Summer Vacationing in Sanibel and Captiva Island

Of course, winter and spring constitute a high season in Southwest Florida, and Sanibel and Captiva Island fall into that mold. Yet there’s something about summer on the islands. Something more intimate and personal. Something more authentically Floridian. Summer is a great time to have your Sanibel Island vacation for many reasons. While less busy than the spring, Summer visits to Sanibel offer unique and almost private experiences you're sure to enjoy! June, July, and August often hold temperatures of 90 degrees or more, and it's common to see a mid-afternoon storm blow through. Don't fret though, these storms typically pass through quickly, so sit back and relax while you wait. There are many advantages to visiting Sanibel in the summertime,

Summer means no lines, no crowds, no waiting at your favorite resort restaurants, such as Old Captiva House at ‘Tween Waters and Normandie Seaside Cafe at West Wind Island Resort. Likewise, on the beach, it’s easy to find a spot you won’t be sharing with anyone but the birds of summer.

If you are Bayside, watch for manatees, who mate this time of year close to shore. They favor the little cove on the south end of ‘Tween Waters’ bay shoreline. Get out on a paddleboard or kayak to see more of the islands’ wildlife come alive. Baby birds are hatching. Gigantic sea turtles are laying eggs, and adorable gator hatchlings are crawling out from their nests.

Summer is that time of year when mangoes blush with serious, ponderous sweetness. Late afternoon rains bring the islands to their lushest. It’s a season ripe for taking life easy, waterside, with a cold drink and a good novel. The Sanibel Captiva Beach Resorts have your lounge chair and cocktail ready. Just add sunscreen.

You can visit the local Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge. The free Visitor and Educational Center is open Monday through Saturday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm. If you want to see the wildlife in their natural habitat, consider exploring their 4-mile trail or take the 90-minute guided Wildlife Refuge Tram Tour, and have experts teach you about the animals and point out hard-to-see wildlife.

One big perk of visiting Sanibel and Captiva during the summer months is that the beaches are sometimes slightly less crowded. This is the time of year you might be able to spot manatees closer to shore or hatching birds when you venture out on a paddleboard or kayak. The summer season is also the time when sea turtles lay their eggs and some of the island’s most vivid colors begin to bloom. You’ll also find plenty of planned events too, including fishing tournaments, sailing camps, walking tours and more during the summer season.