Although Sanibel has grown in popularity, it fiercely protects its reputation as a slow-paced, sleepy beach town. A campaign for federal protection in 1945 for Sanibel’s mangroves, estuaries, and bay led to the Darling National Wildlife Refuge, a 6,3000 acre forest. Additionally, in 1973, the town council approved the “Sanibel Plan,” which restricts development to less than a third of the island.
Full-time and seasonal residents, as well as repeat visitors, support the town’s promise to keep the island’s primitive state and abide by its vision to remain a barrier island sanctuary, one in which a diverse population lives in harmony with the island's wildlife and natural habitats.” Locals desire the unpretentious albeit opulent ambiance. In an interesting juxtaposition, fancy restaurants do not require formal attire; rather, casual shirts, shorts, and flip-flops are more than appropriate for white-table cloth tables, steak dinners, and expensive red wine dinners.
Encompassing 12 miles in length, Sanibel’s beaches are famous for its sugar white sand, azure ocean, gentle waves, and eclectic seashells. Public beach access points on Sanibel include The Lighthouse, Gulfside City Park, Tarpon Bay, Bowmans, and Blind Pass. Recently, Coastal Living magazine ranked Sanibel as one of the top shelling beaches in the United States. Collectors excavate more than 200 types of seashells, including rare ones such as lion’s paw, junonia, Scotch bonnets, and queen conch shells. Apart from shelling, beachgoers enjoy basking in the sun, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and fishing from the coastline.
When not enjoying a day at the beach, Sanibel residents participate in other outdoor activities such as golfing, biking, playing tennis, and exploring native wildlife and ecosystems. The Sanibel Island Golf Club presents 150 acres of natural terrain and views of the scenic Sanibel River, while the two private golf courses, Beachview Country Club Estates and the Sanctuary at Wulfert, offer waterfront views and clubhouse amenities. With more than 25 miles of paved bike paths, residents enjoy cycling to restaurants, shops, and picnic areas. The Sanibel Historical Society offers its own self-paced biking tour that highlights 19 specific historic sites.