The 4 Fabulous Beaches of Sanibel

When you are planning your Florida vacation, surely you plan to spend plenty of time at the beach. Luckily, Sanibel is full of incredible shoreline for you to discover, and it’s all just minutes away from our vacation rentals in Fort Myers, Florida. Here is your complete guide to the four best beaches of Sanibel.

Causeway Beaches

The whole family is sure to love the causeway beaches that provide a stunning view of the Gulf of Mexico. You can get your exercise by swimming, experience the wildlife through fishing, get your adrenaline rush by windsurfing, or relax by picnicking. Depending on the time of year, you may even be lucky enough to spot a dolphin! There are plenty of ways to enjoy the beaches near Fort Myers.

You can pull your car right up to the edge of the water for an incredible view from the comfort of your vehicle. While there are no parking fees, there is a $6 toll to get onto the causeway when you drive in from Fort Myers. Restrooms are available, and you’ll also find amenities like a canoe and kayak launch, showers, and a large picnic area.

Lighthouse Beach and Fishing Pier

If you want a bit of history in your vacation, don’t miss out on the Lighthouse Beach and Fishing Pier. The Sanibel Lighthouse was built in 1884 and stands at 98 feet tall. It was originally built to signal the entrance to San Carlos Bay, and it was registered in 1974 on the National Register of Historic Places. The lighthouse still works today and stands as one of the top visitor attractions in the area.

In addition to the lighthouse, you can head to the shore to pick up some incredible seashells or fish off the pier. Try your hand at catching redfish, snapper, black drum, and more. Alternatively, you can just hang out on the beach and watch the dolphins, stingrays, and pelicans. 

There is also a boardwalk nature trail that takes visitors through the native wetlands for an even closer look at the wildlife.

Tarpon Bay Beach

Tarpon Bay Beach is one of the most popular spots in Sanibel for swimming and windsurfing. It’s one of the most family-friendly beaches in the area, and everyone is able to join in on the fun thanks to ADA compliant facilities and courtesy beach wheelchairs. Bring your kids into the high sands to search for some unique seashells, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch the ice cream truck!

At Tarpon Bay Beach, you’ll find new restrooms, convenient showers, and 75 parking spaces. There is a parking fee of $5 per hour. It’s also easy to park your RV, so you can just pull up and enjoy the view right from your vehicle. Take it easy and enjoy the miles of shoreline perfect for watching the sunset or getting on the beach with your family.

Bowman’s Beach

If you’re looking for something truly relaxing, Bowman’s Beach is the place to go. While this is one of the more popular things to do near Fort Myers, the long stretches of shoreline allow the beach to maintain a secluded feel with plenty of room for everyone. Many families love visiting Bowman’s Beach for the unmatched view of the Gulf and the beautiful and unique shells all along the sand.

Bowman’s Beach has a parking fee of $5 per hour, but you will have access to clean restrooms, stunning views of the wildlife, and plenty of room to spread out and find your own path of sand. You can also take advantage of the convenient showers, changing area, picnic area, and barbecue facilities. This beach is only accessible from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. Each of these locations is easily accessible from our condos for rent in Fort Myers Beach, FL, so you can get out the door in a hurry and quickly access the beach. To learn more about Sanibel Island and to start booking your Fort Myers vacation, contact us today!