sonnygen

I'm going to Sanibel Island this weekend (4/26-29) with my girlfriend at the Sundial for 4 days, and just wondering what are some of the Musts to do there for day/night activities and eating...I've read the posts, but was hoping to get a more updated opinion.

Also, I will be without a car. I was told that it is $40 each way per family/couple for transportation to/from the island. Is there a better/cheaper way? Is it worth just renting a car?

Thanks!

Cerlaurie

I wouldn't travel to that area without a car. However, if you are not planing to leave the Island at all you can rent bikes to get around the Island. You will need a car if you want to venture into Ft. Myers or elsewhere. If you do rent a car, I would suggest going to Naples for the day. There are excellent restaurants and lots of good shopping. You might want to check out Ford/Edison summer homes in Fort Myers, also.

OliveOyl

I wouldn't go there without a car either. Everything on Sanibel is so spread out and you'll want to get out to Captiva as well. It's worth the bit more to just rent a car IMHO.

isabellasu

It's been years since I've been to Sanibel/Captiva, but I use to love to go to The Bubble Room & Cheeseburger Cheeseburger. Are these restaurants still operating?

Bonn

Just went to Sanibel in January. Do take a drive/bike/hike through the Ding Darling Bird Sanctuary. It's a beautiful respite from the tourists masses of Florida. Rent a kayak if you have time. (We didn't and were sorry). I agree about needing a car, unless you plan to nest at you hotel. The restaurants are all over. Our choice for food is Grandma Dots--a tip from a fellow Fodorite that was right on. Best food, although not great for atmosphere.

Bonn

Just went to Sanibel in January. Do take a drive/bike/hike through the Ding Darling Bird Sanctuary. It's a beautiful respite from the tourists masses of Florida. Rent a kayak if you have time. (We didn't and were sorry). I agree about needing a car, unless you plan to nest at you hotel. The restaurants are all over. Our choice for food is Grandma Dots--a tip from a fellow Fodorite that was right on. Best food, although not great for atmosphere.

maxie

We go to Sanibel often and always rent a car. Sanibel is spread out plus you may want to visit Captiva Island. You can drive thru the Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge, the Bailey-Matthews shell museum is interesting, there are different shops & nice restaurants on both islands, and you can rent bicycles for the day or week. Those evening sunsets are beautiful. If you venture off the island the Ford-Edison Summer homes are close by. Sorry, if you're wanting "night life" activities I can't help you out there, we spend most of our time on the beach. Sanibel is very natural and beautiful, not your every day beach environment.

haydencat

My family spent summer vacations in Sanibel and Captiva every year when I was growing up (two weeks every summer). You definitely will need a car if you want to explore the islands. Personally, I like Captiva better than Sanibel, but both islands are beautiful and relaxing. The Bubble Room is great for lunch or dinner, and the Mucky Duck is great for a casual lunch. Both restaurants are on Captiva, and have been there for as long as I can remember. Also consider getting out on the water, either renting a boat or going on a charter trip. Ding Darling is nice, too. Have fun!