Introduction
Located on the Gulf coast of Florida, Sanibel Islands offer a perfect vacation for tourists whether they are in search of a romantic getaway, quality family time or a trip exploring the marvels of nature. The major attractions for tourists during Sanibel vacations are miles long walks along the unspoiled beaches, biking, fishing, bird watching, and collecting variety of shells along the sea shore. Sanibel’s wildlife refuges are also famous among tourists as more than half of the island is made up of such reserves. Sanibel vacations are not complete without a visit to the legendary Sanibel Historical Village located on the island, and a variety of other theaters and museums.
History
About six thousand years ago, Sanibel and Captiva were formed as one island. A powerful Indian nation, The Calusa, was the first to dominate Sanibel Islands. The island is curved in a shrimp like shape, and is linked to the mainland by Sanibel Causeway. The people of Sanibel have always preserved the island’s natural beauty and ecology in various wildlife reserves. While planning the Sanibel vacations, don’t forget to visit the island’s biggest wildlife refuge, J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, covering more than 5,200 acres of land. This reserve is a home for many endangered species, including 220 native birds. Visitors can walk, bike, drive or even kayak through the amazing dense forests and observe the island’s natural vegetation. Bald Eagles, pelicans, herons, and seagulls are common birds of Sanibel. The flora mainly comprises of a variety of palm trees and the Australian pine.
Features
Tourists from all over the world admire the untouched white beaches of Sanibel, not just for the calming walks along the sea shore, but also for a large number of seashells that wash up on the beaches. Sanibel vacations are mostly enjoyed by the tourists between January and April, when the temperatures are lowest and there is little rainfall. The island is prone to being hit by cyclones and hurricanes between the months of June and October. Beach and water activities include boating, fishing, shelling, water sports, snorkeling and scuba diving. Nature activities to enjoy on Sanibel islands are bird watching, biking, nature and historical tours, and visits to science and nature centers. For the sports lovers, the island offers golf and mini-golf, tennis, and access to other health and fitness centers. For those inclined towards arts, there are museums, live theater, music, art galleries and antiques. The Island also offers casinos, musical performances, and many attractive nightlife activities.
Tips and comments
Sanibel vacations offer everything one could wish for. There are excellent restaurants, accommodation, and shopping areas. Sanibel Island is a perfect place for a romantic getaway, a wedding, a honeymoon, or even an unforgettable family vacation. Imagine setting your foot in soft white sand, breathing fresh air as you tread along the beach, collecting pastel colored unique shells, observing dolphins playing and dipping in the waters, watching raccoons and chirping birds. No wonder, Sanibel islands vacation is known to be the most memorable experience one may cherish for a lifetime.
