There are many homes and historic cottages that rent privately as well. Look at the JW Marriott Marco website for options. Sanibel won, hands down. But its far from chaotic. Because of its larger size, Sanibel has more beaches to choose from than Captiva. Captiva doesnt have the network of dedicated bike paths that Sanibel has, so if you were looking forward to extensive bike-riding on your vacation, Sanibel may be the better choice. The sand quality is good. Thank you for your responses. Many outdoor activities are also prepared to ensure you are never bored during your stay here. Biking is our favorite way to get around the islands . Each beach offers its own unique take on shelling and is worth a visit. It is connected to Fort Myers by the Sanibel Causeway Bridge. While you can walk to bars and restaurants from some vacation rentals it is not that easy from most. Sanibel Island is about 40 minutes west from there. Turner Beach, between Sanibel and Captiva islands, is the hottest of hot spots for both fishing and surfing. Super crowded, but it was spring break after all. Sanibel Island Shelling - World's Best Shelling Beaches Sanibel Island shelling is considered the best shelling spot in the world according to Travel and Leisure Magazine. Its on the Captiva side of the Blind Pass Bridge, so all swimmers need to be as cautious as possible, as there are strong currents and a swift undertow. The FDOH's fecal indicator bacteria testing results on Dec. 12 suggested low bacterial concentrations and no current advisories. Here are the most noticeable difference between the islands to help you pick your island destination: One of the biggest distinguishing factors between Sanibel and Captiva lies beneath your toes: their sand. I am a birder, sheller, bike rider, and photographer and it is my favorite place on earth (which is why I moved here). During your stay, you should indulge in shell hunting. Paddling the islands back waters is a great way to spend a day. If there is one beach you really need to try, its the Sanibel Island Causeway beaches. But I have never seen brown water hitting Marco Island. And the standards of the condos arent the highest. There are no restrooms on the Sanibel side, but there are restrooms on the Captiva side of the beach. Aside from being larger than Captiva Island, Sanibel Island has more shops, hotels, and sights that keep visitors engaged and excited. The depth of beach space changes too. Because of the more remote location furthest from the Sanibel Causeway, what few public beaches there are on Captiva Island tend to be much less-crowded compared with the beaches on Sanibel. The biggest difference is the number of beaches. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. SHELLING AT BOWMAN'S BEACH. Re: Siesta Key vs Captiva Island. Asides the Sanibel Lighthouse, you can join a dolphin cruise or visit other amazing spots like: If you dont plan on staying in the Island, feel free to head inland for a day trip in Cape Coral. BREAKFAST AT Lighthouse Caf. Out of the 1.6 square miles of Captiva, over 300 acres essentially the entire northern tip is all owned by the South Seas Resort. But if youre not staying here, access to the property is restricted. But you will At this point, the combined preserved/ protected conservation land owned by the National Refuge, private foundations and the City of Sanibel extends to about 70% of the island. The way it juts out into the gulf (its situated more east/west than north/south) means its a treasure trove when winter storms stir up the billions of shells sitting out deeper in the Gulf of Mexico. Hey, it even has a K-12 school, so whats stopping you? Two weeks ago, the water was cloudy but this last week with mild winds from the east, the water is crystal clear. Great Licks is the perfect place to help you cool off from Florida heat and pamper your taste buds for amazing and mouthwatering homemade ice cream. Whether you choose Sanibel Island or Captiva Island, these destinations are a 30 minutes car drive from each other so you can always change your mind if you want to. Get answers to your questions about Marco Island, Recommendations for condo complex with central booking site. Captiva does not have a bike path, but rather, a 3 foot "safety shoulder" that runs along each side of Captiva Rd, so inexperienced bicyclists and children should use extra caution. Just cut into 3/4 wide sections. Located in the middle of the island, there is more than enough space to enjoy the sunshine or relax in the shade should you want to take a moment to rest. Sanibel Island is a combination of a natural and touristy atmosphere with island vibes. Bowmans Beach is one of many beaches on Sanibel Island, and on the western portion of the island.Its a protected site, with no developments going on, which leaves a pure and natural landscape to enjoy for all. It doesn't have lots of stuff inside, but we found a few things for a quick lunch, including . Does anyone have recommendations if sunset views would be