4 Things to Do Off the Beaten Path on Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island might not be big, but it packs a punch in terms of how many things you can do on the island. Whether you’re searching for the perfect bite to eat or looking to add to your shell collection, opportunities are abundant. While there’s nothing wrong with taking the well-worn path, sometimes it’s fun to venture off that path and explore something else! Here are some of our favorite things to do off the beaten path on and around Sanibel Island.

People kayaking in calm waters near a small island with green trees and channel markers visible in the background.

Tarpon Bay Explorers

One of the best ways to explore all of Sanibel Island is by taking a tour from Tarpon Bay Explorers. They offer numerous tours, including nature cruises (returning in 2024), a low tide kayak tour through Tarpon Bay’s tidal flats, a kayak trail tour throughout the Commodore Creek Trail, and a wildlife refuge tram tour through the J.N. ‘Ding’ Darling National Wildlife Refuge. While these activities will take you off the beaten path on Sanibel Island, you should make reservations ahead of time, as they often sell out during busy periods.

BOOP’S by The Bubble Room Restaurant

BOOP’S by The Bubble Room Restaurant is located in Captiva, and it has all of the charm of the original Bubble Room Restaurant. The Bubble Room is still recovering from Hurricane Ian, but BOOP’S is one way to enjoy the outrageous cakes, sandwiches, ice cream, and treats of the restaurant. While you visit, you can also enjoy the Bubble Room Emporium, which reopened at the start of September. Make sure that you try their famous orange crunch cake!

Historical Cabbage Key Water Tower

The Cabbage Key water tower is also located in Captiva, so it’s a great place to stop when you’re on Sanibel Island for your vacation. Cabbage Key is an island only accessible by boat, and it is home to one of the most impressively resilient water towers in the state. The water tower was built in the 1930s, and, other than during Hurricane Charley in 2004, it has remained largely without the need for repairs. You can climb the steps to the observation deck and enjoy breathtaking views of Captiva and the surrounding area.

Sanibel Island Farmers Market

Sanibel Island Farmers Market is beloved by both visitors and locals, and it’s a great chance to enjoy delicious local produce, delectable baked goods, and handcrafted art made right on Sanibel Island. The market takes place on Sundays in season at City Hall from 9 AM-1 PM, and it’s the perfect way to spend your morning!

Contact Kingfisher Vacation Rentals to Learn More about Sanibel Island Properties

At Kingfisher Vacation Rentals we choose vacation rentals over hotels every time! We are actively open and assisting owners every day with their recovery process. We’re also ready to bring new properties into our award-winning program. If you are interested in discussing how our unmatched marketing approach and comprehensive owner services will benefit you, call today! For more information about Sanibel and Captiva, contact our team, email us at info@gokingfisher.com, stop by our Captiva office, or give us a call today at 239-472-2100.