Make a trip of it

Sanibel & Captiva

You're coming a long way — here's what we'd do with the rest of the weekend.

On the water

  • Fishing at Blind Pass

    The pass between Sanibel and Captiva, and a favorite of ours. Good from the bridge or the beach on either side.

  • Shelling at Bowman's Beach

    Sanibel is one of the best shelling beaches in the world, and Bowman's is the classic. Go at low tide, and the morning after a storm is even better.

  • Shelling on Captiva

    Closer to the resort and quieter. Turner Beach, right at Blind Pass, is an easy walk-on.

  • Sunset on the Gulf side

    Captiva faces west, which is the whole point. Find sand around 6:30 and don't plan anything else.

Worth the drive

  • J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge

    Sanibel. Wildlife drive, kayak trails, and more birds than you'd expect to care about. Go early.

  • Sanibel Island Lighthouse

    At the east end of the island. Good beach, good photos.

  • Bike the Sanibel path network

    Miles of flat, dedicated bike path. Rentals are easy to find and it's the nicest way to see the island.

Food & drink

  • The Bubble Room

    Captiva. Gloriously over-the-top decor and famous cake. A local institution.

  • The Mucky Duck

    Captiva. Right on the beach — the classic spot for sunset with a drink in hand.

  • Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille

    Sanibel. Casual, reliable, good for a group.

  • Ask us

    We'll have been down there plenty by October. Text us and we'll tell you where we've actually been eating.

A note: Sanibel and Captiva were hit hard by Hurricane Ian in 2022 and are still rebuilding in places. Hours and openings shift around, so it’s worth a quick check before you drive somewhere specific.