better from Lovers Key or Sanibel/Captiva (in July)? Dolphins make their appearance daily and often a manatee or two are spotted. See the Sanibel is a better choice if you are beachcombing and want to enjoy biking on the bike paths, birdwatching, a d being out in nature in general. Sanibel resident Rachel Pierce and her family were not going to miss the lighting ceremony. Fort Myers is blue collar means that Ft Myers is more lower . However, these two islands were separated by a storm at Blind Pass. If you are not stayingat the resort you cannot go onto the grounds or use the facilities. In the East End area Tarpon Tale Inn sits just 0.7 miles (1.1 km) from Lighthouse Beach Park. There are great restaurants but no chain places and not much nightlife. You can download an app with tons of info on it. Its smarter to go further down the beach here for swimming, but with the nearby bars and beachside restaurants, you may decide that sitting on the sand and watching the waves move is a safer option for you. The Bubble Room is family friendly and a very fun place for kids - and adults. There are bars and restaurants just back across the bridge. The Atlantic with its steep continental dropoff has stronger surf than the Gulf coast which is relatively shallow (there is actually a shallows area many miles off-shore). But you may not find the amount youll find on Sanibel, which means more time may be needed to hunt for them. You can just spend your days on Sanibel Island and occasionally go to Captiva island to experience their unique dining experience. it's one of the best parts but cut off and discard the tail. Lighthouse Beach is one of the best places to watch sunset on Sanibel or Captiva because of the lighthouse it makes any sunset pic of Sanibel Instaworthy! We did some . Captiva is much smaller than Siesta. There are no main roads, so it doesnt get as crowded as you think it would. It is the first beach after you leave Sanibel Island. There are two large grocery stores and several smaller markets. Captiva Beach, Captiva Island: See 1,385 reviews, articles, and 733 photos of Captiva Beach, ranked No.1 on Tripadvisor among 10 attractions in Captiva Island. 1. There are other differences between the islands, too. The whole island is practically all beach on the West, and this is where the Gulf of Mexico laps at the shore just what you want to dip your toes into! Captiva & Sanibel Island Beaches. The Souvenir shopping experience in both islands is quite similar, and you can get beautiful handmade items to take home with you. Captiva has more of a village feel. Both have good shelling. Sanibel Island and Captiva Island are called sister islands, but there are some obvious differences between them. Captiva Island. The sand on Clearwater Beach is slightly nicer than the sand on Sand Key, but it is pretty close. Sanibels sideways stretch makes in an excellent destination for shelling and beachcombing; Captivas lengthy reach gives its beaches fine sand. 0.25 acre lot. LUNCH AT THE ISLAND COW. But one thing that's very important is CLEAR water and pretty beaches. It does get busy understandably so as its so popular! The gentle slope of the beach means more spread-out shells. The passes at the ends and between the two islands get the attention of adventure beachgoers because of their swift-moving waters. There are also great sunsets at Turner Beach if you find yourself there later in the day! While Sanibel is larger and offers more shops, hotels and sights, Captiva is quaint with powder soft beaches and Old Florida charm. The two Gulf Coast islands would be one were it not for the hurricane in 1921 which cut the island in two. Just off the coast of Fort Myers in southwest Florida lie the twin barrier islands of Sanibel and Captiva, coastal jewels of the Lee County coast. As you ride your bike to cruise the 4-mile Wildlife Drive, get ready to discover different trails. You can rent wave runners and go parasailing and as well as canoe and kayak rentals. No matter which island you choose, be prepared to pay for parking. The kids will marvel at the sandbar and youll be able to use the restrooms and outdoor showers as you please. Powerful Send help right to the people and causes you care about. Both have soft white sand and clear blue-green water. This beach is a popular spot for fishing. But they are worth the extra drive to the north end of the island. You could easily sell your home, move here and never miss a thing. There are submerged structures in the water, and these must be avoided. Captiva Cruises is the best way to get out and explore the surrounding area (Cayo Costa State Park, Useppa Island, Cabbage Key, etc.) And anything called a resort is actually a condo with more resort-like amenities. The northern tip of the island, well over 300 acres,is all owned by the South Seas Resort. Sanibel and Captiva Islands are but two small vacation spots on the Gulf Coast. On Sanibel after high tide, it looks as if someone dumped buckets upon buckets of shells on Sanibel. Others