At the parks northern end, youll find a fishing pier, a prime spot for catching redfish, snook, sheepshead, black drum, snapper, and other species. Mom and Dad can also pick up a Starbucks Coffee from the grocery store. We ate THE best burgers at the poolside bar at the Sanibel Island Inn, and we ate out once or twice for dinner. Here are the activities they have for kids! With about 22 miles of paved bike trails, it's super easy to get anywhere on the island. Celebrate Women's History Month and commemorate pioneering figures in science, technology, arts & design, and mathematics. Edison & Ford Winter Estates. Kids Activities. Definitely can do an adult only trip there too! CROWs Visitor Education Center features a collection of interactive exhibits and videos, while the guided Wildlife Walk through the hospital allows you to observe veterinarians treating sick and injured wildlife. It also taught the boys a bit about wind and weather because they only knew they could fly the kites on windy days. Places To Stay In Sanibel Island, Florida, The 10 Best Beaches Near Orlando, Florida, 15 Unbeatable Florida Family Vacations with Kids, The 4 Best Family-Friendly Vacation Spots in Orlando, The 15 Best Long Weekend Getaways In The US, The Ultimate Guide For a Pet-Friendly Holiday in Florida, 7 Amazing Water Parks In Orlando, Florida, 8 Best Hotels Near SeaWorld Orlando, Florida, The 5 Best Hotels Near Downtown Orlando, Florida, The 9 Best Pet-Friendly Hotels In Orlando, Florida, The Best Hotels Near Disney World Orlando, The 5 Most Stunning Hotels Near Denver International Airport, 5 Great Things To Do In Ybor City, Tampa, FL, 17 Amazing Things to do in London with Kids. This Italian restaurant on Sanibel isnt the best thing ever, but after days of burgers, nachos and shellfish, it tastes like it is. It sets over the ocean where you can watch from a huge stretch of public beach. You can drive through the preserve at your own pace and get out to spot wildlife. Once I heard of it, I wanted to know what there was to do on Sanibel Island with kids. Looking for a little fun in the sun. Sanibel and Captiva Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center 907 Visitor Centers By mrsmarinara great information givien with a really generous spirit 4. Aside from endless miles of gorgeous beaches, Sanibel Island is a lush sanctuary filled with spectacular natural features, including wilderness refuges, tropical gardens, and various wildlife species. Looking for things to do in Sanibel Island with kids? Read More: The Best Hawaii Resorts for Families on Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island. We got to one area and a couple said they had heard one there and were waiting. Don't forget the camera some of my best shots have come at this time. These eye-popping gardens host wild creatures like butterflies, turtles, rabbits, and birds. This wildlife refuge is a great place to check out the local flora and fauna. Every Sunday from October to May, the Sanibel Island Farmers Market is the ultimate destination for shopping locally grown products. That way, you'll have room left over for a slice (or two!) We visited in November, and it was just the right time for us. Nope, they were thrilled to do this! Joe is a great teacher, and storyteller. The island is approximately a 30-45 minute drive depending on traffic and time of day. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. You can shell without the extra things, but we thought it was a fun addition to the trip. Make sure to also stop by the idyllic Blind Pass Beach on both Sanibel & Captiva Islands. Sanibel Island is located off the coast of southwest Florida, just west of Fort Myers. Here you can learn all sorts of stuff about the animals and nature. However, the island is spread out depending on where you stay. The balcony was huge and screened in. The time lost in driving, the tolls and just the increased level of relaxation that staying on the island gave us were completely worth the extra money. Many of the area's islands are lined with red mangroves, which are fascinating trees that are easy to spot bytheir tangled root systems that make them look like they're standing on stilts above the water. Learn all about seashells and the animals that make them. Having a car made getting to Fort Myers quick and easy as well. As I mentioned above, many resorts loan out bikes to their guests. 10 things to do with kids in Miami What are your favorite spots? 7 Reasons to Visit Harrisonburg Virginia! By subscribing to this BDG newsletter, you agree to our. Sanibel is a beautiful and well-protected Gulf Coast barrier island. Sanibel Island (and the neighbouring Captiva Island) is loaded with fun, family-friendly things to do proving it's worth broadening your vacay horizons beyond Orlando. I will also add that Red Coach buses are a great way to get around with kids. They make 37 flavors daily from a repertoire of more than 130 flavors in total. Children's Museum of Manhattan, 212 West 83rd Street, Upper West Side. Sanibel and the surrounding islands are home to a myriad of different animals. There's a safe designated bike path to pedal the length and width of the island, and you can even beat the traffic when it slows to a crawl during season. While the water is not clear, they will be able to find starfish, conch, and sand dollars. We came back with so many amazing shells (a whole suitcase full