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Welcome
to Sanibel and Captiva Islands
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SANIBEL AND CAPTIVA
ISLANDS
"Nature's
Gift to Southwest Florida"
Sanibel and Captiva Islands lie four miles off the coast of Southwest
Florida near Fort Myers. It is truly a vacationer's paradise - 12,000
acres of lush, tropical vegetation bordered by 22 miles of white,
sandy gulf beaches and the protected waters of San Carlos Bay.
The islands are known as one of the finest shelling
areas in the world and the surrounding waters offer some of the
best fishing in Southwest Florida. Over
one-third of Sanibel is a wildlife sanctuary, teeming with native
and migratory birds.
For the outdoors enthusiast, there are four golf courses, miles of
nature trails, a complete network of bike paths and several fully
equipped marinas. The shops of Sanibel
and Captiva offer unique gifts, fashions, arts and crafts.
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Tropical Flowers such as the Bird of Paradise
are abundant on Sanibel and Captiva. |
Enjoy the restaurants,
where you will find everything from burgers to fresh, locally caught seafood,
to French and Italian gourmet cuisine. The atmosphere is always casual
in a true "island style."
GENERAL INFORMATION
A resident Osprey comes in for a landing. |
Situated
off the southwestern coast of Florida, Sanibel and Captiva Islands
are 16 miles from Fort Myers, 125 miles south of Tampa, 157 miles
southwest of Orlando, and 150 miles northwest of Miami. Most major
airlines fly into Southwest Regional International Airport in Fort
Myers.
Climate - A mild tropical climate is enjoyed by the Islanders. Winter
temperatures average in the mid-to-high 70's. January has an average
high of 72 Fahrenheit and a low of 55. Constant ocean breezes temper
August humidity and high of 90 degrees. Annual rainfall averages 55
inches.
Government - Sanibel has a city manager/council government with five
elected officials. Captiva is under Lee County jurisdiction. |
Police - There are
twenty-eight employees in the Sanibel Police Department: nineteen sworn
officers and nine support personnel.
Fire Protection and Emergency Care - Sanibel has two stations housing
two engines, a 2000-gallon tanker/engine, and two "quick attack" rescue
units. There are 12 fire fighters and 20 volunteers. Emergency medical
technicians augment the service provided by Lee County Emergency Medical
Services. An ambulance is housed at Sanibel Fire Station No.1. Helicopter
service is available for emergency transportation.
Accommodations - Vacation accommodations include cottages, small motels,
beachfront resorts, private condominiums, and homes. |
Tour Captiva waters by boat or personal watercraft. |
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