Best 7 beaches in Sanibel Island – the PRACTICAL guide
The Sanibel beaches in Florida are a little paradise.
In this guide, you will find all the practical information for a visit to the 7 best, including parking lots and fees, where available, picnic tables and barbecue grills, restroom facilities and outdoor showers.
You get the point. You will be ready to have a fantastic day on the sandy beaches with no surprises in this outstanding heaven of southwest Florida.
For each beach, mostly public beaches, you will also see a suggested restaurant/cafe/bar in case you want to have lunch.
In saying that, most of the times the picnic areas are so great that you will want to stay under the palm trees the entire day.
In this guide I have also included Captiva Island, easily reachable from the north side of Sanibel Island through the short Blind Pass Bridge.
It’s actually there, on both sides of the bridge, that you will find two of the most beautiful and secluded beaches.
Captiva Island is often seen as an extension of Sanibel Island, however, it has its own character and it’s definitely worth a trip there. In saying that, they are both barrier islands.
You can drive to all beaches, they all have parking, however, it can be busy, especially on summer school holidays and weekends.
Alternatively, you can park your car in town and approach the beaches with a bike (rentals are available).
Sanibel Island is covered with 25 miles of bike paths, which makes life so easy, especially if you are planning a long stay.
The list below is not sorted by any kind of beauty context. Honestly, all these Sanibel beaches are amazing, unique in the United States.
The list starts from the westernmost beach, on Captiva Island to finish in the easternmost point of Sanibel Island, at the lighthouse
You will enjoy the best sunset on the western side of the island, from Bowman’s Beach to Captiva Beach
Captiva Island Beach (Alison Hagerup Beach Park)
Description
You can find Alison Hagerup Beach Park at the Northern end of Captiva Island, which is not too far from South Seas Island Resort.
You will love that long beach stretch, which is perfect for walks, jogs and bike rides.
While it is a magnificent park, it is always quite busy.
This means that access may be a challenging in a few days with limited parking available.
In addition, a few parts of Captiva Island, the parking areas included, started undergoing renovations in 2021.
Check beforehand on Google Map if access and parking are still working
Facilities
Parking Lot: Managed by Captiva Erosion Prevention District. There are about 40 parking slots plus three additional disabled spaces. The parking fee is slightly costly at $25 for 2 hours. If you wish to park the whole day, you will part with $40.
Eating facilities: As you stroll along the beach, you will notice drinking fountains. You can also enjoy some coffee at Starbucks or purchase food and drinks from the gourmet convenience store. There are picnic shelters for use.
Nearby restaurants: There are a few restaurants close to the beach. One of them is Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille which offers outdoor and indoor dining. It is located near South Seas Island Resort.
There is also the Bubble Room which has unique Christmas decor. It offers cocktails, lunch, dinner and amazing desserts.
For dinner and live music, try out Keylime Bistro. Seafood and wine lovers can stop by Sunshine Seafood Café And Wine Bar.
Nearby hotels/resorts: South Seas Island Resort and Captiva Shores 6C (read more about both accommodations here)
Cycling accessible: The beach is cycling accessible and has bike racks for parking. It is about 1 hour and 30 minutes or 15 miles from the Causeway Blvd, if you’re using Sanibel Captiva Road
Others: There are opportunities for shore fishing here. However, you need a saltwater fishing permit at a fee. If you are a Florida resident, you are exempt from those charges. There are restrooms and outdoor showers.
Some of the things the park doesn’t allow include pets, open fires and collecting live shells. Between November and May, you can’t come with alcoholic beverages.
Turner Beach
Description
Turner Beach is the first beach once you cross Blind Pass and very close to a small channel from Sanibel.
It is known for its soft sand and small hillocks of sea oats. The water is shallow and warm, probably the best place for kids and families.
You can see the beautiful homes along the beach. The beach is rarely crowded, but the parking area is quite limited.
The undertow is strong sometimes, so try not to swim too close to the breakwater.
Facilities
Parking Lot: The beach parking near the beach access is usually busy. There are about 40 parking slots and the parking fee is $5 per hour all day. If you have Lee County Parking Permits, you can also use them to get a slot.
Eating facilities: As you stroll along the beach, you will notice drinking fountains. There are also picnic shelters available. There are shops across the bridge.
Nearby restaurants: You will find some small restaurants with outdoors sitting on the other side of the Blind Pass Bridge.
If you need some great American dishes, visit the Mad Hatter Restaurant. For some seafood and a great ambience, check out the Sunset Grill.
Nearby hotels/resorts: Seaside Inn, Sundial Beach Resort & Spa and Shalimar Cottages & Motel (read more about both accommodations here)
Cycling accessible: You can access Turner beach with a bike. There are bike racks available. The beach is about 11 miles from the Causeway Blvd and the trip takes about 1 hour when using Sanibel Captiva Road.
Others: You can go fishing from the jetty and the bridge. While at the rock jetty, you might find some of the best shelling in the island. There are restrooms and outdoor showers.
