What is the difference between captiva and sanibel

In terms of geographical size, Sanibel Island is vast compared to Captiva. It has a larger population, and as far as vibrant beach living goes, it has plenty to offer its visitors and residents. Periwinkle Way is brimming with many business establishments, and it is here that you will find shopping plazas, galleries, food markets, and more. You can enjoy the eclectic mix of culture, performances at the local live theatre or watch the most recent blockbusters at the local movie theatre.

There's also plenty of biking and hiking paths, along with tours on land or rented boats! It's common for people to want to enjoy beachfront living while having the option to return to the mainland when the need arises. Reasons could range from work to the overall desire for faster access. If this is the lifestyle you seek, then you'll want to find your home on Sanibel Island.

Captiva Island does not have a similar mainland connection, and you would need to go through Sanibel island first to make it to Fort Myers. If your goal is to live within the hustle and bustle of a moderately populated beach town, Sanibel Island is where you want to go house hunting. However, because of city-wide restrictions on building heights and density, you will be hard-pressed to find mega home estates. You can find standard homes and beachfront condos with the help of real estate listing updates from reputable real estate companies.

If Sanibel Island is the picture of lively beach living, then Captiva Island is the more laid-back alternative. It is much quieter here because there are fewer people and fewer busy establishments.

There are no biking paths, no vibrant business streets, and instead, you will find a more calm and serene living experience with beautiful views of the gulf. Instead of busy city streets, Captiva Island has small village-like commercial areas.

The bottom structure of the beaches have more influence on waves and water clarity than most realize. While Sanibel is filled with people scouring the beach for beautiful shells, the beaches of Captiva are generally very quiet and laid back.

The lack of multi-unit condos on Captiva makes the beaches far less crowded. On the end of Captiva near Blind Pass Captiva is typically pretty busy but the reast of the 5 miles of beach is some of the quietest you will find. Most of the year it feels like you are the only one on the beach. If you are really into fantastic shelling then the obvious choice is Sanibel. But if you are looking for the more traditional sugar sand beach with clear blue water the Captiva Island Beaches are the way to go.

One of the top attractions in Sanibel Island is the J. In this protected oasis, you can enjoy bird watching, tours, hiking, biking, and so much more.

Bring bikes to cruise the 4-mile Wildlife Drive which consists of three trails to discover. While you can't climb to the top of the historic Sanibel Lighthouse , you can still visit the surrounding area for a lighthouse photo-op. Stop by the beach to search for shells while you're in the area. The lighthouse is more than years old, dating back to August FYI: there is a fee to park.

Feel like getting off the islands for the day? Afterwards, head out to Matlacha, a tiny town that packs a punch with a colorful tiny home village, quirky shops and a handful of eateries. Stop by Great Licks for some yummy homemade ice cream to help you beat the Florida heat. Sanibel and Captiva Island boast a variety of dining options from fancy upscale eateries to low-key seafood cafes.

Enjoy a refreshing island mojito with your meal. They have locations on Captiva and Sanibel. You might be wondering what the difference is between Sanibel and Captiva Island?

Both offer incredible beaches and a laid back atmosphere.