Your Ultimate Sanibel Escape: Island Adventures and Sundial Resort Bliss
Known for its world-famous shelling beaches and laid-back atmosphere, Sanibel is more than just a pretty coastline. It’s an ecosystem waiting to be explored and a destination designed for relaxation. Whether you are planning a family vacation, a couple’s retreat, or an active getaway, here is your guide to the best of Sanibel Island and the endless amenities right outside your door at Sundial.
Exploring the Island: Nature, Culture, and Charm
Sanibel is unique because nearly 70% of the island is protected conservation land. Stepping off the resort grounds means stepping into a vibrant natural world. Here are the must-do island highlights:
Connect with Wildlife: J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
You cannot visit Sanibel without experiencing “Ding” Darling. It is part of the largest undeveloped mangrove ecosystem in the United States. Whether you drive, bike, or hike Wildlife Drive, keep your eyes peeled for roseate spoonbills, herons, ospreys, pelicans and maybe even an alligator sunning itself on a bank. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Learn About Local Healing: CROW (Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife)
For a heartwarming and educational experience, visit CROW. This teaching hospital is dedicated to saving Florida’s native wildlife. A visit to their Visitor Education Center (open Monday – Friday) offers a behind-the-scenes look at how they rescue, rehabilitate, and release injured animals, from sea turtles to owls. During the summer, CROW even offers summer camps for children to experience this work first hand!
The Shell Capital of the World: Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum
Sanibel isn’t just about finding shells on the beach; it’s about understanding them. This is the only museum in the U.S. devoted solely to shells and mollusks. The exhibits are stunning, featuring rare specimens from around the globe, The Living Gallery of Aquariums and Marine Life, two interactive touch tanks and their giant Pacific Octopus tank is always a hit with kids and adults alike.
Get on the Water: Adventures in Paradise & Sanibel Sea School
To truly appreciate the island, you need to see it from the water. Adventures in Paradise offers incredible cruises—from sunset dolphin watches to shelling excursions on outer islands. For a more hands-on, educational approach, the Sanibel Sea School offers kids classes and camps as well as adult learning adventes. Their marine educators take groups into the ocean to snorkel, net fish, and learn about the fascinating creatures that inhabit the Gulf.
Local Flavor: Island Shopping
Forget big-box stores. Sanibel’s shopping scene is all about quaint boutiques and local art galleries dotted along Periwinkle Way. It’s the perfect way to spend a leisurely afternoon finding unique souvenirs, coastal decor, or island fashion.
The Sundial Difference: Stay and Play
After a day exploring the island, returning to Sundial Beach Resort & Spa feels like coming home. As the largest full-service resort on the island, you never really have to leave the property to have an amazing day. The resort is buzzing with energy all day long!
Active Watersports
Head down to the beach and grab a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm Gulf waters right off the resort’s shore. For something truly unique and hilarious, test your balance on the Log Roll in the main pool—it’s harder than it looks!
Courtside Competition
Sundial is a premier destination for racquet sports. Tennis enthusiasts love the HydroGrid clay courts. But the real buzz is about Pickleball. With dedicated courts, Sundial is a hub for the sport. Guests can join in on daily play, sign up for scheduled round-robins, or even time their visit to coincide with one of the exciting upcoming tournaments hosted at the resort. View our list of upcoming events!
Relaxation and Dining
If your goal is pure relaxation, book a treatment at the on-site Kay Casperson Lifestyle Spa & Boutique. Let the stress melt away with a massage or a fresh manicure in a beachy color to match your vacation looks. When hunger strikes, you don’t need to drive anywhere; Sundial features excellent on-site restaurants offering everything from casual poolside bites to upscale dining with a view.
Poolside Vibes
Sometimes, the best activity is no activity at all. Sundial’s main pool deck is the hub of resort life. Enjoy organized poolside activities for the kids during the day, or simply claim a lounge chair, order a cool drink, and soak up the Sanibel sun.
Ready for Your Island Escape?
Sanibel offers a rare blend of astonishing natural beauty and comfortable luxury. By choosing Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, you get the best of both worlds: effortless access to island adventures and a resort experience packed with amenities.
Pack your swimsuit and your sense of adventure—Sanibel is calling.
