General Information about Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island is an island in the Gulf of Mexico, just off the coast of Ft. Myers, Florida, USA. The island is approximately 12 miles long, and is connected to the mainland by a 3 mile long causeway bridge. About 6,300 residents live on the island full time, while tens of thousands more vacation here each year.

Temperatures are the hottest during the summer months, June thru August with an average daily high of 90 degrees. The humidity is extremely high during these months and sometimes tropical heavy showers can occur during the day or late afternoon.

During the "high season" in the months of March and April, the temperatures average about 80 degrees. These months are the most crowded and there is a significant increase in traffic. Also try to keep in mind you will probably have to wait to eat at your favorite restaurant. If you like to shop, it is least crowded in the early morning hours of the day.

During the winter months the average temperature is 72 degrees. The island is usually less crowded and the wait at restaurants is almost non-existent. The beaches are quiet and there is plenty of room to walk or bring your chair and have a very relaxing day. We did notice that in January there are many more birds on the island at this time of year. During the summer months we don't see the large flocks of birds on the beach.

To access Sanibel Island you must cross the causeway from Ft. Myers. The cost is $6.00 for each time you cross the three mile long causeway. They have just recently rebuilt the bridge over to Sanibel Island. The three new bridge spans are much higher and the causeway islands are having additional landscaping added. There is also a new parking area for the Punta Rassa Boat Ramp. The view is just spectacular as you cross over to Sanibel.

The old causeway bridges were demolished in September 2007. The old causeway rubble has become a giant artificial reef. The reef will be located five miles south of Lighthouse Beach on Sanibel Island. The area of the reef will encompass one square nautical mile.

Most of the restaurants and shopping plazas are located right on the main road which is Periwinkle Way. This makes the island very easy to navigate. There are also banking facilities, post office and grocery stores for all your needs. There is even a very small movie theatre showing the current releases.

Visitors should keep in mind that this island is also "home" to many people. Please remember to go the speed limit and if you are unsure of where you are going pull over to help the flow of traffic.

Sanibel Island is a wonderful place to visit. There are no traffic lights and no buildings over three stories tall. The quaintness and small town feel make any visitor feel right at home!

Welcome to Paradise!