of them in fact). Unique Experiences and Travel Inspiration. Sunbathing in the sugar white sand, shelling, kayaking, and swimming in the oceans emerald waters are some of the top activities here. If the ocean is a little to rough for your likes, be sure to be booked at a hotel with a pool for guests to use because you will want it! One of the most popular things to do on Sanibel Island is to rent a bike. Here's how to make the right first impression. I picked it up from the airport in Fort Myers when we landed and there was at least one day where we did not leave the hotel and therefore did not use it. Whether you choose to be boating, kayaking, canoeing, water-skiing or fishing from one of the favorite spots, play a round of golf on the challenging scenic courses, there are over 70 of them, the perfect place to tee off and test your mettle on the green . They have a great kids menu, too, and are really patient with annoying children. You should get an annual pass to the wildlife refuge. These cottages are on the western end of the island, so you are guaranteed some beautiful sunsets right from your front porch! A jaunt down the beach or a bike around the island makes for wonderful take-home memories. You might spot a dolphin or two from there. While meandering through the colorful stalks of this vibrant farmers market, youll come across locally sourced meat, cheese, baked goods, fresh fruit smoothies, fish, art, jewelry, and more. All ages. Too badwill have to make another trip . 2023 BDG Media, Inc. All rights reserved. The tour price covers the rental of all gear, including a PDF, leash, tie-downs, and fresh drinking water for each person. The occurrence of Red Tide is when simple plants that live in the sea and freshwatergrow out of control. The island is approximately a 30-45 minute drive depending on traffic and time of day. The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) is great for learning about Southwest Floridas native and migratory wildlife. "The kids had fun but when we arrived they only gave me 15mins to set up before the party began." more. Just wondering. Find 2023's best things to do with kids. From national historic sites to beautiful beaches, there are many fun things to do on the Kohala Coast. You never know what will be on the end of that line! Here are the Top Things to Do with Kids on Sanibel Island, Florida. Kids love being responsible for shutting curtains and blinds to help protect the turtles! While there, take a swim, snorkel, or book a ranger-led kayak tour or hike. Sanibel Island Lighthouse 2,675 Lighthouses Open now By Anxsmomt The lighthouse is a public beach, plenty of parking. 6. Both were phenomenal. Sanibel Island is a barrier island located on the Gulf Side of Florida, about 30 minutes from the Fort Myers. Shell Harbor Though Shell Harbor might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Sanibel and Captiva Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center and Sanibel Moorings Botanical Gardens. The same currents that bring all of the shells and wash them up on the shore also stir up the shallow bottom, making the water less than clear. Part sporting event, part comedy dinner show, the crab races have guests select a hermit crab from a bowl, name it and then cheer it on as it races to the finish line. Several outfitters like Billy's Rentals, Finnimore's Cycle Shop, and Tarpon Bay Explorers rent bikes, tandems, pull-behind child trailers, and even canopied surreys. Loosen your belt because several stalls sell freshly made dishes you can eat on the go. Join Little Learners for a Seuss-a-Bration at Once Upon a Treetop. If you're looking for untouched beaches, hop a ferry to Cayo Costa State Park with its nine miles of pristine sand, pine forests, oak-palmhammocks,and mangrove swamps. Admission is $7 for kids ages 5-11, $9 for ages 12-17, $15 for adults. The kids waited long enough for the picture to be taken and then wanted to run back to see if we could see a snake again that had crossed our path. Where else but the seashell capital of the world would you find the national shell museum? Here is my short list of family friendly restaurants on Sanibel Island. There is something for everyone on the menu and the servings are enormous. Its always a good sign when a place is packed on a weekday. I've heard you can spot Alligators, otters, and turtles on the property. Look up and see if you can observe some ospreys or pelicans. We were gifted our accommodations at the Island Inn on Sanibel Island and with excursions while there. It is located nearby Blind Pass Bridge, which connects the two islands. It was tempting. It's a great and inexpensive activity for the family that doesn't involve having everyone sit at a table for an entire meal. Billys Bike: 1509 Periwinkle Way (239) 472-3620, Finnimores Bike & Beach Shop: 2353 Periwinkle Wa (239) 472-5577. The best times for shelling were at low tide and early in the morning (even better if these coincide). 