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Sanibel Island Ultimate Trip Guide – Updated Nov 2023

Last Updated on March 26, 2024

Our Sanibel Island Ultimate Trip Guide is a great resource if you are planning a trip to Sanibel Island. The island is in Southwest Florida, west of Fort Myers and Cape Coral.

While most islands have a north-south orientation, Sanibel Island has an east-west orientation, making it a rather unique barrier island.

Shells on Sanibel Island.

It is known for its beautiful beaches and is one of Florida’s best shelling destinations.

Sanibel lighthouse by beach.
Source: Unsplash

We originally published this guide a few weeks before the wrath of Hurricane Ian hit in 2022. We are constantly updating this guide to reflect the progress and reopenings.

There were so many different things to do on amazing Sanibel Island, Florida. This ultimate trip guide reflects a lot of pre-Hurricane memories. We’re thrilled to see so many places bouncing back.

She Sells Sea Shells Gift Shop on Sanibel Island.

The guide includes planning tips, fun things to do, and authentic places to stay, eat, and shop while visiting this gorgeous island in the Sunshine State.

Table of Contents

    Planning a Trip to Sanibel Island

    Sanibel Island walkway.

    There are many things to consider when planning a trip to Sanibel Island. As a starting point for planning your trip, consider your answers to the following questions:

    • Are you traveling with kids, a partner, or solo?
    • Where are you coming from? 
    • How many days are you planning on staying in the area? 
    • What are you most interested in seeing on your visit? 
    Beach with people sitting umbrellas on the shore.

    Keep your answers to these questions in mind as you start to make plans. Sanibel Island has great options for everyone, whether you are looking for a solo trip, a romantic getaway, or fun for the whole family.

    Let’s review some of the basics for planning your trip!

    How to Get to Sanibel Island

    Packed and open suitcase.
    Source: Unsplash

    You can get to Sanibel Island by driving or by flying to one of the region’s airports.

    If you are flying in, you will also need to consider renting a car or taking a taxi from the airport to get to the island. The closest airport is on the mainland, 28 miles away. 

    Driving

    Bridge over the water.
    Bridge to Sanibel Island

    Tampa is about 3 hours north of Sanibel Island via I-75 South. Orlando is about 4 hours away, with the most direct route being I-4 West to Highway 17 South to I-75 South. From Miami, it is a 3-hour drive to Sanibel Island via I-75 North. 

    Flying

    Airplanes at the airport.
    Southwest Florida International Airport

    If you are flying in for your trip, the most convenient airport to arrive at near Sanibel Island is Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers.

    Southwest Florida International Airport is located 28 miles from Sanibel Island, with many major airlines flying to and from it. Naples Municipal Airport, Punta Gorda Airport, and Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport are all options within approximately 100 miles of Sanibel Island.

    How to Get Around

    Person on a bike.
    Source: Unsplash

    You may be wondering the best way to get around while on Sanibel Island due to its size and separation from the mainland.

    Getting around by car, bike, or walking can all be good options depending on where you want to go and how much you want to see during your visit.

    Car

    Bridge over the water.

    If you are driving in for your trip to Sanibel Island, having a car makes it easy to plan day trips to nearby areas like Captiva Island or Fort Myers. It can be difficult and costly to find parking throughout the island.

    You must pay to park at local beaches. Trips from the mainland require you to cross the Sanibel Island Causeway, which has a $6 toll ($9 if your vehicle doesn’t have a transponder.)

    Bike

    Couple biking on Sanibel Island.
    Source: Mariav

    Riding a bike is the most convenient way to get around Sanibel Island. The island has over 20 miles of paved bike paths that can be utilized to access attractions and beaches.

    Bikes are also an affordable option—many hotels and vacation rentals in the area have free rentals you can use during your stay.

    If your accommodations don’t have bike rentals, shops on the island rent out bikes and helmets at reasonable prices. 

    Walking

    Sanibel Island pathway to beach.
    Source: Julia Telligman

    Depending on where you book your hotel or vacation rental, walking can be a convenient and free way to travel to Sanibel Island beaches, attractions, and restaurants.

    If this sounds ideal for your trip, book accommodations nearby your top places to visit.

    Trip Duration

    Sanibel Island shells 2023.

