Just off Cape Coral in Florida’s Gulf Coast is Sanibel Island, a gorgeous barrier island with white sugar sand and calm emerald waters. Every morning, shells from over 400 species wash up on these shores, earning Sanibel Island the “Seashell Capital of the World” nickname. There are many ways to enjoy Sanibel Island and Captiva, its neighbor island to the north. Kayaking, fishing, bird watching, hiking, biking, and shelling are all classic activities here. Visitors may spot manatee, dolphins, sea turtles, and tropical fish in Sanibel Island’s crystal clear waters, and the sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico here never get old.
Sanibel Island Surrounds
There are multiple public beaches to explore on Sanibel and Captiva islands, including Tarpon Bay Beach, Bowman’s Beach, and the Alison Hagerup Beach Park. Bike and kayak rentals are available on-island. Although some RV camping is available in Sanibel Island, RVers will find a wider selection of RV parks with full hookups and wifi nearby in Fort Myers and Cape Coral. Both areas make great basecamps to explore the area.
JN “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
The JN “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is an extraordinary park on Sanibel Island that preserves one of the largest intact mangrove systems in the US. There are four miles of walking and biking trails, canoe and kayak launches, and over 240 species of birds living here.
Cayo Costa State Park
Cayo Costa is an island north of Captiva that is only accessible by private boat or ferry from Bokeelia. Its 9 miles of unspoiled beaches and sand dunes are accessible via Cayo Costa State Park. Here, beachside tent camping and simple cabins with picnic tables keep you close to ocean breezes, mangroves, and desolate shores.
Other Nearby Beaches
For additional beach options in the area, we recommend heading south to Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Springs. This area has multiple beach parks and access to paddling adventures on Estero Bay.
Sanibel Island’s tropical climate makes for good fall, winter, and spring camping. The summers are hotter, more humid, and have more frequent rain, but summer campers can still have a good time with solid rain cover and a setup with a fan or AC. Because of its position on the Gulf Coast, Sanibel Island is exposed to Atlantic hurricanes in the summer and fall. Monitor hurricane forecasts during these seasons before and in the course of your trip, and be prepared to change plans if bad weather is headed your way.