Top Destination for Family Travel
With miles of bike trails and white sandy beaches, Sanibel Island is ideal for families looking to leave the hustle-and-bustle behind for a vacation of relaxation and seclusion along the Gulf of Mexico. Sanibel ranked No.1 in “The FamilyFun Travel Awards”by FamilyFun Magazine and No.3 on U.S. News Travel’s 2015 list of “Best Family Beach Vacations in the USA.” According toFamilyFun Magazine, Sanibel’s laid-back style and sun-soaked beaches that landed it on top overall.
SEASHELL COLLECTING
A sought after seashell lover’s destination, you and your family won’t leave without learning the ‘Sanibel Stoop’ — a term coined to the motion made by dedicated seashell pickers, frequently spotted along the shoreline. Be sure to pack a bag or bucket! Before you know it, you’ll find yourself Gulf-side, stooping down and swooping up shell after shell! You will find an infinite buffet of beautiful seashells on Sundial’s mile long stretch of pristine beach.
With more than 250 species of shells sprinkled across the island, you never know what you might find! The experts from the Sanibel Sea School at Sundial can help you learn more about your shell collection. Located by the Main Pool Deck, Sanibel Sea School is one of the island’s top non-profit organizations, providing educational experiences and promoting wildlife conservation via exploration and hands-on learning. In addition to 33 different classes, the school offers seasonal activities for resort guests to explore and learn as part of their stay.
ISLAND ACTIVITIES
The beach also offers visitors an opportunity to participate in local hobbies. From kayaking and paddle boarding to biking and hiking, Sundial guests can experience popular island activities! We offer kayaks, paddle boards and an array of bicycles, including two-seaters and bikes for kids, as complimentary amenities to all resort guests.
Our Monthly Activities Calendar also offers guests more opportunities to play while they stay with a variety of scheduled options, which involve playing poolside and heading indoors for arts-and-crafts.
DRINK, DINE AND STROLL AT SUNSET
Sunset strolls are the perfect way to end your day after an afternoon of fun in the sun. Before you set to stroll, head to happy hour for a tropical cocktail or two.
Then, wine-and-dine your family with cuisine immersed in flavors of the island at the Sea Breeze Café, prepared by Chef Criss Menassa. Voted ‘Best Happy Hour’ on the island, we offer happy hour twice-daily:
- Sea Breeze Café from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
- Turtle’s Pool & Beach Bar from 3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Photo Credit: Sanibel Star
Guests are also invited to enjoy Margarita Mondays at Sea Breeze Café, featuring live entertainment and $5 Margaritas from 4-10 p.m.
MUST-DO ATTRACTIONS
For the ultimate vacation experience on the island, we also encourage guests to visit these popular island attractions:
J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
The refuge is part of the largest undeveloped mangrove ecosystem in the United States. It is a bird watcher’s paradise, infamous for its spectacular migratory bird populations.
The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum
Visitors to the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum will find exhibits featuring mollusks from around the world. The exhibits cover the art and history of shells, their habitat, and rare varieties that are common to this section of Southwest Florida. They can also spend time in the Learning Lab for hands-on play, which focuses on children that includes displays, games and a touch tank.
Royal Shell Port Sanibel Marina
The marina has boat rentals and charter fleets available for visitors to experience Sanibel on the Gulf. By boat, visitors can canoe or kayak through Larry’s Lagoon. Outside of the marina, guests can enjoy the onsite nature boardwalk through the protected mangrove. Along the trail, you can learn about the native birds, plants, fish, and wildlife in the area.
PLAN YOUR STAY
Start planning your Sanibel Island adventure at Sundial Beach Resort & Spa! To book your exclusive accommodations, book your stay online or call one of our expert vacation planners at 877-736-4320. We look forward to your stay with us.