    Sanibel Island is full of things to do, so you may be wondering how many days you should plan to be on this island paradise. The answer depends on how you want to pace your trip.

    If you are short on time or prefer to see the island at a faster pace, 2 to 3 days will allow you to see all the top hits if you move quickly.

    In general, if you want to see top sights while still having ample time to relax at the beach, a 5 to 6-day stay is optimal.

    Sanibel Island homes.

    Of course, if you have the time, you can easily fill your schedule with a week or two of fun and relaxation on Sanibel Island.

    When to Visit

    Palm trees at sunrise.

    Sanibel Island is a year-round destination thanks to Florida’s sub-tropical climate.

    Like most of Florida, Sanibel Island is known for having hot and humid summers, with high temperatures averaging 90+ degrees and lows in the mid-70s.

    Hurricane season runs from June through November and is also an important consideration to keep in mind while deciding when to visit Sanibel Island. 

    Birds on the beach in Sanibel.

    Ideal times to visit include October through May. These months tend to have optimal weather with less humidity and temperature highs in the upper-70s.

    The weather in the winter season during December, January, and February can be a bit colder, with highs in the low-70s and lows averaging 60 degrees. But there can be a couple of cold snaps mixed in.

    Things to Do

    Shells in Sanibel Island.

    There are many fun things to do on Sanibel Island for every visitor. Families and couples of all ages will enjoy the island’s relaxing atmosphere and various activities.

    Whether you are looking for some outdoor adventures, the perfect place to watch the sunset, or a cool museum to spend the afternoon in, we have some of the best things to do on your trip to Sanibel Island. 

    Bowman’s Beach Park

    Ocean shore.
    Source: Visit Fort Myers

    Bowman’s Beach Park is one of the most popular beaches on Sanibel Island. This is a great beach to go shelling, with miles of soft, white sand to comb through.

    Shell beach.
    Source: Visit Fort Myers

    There are gorgeous views of the Gulf of Mexico. Bowman’s Beach Park is a public beach which convenient amenities like restrooms, a pavilion with picnic tables, and charcoal grills.

    TIPS:

    • Bowman’s Beach Park is open daily.
    • Parking is $5 per hour.
    • Parking is difficult to come by in the park’s parking lot, so plan accordingly.
    • Like all Sanibel beaches, Bowman’s is dog-friendly. Dogs must be leashed.

    For more information, visit the official Lee County website

    Bowman’s Beach Park Address: 1700 Bowmans Beach Rd., Sanibel, FL 33957

    Tower Gallery

    Gallery exterior.
    Source: Tower Gallery

    Tower Gallery is located in an original Florida cottage built in 1915. It has been moved to a new location and repainted, but the original structure is still intact. 

    Gallery interior.
    Source: Tower Gallery

    The gallery is a cooperative of over 20 artists that utilize a wide variety of mediums for their creations.

    Visit this cool spot to view painting, photography, ceramics, jewelry, and more.

    TIPS:

    • Tower Gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. 
    • The gallery hosts different events, including sales and auctions.
    • You can purchase artwork from the gallery’s online, which offers free shipping within the US.

    For more information, visit the official Tower Gallery website

    Tower Gallery Address: 751 Tarpon Bay Rd., Sanibel, FL 33957

    Lighthouse Beach Park

    View of beach.

    Lighthouse Beach Park is located on the eastern tip of Sanibel Island. In addition to the soft, sandy beach that winds around the public park, there are amenities like restrooms, picnic areas, trails, and showers.

    The historic lighthouse located in the park is over 100 years old.

    Aerial view of beach and lighthouse.
    Source: Visit Fort Myers

    This is a lovely beach to visit during your stay, with the lighthouse providing an excellent background for photos.

    Like with other area beach parks, parking is difficult to come by, and the parking lot charges an hourly rate to park there.

    TIPS:

    • Lighthouse Beach Park is open daily.
    • Parking is $5 per hour.
    • Like all Sanibel beaches, Lighthouse Beach is dog-friendly. Dogs must be leashed.

    For more information, visit the official City of Sanibel website

    Lighthouse Beach Park Address: 110 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957

    Tarpon Bay Road Beach Park

    Boardwalk to the beach.

    Tarpon Bay Road Beach Park is another Sanibel Island public beach park owned and maintained by the city of Sanibel.