appreciate the secluded and remote feeling that the island offers when compared to more crowded Florida beaches. Best for Kids: Located right on the beach, . Canoe and kayak rentals, even guided tours of Ding Darling by tram or kayak are available at Tarpon Bay Explorers. But youre going to have to dig around more than youd think and its probably not going to be a bargain. Absolutely. The grills and picnic tables can be claimed early, but you do need to start early. But thats not the only reason Sanibel is busier than Captiva theres just more things to see and do on Sanibel. Ever since our first trip to Captiva in 2016, Ive been impressed with the ability to find shells on Captiva. Jensen's Captiva Island Beach and Marina Resorts, Captiva Vessels up to 40 feet (239) 472-5800 gocaptiva.com. There is public access and the smaller resorts are on the West. The best news is that if youre a Florida resident who is exploring, youre going to be able to do that for free! Blind Pass Beach. At these islands, you get 15 miles of coastline, 25 miles of biking, and fifty different species of fish! More island businesses are re-opening every week. Bird watching where you can spot pelicans, ibis. Your email address will not be published. Both islands have a good selection of mom and pop restaurants and shops, although Sanibel definitely has more (its a much larger island though). Preferences, preferences. If the beaches ofSanibelare uncrowded by moststandards, Captiva's are even more so. Shelling and fishing is very popular at this beach. Captiva, on the other hand, is much, much smaller: five miles long and 1.64 square miles in size. jesseaknight 5 mo. Re: Siesta Key vs Captiva Island. I will say, depending on the types of places youre used to staying in Florida (or on vacation in general)I find that 95% of whats offered on Sanibel leaves a lot to be desired (especially for the $$). It had the same color/clarity as the ocean here in NC. Captiva's beaches are more of the soft sugar sand that one would typically see on an island. The water moves fast, and the resorts and rentals are well-placed for a day of fun at the beach. This Island has several restaurants and stores for shopping. At stake in Sanibel's nonpartisan Tuesday city council election: the seats now filled by the island's mayor and vice-mayor, Holly Smith and Richard Johnson. As you head for the tip of Captiva, the island gets very narrow allowing you to see the Gulf on one side and Pine Island Sound on the other. If youre planning to visit the area, make sure to do plenty of research to find out whats open, whats available and whats just not even there anymore. Sanibel and Captiva Island beaches are a must-see for a variety of reasons. Captiva Island, the South seas island resort, Sanibel Island is much larger than Captiva, Captiva Island, you can access the several beaches. These barrier islands off the coast of Fort Myers in southwest Florida are inextricably linked because, welltheyre linked. This post was written before Sanibel, Captiva, and parts of the surrounding area were absolutely blasted by Hurricane Ian in September 2022. It was here my friends found love and built up their romance. Sanibels finest wearing white gloves still move traffic the old fashioned way during peak times. Captiva Island beaches on the other hand have a steeper slope in the water directly off the beach, which tends to cut down on the amount of shells that wash up on the beach. The Sanibel and Captiva Island beaches are actually very different, and most articles you read on San-Cap fail to even acknowledge this. On the left side of Captiva Drive there are three short side streets. Bowmans Beach stretches for miles, and there are excellent amenities here. Right at the southern tip of Captiva Island is Turner Beach. Golf cart renters must be 21 years old and have a vaild driver's license. The beaches of Sanibel and Captiva are known for shelling, consistently ranking at the top of the best shelling beaches in the United States. Theyre smaller here, so beautiful to collect! Most of accommodations on Captiva are at South Seas, but there are a few resorts, inns, and B&B's. Were often asked and emailed questions from readers wanting to know what the difference is between Sanibel and Captiva islands. This means you and your pup can frolic in the waves at Algiers Beach in Gulfside City Park, Bowman's Beach, and other Sanibel waterfronts. These islands are more alike than they are different. Dating back to August 1884, the Sanibel Lighthouse is over hundred years old and of historic importance. Before traveling to any vacation destination, one of the most important things to consider is where you are to stay on your arrival. The causeway was built in 1963 (the island was previously only accessible via ferry) and the city of Sanibel was formed in 1974. Sand Key is literally a 5 minute drive from Clearwater Beach. Here are some helpful tips to get the most out of your Captiva or Sanibel Island shelling experience. Captivas beach is