J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
Explore this breath-taking famous wildlife sanctuary and nature preserve that provides a glimpse of rare migratory birds and the many types of fauna that call Sanibel home. One of the best attractions near Sanibel is Ding Darling, a 6,300-acre wildlife preserve that is home to 238 species of birds, 50 types of reptiles, and 32 different kinds of mammals. You can experience the refuge through a guided tram tour or by driving your car through Wildlife Drive. There are walking and biking paths and an excellent educational center. At nearby Tarpon Bay Explorers, rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards and explore their paddling trails (keep your fingers crossed that you see a live seahorse), or take a guided cruise on Tarpon Bay, which is populated with dolphins and manatee.
Sanibel Historical Museum
The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village have 10 vintage properties on-site, including the Sanibel Packing House from 1900 – and Miss Charlotta’s Tea Room from 1926. Volunteer docents at the museum have a world of information on Sanibel settlers from the 1800s, plus the early Calusa Indians and Spanish explorers. An interactive map will guide you along Sanibel’s Heritage Trail.
Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum
The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum has operated since 1995 as a reference center for national and international shell enthusiasts. It features more than 30 exhibits of mollusks from around the world and it one of our favorite Sanibel Island kids attractions. It deservedly holds the title of being the only museum in the world totally dedicated to shells. Collections include shell habitat, shells in art and history, rare specimens, fossil shells, common Southwest Florida shells, and many more. One of the many features is a learning lab, including a tank with indigenous mollusks. Renovation is underway to the façade and front entrance to make room for additional aquariums and increased exhibit and program space.
Sanibel-Captiva Chamber Visitor’s Center
A must-stop for a complete list of the Sanibel Island activities and attractions near our Sanibel Island condo rentals, the Sanibel-Captiva Chamber of Commerce Visitor’s Center is a wonderful resource for helpful information. Chamber volunteers can also recommend restaurants to try, stores to visit, special events to attend, and other information such as the location of the bike paths and where to rent fishing gear. The recently renovated Visitor’s Center also features new, interactive displays for self-help and questions.
Sanibel Attractions Map
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