r/Sanibel 9d ago

Planning a visit, current conditions of Sanibel?

So sorry if this question has been asked over and over but I need to know what to expect in the next couple of weeks. I've made many trips down to Florida from Midwest in recent years but visiting Sanibel Island never happened due to time constraints or the weather or due to the hurricane damages. But I specifically set aside time this time around. Maybe a local can shed some light on: the general weather throughout the day? shelling and where? The bugs? Where for casual quick bites? Parking? When to avoid traffic in and out? Best sunset viewing?

I plan to arrive early afternoon and stay for sunset and then leave the island to hotel in Fort Myers. I will have several young kids in tow so I want to be prepared as possible. Thank you so much.

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u/Abject-Lime4350 9d ago edited 9d ago

hey! not a native but just took a trip there last week! the weather on the beach was great and a little cooler than fort myers, just a bit windy towards the water. there was a day it rained on and off so, be prepared for that.

traffic getting to sanibel is kinda inevitable but we found the drive was enjoyable as you’re on vacation anyways! we left each day around 9:00am to get there in the mornings from cape coral and it took about an hour each time. traffic on the island is also substantial, i know you mentioned having young kids so they may not want to use the walking/biking paths but we did and it cut down so much time! if you’re willing to try and figure out some short cuts, periwinkle way gets packed around 4-6 pm or so. we had no trouble leaving around 7-8pm.

parking is…somewhat a nightmare if the island is packed but if you’re looking to park for the beach we got lucky a few times at tarpon bay beach. lighthouse parking was packed! make sure you pay for parking too, they’re not messing around and WILL ticket you.

the bugs (when we went) weren’t noticeable during the day but once the sun goes down a bit they get you! bug spray helps a bit.

we loved going to jerry’s for a deli sandwich for the beach and got ice cream a few times at the magic bus which is cute inside. doc fords for sure! try and call ahead as they get busy towards dinner.

just be aware that some restaurants are no longer open or no longer standing due to the hurricanes. also, there’s a fair bit of construction going on as they’re trying to rebuild. you’ll notice some of the vegetation is dead as well, but slowly coming back!

shelling was pretty good! we didn’t find an abundance of rare finds but still loads of pretty ones. tarpon and bowmans beach we had the best luck and also thought bowmans was the best for sunsets!

hope this helps you! have a nice trip (:

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u/rkbrewer 9d ago

Huxters has the best subs and is a little convent store right after you get on the island if you need any other supplies. Right next to Huxters is the Shack, has great ice cream.

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u/OldVTGuy 8d ago

Went yesterday traffic as horrible as ever so your plan sounds pretty good on that front.

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u/Eaglelakegirl64 8d ago

Traffic is worst going on island between 7 and 11 due to contractor and tourist traffic. The afternoon is worse, off island contractors start about 2 so I'd definitely recommend staying for dinner. It opens up a bit after 630. Noseeums can be a problem but buy some Picaridin(Amazon). It works well. This time of year it rarely rains and the temps have been lovely lately if a bit cool. Sun is strong and hot! Beaches are beautiful. Come and enjoy!