I am considering Sanibel or Captiva for a vacation in April with my 4 year old and husband. Have never been to either. Interested in kids programs or places with kids around. It seems Captiva is more remote and less to do? Which would be better. We want to stay on the beach but have a place with a pool and have access to many good restaurants. Do you need a car in either of these towns?

Both are wonderful choices. If you desire more private time with hubby, I recommend South Seas Plantation on Captiva Island because of its children programs. Friends really liked it and said the camp counselors were fantastic.

I believe the Sundial on Sanibel has a kids program. May want to check it out. They have pool, etc. and I think there is more restaurants, etc. to choose from on Sanibel than on Captiva.

I think you need a car almost anywhere in Florida. Miami Beach might be an exception.

Sanibel and Captiva are so close and so simialr that it doesn't really matter.

Casa Ybel in Sanibel is a place I've visited, and it seems to be kid-friendly.

There are alligators and big birds and interesting inspects at the Dingwell nature center on Sanibel, and junior will enjoy half a day there. Car useful here.

And, within an hour or two driving south there's state parks and nature areas and big beaches the kid, and parents, will enjoy. Perhaps nicer sand than at Captiva.

BAK

Yes, you will need a car at either place. You should definitely get a place with a pool. Some kids don't like the beach, especially if they're not used to it. Unfortunately, there's not a lot to do other than beaching it. I can't imagine you could bicycle with your four year old. This is not an old timey beach (like Treasure Island, for instance, where you have lots of goofy golf, game rooms, ice cream shops, candy stores)...yes, there's not a lot going on. Just the beach.

Sanibel has a lot more to do - bike paths, restaurants, etc. Nice to take day trips to Captiva or go for sunset - dinner. A great place to stay is Pointe Santo. Nice units and they have a children's program M-F. The place has a nice mix of families and residents so it is neither over-run with children but they are certainly around for each other. (Nice for the parents!)