Retail Stores Roundup
Two years may seem like a long time but having seen the devastation after Hurricane Ian (recently upgraded to a Cat 5), it is wonderful to see so many of our favorite stores return along with several new ones. Sanibel experienced a 12-foot storm surge of seawater across the entire island. The seawater, mixed with hazardous waste waters ruined almost everything it touched. So many businesses and homeowners have had to battle with insurance companies & vie for, what seemed like, too few contractors to get where we are today. So, 2 years happened in a blink of an eye to us. Now let’s talk about what is open!
Periwinkle Place:
https://www.periwinkleplace.com/
Like many ground-level places on Sanibel, Periwinkle Place took a hard hit from the storm surge affecting every business. Many stores are now open with more to open by the holidays. The original Chico’s is now open as well as Sanibel Day Spa, Tiki Jim’s, One Sanibel Island, Yara’s Shoe Boutique, Her Sports Closet, Everything But Water, My Friend’s Place Boutique, Beach Daisy Boutique, Sanibel Flip Flop, Pinocchio’s.
Soon to be open: Toys Ahoy, Trader Ricks, Butterfly Beach, Congress Jewelry, Sea Glass Lane, Paradise Boutique, and last but certainly not least, The Blue Giraffe!
Tahitian Gardens:
https://shoponsanibel.com/tahitian-gardens/
Tahitian Gardens jumped back into operation quickly after the hurricane benefitting from their elevated building. The Sanibel Café is back with many of our favorites including their homemade jam! I was happy to see the shell tables survived any water intrusion. Wilford & Lee’s reopened in January 2024 with an excellent selection of items. Cheeburger Cheeburger was bought by a new owner and was closed for remodeling at the time of the hurricane, and they are now open with a family sports bar atmosphere. Sanibel Soul, Synergy Sportswear, Shiney Objects, and Adventures in Paradise are also open.
Heart Of The Island Shops:
Like many ground floor builders, this shopping center went under a complete remodel after the hurricane.
We are happy to announce that MacIntosh Books is now open! Stop in to find the latest best sellers and chat with owner Rebecca for a book recommendation. She also has a fine selection of gifts. MacIntosh has a great website to order your books: https://www.macintoshbooks.com/ if you can’t make it to the island. A newcomer to the island shopping experience is Home By Rachel Pierce, a full-service interior design studio with a selection of unique retail finds.
Jerry’s Plaza:
Jerry’s Plaza faired well from the hurricane and almost all the retail businesses in the plaza are open. You will find Sanibel Surf Shope, Sanibel Spirits, Footloose/H2O Outfitters, Nanny’s Of Sanibel, and of course, Jerry’s Grocery & Café.
Palm Ridge Plaza:
Once again, Palm Ridge Plaza experienced a devastating storm surge that affected all stores. Amazingly, Sanibel Deli & Coffee Factory was open within months as the owner rallied his friends and boated over to get the restaurant back online and served lunch to all emergency workers.
Special Mentions:
CROW: Center For Rehabilitation of Wildlife: Not only can you stop here to learn about what CROW does but they have an awesome gift shop where 100% of the profits support the center. https://crowclinic.org/
Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge: One of the best places on the island to spot a Roseate Spoonbill and if you are lucky, a flamingo, they also have a gift shop where the profits help support the refuge. https://dingdarlingsociety.org/
Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum: A great place to see and learn about the amazing underwater world of sea life. The gift shop is full of fun and unique gifts. https://www.shellmuseum.org
EmOcean Resort Wear, Located in The Lighthouse Shops, flew back in business like an Osprey catching a fish in clear water. With a fabulous selection of men’s and women's clothing and gifts, this is a must-stop for all.
Tarpon Bay Explorer: Those who have kayaks through Tarpon Bay know about the great gifts and clothes for sale at Tarpon Bay Outfitters. You can find a lot of fun souvenirs for your family and friends or pet sitters. https://tarponbayexplorers.com/
SanCap Pak-N-Ship Gift Shop: Those who have stopped into Pak-N-Ship to send your collection of shells back home know about the fantastic gift shop located within “Charlie’s Island Gifts”. Full of candles, reed scents, branded cups, bags, journals, and greeting cards. This store is worth a stop whether you need to ship a gazillion shells back home or not.
Captive Curio Cottage: Located next to The Bait Shop as you first enter the island. Need to get a cute outfit for your dog? Need a specialty tea? Herbs? T-Shirt? You will find an eclectic selection found nowhere else on Sanibel.
Sun Catchers: Located at the Olde Sanibel Shops next to The Over Easy Café, this great gift shop offers beautiful jewelry and the best catnip on this side of the Mississippi. Owner Dan sells many quality items made by local artists, jewelers, and photographers. You will also find a collection of the best greeting cards.
The Grog Shop, is located in the historic former gas station at the Bailey’s Plaza. They have the largest selection of libations on Sanibel. While there, look for some of the bottles with “I Survived Ian” stickers! You will also find a selection of premium cigars and lottery tickets. Delivery service is also available. https://grogshopsanibel.com
Special Note: The CVS Pharmacy opened September 1st, 2024!
