Nature-lovers looking for a great escape from the concrete jungle's bright lights and city noise will find it in Sanibel, an idyllic hideaway in southwest Florida. Connected to the mainland at Punta Rassa via the Sanibel Causeway, the island is only 15 miles long and 5 miles wide, tops, but the selection of fun activities is anything but small. A Sanibel vacation rental is an ideal base as you tick off the island's offerings one by one. Hop on a boat or kayak for a close encounter with various wildlife, tee off on 1 of the many golf courses, and explore the island on 2 wheels—Sanibel has 22 miles of scenic bike paths.
No doubt rivaling The Little Mermaid's treasure trove, the exquisite exhibits at Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum will have you singing, "Look at this stuff, isn't it neat?" Visit after you go shelling—it'll be fun comparing your seashell swag with the museum displays. Pop into Sanibel Historical Village, where the old buildings, including a schoolhouse and cottage dating from the late 19th century, will give you a glimpse of a simpler time, back when Calusa and Spanish pioneer families settled on the island in the 1800s. Don't forget to swing by Lighthouse Beach for a snapshot with Sanibel Island's metal lighthouse, built in 1884.
If you don't have a shell collection yet, this is the place to start one. Beautiful seashells of all shapes and sizes wash up on Sanibel's shores from the Gulf of Mexico. Combing the shore for these souvenirs is such a popular activity that bending over while shell-hunting has come to be known as the Sanibel Stoop. After a morning on the beach with your bucket and shovel, shell-ebrate your prized finds with a big lunch back in your Sanibel vacation rental. You'll need to fuel up before an afternoon session of watersports, from canoeing to jet skiing to parasailing.
It's no wonder snowbirds flock to Sanibel from December to February—the island destination's subtropical climate means winters are mild and lovely, with temperatures from the mid 50s to the high 70s. On the other hand, temps can climb to the 90s during the summer months of June to August, although tempered by breezes from the Gulf of Mexico. Sanibel vacation rentals are easier on the pocket from June to September, but expect downpours to join you on your holiday, and there's a chance you'll have an unwanted guest in the form of a hurricane.
Sanibel's impressive ecology is protected by a few wildlife refuges. The largest on the island is the J.N. 'Ding' Darling National Wildlife Refuge, which you can explore by walking, biking, driving, or kayaking through the mangrove forests. Bird watchers are in for a treat, as this is home to more than 220 bird species. Sightings of herons, egrets, and pelicans aren't uncommon even outside the wildlife refuge (such as on the beaches, or even near your Sanibel vacation rental), but to get the most from your bird-watching and wildlife-spotting endeavors, it's best to have your binoculars within reach. If you'd rather pass the time on a kayak or canoe, try the 190-mile Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail.
The beaches of Sanibel are one of its biggest draws. Vacation homes are available near places like Sanibel Island, an inhabited island with white-sand beaches and tranquil waters, and Bowman’s Beach, a popular beach with seashells for beachcombing and calm waters for swimming. You'll also like Lighthouse Beach Park, a scenic bayfront park with a sandy beach, picnic areas, and a fishing pier.
The nearest airport is in Southwest Florida Intl. Airport (RSW), located 17.4 mi (28 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you can also fly into Charlotte County Airport (PGD), which is 32.3 mi (52 km) away.
Kids will love the unique attractions in Sanibel. Vacation rentals are close to places like Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation, a facility with a nature and garden center with educational programs, and the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife, a wildlife rescue facility with exhibits and demonstrations for education. Kids will also like Everglades Day Safari, a safari tour of cypress forests and fresh and saltwater swamps to glimpse native wildlife.
Whatever you're seeking in a vacation, you'll find a rental in or around Sanibel that's perfect for you. These are some of our favorites:
For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Sanibel vacation rental for you.
Punching above its weight when it comes to charm and character, a tiny house vacation rental in Sanibel offers a front-row seat to big adventure. Power down your tech and turn your focus to Mother Nature at one of these fun-sized escapes:
Nothing's better than a brief break to make you feel alive again. Pack your carry-on bag and catch your breath at one of these enticing weekend getaways in and near Sanibel:
Typically compact, affordable and conveniently located, it's hard not to be charmed by a studio apartment. Make yourself comfortable in one of these vacation rentals and discover the culture of Sanibel up close:
There are many attractions around Sanibel to add to your itinerary. Satisfy your inner culture lover with a visit to Florida Repertory Theater and Alliance for the Arts.
Just because you only have a day or two free doesn't mean you need to spend it in a lifeless hotel. Get away but still have the comforts of home at one of these short-term rentals in or around Sanibel:
Whether spent in a cottage, a cabin or a condo, a romantic weekend getaway is a fantastic way to add some zing to your relationship. Whisk your sweetheart off for a couple of leisurely days at one of these popular escapes in or near Sanibel:
You'll find some lavish mansions for rent in and near Sanibel. If you're in search of somewhere spacious with loads of wow factor, these architectural stunners will tick all your boxes:
Take a look at these large group vacation rentals in or near Sanibel and forget about leaving anyone off your guest list:
A pool is often a must-have amenity when deciding where to spend your vacation, especially if you've got kids in tow. Check out these houses with a pool in or near Sanibel and fill your days with frolicking and fun:
Sanibel has a tropical savanna climate, with average summertime temperatures ranging between 80 ºF and 90 ºF. But there's no need to wait until summer to visit. Take a look at the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to find the perfect Sanibel vacation rental and plan your escape for whenever you like.
It's always more fun when you share wonderful times with the ones that are closest to your heart. Whether you're planning a family catch-up or catching up with your best friends, Vrbo has a large vacation rental that's right for you. These are two of our best in and around Sanibel:
If you'd like to do some sightseeing, there are loads of family-friendly attractions nearby to stick on your itinerary. Sun Splash Water Park, Fishing Pier Fort Myers Beach and Jungle Golf Ft. Myers are fine places to start.