    The beach faces the glistening Gulf waters and has powdery-soft sand.

    Ocean view.
    Source: Visit Fort Myers

    A parking lot with hourly paid parking features a paved walkway to the beach.

    Amenities include restrooms, showers, bike racks, and picnic areas.

    TIPS:

    • Tarpon Bay Road Beach Park is open daily.
    • Parking is $5 per hour.
    • Like all Sanibel beaches, Tarpon Bay is dog-friendly. Dogs must be leashed.

    For more information, visit the official City of Sanibel website

    Tarpon Bay Road Beach Park Address: 205 Tarpon Bay Rd., Sanibel, FL 33957

    J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge

    Refuge sign.

    Nature lovers need to schedule time to visit J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, which encompasses much of the northern side of Sanibel Island.

    View of water.

    Wildlife refuges like this one safeguard nature habitat areas to protect natural landscapes and wildlife populations, like the many species of birds that migrate and nest in this region.

    Observation tower.
    Source: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

    When you arrive, stop by the Visitor and Education Center for information and exhibits to learn more about wildlife conservation. 

    TIPS:

    • Buildings are open Saturday through Thursday from 9 am to 4 pm.
    • Wildlife Drive is open Saturday through Thursday from 7 am to 5 pm. There is a $10 per vehicle fee.
    • Visitors must exit the refuge 30 minutes after sunset.

    For more information, visit the official U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service website

    J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge Address: 1 Wildlife Dr., Sanibel, FL 33957

    Tarpon Bay Explorers (Open, limited hours)

    Kayak on water.
    Source: Tarpon Bay Explorers

    Due to the destruction caused by Hurricane Ian, the company is operating on limited hours. They plan to get tours up and running once again soon. Right now, they only have kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals available.

    Tarpon Bay Explorers has been in Sanibel for over 20 years, offering a variety of outdoor activities, such as nature tours and rental equipment on Sanibel Island.

    Tarpon Bay Explorers.

    They offer various tours, like their Nature & Sealife Cruise, where you can learn about the Mangrove Estuary ecosystem in Tarpon Bay while riding on a covered pontoon boat.

    Pontoon boat on water.
    Source: Tarpon Bay Explorers

    They also offer kayak tours, stand-up paddleboard tours, and tram tours. If you rather go exploring on your own, check out the company’s rental options.

    Tarpon Bay Explorers rent kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddle boards, bikes, fishing equipment, and even pontoon boats!

    TIPS:

    • Tarpon Bay Explorers is currently open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 8 am to 5 pm.
    • Rentals stop at 3 pm. Equipment must be returned by 5 pm. 

    For more information, visit the official Tarpon Bay Explorers website

    Tarpon Bay Explorers Address: 900 Tarpon Bay Rd., Sanibel, FL 33957

    Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum (Closed while rebuilding from the hurricane)

    Museum exterior.
    Source: Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum

    Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum is currently closed for post-hurricane rebuilding. They plan to reopen as soon as possible. In the meantime, check out their online exhibition, In the Wake of the Flood: Community Photographs of Hurricane Ian and Its Impact.

    Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum is a Sanibel Island museum dedicated to shells and mollusks.

    During your visit, you can see local shells of Sanibel and Captiva and shells from around the world.

    Shells on the beach in Sanibel.

    The Great Hall of Shells within the museum also features record-breaking shells, with some of the largest shells in the world on display for you to see!

    Check out the touch pools and opportunities to talk to museum aquarists while you are there.

    For more information, visit the official Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum website

    Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum Address: 3075 Sanibel Captiva Rd., Sanibel, FL 33957

    The Botanical Gardens at Sanibel Moorings

    Guests in garden.
    Source: Sanibel Mooring

    Sanibel Moorings is a Sanibel Island beach resort known for its luxurious condos (which are currently being renovated after Hurricane Ian) and private beach.

    The property also has The Botanical Gardens at Sanibel Moorings, a great place to see a beautiful collection of tropical plants and trees.

    The Botanical Gardens at Sanibel Moorings.

    The 6-acre garden includes hundreds of native plants and collections of non-invasive tropical species.

    Join the garden tour guide on a 90-minute walking tour around this beachside spot also home to butterflies, birds, turtles, and more.

