Top Ten links and things to do on at Pointe Santo and Sanibel Island

10. The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum
With an emphasis on becoming a center for learning, the museum provides a rich opportunity for the visitor to explore, discover, and map their own course through the expanse of exhibits, video and slide shows, and monthly evening lecture series. The Museum presently displays approximately 30 informative educational exhibits in the Great Hall of Shells.

9. C.R.O.W.
The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife was established on Sanibel Island since 1968. It is a non-profit corporation dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of sick, orphaned and injured wildlife. C.R.O.W. has a complete wildlife hospital at the middle of its 12.5 acre sanctuary. The clinic focuses on education in an effort to prevent injuries to animals caused by human interference. Guided presentations are given year round, Monday through Friday at 11 a.m. It's a great learning experience for adults and kids!

8. Sanibel Lighthouse & Historical Village
The Sanibel Lighthouse was built in 1884 and is Sanibel's oldest structure. Old Town is a quaint historical area on eastern Sanibel Island where the island's first settlers made their homes. The Sanibel Historical Society has produced a walking and biking tour that is approximately 2.5 miles long with more than 19 sites to see. Maps are available at the Sanibel Island Chamber of Commerce or at the Sanibel Historical Society.

7. Bicycling
Known as a bicylist's paradise, Sanibel's 25 miles of bicycle paths are sure to please. Bicycle rentals are available at Billy's Rentals and Finnimores. Don't miss the opportunity to bike through the Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge.

6. Shopping
Visitors to Sanibel Island are often surprised by the many unique shops that are available. Many of the shops are located along Periwinkle Way in beautifully landscaped plazas. Most shops open at 10 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. There are many local shops that offer unique gifts handmade only on Sanibel Island--a must for souvenir hunters!

5. Fine or Fun Dining
With more than 60 restaurants to choose from, just sampling the local faire will give you hours of enjoyment. Some of our favorites are Lazy Flamingo, The Timbers and Schnappers.

4. Charter Fishing/Shelling trip
The Castaways Marina has two charter captains that will take small groups on fishing or shelling adventures. Our guests tell us that these trips are often the best part of their Sanibel Island vacation.

3. "Ding" Darling Wildlife Refuge
More than 7,000 acres of mangrove estuary make up the Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge. More than 200 species of birds, plus alligators, raccoons, otters and several other species of wildlife have made the refuge their home. Visitors can enjoy the Ding Darling Center of Education, tram, walking, driving and bicycling tours and several miles of canoe and kayak trails. It's definitely a unique Sanibel Island experience that shouldn't be missed by anyone with a love for nature.

2. Golf Courses
The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club is Sanibel Island's premier golf and tennis destination, featuring the island's best conditioned golf course and tennis facility, exceptional service and creative programs for all members and guests.

1. Watch a sunset from Pointe Santo's beach
It may sound cliche, but there's nothing more relaxing than ending a perfect day on a tropical island with a beautiful sunset. Visitors often line the beach at sunset waiting to snap the perfect picture to capture the moment the sun dips below the horizon. At the moment the sun disappears, some may be lucky enough to witness the "green flash," a quick burst of green light that illuminates the sun as it sets. Those who want a real treat will relax on the sand and watch the sky slowly transform into a series of breathtaking colors as the earth's shadow fills the sky with a warm purple haze.

Other useful links:
The Best of Sanibel Captiva
Cheap flights to Sanibel
Current weather in Sanibel
Chamber of Commerce site

For more information, contact Sharon Cloghessy:

Toll-Free: (866) 773-2306
Home: (708) 246-0218
Mobile: (708) 870-9738
Email: info@simplysanibel.com