Sanibel Island, Florida - Your Sanctuary from Life's Hectic Pace
By Judith Jaastad

Imagine a place where time slows down, where you make it a point to catch a glorious sunrise, witness a spectacular sunset. And in between, stroll a shell-strewn beach passing flocks of wandering shorebirds. You're imagining a typical day in the laid back sanctuary that is Sanibel Island, Florida.

Known for spectacular shelling, Sanibel beach faces south, catching the shell-laden currents that cross the Gulf of Mexico. Grab a sand pail or plastic grocery sack and wander the edge of the surf to pick from the richness deposited by the tides.

Then, set up an umbrella and unfold a beach chair and let the sounds of the surf lull you while you while away a few hours or an entire day with no pressure to be or do. While you laze, the kids will build sand castles and memories in the sub-tropical sun of this magic island.

When you're ready to pick up the pace, rental bikes are available either at your lodging or from a local supplier. The 25 miles of bike trails that cris-cross this sanctuary island reveal more treasures - old Florida homes in shady neighborhoods, flora that perfume the air, interesting art galleries and sophisticated shopping centers. You can even bike the famed "Ding" Darling Wildlife Refuge, rich with migrating birds that provide a delight around every bend.

For something completely different, test drive a Segway, the two-wheeled scooter balanced by a gyroscope. Segway of Sanibel offers a special package, you get lessons and then an hour guided tour of the island. Or drop in at the Tarpon Bay nature center to rent kayaks or canoes and explore shaded bays and mangrove-lined trails of the bay side of this paradise.

But Sanibel Island, Florida isn't just about nature. The arts thrive here, too. There's a winter lecture series that draws national names and a renowned concert series, both of which are presented at Big Arts. Year round you can view local and regional art at regular shows in the Big Arts gallery, home for the thriving visual arts community.

History buffs will love the Sanibel Historic Village where original homes and commercial buildings are lovingly preserved. And you can wander the hidden cemetary on the bike path between Middle Gulf Drive and Algiers Lane. Hidden away, it's one of the island's many surprises.

Unlike other Florida destinations, Sanibel Island, Florida is committed to preserving the friendly home town feel of old Florida. It's laid back, void of high-rises, fast freeways and even street lights. But you'll still find a sumptuous selection of sophisticated shops, exciting boutiques, and gourmet restaurants of all kinds from the famed Schnappers Hot Dog shop to Doc Ford's Sanibel Rum Bar & Grill. Here, books and merchandise from this NY TIMES best-selling Florida adventure writer can be consumed along with food with a Caribbean touch.

Sanibel Island, Florida is easy to get to. Ft. Myers brand new terminal at RSW (Regional Southwest Airport) receives domestic and international flights. With on site rental cars your just under an hour away from this laid-back hideaway. Or combine your trip with something more commercial, landing in Orlando for a taste of Disney before venturing two and a half hours south to the island paradise. Pack your shorts, sandals sunscreen, and a sweater and come on down.

Judith Jaastad has been an owner of rental beach front property on Sanibel for fifteen years. You can see what she has by visiting www.sanibelbeachflorida.com

Copyright 2005 - Judith A. Jaastad.
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