    TIPS:

    • The garden offers a guided 90-minute walking tour. Check-in for the public is on Wednesdays at 9 am, with a fee of $10 advanced sign-up required. Tours are complimentary for guests of Sanibel Moorings and take place at 11 am on Wednesdays. Private tours may also be arranged.
    • The garden hosts painting days on Wednesdays from 9 am to 4 pm.
    • Contact the Garden staff at [email protected] or call 239-472-4119 for more information.

    For more information, visit the official Sanibel Moorings website

    The Botanical Gardens at Sanibel Moorings Address: 845 E Gulf Dr., Sanibel, FL 33957

    Sanibel Historical Museum & Village (Closed, opening December 1st, 2023)

    Aerial view of village.
    Source: Sanibel Historical Museum and Village

    Sanibel Historical Museum & Village is a must-see attraction for history lovers.

    Founded in 1984, the Sanibel Historical Museum & Village is the best place to learn about Sanibel’s history, which dates back to the 1800s when early pioneer families settled there.

    Nine historic buildings have been restored to their original states.

    Sanibel Historical Museum.

    Check out historic cottages, the post office, a general store, and more. The museum offers guided tours in the morning, where a docent can walk you through the museum and provide helpful information.

    There is also Sanibel’s Heritage Trail, which guides you to historical sites all throughout the island. Before you visit the museum, check their website, as it is only open seasonally. 

    TIPS:

    • The Sanibel Historical Museum & Village is open Tuesday through Thursday from 10 am to 1 pm.
    • Make sure to check the website before planning your trip, as the site is closed during the off-season.

    For more information, visit the official Sanibel Historical Museum & Village website

    Sanibel Historical Museum & Village Address: 950 Dunlop Rd., #4017, Sanibel, FL 33957

    Places to Stay in Sanibel Island Florida (Open; Post-Ian)

    Sanibel Cottages on Sanibel Island.
    Photo source: Sanibel Cottages Resort

    Before the hurricane, there were plenty of great options for places to stay on Sanibel Island.

    From luxurious beachfront resorts to family-friendly hotels to quiet, romantic cottages and incredible vacation homes and condos, there were fantastic choices for a comfortable place to spend your trip.

    Because of the island’s small size, most accommodations are a short drive, bike ride, or walk away from whichever sites you want to visit next. There are also some pet-friendly options and even places that offer a full kitchen.

    ‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa

    Tween Waters Cottage.

    ‘Tween Waters is currently open and accepting reservations. They offer cottages and beach house rentals with access to local beaches. Pets are welcome if guests clear it with the location before visiting.

    This resort has shelling cruises, sailing, fishing, kayaking, shark rides, parasailing, paddleboarding, beach shelling, pools and so much more.

    TIPS: 

    • ‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa is open daily.
    • Check-in is at 4 pm. Check-out is at 11 am. 
    • Spa appointments can be booked in advanced. 

    For more information, visit the official ‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa website

    ‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa Address: 15951 Captiva Dr., Captiva, FL 33924

    Additional Plays to Stay (as of November 2023)

    Beach Road Villas in Sanibel
    Source: Beach Road Villas
    • Beach Road Villas – 764 Beach Road, Sanibel, FL 33957 (Pet Friendly)
    • Island Inn on Sanibel – 3111 West Gulf Drive, Sanibel, FL 33957
    • Parrot Nest Cottages – 1237 Anhinga Lane, Sanibel, FL 33957
    • Periwinkle Park & Campground – 1119 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957
    • Sanibel Island Beach Resort – 1231 Middle Gulf Drive, Sanibel, FL 33957 (Pet Friendly/dogs under 35 pounds. $100 extra per night)
    • Seahorse Cottages – 1223 Buttonwood Lane, Sanibel, FL 33957
    • Tarpon Tale Inn – 367 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957
    • The Driftwood Inn – 711 Donax Street, Sanibel, FL 33957 (Pet Friendly)

    Resorts Reopening in 2024

    Sanibel Moorings (Reopening in April 2024)

    View of property.
    Source: Sanibel Moorings

    Update: Currently, taking reservations from April 22, 2024 to August 17, 2024.

