At Kingfisher Vacation Rentals, we want to assure you that you can have a fun-filled island vacation this year! Progress is happening fast, and we’re confident that our guests can have wonderful and fulfilling stays in 2023. However, we also want you to know what to expect from your time in Sanibel and Captiva. That’s why we’re committed to full transparency during the recovery process post-Hurricane Ian.
With that in mind, this is exactly what you’ll see when you enter the causeway and reach the islands:
What it’s Like to Enter Sanibel and Captiva Post-Hurricane Ian
As you drive onto the causeway and climb that first steep hill, you’ll be relieved to see the familiar blue waters of Sanibel and Captiva. You’ll also be greeted by the same tropical breezes, seabirds, and dolphins in the bay. From your vehicle, you’ll be able to spot the Sanibel Lighthouse standing strong in the distance and lighting the way to the islands.
Driving further onto the causeway, you’ll notice that construction is underway to rebuild the permanent structure. You might see barges, rocks, tractors, and equipment that are being used to restore the causeway islands. This is necessary to keep guests coming to Sanibel and Captiva via the “Happy Lane to Paradise” of the causeway. You might encounter traffic, but most of the time entering Sanibel and Captiva is quick and easy.
Once you arrive, you’ll notice that the foliage and landscape of the islands have changed since the storm. Trees and bushes have been stripped of their leaves, some trees are uprooted and debris is scattered along the sides of the roads. On the other hand, you’ll see green buds on the vegetation and new palms unfurling and showing new life.
What You’ll See on the Islands
Along the roadways and Periwinkle Road, the main thoroughfare, you will see piles of debris, large trucks picking up the wreckage, and a strong police presence. Additionally, visitors should expect to see tarped roofs, plywood windows, and debris in the mangrove trees. The large debris pile on Periwinkle Road will give you an idea of just how much has been cleaned up since Hurricane Ian. You’ll also find light-hearted signs all over the island (like “We SHELL overcome”) that will make you smile. These are another example of just how strong the Sanibel and Captiva community is.
We ask that you follow the speed limit and keep your distance from debris haulers, electrical trucks, and the many construction personnel helping to clean up our islands. In a similar vein, please be aware that not all bike paths and roadways have been cleared. Sanibel beaches are closed to the public, but Captiva beaches are open to guests staying in the area.
As you continue onto Sanibel-Captiva Drive (otherwise known as SanCap) you’ll notice more changes to the landscape. This includes more construction and electrical trucks, which can cause delays. One significant change you’ll see is in the Sanibel area near Blind Pass and Turner Beach. Here, you’ll come across many devastated homes and restaurants before reaching the Captiva bridge. On Captiva, widespread construction is taking place across the island. Many of the large homes there, once hidden by foliage, are now visible.
If you’re looking for a beautiful beach, fishing opportunities, and a little adventure, please join us at one of our homes on Captiva Island! There are now food trucks and reopened restaurants on Captiva, and our properties there are in great condition. Every day another business reopens to welcome the public back to our special islands. Multiple restaurants are open in Sanibel as well as Jerry’s Grocery and Whitney’s Bait and Tackle. For a complete list, please give us a call, check our updated blog posts, or visit our social media channels.
Thank You for Choosing Kingfisher Vacations in Sanibel and Captiva Islands, Florida
Thank you to all our property owners and guests for your continued support! We have completed thorough inspections of all of our properties, and a lot of our Captiva rentals are ready for booking. If you have any questions about Sanibel and Captiva post-Hurricane Ian, don’t hesitate to contact us. In the meantime, look out for more news about the islands! We plan to keep you updated throughout the recovery process.
Kingfisher Vacations is actively open and assisting owners every day with their recovery process! We are 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 Sanibel and Captiva news, visit our website, email us at info@gokingfisher.com, stop by our Captiva office or give us a call today at 239-472-2100.