Unmistakably Floridian yet charmingly different from most other beach destinations found in the Sunshine State, Sanibel Island is known for stupendous sea shells and so much more. If you’ve been meaning to hole up in cottage somewhere on this friendly peninsula for a few days, focus your attention here and you won’t regret it.
Sanibel Island is in southwest Florida to be exact, and its unique orientation makes it perfect for scooping up all the shells in the area. Everywhere you walk you’ll find the finest specimens the ocean has to offer, so train your eyes on the shoreline, the sandy strips, and the parking lots, for that matter, because you never know where you’ll uncover a stunning seashell to remember your trip by.
The best place of all to find a basket full of conchs or scallops would be right outside your back door, the back door of your charming vacation condo, that is. There are dozens of properties in Sanibel Island that would make even the most jaded vacationer’s knees weak, including many that are right along that magical place where the ocean meets the sand. Nothing beats having a backyard filled with sand, wildlife, and breaking waves, so if you have a strong desire for some quality ocean time be sure to check out these privileged properties.
Excellent weather all year round will ensure that no matter when you are able to break away from work or school you’ll be greeted with pleasant breezes and sunny days. Also, if you’re flexible, you can start looking for the perfect vacation rental now and hold out for a special deal. Everyone loves a bargain, and even properties by the sea go on sale every now and again.
If you’re bringing the kids along for this one, look into renting some bikes and exploring the island that way. Paved paths will take you anywhere you want to go, including past popular hangouts for birds, rabbits, and even alligators. Watch for regal herons and egrets as they search for their dinner, and feel the goose bumps rise on your arms when you catch a glimpse of a long brown snout cruising through the marshy waters. The gators pose no danger to you, but don’t be surprised if you find yourself pedaling a little bit faster after visualizing the rest of this predator’s physique.
After a day of active sightseeing, make yourself at home in your condo or villa. A comfy sofa will ease your nap attack, the patio is perfect for reading your book, and the hot tub will encourage tired muscles to totally de-stress. Have a snack by the pool or a cocktail on the lanai and take the chance to chat with your loved ones. A game closet will further bring everyone together over cards or a board game. All in all, you’ll certainly have plenty to do as you reconnect with the people you value most and collectively recharge your batteries.
Many Sanibel Island vacation rentals are pet-friendly, so calm your fear of dog kennels and invite your furry friend along. Special needs of all kinds, from wheelchairs to baby gear, can often be accommodated in rental properties, so check things out beforehand and ensure that you’ll be set up for success.
Does all of this sound too good to be true? If you think so, you must be pretty overworked. All the more reason to head out on your vacation as soon as possible, before you become even more cynical about what to expect when you pack up your bags and leave town.
Start researching Sanibel vacation home rentals today in order to have the largest variety to choose from. Your upcoming holiday is sure to be a hit, and you’ll only have yourself to thank and reward.
Sanibel Island Vacation Rentals
Your Sanibel Island vacation promises all of this, and so much more. Of course, you want everything to be perfect. The following tips will help you prepare for the things you need, and create the vacation you've always wanted:
What Should I Pack?
Unlike many of the world's premier vacation spots, you don't need to pack three changes of clothes for each day, or bring along a ton of gear. Sanibel is a relaxing place, so make your personal comfort your first priority.
Bring Your Binoculars: A good pair of binoculars should be a prerequisite for everyone packing for their Sanibel Island vacation. With binoculars in hand, you can get up close and personal with the incredible abundance of natural wildlife sharing your little piece of paradise. Keep binoculars handy while exploring the country or relaxing on the beach, because you never know what sorts of birds and animals will most certainly cross your path. Sanibel's sister island, Captiva, is also blessed with spectacular natural wildlife.
What to Wear
If you need to just kick back and relax, Sanibel Island will be perfect for you. The casual atmosphere calls for a relaxed dress code. Of course, men can wear jackets for elegant dinners, even though there are no restaurants on the island requiring a jacket. All you'll really need is a nice shirt paired with pants or shorts. Of course, you don't want to spoil your dream vacation by appearing too sloppy. Leave the oversized tank tops at home, and don't visit the grocery store or stroll down Periwinkle Way wearing only your bathing suit. The key is to dress casually, not comically.
Comfy Cotton: The climate on Sanibel Island is very much tropical, so be sure to dress accordingly. Leave the polyester at home, and pack cotton shorts, pants, tops and dresses. Cotton will help you to keep your cool on your Sanibel Island vacation.
Sun Protection: Combine sun and sand, and you have the recipe for serious sunburn. Even if you spend your time under a sunshade or go out on cloudy days, the potential to burn is still there. Always cover up with a good sunscreen or sun block. It's also a good idea to wear long-sleeved shirts for additional sun protection, particularly if you plan on taking a boat excursion. Autumn visitors will also want to pack a windbreaker or light sweater to cover up while at sea.
Simple Accessories: Leave your fancy shoes and accessories at home. On Sanibel Island, sandals are the footwear of choice for locals and visitors alike. You can also buy flip-flops and sandals at most local shops. Be sure to pack a wide-rimmed hat, cap or visor to shield your eyes and keep a cool head.
To protect your eyes, even more, be sure to pack a pair of polarized sunglasses. This simple accessory can make or break your Sanibel Island vacation. You don't want to risk missing anything by squinting against the sun, and there is so much to see. Every Sanibel activity, from water skiing and sightseeing to fishing and shelling, is much more fun when you can comfortably see. If you forget your shades at home, you can visit a local shop to pick up a pair.
Shelling
Kids and adults alike list shelling as a favorite vacation activity on Sanibel Island. The gorgeous coastline is literally lined with seashells, but it's important to remember that the most beautiful shells don't always was up onto the sandy shore. Sometimes, you'll need to venture out into the knee-deep water during low tide to find real tropical treasures. Walk slowly and bring along a bag to gather your treasures.
There is an important rule to follow while shelling on Sanibel Island. Do not, ever, take a living creature from the ocean. Live sand dollars, starfish, shells and sea urchins must be left in their natural habitat. Removing living sea creatures is illegal on Sanibel Island, and perpetrators face stiff fines. Be sure that every shell is empty before putting it into your bag. Just take what you need and leave the rest; nature's supply of shells may not always be enough for the tourist demand.
It takes relatively little planning, light packing and virtually no effort to plan the perfect Sanibel Island vacation. Just being there is enough to call it the vacation of your dreams.
Both Caitlin Moore & Horace Jurdon are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Caitlin Moore has sinced written about articles on various topics from Food And Drink, Travel and Leisure and Vacation Rentals. Visit CyberRentals.com to explore the vacation possibilities in this location and in places all over the world.. Caitlin Moore's top article generates over 301000 views. to your Favourites.
Horace Jurdon has sinced written about articles on various topics from Karaoke Music, Vacation Rentals and Karaoke Music. Essayist Horace Jurdon is an author for a variety of web sites, and you can read more by him if you visit and. Horace Jurdon's top article generates over 27100 views. to your Favourites.
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