    Sanibel Moorings is a gorgeous resort with luxury condos. Combining the amenities of a resort with the conveniences of a private home, Sanibel Moorings is a great option for families or anyone planning a longer-term stay.

    There are 1, 2, and 3-bedroom rentals available, and all of them feature living rooms, dining areas, and full kitchens. Amenities include guided tours of the botanical gardens and access to resort pools, fitness center, and tennis courts.

    For more information, visit the official Sanibel Moorings website

    Sanibel Moorings Address: 845 E Gulf Dr., Sanibel, FL 33957

    Shalimar Cottages & Motel (Reopening in April 2024)

    Motel interior.
    Source: Shalimar Cottages & Motel

    Shalimar Cottages & Motel is closed while the resort repairs damages caused by Hurricane Ian. Reservations are open for April 22, 2024 through August 17, 2024! For the latest updates, visit the official Facebook page.

    Shalimar Cottages & Motel is conveniently located near many Sanibel Island attractions and restaurants.

    They have cottages, apartments, and efficiencies available to book, providing various options for guests. Cottages include a private porch and a fully-equipped kitchen.

    Resort view.
    Source: Shalimar Cottages & Motel

    Apartments include two bedrooms and comfortably accommodate a family of four. Efficiencies have screen porches and ocean views.

    There are plenty of amenities, no matter which accommodation you choose, including golf courses, tennis courts, and bike rentals.

    For more information, visit the official Shalimar Cottages & Motel website

    Shalimar Cottages & Motel Address: 2823 W Gulf Dr., Sanibel, FL 33957

    Sundial Beach Resort & Spa (Reopening Date TBD)

    Dining room
    Source: Sundial Beach Resort

    Sundial Beach Resort & Spa is closed while the resort repairs damages caused by Hurricane Ian. For the latest updates, visit the official Facebook page

    Sundial Beach Resort & Spa is a fantastic option if you are looking for a relaxing and luxurious getaway. This beachfront resort features onsite restaurants, including the award-winning Shima Japanese Steakhouse.

    In addition, there is a café, casual poolside dining, and a tiki bar.

    Resort view.
    Source: Sundial Beach Resort & Spa

    There are tons of things to do at Sundial, with an activities calendar packed with family-friendly crafts and games. The resort spa menu includes different types of relaxing and therapeutic massages, skin care treatments, and more.

    For more information, visit the official Sundial Beach Resort & Spa website

    Sundial Beach Resort & Spa Address: 1451 Middle Gulf Dr., Sanibel, FL 33957

    Shell Island Beach Club (Reopening Date TBD)

    Resort view.
    Source: Shell Island Beach Club

    Shell Island Beach Club is closed while the resort repairs damages caused by Hurricane Ian. For the latest updates, visit the official Facebook page

    Shell Island Beach Club is located on the eastern tip of Sanibel Island, offering one of the longest beachfront properties on the island.

    This resort offers both rentals and sales of its units. Units have two bedrooms, a kitchen, a living room, a dining area, and a patio or screened balcony.

    Pool view.
    Source: Shell Island Beach Club

    Your stay at the beach club includes access to pools, hot tub, and sauna, complimentary bikes, beach umbrellas, and use of their gas grills. 

    For more information, visit the official Shell Island Beach Club website

    Shell Island Beach Club Address: 255 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957

    Where to Eat on Sanibel Island

    Breakfast on the beach.

    We’re happy to report several of the restaurants on Sanibel are back open for business and would love you to visit.

    Pre-Ian, there was no shortage regarding great restaurants on Sanibel Island. There were award-winning restaurants that offer grilled entrees, fresh seafood, delicious sides, and sweet desserts.

    In between wandering around the island and lounging at the beach or resorts, make sure to dine at some great restaurants for the full Sanibel experience.

    Bleu Rendezvous French Bistro 

    New Bleu Rendezvous French Bistro exterior.
    Photo Source: Bleu Rendezvous on Facebook

    If you are looking for authentic French cuisine coupled with Southern hospitality, look no further than Blue Rendezvous French Bistro in Sanibel.

    Bleu Rendezvous' Mari Vivet and French Chef Christian Vivet
    Photo Source: Bleu Rendezvous on Facebook

    French Chef Christian Vivet and Native Floridian, Mari Vivet, are the friendly faces behind the Bistro. This locally owned and operated restaurant moved following Hurricane Ian.