Blind Pass Beach
Description
To the Western end of Sanibel Island is Blind Pass Beach.
It is a beauty that stretches to Bowman Beach. The beach is mostly natural and mildly developed, which means it has maintained its original look.
Blind Pass beach water is calm and warm but can get deep, so be careful if you’re with your kids.
It is also a great spot to catch the sunset. There are plenty of services nearby.
Facilities
Parking Lot: This is a very limited parking lot with only 29 spots available. Unfortunately for most guests, many of the slots are reserved for pass holders.
If you get there early or get lucky, you can buy a parking pass for $5 per hour, 24 hours a day.
The parking and beach are maintained by the city. Keep in mind that there are parking bays on both sides of the Blind Pass bridge.
The great news is that there is also free disabled parking.
Nearby restaurant: 3 of them, walking distance. One of them is Mad Hatter with a menu that offers great food. There are vegan and vegetarian options available.
Another one is Sunset Grill offers American and seafood options. If you want a dinner slot, you might want to book in advance.
You can also visit Lazy Flamingo which has a bar and offers local and seafood cuisine.
Nearby hotels/resorts: Tropical Winds Beachfront Motel and Cottages (read more about the resort here)
Cycling accessible: You can access the beach with a bike and there are bike racks in the area. It is about 11 miles or one hour from the Causeway Blvd.
Others: If you love fishing, you will love the bait shop not too far from the beach.
Shellers will love the large depository of shells under the bridge or at the pass’s mouth.
This also means you should be wary of the strong currents in this area.
Take note that there are no restrooms on the Sanibel side of the Beach.
Do you want more inspirations for amazing beaches on the west coast of Florida?
Bowman’s Beach
Description
Bowman is one of the best beaches for a clear, unobstructed view to the Northwest.
This beach is one of those in the area with adequate parking maintained by Lee County.
To get to the sandy part of the beach, there is a small hike across the bridge, but it should only take about 5 minutes.
If you wish to cycle or take a walk, there is a nature trail above the beach as well as periodic trails that lead to the beach.
Facilities
Parking Lot: There are 220 parking lots and you can pay a parking fee of $5 per hour (there is no flat all-day parking fee). There are limited RV and kayak trailer parking spots as well.
The lots are in two parking areas depending on what you want to do here. There is free handicap parking.
Eating facilities: While at Bowman’s Beach, you can enjoy drinking fountains, a soda machine, barbecue grills and shade pavilions for picnic tables.
Nearby restaurant: There are familiar restaurants on either side of Bowman’s Beach to try out.
These are Sunset Grill, The Mad Hatter Restaurant and Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille.
You need a car to go there, they are not walking distance
Nearby hotels/resorts: Tropical Winds Beachfront Motel and Cottages (read more about the resort here)
Cycling accessible: There are plenty of trails for cyclists to use aside from the long beach stretch. There are bike racks here at your disposal. The beach is about 10 miles or around 1 hour from the Causeway Blvd. The best route to use is Sanibel Captiva Road and Periwinkle Way.
Others: Bowman’s Beach has plenty of things to do and is perfect for families. There is a kayak launch. There are outside showers, changing rooms and restrooms. For the kids, there is a playground for them to enjoy. There are fitness trails and information kiosks for your use.
Tarpon Bay Beach
Description
Tarpon Bay Beach is also known as Sanibel Beach.
It faces the Gulf of Mexico and is relatively hidden from the public.
You may have to contend with a long walk to the shore, but it is well worth it.
The walkway is paved with bricks, so it is an easy going stroll.
Facilities
Parking Lot: There are currently only 76 parking slots at this beach. The parking fee is a flat $5 per hour (no flat fee for all-day parking).
There are a few disabled spots that are free of charge. There are also spaces for RV parking, although they are limited.
It is important to remember to get there early to score a slot. At the same time, budget in the walk to get to the water on a brick path.
Eating facilities: Picnic areas, vendors and drinking fountains are available near this beach.
Nearby restaurant: If you want to enjoy some lunch, walk along the beach to Sandbar and enjoy some steaks, oysters and crab cakes. Alternatively, take the car and enjoy Caribbean dishes at Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille. You can experience some seafood, sports, cocktails and burgers at Sanibel Grill.
Nearby hotels/resorts: Seaside Inn, Sundial Beach Resort & Spa and Shalimar Cottages (read more about these accommodations here)
Cycling accessible: The beach is cycling friendly and there are bike racks to park when needed. Tarpon Beach is about 20 minutes away from Causeway Blvd – this is about 4 miles via Casa Ybel Road and Periwinkle Way.
Others: There are picnic areas that families or couples can enjoy. There are no shaded pavilions, but you can carry an umbrella and choose a spot. There are outside showers and restrooms nearby for public use.
Gulfside City Park Beach (Algiers Beach)
Description
Gulfside City Park Beach is located about halfway up the island, right at the end of Algiers Lane, and is perfect for catching the sun.
It is located in between resorts,and it is as busy as you would expect.
