Sanibel-Captiva Islands Guide

Sanibel Island, Florida: It conjures images of seashell-carpeted beaches, lazy gulf waves, skies and beaches full of birds, and palm-tree-silhouetted skies. In 2012, Arthur Frommer named it as his favorite destination in the world - over and above Bali and Paris!! Birding and paddling magazines, too, sing its praises. Sister island, Captiva, wins kudos for its romantic sunset beaches and end-of-the-world quirky seclusion.

Besides suntans, the islands nurture their own brand of culture inspired by the beauty and rawness of its nature. Carefully developed to prevent condo-buildup and overdevelopment, the islands boast their lack of both traffic and street lights. They boast too their rural, small-town nature where dining on local seafood and shopping at candy shops, fashion boutiques, and art galleries while away time off the beach.

About two-thirds of the islands have been preserved by government and private stewardship for the enjoyment of bikers, hikers, kayakers, boaters, and other nature lovers. Its calm seas further encourage exploration in the great outdoors where fishing, sailing, water-skiing, snorkeling, island-hopping provide adventure.

This guide takes you to the islands’ don’t miss and secret wildlife attractions such as "Ding" Darling Refuge, museums like the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum, restaurants, accommodations, shops, and day trips to Fort Myers and beyond with an evaluative eye toward what’s best and what’s not. Helpful information, images, maps, links, and a review of each location give you the full picture. The author, a resident of 30 years, designates her Author's Faves to narrow down further your many choices.

★ About the Author ★

Chelle Koster Walton has lived on Sanibel Island ever since she came to her senses and fled Minnesota in 1981. A freelance travel writer, she has authored and co-authored a dozen travel guides including The Sarasota, Sanibel Island & Naples Book and The Bahamas (Countryman Press) and Fodor’s Florida. She has authored thousands of articles for publications and Web sites including Miami Herald, USA Today, Los Angeles Times, US Airways, and others. Walton also writes and produces getaway segments for the local PBS affiliate, WGCU-TV in Fort Myers. Check out her other Sutro Media app - Nassau: Selective & Seductive.

★ About Sutro Media ★

This guide is published in partnership with Sutro Media. By enabling local writers to share their expertise on mobile phones, Sutro Media is making it easier and more fun to explore the world!

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