A perfect day on Sanibel & Captiva

By Staff

For the perfect spot to capture the colorful sunset, head to the Lighthouse Beach Park on Sanibel. CITY OF SANIBEL

From the seashell-lined, white sandy beaches and warm turquoise waters of the Gulf, to the fun recreational activities and local culinary delights, it is no wonder why so many people have found a love for Sanibel and Captiva. With something to pique every interest, the perfect island day calls.

As the colorful sunrise paints the morning sky, pop over to the Over Easy Cafe on Sanibel to fuel up for your adventure. The all-day breakfast menu features pancakes-a-plenty, skillets to fill ya and eggseptional specialties, along with French toast, baked goods, omelets and more. Those on Captiva can fill their bellies at RC Otter’s Island Eats with the island pancakes, ultimate seafood omelet, Captiva breakfast burrito or pigs in a blanket. From themed dishes to tasty familiars, all come served with potatoes and fresh fruit.

Once ready to head out, one not-to-miss destination is the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel. Drive, pedal or hike the four-mile Wildlife Drive in search of wildlife. Explore the exhibits and displays inside of the Visitor & Education Center and shop the Refuge Nature Store.

For a lunch break, swing into Captiva Island Pizza on Captiva. It offers a variety of specialty pies with all the toppings – and names like the cannon ball, skinny pirate and Captiva Island lover. Or, build your own hand-tossed New York gourmet pizza. Over on Sanibel, the Sanibel Deli & Coffee Factory features a menu that is light on the wallet, but big on taste. Pick from fresh made-to-order hot and cold sandwiches, wraps and paninis. There are vegetarian options and salads, along with pizza, chicken wings and more.

Sanibel has established itself as a bikers’ paradise with more than 26 miles of paths. Spend the afternoon sightseeing on the island with a bicycle or trike secured from Billy’s Rentals. Family-friendly rentals, scooters, electric bikes and mobility scooters, plus beach equipment, are also available. On Captiva, reserve an all-day access pass from the ‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa on Captiva to take part in all of the water activities, whether beachside or poolside. Pass holders also get access to the resort’s kayaks, bikes, and pickleball and tennis courts.

As the evening arrives, enjoy dinner and a show at the Shima Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar on Sanibel as the meals are prepared at hibachi tables in an authentic Japanese experience. Or, find award-winning offerings and floor-to-ceiling beach views at the expansive sushi bar.

Make a reservation at The Green Flash on Captiva for traditional gourmet dining, with a European flair. From grouper “Cafe de Paris” to bone-in veal chop, the waterfront restaurant features local seafood and juicy cuts of meat, plus an extensive wine list and dockside dining.

Mudbugs Cajun Kitchen brings New Orleans flavored flair to the islands with a menu of oysters, muffulettas, po’ boys, etouffee and the eponymous crawfish.

The only way to end your perfect day is to capture the breathtaking sunset seen from the islands. Wrapping around the east end of Sanibel from the bayside to the Gulf-side, the Lighthouse Beach Park provides the perfect spot to sit and take in the picturesque view.

Billy’s Rentals

1470 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

(239) 472-5248

billysrentals.com

Captiva Island Pizza

11513 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva

(239) 395-0823

captivaislandpizza.com

J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge

1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel

(239) 472-1100

fws.gov/refuge/jn-ding-darling