    Reservations are highly recommended. Dining is available inside and outside. The bistro is open Tuesday through Saturday at 5pm.

    Halibut at Bleu Rendezvous.
    Source: Bleu Rendezvous on Facebook

    You can’t go wrong with any of their dishes such as Seafood Vol-au-Vent or Filet-Frites. They also offer great specials, Twilight Petite Plates, Prix Fixe Menus and A la Carte items.

    For more information and to view their menu, visit the official Bleu Rendez-Vous website.

    Bleu Rendez-Vous Address: 751 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel Island, FL 33957

    MudBugs Cajun Kitchen

    MudBugs  drinks on a table.

    It’s time to celebrate Mardi Gras year-round. MudBugs Cajun serves up the cajun flavors you don’t want to miss out on.

    MudBugs Cajun Kitchen crawfish.

    Enjoy menu items such as fresh oysters, gator tail, gumbo, po’ boys, and Cajun alfredo. They will even cook up your catches from a day of fishing. Talk about an amazing feature of a restaurant.

    Bowl of soup with shrimp and rice.

    MudBugs is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 am to 8:30 pm and Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 9 pm.

    For more information, visit the official MudBugs website

    MudBugs Address: 1473 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957

    Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille

    Cocktail.
    Source: Yelp

    Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille is a Sanibel must-visit restaurant, voted TripAdvisor’s #1 Everyday Eats restaurant in the country.

    The restaurant has waterfront dining and outdoor seating, with a menu that includes Caribbean-inspired appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, entrees, and a shellfish bar. 

    Interior empty restaurant.
    Source: Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille

    Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille is open daily from 11 am to 10 pm.

    For more information, visit the official Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille website

    Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille Address: 2500 Island Inn Rd., Sanibel, FL 33957

    Gramma Dot’s Seaside Saloon (Reopening SOON – November 2023)

    Seafood dish.

    This business is closed while the restaurant repairs damages caused by Hurricane Ian. The restaurant is schedule to reopen in November 2023.

    Gramma Dot’s Seaside Saloon is a great lunch and dinner option located at the Sanibel Marina. Dine dockside while enjoying delicious salads, burgers, and seafood.

    Restaurant exterior.
    Source: Gramma Dot’s Seaside Saloon

    Ribeye, filet mignon, and lobster tail are all high-end options available on Gramma Dot’s dinner menu.

    For more information, visit the official Gramma Dot’s Seaside Saloon website

    Gramma Dot’s Seaside Saloon Address: 634 N Yachtsman Dr., Sanibel, FL 33957

    Additional Restaurants Open on Sanibel Island (November 2023)

    Restaurant interior.
    Source: Yelp
    • Cielo – 1244 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island, FL 33957
    • Jerry’s Cafe – 1700 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957
    • Sanibel Deli & Coffee Factory – 2330 Palm Ridge Road, Sanibel, Florida 33957
    • The Sanibel Grill – 703 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel Island, Florida 33957
    • The Shack of Sanibel – 1219 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957
    • Traders – 1551 Periwinkle Way Sanibel, FL 33957
    • Tutti Pazzi – 1200 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957
    • The Great White Grill – 2440 Palm Ridge Road, Sanibel, FL 33957
    • Huxters Market & Deli – 1203 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island, FL 33957
    • Island Pizza – 1619 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island, FL 33957
    • Rosalita’s Cantina – 975 Rabbit Road, Sanibel Island, FL 33957
    • Timbers Restaurant & Fish Market – 703 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel Island, FL 33957
    • Sweet Melissa’s – 1619 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island, FL 33957 (Pop-up restaurant in Island Pizza on Thursday & Friday)

    Blue Giraffe Food Truck

    Blue Giraffe Food Truck on Sanibel Island.

    Blue Giraffe food trailer at Periwinkle Place is currently open Monday through Friday from 10am – 2pm.

    They plan to reopen the restaurant on Sanibel Island. They are operating this food trailer in the parking lot until they rebuild.

    For more information, visit the Blue Giraffe Facebook page.

    Blue Giraffe Food Trailer Address: 2075 Periwinkle Way #14 Sanibel, FL 33957

    Currently Closed Restaurants

    The Lighthouse Café of Sanibel Island (Making progress)

    Breakfast plates.

