If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway spot with no real night life, Sanibel Island may be the place for you.
Beautiful beaches
It’s fun to do some shelling with the kids at Bowman’s Beach. And the water is usually good for swimming (water on the Gulf is often calm but make sure you shuffle your feet in the water because there are stingrays that you might inadvertently step on). A lot of people go out in the morning, until it really starts to heat up (depending on time of year) and then do more indoor-related things until later in the afternoon, when it’s beach time again. Sunset on the beach is great.
Other nature related stuff
Visit Ding Darling for the nature trails. You can also bike or drive through the Ding Darling refuge. Rent a boat and explore around the islands (and see dolphins) if your timing is good.
Fishing
The fishing in Tarpon Bay is terrific. You can hire a guide for a half-day trip and haved a great time. Even non-fishermen often end up enjoying themselves out on the water.
Restaurants
The Island Cow is great with kids. Mucky Duck and bubble room on Captiva. Doc Fords and the Little Lazy which is by the bridge going over to Captiva. Take the boat to Cabbage Key for lunch from Captiva. It is a beautiful ride on the intercoastal waterway. The Mad Hatter right before Captiva is excellent. Doc Ford’s Mojitos are good. Grandma Dots has a very nice grouper.
Watch out for…
If you’re driving just watch the cyclists – many folks rent bikes there and some haven’t been on one in years.
Where to stay
Marriott across the bridge from Sanibel.