Located off the Gulf Coast of South Florida near the scenic mouth of the Caloosahatchee River, Captiva & Sanibel Island has many vacation rental homes and condos near the historic winter residences of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. Due to their geography, the islands are considered to be among the best places in the world for finding sea shells. The sparkling white sand beaches and cool Gulf breezes are year round attractions that keep visitors returning year after year.
Accommodations
The Islands of Captiva & Sanibel, including nearby Pine Island, offer a relaxing, historical getaway with a variety of condos, vacation homes, hotels, and resorts. Choose accommodations on Captiva - Sanibel Islands near local attractions that offer comfort while making the most of the beautiful beaches at affordably priced rates.
Activities
Visit the nation's 9th most visited historic home, the winter estates of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford in nearby Fort Myers. There are guided tour of the homes, museum, laboratory and gardens. The Fort Myers Historical Museum in the former Atlantic Coastline Railroad depot contains information on early settlers of Southwest Florida including the Calusa, Paleo and Seminole Indians and an extensive artifacts collection. The Imaginarium Hands-On Museum is an ideal location to take the kids, with exhibits that allow children to learn about the environment, weather, and physics, plus attractions that include animals, aquariums displaying marine life, a touch pool, hurricane simulator, puppet theatre and interactive areas for preschoolers. Sanibel Island is also home to the 6300 acre Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
Events
In the American Sand Sculpting Championship Festival, both professional and amateur sand sculptors compete. The contest is typically held in early November on the soft sands of nearby Fort Myers Beach. The Edison Festival of lights takes place in late January, featuring the popular Grand Parade, the 50th Science and Inventors Fair, headline concerts, artisans, car shows, the Junior Parade and Coronation, and fireworks. The Shrimp Festival in March draws thousands to the Blessing of the Shrimp Fleet, and the North Fort Myers Cracker Festival is in February.
Water Sports
The Gulf Coast beaches of Captiva and Sanibel Island are perfect for swimming, surfing, or catching up on your tan. You can also find powerboat and sailboat rentals, as well as jetski rentals. The warm Gulf of Mexico waters are inviting for snorkeling and scuba diving.
Golfing
Nearby Fort Myers has two municipal courses, one that offers a beautiful, tranquil setting and the other a Donald Ross traditional design that challenges the games best golfers. With over 50 golf courses in the Captiva and Sanibel island area, the region has earned a reputation of having some of the most sought after golf courses in the world.