    The Lighthouse Café of Sanibel Island is closed while repairing damages caused by Hurricane Ian. For the latest updates, visit the official Facebook page

    The Lighthouse Café of Sanibel Island boldly states that they serve the world’s best breakfast, so of course, we tried it and needed to include it on this list!

    Established in 1987 and located near Lighthouse Beach Park, this restaurant serves all your favorite breakfast options – from omelets to hotcakes to fresh pastries to mimosas. 

    Restaurant interior.
    Source: The Lighthouse Cafe of Sanibel Island

    For more information, visit the official Lighthouse Café of Sanibel Island website

    The Lighthouse Café of Sanibel Island Address: 362 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957

    Sanibel’s Best Homemade Ice Cream (Reopening Date TBD)

    Desserts in the case.

    This business is closed while the restaurant repairs damages caused by Hurricane Ian.

    Sanibel’s Best Homemade Ice Cream is known for having the best homemade ice cream on Sanibel Island. And, they do!

    If you are looking for some quality ice cream, this is the place. The shop also has sorbet, sherbet, gelato, and frozen yogurt.

    Ice cream shop exterior.
    Source: Sanibel’s Best Homemade Ice Cream

    Also at this location is Sanibel’s Best Bakery & Coffee Shop, which has an elaborate coffee menu, sandwiches, and a long list of delicious bakery treats to enjoy.

    For more information, visit the official Sanibel’s Best Bakery & Coffee Shop website

    Sanibel’s Best Bakery & Coffee Shop Address: 362 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957

    Sanibel Island Farmers Market

    Open every Sunday, 9-1, Oct – May. Located at City Hall back parking lot. Overflow parking available.

    Where to Shop

    Shells for sale in Sanibel Island gift shop.

    If you want to shop during your trip to Sanibel Island, head to Periwinkle Way. This is the main street running through part of the island with several shops and boutiques to visit.

    There are many things to buy there, like souvenirs, clothes, jewelry, and unique gifts.

    For the latest updates from Shops on Sanibel, follow their Facebook page.

    Olde Sanibel Shoppes

    View of shoppes.
    Source: visitfortmyers.com

    Olde Sanibel Shoppes is a Sanibel Island shopping center with several cool shopping options.

    Check out unique stores, like Suncatcher’s Dream, a gift shop known for its beautifully handcrafted glass suncatchers, or Amy’s Something Special, which sells clothing, jewelry, and more. 

    Shop exterior.
    Source: Amy’s Something Special

    Olde Sanibel Shoppes is open daily. Hours vary by business.

    For more information, visit the official Shop On Sanibel website

    Olde Sanibel Shoppes Address: 630 Tarpon Bay Rd., Sanibel, FL 33957

    Tahitian Gardens

    Shoppes outdoor sign.
    Source: On Island Sanibel

    Tahitian Gardens is a shopping mall with cool shops to check out!

    Sanibel Sole is a great place to find the best and most comfortable shoes on Sanibel Island.

    Sanibel Sole exterior.
    Photo Source: Sanibel Sole

    If you are looking for a pair of Birkenstocks, this is your place.

    For more information, visit the official Shop On Sanibel website

    Tahitian Gardens Address: 1975-2019 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957

    Sanibel Island Farmers Market

    Sanibel Island Farmers Market.
    Source: Sanibel Island Farmers Market

    The Sanibel Island Farmers Market is back for its 16th season. It operates from October through May.

    Sanibel Island Farmers Market Polish Food.
    Source: Sanibel Island Farmers Market

    The market is held on Sundays from 9 am to 1 pm at the Sanibel City Hall.

    Sanibel City Hall Address: 800 Dunlop Rd, Sanibel, FL 33957

    Additional Shops Currently Open on Sanibel (November 2023)

    Shop interior.
    Source: Whitney’s Bait & Tackle
    • Whitney’s Bait and Tackle – 1554 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957
    • Sanibel Surf Shop – 1700 Periwinkle Way #11 Sanibel, FL 33957
    • Nanny’s of Sanibel – 1700 Periwinkle Way, #1, Sanibel Island, FL 33957

    Looking for other fun things to do in the Southwest Florida region? Check out:

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