Sanibel & Captiva, Florida

If you are looking for a place in Florida to flee the madding crowd, Sanibel Island, and its northern neighbor, Captiva, may be just the escape you need. Sanibel was discovered by Ponce De Leon in 1513, and is the southern most barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico. In October of 2001, Conde Nast Traveler magazine called Sanibel one of the top 20 islands in the world.

Sanibel Island is a beach comber's dream. Known as one of the best seashell hunting destinations in the United States, Sanibel has given a name to an entirely new posture: the "Sanibel Stoop." On a daily basis, Sanibel's unusual east/west orientation helps thousands of seashells wash up on shore. Over two thousand varieties can be found on Sanibel's beaches. Whelk, coquina, periwinkle, cone, and lion's paw are just a few of the species that are in abundant supply. You can identify the different species you find at the Bailey Matthews Shell Museum. It is the only seashell museum in Florida, and indeed in the entire world.

Sanibel is also a great spot for enjoying all the mysteries of nature. Take some time and drive, bicycle, or walk through the Jay Norwood "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge has five thousand acres, taking up one third of the island. You can see egrets nesting. You can spy on a perching red-shouldered hawk, or, if you look real close, you may see an alligator floating down a lazy river. Careful! Some people report that the alligators are as curious about you as you are about them!

More remote than Sanibel, Captiva Island abounds with outdoor beauty. The activity most favored in Captiva is simple: absolutely nothing. The pristine white sand beaches make Captiva a perfect spot to walk along the sand, hear the gentle splash of the Gulf waves, or sit and take in a Florida sunset. It was in this peaceful haven that Anne Morrow Lindberg, wife of the well-known aviator, penned A Gift from the Sea, her best-selling memoir. Dr. Stephen Leatherman (Dr. Beach), professor and leading expert on American beaches, named Captiva the most romantic beach area in America two years in a row.

Both Sanibel and Captiva have wonderful restaurants, and you can participate in all the standard outdoor activities. Golf, deep-sea fishing, nature hikes, canoeing, and sailing are all available to those who want an active vacation.