscale atmosphere. Visit the Islands to find great shells today! Both islands have a good selection of mom and pop restaurants and shops, although Sanibel definitely has more (its a much larger island though). The causeway bridge to Sanibel is $6 roundtrip; there is no fee to gofrom Sanibelto Captiva. Were often asked and emailed questions from readers wanting to know what the difference is between Sanibel and Captiva islands. Sanibel and Captiva remain very much in recovery mode, but some business leaders urged city management to open back up, so visitors can once again eat, shop and stay at the iconic barrier islands . There are 76 general parking spaces. Most of the year it feels like you are the only one on the beach. Dogs are welcome at Turner Beach- they must be kept on a leash no longer than 8 ft. We please ask that you remember to clean up after your dog. The same gradual sloping shoreline that collects millions of shells on the beaches of Sanibel also prevent it from having bright clear blue water most of the year. Its not a party town, but there are plenty of places to eat, drink and listen to live music. While Captiva Island features a North-South orientation like most of Floridas Gulf barrier islands, youll find that Sanibel Island has a unique East-West orientation. ;-). Email agent. Sanibel is a wonderful overall vacation experience if you like beachcombing and non chain restaurants and nature in general, but the water clarity varies with the tides and winds and currents. Sep 26, 2020 Almost every building still standing, only a few roofs damaged and some flooding around Andy Rosse Lane and the entrance to south seas (but not nearly as bad as on Sanibel). The passes at the ends and between the two islands get the attention of adventure beachgoers because of their swift-moving waters. Most places are a little worn and just not very updated. The water is frequently greenish and less than clear due to fine sediments stirred up by currents / wave action and significant drainage from the land, particularly after a storm. Or is there another better spot? Sanibel Island is known for being a natural wonderland. The kids will love the park, and you can take a moment to explore the shoreline and find as many shells as you like (not live ones!) Theyre smaller here, so beautiful to collect! There is so much you can do and see with your time, so why not go exploring now? Captiva Beach, Captiva Island: See 1,385 reviews, articles, and 733 photos of Captiva Beach, ranked No.1 on Tripadvisor among 10 attractions in Captiva Island. Along Andy Rosse Lane is Captiva Island Pizza, casual RC Otters, and the very delicious Key Lime Bistro. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. The only vegetation around is the natural one that grows, which opens up the scenery. Relax on the miles of beaches surrounding the island or enjoy some fun in the water. There is access to the western sunset-facingpristine beaches of Captiva at Turner's Beach immediately after Blind Pass Bridge and also a small lot at the very end of Captiva Drive directly adjacent to South Seas Resort. Our guide below gives you an in-depth look at what you can expect at each of Sanibel Island's popular shelling beaches. The pristine beaches of Sanibel are best in the off-season (May to September) where the beaches are empty save for the locals. Absolutely. It also has a small parking lot and portable toilets. But if you are looking for the more traditional sugar sand beach with clear blue water the Captiva Island Beaches are the way to go. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Each beach offers its own unique take on shelling and is worth a visit. Theres nothing better than a relaxing day at the beach, and Lighthouse Beach has some of the best spaces to let your worries float away. On Captiva, you have much more space to spread out. Like Blind Pass Beach, Turner Beach is best for shelling and fishing, but not swimming as the currents can get very strong! Tarpon Tale Inn is one of the smaller Sanibel Island inns, but that just makes the place to stay on Sanibel Island more homey. Fishers will love the opportunity to fish and catch their day, and with amazing sunrises and sunsets, youll find somewhere to sit and marvel at the colors. It was here my friends found love and built up their romance. Parking costs $5 per hour, but is well worth it once you leave with loads of shells. Blind Pass Beach is one of the more unique beaches on this list given the fact that it stretches to the northern tip of Sanibel Island, making it easily accessible from Captiva Island as well. It does get busy understandably so as its so popular! Refer to our Privacy Policy for full affiliate terms. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. Check out this shortlist of my top five 'quick picks for vacation rentals in Sanibel Island. The parking lot isnt huge, but there is space if you get there early enough. Sanibel and Captiva are connected to Fort Myers on the mainland by only one roadway the Sanibel Causeway Bridge. Eight Sanibel and Captiva beaches you have to visit include: For many people, the massive amount and variety of shells that can be found is what brings them Sanibel and Captiva Island beaches. Powerful Send help right to the people and causes you care about. The residents, wishing to conserve the natural setting and protect the wildlife refuge atmosphere actually broke away from the county and formedSanibel's own municipal government. January 2, 2021 Ryan Bellino Florida Gulf Coast Islands, Sanibel and Captiva Islands 0. Sanibel City leaders said their beaches fared better than Captiva's in the erosion department following Eta, although isolated erosion was spotted on some public beaches. Captiva Islands parent island is Sanibel. