Fun On Sanibel!
We here on Sanibel take pride in our beaches and abundance of shells, but if you have collected so many shells and need a U-Haul trailer to get them home, here are a few other things to do.
BIKING:
There are 26 miles of shared-use bike paths throughout Sanibel. Many visitors bring their bikes, but if that isn’t possible you can rent bikes from Billy’s Rental or Finnimore’s. Both Billy’s and Finnimore’s rent e-bikes and beach equipment too. Finnimore’s also rents kayaks and paddleboards and both businesses will deliver to your location. We suggest reserving your rentals before arrival and please familiarize yourself with bike path etiquette to keep yourself and others safe while enjoying your stay here.
KAYAKING:
Kayaking is a fun way to explore the waters of Sanibel. Tarpon Bay Explorers rents kayaks and offers guided tours. You can kayak through the mangroves of Tarpon Bay and see many species of birds and tiny mangrove tree crabs! You may even spot nesting white pelicans or dolphins & manatees frolicking in the bay. When you’re done kayaking be sure to stop into the gift shop and pick up a few souvenirs.
FISHING, DOLPHIN AND SHELLING TOURS:
An exciting day on Sanibel may involve taking a boat tour on our turquoise waters. Many captains offer different fishing, dolphin, and shelling tours. Adventures in Paradise is located on Captiva, offering shelling, lunch on Cabbage Key, and dolphin tours. Captain Shawn Kelly’s Fishing Charters offers fishing charters leaving from Captiva. Also, Endless Summer Charters offers both fishing and shelling tours. Flip Side Eco Charters offers multiple tours such as sunset, eco and shelling.
J.N. DING DARLING NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE:
If you are looking to spot Sanibel’s wildlife, then Ding Darling is the place to go. You can walk, bike, drive, or take the guided Tram tour on the 4-mile one-way trip. You may see roseate spoonbills, otters, great egrets, alligators, or even a crocodile! There are several lookout locations and trails for you to explore too.
Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum:
The Bailey-Matthews Museum has an impressive display of shells from all over the world and many from Florida. There are also living aquariums with live mollusks and other sea animals. There is even an interactive display where you can touch the sea life. A recent addition is a Giant Pacific Octopus with its own webcam, Octocam! Don’t forget to check out the gift shop with a lot of great items.
FARMERS MARKET:
The Sanibel Farmer’s Market is open from October through May and offers a wide variety of baked goods, drinks, fruits, vegetables, handmade gifts, and flowers. If you go, be sure to bring your appetite and leave the pup at home, no pets. Open every Sunday (Easter too) from 9am-1pm located at 800 Dunlap Rd.
