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A cornucopia of "island moments" opens its arms the second you spirit across the
Sanibel causeway. Turquoise waters wash up white sandy spits either side,
favorite stop offs for anglers and picnickers. Here's your jumping off point to
a breezy outlook and beach blanket perspective. Island time defines itself by
tides, sunsets and nesting seasons. Warm climes, mellow waves, near-shore
sandbars and world famous shelling endear our magnificent beaches to families
and travelers. Quintessential island experiences, from sunset feasts to seafood
banquets, reminisce your ultimate vacation memories. Watch and listen for
screeching ospreys, splashing egrets and jaywalking gopher tortoise. Hundreds of
bird species grace our island home. Oystercatchers, sandpipers and willets bob
about shorelines for the catch of the day. Bald eagles, red-shouldered hawks and
tri-colored herons soar overhead. Alligators, turtles and river otters, manatee
and dolphin run wild and protected in preserves and backyard waters. Devoted
islanders volunteer hundreds of hours caring for island sanctuaries. More than
half of Sanibel Island is designated J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife
Refuge. Towering pines shade Periwinkle Way adventurers embarked on easy-going
shopping expeditions.  Exclusive shops play hide-and-seek with layers of sea
hibiscus, poincianas, bougainvillea, agaves and sea grapes. A delighted search
leads to treasure troves of designer wear and decor reflecting the island's rich
tapestry. Refreshment awaits at island theme restaurants, neighborhood bistros
and the historic Lighthouse Cafe. Days, B.I.G. Arts classes and nature talks
enlighten. Evenings, Old Schoolhouse Theatre and Pirate Playhouse productions
entertain. Artists and writers have sought sanctuary in these islands since the
1920s. Tiny Captiva, the northernmost outpost of its sister island, insinuates
itself into one's psyche, bringing deep peace and an inexplicable sense of
well-being. Residents refer to hideaway homes here by fetching names. Eccentric
restaurants and shops in lollipop colors reflect Captiva Island's enchanting
blend of sophisticated whimsy. A sense of serene independence settles lightly in
this island from the world. Unpacked and unwound, you can do as much "or as
little" as you like.Photography by William S. Speer
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