far better for simply lounging on the powdery sand. Powered by Mai Theme, Tips For Honeymoon Island State Park: A Florida Gem. It takes about 20 minutes (without traffic) to travel the length of Sanibel and come to the small bridge over Blind Pass that brings you onto Captiva. You will actually find this beach both on Sanibel and Captiva Island. Gather some refreshments and enjoy a picnic on the beach, its one of the most beautiful places you will ever have the pleasure of visiting. A popular destination for visitors, Turner Beach is one of the best beaches on Captiva. (read about the brown water discharges from Lake O). You can even rent golf carts. It seems like this couldnt possibly be true since they are so close, together but it absolutely is. The majority of Captivas accommodations are at South Seas Island Resort, and its a lovely stay perfect also for destination weddings and other family gathering as they have a variety of accommodation types from studios to 3 and 4 bedroom homes. We hope this clears things up a bit to help you plan your trip to either island! Sanibel is a wonderful overall vacation experience if you like beachcombing and non chain restaurants and nature in general, but the water clarity varies with the tides and winds and currents. There is so much you can do and see with your time, so why not go exploring now? If youre visiting during season, a bike will allow you to get around traffic when it slows to a crawl. Which beach is better Sanibel or Captiva? TOLL: Unless you have a SunPass account, the Causeway toll is $6.00 per vehicle heading to Sanibel. Sticking to the beach rules of no alcohol, no loud music, and tidying after yourself will ensure that you have the best adventure. When you are looking to visit Sanibel and Captiva Island beaches, dont forget to make a boating reservation too! Be sure to use the head. Do You Need a Boating License in Florida? Eight Sanibel and Captiva beaches you have to visit include: For many people, the massive amount and variety of shells that can be found is what brings them Sanibel and Captiva Island beaches. Thats a must! 1725 Cape Coral Pkwy E, Cape Coral, FL 33904. The J.N. Along Andy Rosse Lane is Captiva Island Pizza, casual RC Otters, and the very delicious Key Lime Bistro. Sanibel Captiva Beach Resorts boasts more than 50 years of hospitality marketing and management success all based on the delivery of our mission, by each team member, to each of you, our guests: deliver a warm, friendly and memorable island resort experience that provides value to you so exceptional, you'll want to return . Here is our best explanation of the main differences between Sanibel vs Captiva islands, to help you decide which island stay is right for you. not find chains or franchises (except a few grandfathered ones). $899,000. Are there still restaurant's and shops that are closed due to Hurricane Irma? On my sheller's bucket list, I have found more rare shells that I proudly show off to friends after every visit. Welcome to Capturing Captiva, your online vacation guide to Captiva Island, Florida, and the surrounding area. But Captiva is even quieter and less busy than Sanibel, though theres still plenty to do. Turner Beach is a beautiful day out for the whole family, and with enough amenities to do it all, youll enjoy your time there immensely! Discover the Beauty of Sanibel and Captiva Islands There is so much to find and enjoy in Southwest Florida, especially on Sanibel and Captiva Islands. Check the Refuge for hours of opening since recent budget cutbacks have reduced staff and forced occasional closings. It dwells today within the seaside Casa Ybel Resort. You can park for free here, and you can head to the park during the day for the kids to play before heading to the sand. This is why the majority of people on the island are retired, work remotely from home, or are on vacation. Is Marco prettier? Which beach is better Sanibel or Captiva? The beach is very wide/deep so the buildings have zero impact, but if youre not used to seeing that, it can be a disconcerting at first. Its a pristine beautiful beach, great for privacy, sunning ,and fishing, but offers limited shelling. 1451 Middle Gulf Dr, Sanibel Island. What it lacks in amenities, it more than makes up for in beauty and other features. As waves travel across shallow water they pick up speed and tend to stir up sand and sediment from the ocean floor. It feels like youre walking on a fluffy cloud. In the village area there are a number of marinas that offer charter captains and water taxi service to the out islands of North Captiva, Cabbage Key and Useppa. Sanibel and Captiva Island beaches are a must-see for a variety of reasons. Its a beautiful resort and one we highly recommend staying at for its resort facilities including a 9-hole golf course, and the variety of accommodations that will suit everyone. Its a great way to explore and enjoy the island. The Seaside Inn is another laid-back beachfront inn. Sanibel City leaders said their beaches