There is a large grassy patch and white sand at the shore.
Park amenities include restrooms, an outdoor shower, picnic tables, and barbecue grills for public use.
There is also a bicycle rack that is free to use, and the beach is within walking or cycling distance of several hotels.
Facilities
Parking Lot: While it does not get crowded, get here early to secure a parking space. There are 46 parking spaces available. The parking fee is $5 per hour (no flat fee for the all-day parking). There are also free handicap parking spaces.
Eating facilities: You will not stay hungry or thirsty while at this beach. There are barbecue grills nearby. There are also picnic tables so you can carry or buy some food from nearby to enjoy this space.
Nearby restaurant: Try out Thistle Lodge Beachfront Restaurant where you can enjoy some waterfront dining of the finest dishes. Coconuts Poolside Bar & Grill is popular for its outdoor dining, wines, breakfast buffet and sports games. Both of these spots are located at Casa Ybel Beach Resort. There is also the Sea Breeze Café at Sundial Resort, where you can enjoy frozen cocktails, breakfast and lunch dishes.
Nearby hotels/resorts: Seaside Inn, Sundial Beach Resort & Spa and Shalimar Cottages (read more about these accommodations here)
Cycling accessible: The beach is accessible for cyclists and the long beach stretch is perfect for a ride. There are bike racks at the entrance. This beach is about 4 miles or 20 minutes from Causeway Blvd via Casa Ybel Road and Periwinkle Way.
Others: There are outdoor showers, restrooms, information kiosks and a shade pavilion.
Lighthouse Beach Park
Description
At the Eastern end is the Lighthouse Beach Park, one of the best Sanibel Island beaches
It is the first beach you see once you cross the causeway from the mainland.
The longest section of the beach faces the Gulf of Mexico.
There is a lighthouse that is 112 feet tall and is not open to the public for now, but still, it is a popular spot to visit.
There is a nature trail via a boardwalk and a fishing pier with a wooden boardwalk and T-dock.
This is another good place for shelling. You will enjoy the large numbers of shells that wash up and are quickly picked off.
Keep in mind that live shelling is prohibited. Come to this beach to enjoy the soft sand.
The spot near the lighthouse facing the causeway is unsafe, so it is best to set up elsewhere.
After the beach time, you can even think of visiting the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum. You will not believe what you can find there.
Facilities
Parking Lot: There are 152 parking spaces with some slots for RV parking. There are also free disabled parking spots. The parking fee is $4 per hour, free with parking permit.
Eating facilities: There are picnic areas that come fitted with BBQ grills. There is also a shade pavilion to relax and also set up a picnic. There are also drinking fountains, so you can stay hydrated while at the beach.
Nearby restaurant: You can check out Sunset Grill which is a cottage that offers upscale seafood. There is also Paper Fig Kitchen which has sandwiches, seafood dishes and desserts.
Nearby hotels/resorts: Seaside Inn, Sundial Beach Resort & Spa and Shalimar Cottages (read more about these accommodations here)
Cycling accessible: yes, with bike racks and located in town, accessible through Periwinkle Way. This beach is about only 5-10 minutes or about 1 miles away from the Causeway Blvd.
Others: You will find public restrooms and outdoor showers. There is also the fishing pier and information kiosks.
Sanibel Causeway Beaches
Description
Located along the Sanibel Causeway, these are two narrow islands – A and B (seriously!). They are named so based on which one is closest to the mainland.
The sandy beach is easily accessible in several places.
Here, there are many activities that beach visitors can enjoy, like kite boarding and kayaking.
The calm waters are perfect for swimming and wading. You can fish here as well at the Pier.
It is here that you might see some dolphins, stingrays and birds like pelicans.
An interesting fact about the causeway bridges is that they underwent some renovation and officially reopened in 2007.
What did they do with the original structures? They were sunk and turned into artificial reefs!
While Island A has no amenities, it has the best beach space.
Island B has more amenities, however, the beach is not as good, but still enjoyable to visit.
Facilities
Parking Lot: Free parking at both beaches. Cars can be parked on either side of the road for easy beach access.
Eating facilities: Island B has picnic tables and drinking fountains for public use. You can come with a grill to set up and fix your steak or fishing catch.
Nearby restaurant: There are no bars or restaurants nearby. You would have to drive into Sanibel Island where you can visit Mudbugs Cajun Kitchen on two levels with an outdoor bar. You can enjoy Cajun dishes here.
There is also Gramma Dot’s Restaurant for sandwiches and salads. There is a great open-air setting on the docks.
Nearby hotels/resorts: Seaside Inn, Sundial Beach Resort & Spa and Shalimar Cottages & Motel (read more about both accommodations here)
Cycling accessible: The beaches are accessible by cycling and there are bike racks at the entrance.
Others: While at Island B, If you have your furry friend, you can bring them along as long as they are leashed. There are restrooms for use on this island as well.
Enjoy paddle boarding, kayaking and kite boarding.
Anglers and fishing enthusiasts can do fishing at the Sanibel Pier.
