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