Sanibel vacation rentals

Fun in the sun at Sanibel vacation home rentals

Nature-lovers looking for a great escape from the concrete jungle's bright lights and city noise will find it in Sanibel, an idyllic hideaway in southwest Florida. Connected to the mainland at Punta Rassa via the Sanibel Causeway, the island is only 15 miles long and 5 miles wide, tops, but the selection of fun activities is anything but small. A Sanibel vacation rental is an ideal base as you tick off the island's offerings one by one. Hop on a boat or kayak for a close encounter with various wildlife, tee off on 1 of the many golf courses, and explore the island on 2 wheels—Sanibel has 22 miles of scenic bike paths.

Tourist attractions near Sanibel vacation rentals

No doubt rivaling The Little Mermaid's treasure trove, the exquisite exhibits at Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum will have you singing, "Look at this stuff, isn't it neat?" Visit after you go shelling—it'll be fun comparing your seashell swag with the museum displays. Pop into Sanibel Historical Village, where the old buildings, including a schoolhouse and cottage dating from the late 19th century, will give you a glimpse of a simpler time, back when Calusa and Spanish pioneer families settled on the island in the 1800s. Don't forget to swing by Lighthouse Beach for a snapshot with Sanibel Island's metal lighthouse, built in 1884.

Shell, shell, shell, look what we have here

If you don't have a shell collection yet, this is the place to start one. Beautiful seashells of all shapes and sizes wash up on Sanibel's shores from the Gulf of Mexico. Combing the shore for these souvenirs is such a popular activity that bending over while shell-hunting has come to be known as the Sanibel Stoop. After a morning on the beach with your bucket and shovel, shell-ebrate your prized finds with a big lunch back in your Sanibel vacation rental. You'll need to fuel up before an afternoon session of watersports, from canoeing to jet skiing to parasailing.

Climate for your stay in Sanibel vacation homes

It's no wonder snowbirds flock to Sanibel from December to February—the island destination's subtropical climate means winters are mild and lovely, with temperatures from the mid 50s to the high 70s. On the other hand, temps can climb to the 90s during the summer months of June to August, although tempered by breezes from the Gulf of Mexico. Sanibel vacation rentals are easier on the pocket from June to September, but expect downpours to join you on your holiday, and there's a chance you'll have an unwanted guest in the form of a hurricane.

Sanibel—a buffet of beaches, bike trails, and bird sightings

Sanibel's impressive ecology is protected by a few wildlife refuges. The largest on the island is the J.N. 'Ding' Darling National Wildlife Refuge, which you can explore by walking, biking, driving, or kayaking through the mangrove forests. Bird watchers are in for a treat, as this is home to more than 220 bird species. Sightings of herons, egrets, and pelicans aren't uncommon even outside the wildlife refuge (such as on the beaches, or even near your Sanibel vacation rental), but to get the most from your bird-watching and wildlife-spotting endeavors, it's best to have your binoculars within reach. If you'd rather pass the time on a kayak or canoe, try the 190-mile Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail.

Beach locales near Sanibel vacation rentals

The beaches of Sanibel are one of its biggest draws. Vacation homes are available near places like Sanibel Island, an inhabited island with white-sand beaches and tranquil waters, and Bowman’s Beach, a popular beach with seashells for beachcombing and calm waters for swimming. You'll also like Lighthouse Beach Park, a scenic bayfront park with a sandy beach, picnic areas, and a fishing pier.

Traveling to and around Sanibel

The nearest airport is in Southwest Florida Intl. Airport (RSW), located 17.4 mi (28 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you can also fly into Charlotte County Airport (PGD), which is 32.3 mi (52 km) away.

Family fun near Sanibel vacation homes

Kids will love the unique attractions in Sanibel. Vacation rentals are close to places like Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation, a facility with a nature and garden center with educational programs, and the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife, a wildlife rescue facility with exhibits and demonstrations for education. Kids will also like Everglades Day Safari, a safari tour of cypress forests and fresh and saltwater swamps to glimpse native wildlife.