2. Crab racing is fun for both kids and adults. That night in bed? We also had dinner there and the kids were super happy with their chicken fingers. Heads up, you'll want to arrive early as spots fill up quickly. The island's east-west orientation situates it perfectly to catch over 250 types of shells out of the Gulf of Mexico tides. But heed the warning signs, as the bridge makes for swift ocean currents and the water around it is not advisable for swimming. Captiva Island is a wonderful day trip from Sanibel Island. Here are some of our favorite things to do in Fort Myers & Sanibel Island with kids. You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. Not only is every inch of this house-turned-restaurant covered with retro toys and old Hollywood photos, but the food is next level. You can even check outwhat time the sunsets for the date youll be visiting. Find Places To Stay In Sanibel Island, Florida. On a regular day, the a.m. low tide will be better than the p.m. because if youre the first one out in the morning, youll be able to find the shells that have freshly washed ashore.Tip: My family has always gone to Sanibel Island in June and the beaches have always been filled with shells. 9. Photo: Courtesy of The Beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel. The kids and I did an Everglades Gator and bird spotting tour withEverglades Day Safari Fort Myers in an airboat. Required fields are marked *. Unsure of the treasure found on Sanibel Island? Be sure to snap a pic of walls of the island's restaurant, which are covered in about $70,000 worth of one-dollar bills signed by past customers. What makes it especially welcoming to families is the 90 minute tram tour that you can take through the refuge. Our days were spent playing in the water, riding bikes around the island and collecting shells (SO MAY SHELLS! My family loves Sanibel and I'm sure yours will too. Barefoot Charters 54 Boat Tours Fishing Charters & Tours By Fearless825280 Wonderful day with Captain Joe. Find unlimited travel inspiration on ourblogsandour social media channelsFacebook,Instagram,Pinterest, The 10 Best Beaches Near Orlando, Florida15 Unbeatable Florida Family Vacations with KidsThe 4 Best Family-Friendly Vacation Spots in OrlandoThe 15 Best Long Weekend Getaways In The USThe Ultimate North America Travel Guide10 Best Day Trips From Naples, FloridaThe Ultimate Guide For a Pet-Friendly Holiday in FloridaThe Best Time To Visit Orlando, Florida7 Amazing Water Parks In Orlando, Florida8 Best Hotels Near SeaWorld Orlando, Florida9 Best Hotels In Orlando, FloridaThe 5 Best Hotels Near Downtown Orlando, FloridaThe 8 Best Hotels Near Orlando AirportThe 9 Best Pet-Friendly Hotels In Orlando, FloridaThe Best Hotels Near Disney World Orlando. I think their minds were blown! Sanibel Island is a great place to vacation with a family. It is laid back, friendly and has a lovely old Florida charm. Summer Waves Water Park. We stopped a few other places along the way to see birds and a gator. Long and narrow in shape, the dreamy Sanibel is one of the larger islands of West Florida and features 15 miles of sun-kissed sandy beaches. Sanibel Island is known for its idyllic beaches filled with abundant shells. We belive strongly that travel benefits kids in SO MANY ways. If we had to drive over and visit just for the day, it would not have been at all the same experience. With time spent on the beach looking for shells, we barely had time to get out and see what the rest of the island had to offer! The Best Things to Eat & Drink on Sanibel. There are several ways to explore the refuge. Kids stop in local businesses on the hunt for prizes. This was a "giant clapper" in our world for the week. I looked carefully at the hotels and resorts just across the bay in nearby Fort Myers. Collect shells along the beach Sanibel is known as the Shelling Capital of the World, and it's not hard to see why. Stop by Flan World Corp for a life-changing coconut flan, Aux Dlices Bakery for authentic French pastries, and the Doughnut Station for the fluffiest doughnuts. Paddle throughmangrove swamps and winding waterways, and then keep your kayak for free for the remainder of the day. Not a single person I spoke to in the area seems to be concerned about Red Tide and carried on with business as usual. Corrie P./CROW - Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife, Inc. At the Crow Clinic Animal Rehab, kids can interact with animal ambassadors for a remarkable learning experience. The lighthouse dates back to 1884. The must-try local favourite is the Orange Crunch cake, but you'll also want to consider the French Chocolate Torte or Tropical Breeze cake, which are both too tasty to pass up. In addition to an amazing pool and poolside bar, our provided kayaks, paddleboards, bikes to borrow and a naturalist led beach walk. From action-packed water sports to relaxing spa treatments, we have something for everyone. Travel and World Peace: How Traveling the World has Changed My Perspective. I have to include this. Ever been to Captiva or Sanibel? If you're lucky, you may see manatees and pods of dolphins in the waters. the stupidest thing you will ever see if youre not up for something stupid, you might be in the wrong place! Battlegroundz has a 20,000-square-foot . The family-friendly museum is one of the few official "attractions" on the island is a fun way to spend a cooler or rainy day. Its the only way to get a seat at the race table! There is also a tower about halfway through the drive with fun telescopes. Several stalls sell freshly made dishes you can drive through the refuge so May shells in Myers! 90 minute tram tour that you can find out more about which cookies are..., Florida tour that you can eat on the hunt for prizes I spoke to in the water, bikes! 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