Sanibel Island

Most barrier islands on this coast run north to south; Sanibel runs east to west, and its southern shore therefore faces directly into the Gulf currents that carry shells up from the south, depositing them in quantity - the island is one of the best-known shelling beaches in the world, and the stooped posture of collectors has its own local name. Rules limit collection of live shells. More than half the island is wildlife refuge, the largest being J. N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, named for a cartoonist and conservationist, with a wildlife drive through mangrove and mudflat that is best at low tide for wading birds. Hurricane Ian heavily damaged the causeway and much of the island in September 2022, and the island has been rebuilding since.

What you'll find

• An east-west island - which is why the shells accumulate.
• Shelling beaches - among the best known anywhere.
• Ding Darling refuge - a wildlife drive through mangrove and flats.
• Continuing hurricane recovery - since Ian in 2022.

When to go

November to April; low tide after a storm is best for shells. A full day.

Before you go

Hurricane Ian caused severe damage in 2022 and recovery is incomplete - check what is open. Collecting live shells is prohibited and enforced. The causeway is tolled. Winter season fills the island and prices rise.

Nearby

Captiva is at the northern end; Fort Myers is inland.