Friday, March 16, 2012

Destination: Sanibel and Captiva Islands, FL

Just off the southwest coast of the great Sunshine State sit two idyllic islands boasting beautiful weather year round, pristine sandy beaches, and an endless array of family-friendly activities: welcome to the islands of Sanibel and Captiva!


image courtesy of Victor Habbick/FreeDigitalPhotos.net

 
Renown for their white sand beaches, Sanibel and Captiva are also a sheller's paradise (rumor has it the beaches near Captiva and North Captiva for the biggest and best selections)!  But the islands have much to offer beyond their many magnificent beaches; a variety of museums and attractions make for a nice break from the great outdoors! 

Family friendly exhibits and programs await at the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum, the Sanibel Captiva Conservation Center, Old Town Sanibel, and the Sanibel Lighthouse!  In addition, Sanibel Island is also home to the Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge; part of the largest undeveloped mangrove ecosystem in the U.S., famous for its spectacular migratory bird populations. The Refuge features a free Visitor Education Center with hands on exhibits for kids; in addition, for a small fee, you can enjoy a Wildlife Drive (Saturdays through Thursdays only)!

And if you have a long enough to stay to build in a day trip, consider these fantastic spots less than 15 miles away in beautiful Ft. Myers:




No matter what you choose to do, Sanibel and Captiva Islands are a family vacation paradise!  Been here?  Visit us on Facebook, Pinterest, or Twitter and share your favorite attraction or activity!

Safe and happy travels!
-Destination Mom

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