These beautiful barrier islands were created by nature to protect the mainland from tropical storms. Their gorgeous beaches rank among the world’s finest, and they’re lined with millions of seashells. In fact, collecting seashells is so popular that the best waist posture associated with this activity has become affectionately known as the “Sanibel stoop”.
There are countless other things to do on Sanibel Island. Start by hiking, biking, or driving through the 5,200-acre J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Here you can see wildlife ranging from raccoons and alligators to an incredible assortment of birds that include herons, egrets, osprey, and roseate spoonbills. You should also consider taking a kayaking tour in Tarpon Bay, which was voted one of the Top 10 Places in America to paddle by Canoe & Kayak magazine.
From learning about marine conservation at Sanibel Sea School and mollusks at the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum to fishing for tarpon and Sea Trout just offshore, these quiet islands offer a surprising array of tourist attractions and activities.
