48 Hours in Sanibel Island, FL
48 hours in Sanibel Island is the perfect way to spend a weekend. Sanibel Island is on the Gulf Coast of Florida, just west of Fort Myers Florida. The water is a crystal clear blue all year round. You drive right over the bridge from Fort Myers to reach the Island. It is a safe, and relatively inexpensive island, especially considering how drop dead gorgeous the beaches are. Sanibel Island is completely dog friendly, but not all beaches are the right fit for fido.
If you are flying in there are 2 major airport options to come from, Ft. Lauderdale or Fort Myers. Ft. Lauderdale is the larger airport and a 2.5 hour drive via I-75. Fort Myers is closer, at only 34 minutes but doesn’t offer as many direct options. The third option, is Punta Gorda, which utilizes Allegiant, and might be an option if you are close to a smaller airport.
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We have created the perfect packing list to get everything you need for your small town getaway into one lightweight personal item. Flights are getting more expensive, and carry-ons have become a charge for almost every flight. Getting everything you need into the perfect personal item is one of the best tricks to keep costs low.
You can get to Sanibel Island by bus, taxi and ride share. I would recommend renting a car from the airport, as that will be the quickest way to get around. One of the best ways to really enjoy the island is to rent some bikes, and spend some time just exploring the island.
Hotel options are plentiful in off-season, but can get completely booked out in high season (October-May). If coming in off-season.
Hotels.com: The Obvious Choice. Book now and save! Hotels.com: The Obvious Choice. Book now and save!Take the time to drive up to Captiva Island, and grab some lunch at The Bubble Room this is a kitschy place, and dessert is a must. On the way south back to Sanibel, stop over at the Blind Pass Beach, which is a great fishing location, and a beautiful beach.
My next favorite space, J. N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge it is considered the “America’s Birding Hotspot” and is a beautiful location. You can drive, bike or hike through the park, or they have a tram running you can take around the park.
The next stop is The Island Cow for lunch. Tons of great options for food and a great outdoor seating area. Their table muffins are amazing and also recommend to check out their t-shirt area. Yes, I am a “Cow Whisperer.”
There is also Sweet Melissa’s Café that is open for lunch Monday – Friday and dinner Monday – Saturday.
The Bailey-Matthew’s National Shell Museum is super fun, especially for younger kids. They have a touch tank and a crazy large collection of very cool shells.
The Lighthouse Beach is a bit of a narrow beach, but is great for shelling and it is awesome to see the Sanibel Lighthouse. I enjoy seeing lighthouses and this one is 130 years old, and the grounds are always open to the public.
Bowman’s Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches I have ever been to. It in a state park, and it literally has something for everyone. It is a bit of a hike to get to the waterline, but it is a beautiful and completely worth it.
Make sure you enjoy the island time and truly relax on one of Florida’s most beautiful islands. We hope you enjoy your trip to Sanibel, Florida.
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