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Captivas beach is far better for simply lounging on the powdery sand. You can swim safely, walk and picnic here. Copyright 2023 Lincoln Travel Co ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. From the bay to the Gulf of Mexico, the islands are surrounded by water and beauty. In the village area there are a number of marinas that offer charter captains and water taxi service to the out islands of North Captiva, Cabbage Key and Useppa. Here are better explanations: You are paying or the name Naples means Naples is at least twice as expensive as Ft. Myers Beach. Whats the difference between Sanibel and Captiva? The Keys are AMAZING in my opinion, but you do give up the nice, wide, sandy beaches when choosing to vacation in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The best part about Sanibel Island is the quaintness of the inns, such as the Sanibel Inn. There are several vendors for bike rentals or check with your hotel to find out if they offer bike rentals. That said, however, since most visitors seem to hit the beaches closest to the Sanibel Causeway (the only road on and off the island), youll find that the closer you get to the Causeway, the more crowded the beaches are. Sanibels beaches are generally firm and compact, from higher foot traffic. Dolphins make their appearance daily and often a manatee or two are spotted. No, Siesta Key Village is not like Captiva. Taking a boat tour off the beach? 3 beach destination in the United States, and it is easy to see why. Youll find shady areas with picnic tables and grills to enjoy your own BBQ! And anything called a resort is actually a condo with more resort-like amenities. The water at Sand Key is exactly the same as the water on Clearwater Beach. Sanibel Island is about 40 minutes west from there. Sanibel is 60% nature reserve with low rise mostly condos and natural ungroomed beaches. Captiva also allows the use of golf carts on the roads within the village limits during daylight hours only. Rent a bike! And share my account with your travel loving friends! Discover the Beauty of Sanibel and Captiva Islands There is so much to find and enjoy in Southwest Florida, especially on Sanibel and Captiva Islands. Sanibel Beaches are among the most dog-friendly beaches in Florida, if not the entire country. While the intention is to rebuild, the causeway has been fixed, and the island is expected to begin opening to tourism in January 2023, things are not back to normal and likely wont be for a long time. Ive always found the best shells in the water on Captiva. If you are not stayingat the resort you cannot go onto the grounds or use the facilities. Its the top shelling destination in the country and shell collectors from around the world come to spend the day hunched over doing the Sanibel Stoop. 1725 Cape Coral Pkwy E, Cape Coral, FL 33904. Compared to some of the other beaches on this list, Blind Pass Beach doesnt have an endless list of amenities. Be sure to carry a flashlight when walking at night. Captiva Island and Sanibel Island were formerly single islands located along North Captiva Island. Where to Eat. Sanibel is your choice if you are looking for nature, activities, choices in restaurants and shopping, are on somewhat ofa budget, biking or want to go off island fortouring or nightlife on the mainland. Sanibel Marina, Sanibel Vessels up to 100 feet (239) 215-2445 sanibelmarina.com I will say, depending on the types of places youre used to staying in Florida (or on vacation in general)I find that 95% of whats offered on Sanibel leaves a lot to be desired (especially for the $$). not find chains or franchises (except a few grandfathered ones). But Captiva is even quieter and less busy than Sanibel, though theres still plenty to do. The vibe is even more relaxed than the slow-paced vacation lifestyle of Sanibel. Both families and groups alike will love this beach, as you can swim, sunbathe, enjoy a picnic, build epic sandcastles, and play beach games. Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grill 2500 Island Inn Rd, Sanibel Island OR 5400 S Seas Plantation Rd, Captiva Island That's right - Doc Ford's has two locations within the islands! Youll find many public beaches on Sanibel Island, some with fishing piers, and a few private beaches, too. Sanibels beaches are actually made up more of ground up shells than sand, which can be somewhat uncomfortable for bare feet. The Atlantic with its steep continental dropoff has stronger surf than the Gulf coast which is relatively shallow (there is actually a shallows area many miles off-shore). And there are no golf carts on Siesta. But its all about your expectations. 0.25 acre lot. The best comparison is to a mattress. Once you cross over the bridge at Blind Pass, youll immediately notice how the road narrows and homes are shrouded by lush greenery and gates. If you plan to stay in Captiva Island, the South seas island resort is an ideal place to stay. Sanibel Island vs Marco Island for a vacation?Sanibel and Marco islands are both tropical gems of Southwest Florida, attracting thousands of visitors each year for a family vacation, a weekend getaway, or a honeymoon. The immensity of the sky and the sea together offer vast and breathtaking views in all directions that work together to draw you in. If youre staying on Sanibel, running up to Captiva to eat dinner or shop isnt a big deal and vice versa. The causeway was built in 1963 (the island was previously only accessible via ferry) and the city of Sanibel was formed in 1974. You can walk for miles on the beach here, and you can find soft white sand with plenty of intricate shells to enjoy. Best Sanibel Island Vacation Rental with a View - Shorewood Beachfront Penthouse Sanibel Island Condo. Today, Sanibel is unique from other southwest Florida towns because there are no chains or franchises (except a few grandfathered ones). Tarpon Beach. Captiva, on the other hand, is much, much smaller: five miles long and 1.64 square miles in size. On Sanibel after high tide, it looks as if someone dumped buckets upon buckets of shells on Sanibel. Aside from Bowman and Blind Pass beach areas, Sanibels beaches are far more narrow than Captivas. The irony of this is, one of the best beaches on Sanibel is located closest to the Causeway. Updated 1/2/2021 Captiva Island is one of my favorite islands in the United States. 2. Its a great way to explore and enjoy the island. We are staying a week. Sanibel beaches are renowned for the shells that wash up every day - it's the top shelling destination in North America and residents and visitors bending over to examine the shells is the source of the posture known as the 'Sanibel Stoop". The paths are well marked and almost flat. Sanibel is known to be the top shelling destination in North America. Captiva island or Sanibel , best places to stay for 2-3 people , what is reopened , any suggestions? Marco is highly developed and channelized with high rises and wide groomed beaches.