Where are the Beaches on Sanibel and Captiva?

Sanibel is one of the unique barrier islands of the world, having an east-west orientation when most islands are north south.  Hence, the island is gifted with great sandy beaches and an abundance of shells.

There are a few rules that keep our beaches pristine.  Pets on Sanibel must be leashed, and should be cleaned up after.  Captiva beaches do not allow pets.  Alcoholic beverages are prohibited November through May.  No open fires and no collecting of live shells please.

Basic restrooms are located at all public beach accesses.  Some have picnic tables, all have handicap parking.  Mobile food stands sell snacks at a couple of the beaches, but you won't find much commercialism.  Parking at Sanibel and Captiva public beaches costs $2.00 an hour.

A) Lighthouse Beach & Fishing Pier
This is the site of our historic functioning lighthouse.  Located on the eastern tip of Sanibel, wrapping around to the bay side.  This is where the t-dock-fishing pier is and a boardwalk nature trail winding through native wetlands.  Turn left on Periwinkle Way from Causeway Road.

B) Gulfside City Park
This park features beach access, a nice picnic area, a nature trail, restrooms and an old cemetary. Known as Algiers Beach to the locals because of a steamboat by the same name that once pulled ashore. Located mid-island on Algiers Lane off Casa Ybel Rd. Mid Island.


C) Tarpon Bay Beach
This beach features high sands, good shelling and new restrooms. Easy parking for recreational vehicles, and a short hike from the parking lot to the beach.  Located at the south end of Tarpon Bay Rd. at West Gulf Drive.  Mid Island.

D) Bowman's Beach
Pristine and quiet, you won't find any hotels here.  Park and walk over a bridge to secluded white beach.  There is an outdoor shower located at this beach.  This is the only beach with barbecue grills.  Located off Sanibel-Captiva Rd., turn left on Bowman's Beach Rd. Up Island

E) Turner Beach (Blind Pass)
Located on both the Sanibel and Captiva side of the Blind Pass Bridge, this beach is popular with shellers and fishermen.  Signs warn against swimming because of the swift currents.  Located on Sanibel-Captiva Rd. at Blind Pass Bridge.

F) Causeway Beaches
Great for swimming, fishing, windsurfing and picnicking.  Pull your vehicle right to waters edge.  There is no fee when you park on the causeway beach.  Located along both sides of the road.  Restrooms are available.

CAPTIVA

Captiva Beach
A great place to watch the sunset.  There are no restroom facilities here and parking is very limited.  Located at the end of Captiva Dr.