fared better than Captiva's in the erosion department following Eta, although isolated erosion was spotted on some public beaches. For more on what to do, check out the Marco Review website. On the other hand, the dining on Captiva Island is more eclectic than that on Sanibel Island. Strollers, wagons, and the like are a lot harder to maneuver on Captivas beaches than on Sanibel. As far as "clear water" is concerned - no matter WHERE you are, the local conditions depend on the direction and strength of the winds, and the currents which vary from day to day, AND from one section of beach to the next. Some popular activities on Turner Beach include: If you have a Saltwater Fishing License, you can saltwater fish from the shore. Very different experiences. For Sale. This video shows what I consider to be the best public beaches on Sanibel Island. There is a small parking lot adjacent to the beach with a limited number of spaces, and is $5.00 per hour paid at the lot kiosk. Elsewhere the beautiful green canopy that was destroyed by Hurricane Charley is getting replaced by trees planted in 2006 and extensive landscaping is once again beautifying Periwinkle Way. With picnic areas for all, you can take a bike ride to the park and the beach, as there are bike racks to use, too. Thats the right question! Sanibel Island and Captiva Island are separated by a bridge over Blind Pass. Bowman's Beach and Blind Pass Beach re where you will find softer sand on Sanibel Island. All SW FL beach towns have the same water clarity issues. Tarpon Tale Inn is one of the smaller Sanibel Island inns, but that just makes the place to stay on Sanibel Island more homey. Rich with wildlife and first class amenities, Captiva and Sanibel are considered two of the most captivating barrier islands in the country. Both islands have the same great beaches, but if youre coming for the day or youre not staying right on the beach, parking at the beaches on Captiva is much more limited and more expensive than on Sanibel. Fishers in particular love it here, as there is a lighted pier for them to enjoy and fish from. If you plan to stay in Captiva Island, the South seas island resort is an ideal place to stay. The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum is another fun place to visit on Sanibel with interesting exhibits, interactive stations for the kids, and shell collections from all over the world. Theres a reason that Sanibel is consistently named as one of the best shelling beaches on the planet. There are only 2 lane roads with no stoplights. You can picnic and go kayaking and canoeing, windsurfing and kiteboarding, sunbathing, and shelling. For people who are enthusiastic about shell hunting, there are better shells on Sanibel beaches. The beaches on Sanibel and Captiva Island are an absolute marvel that millions of people come to see each year. As they are a bit less shelly, the sands are a bit softer than on Sanibel and the water is usually clearer and less sandy. But if you are looking for the more traditional sugar sand beach with clear blue water the Captiva Island Beaches are the way to go. The Keys would probably be your best bet for clear water, without traveling out of the country. All great points. Early morning is the best time to find unusual shells and especially after a rain or storm. The J. N "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge has a scenic drive, boating rentals and tours, hiking paths and a visitor educational center. Turner Beach. Email agent. Some of the major differences between Sanibel Island and Captiva Island can be found on the beaches. Sanibel vs Captiva? If youre looking for the best tropical getaway on Floridas Gulf Coast, Sanibel and Captiva are always going to be in the conversation. The only vegetation around is the natural one that grows, which opens up the scenery. For a romantic getaway with your partner, you can choose to stay in the Love shack. Last month, Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation staff and volunteers participated in the 15th annual Florida Winter Shorebird Survey, documenting nearly 3,000 shorebirds and seabirds over two days. You can take Instagram-worthy pictures and view the local wildlife from the perfect vantage point: the sand! The Southwest Florida water currents play into a sheller's hands . We found it while cycling around Sanible and Captiva. Mostly boutique shopping. You can visit: Matlacha is a small home village, which is best known for their quirky shops, and several eateries offering some of the best delicacies. Also, beach access is much more limited on Captiva with just two public parking lots. Located on a little barrier island just 7 miles long, Fort Myers Beach features wide beaches and beautiful views. ago That is until we stayed at the Island Inn on Sanibel. Holiday Inn Club Vacations Sunset Cove Resort, an IHG Hotel. To get to the beach, its a short five minute walk through a nature trail, boardwalk bridge, hammock, and beach scrub to get where you need to be.