Sanibel and Captiva

Welcome to the islands of Sanibel and Captiva

Slow-paced waterfront community that serves as a tranquil and tropical oasis.

If you want a true concept of Paradise in your backyard, look no further! People come from all over the country to spend just a few days at this tropical and gorgeous Island. Here you can be surrounded by the diverse Florida wilderness, bordered by Gulf of Mexico beaches, and canopied by the Florida sun. Sanibel Island is truly a one-of-a-kind place to call home. 

The entire community is just over 17 square miles, so it has that charming feeling of a small town. It seems that every road you pass by is surrounded by gorgeous waters, incredible wildlife or just an earshot from the sandy beaches. If you love to be outside, Sanibel Island is calling! This place is known for kayaking, paddle boarding, boating, and seeking out wildlife. Overall, it offers a peaceful and relaxing lifestyle. But don’t be caught off guard by the active community that will surround you! Enjoy meeting neighbors and friends for a beautiful stroll by the beach or any of the water recreation facilities.

People & Lifestyle

The best thing about Sanibel is that no matter the age, there is something for you. If you are wanting to raise your kids by the beach and to have an active lifestyle, you can find comfort in this Island. If you are finally at that age to retire and relax, you have found your heaven on earth in this calm and lax location. It is safe, clean and the community is very tight knit. These homes are not just stunning but are affordable and perfect for whatever sized family you plan to bring down. Whatever you are looking for, you can find it somewhere on Sanibel Island.

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

What is paradise without good food and things to do?? People typically come to this island to relax and unplug, but for the locals, there is plenty to do and amazing food to try! First thing in the morning, head to Sanibel Fresh for coffee and fresh donuts. Visit Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille for fantastic drinks, unforgettable seafood, and a tropical beachside setting. If you’re looking for upscale or New American dining, The Mad Hatter Restaurant has white-tablecloth seating and waterfront views perfect for a romantic evening out.

In the mood for Southern comfort food? You have to check out The Pecking Order! It is a playful counter serving up the best fried chicken, waffles, biscuits, and pies around. To spice things up, take a seat at the casual bi-level eatery MudBugs Cajun Kitchen for breakfast, lunch, happy hour, or dinner. They even have an outdoor bar where friendly bartenders craft impressive cocktails! Cips Place is another cool island restaurant with a boat-shaped bar and airy seating, as well as awesome New American cuisine.

Things to Do

You already know about the world-class beaches right in the neighborhood! You will also find some of the most unique barrier islands in the world due to their east-west orientation, which causes countless shells to wash onshore. Speaking of shells, Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum offers many family-friendly events, activities, and cool exhibits.

At J. N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, you’ll spot beautiful birds feeding all over the sanctuary; you can walk the trails of the preserve or even take a tour. You can take the whole family to meet some of the local animals over at the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) or in their natural habitat at Sanibel Island Lighthouse, which has fish, pelicans, and even dolphins on occasion.

Stop through the Sanibel Farmers Market to get your fresh produce and meet friendly faces, or take a day or staycation for yourself at the Sanibel Cottages by Hilton or South Seas Island Resort. Another fun attraction that locals love is the annual Sanibel Masters Art Festival for the great food and the even better art.

Schools

Sanibel is part of Lee County Schools, which has several highly rated schools and educational facilities of note, including:

• Canterbury School, Private, K-12 College Prep
• Evangelical Christian School, Private, K-12
• Bishop Verot High School, Private, 9-12
• Florida Gulf Coast University, Public