Choose accommodations. There are condominiums for rent by the week or month, hotels, resorts, inns and cottages.
Select a time of year for the visit. Winter average high temperatures are mid to upper 70s, rising to 80 degrees in March. Summers are also glorious with average highs in the 90s and generally lower prices for accommodations.
Drive or book a rental car. Sanibel Island is a barrier island with a bridge to the mainland. You can rent bikes and leave the car parked for much of your visit, but a car is essential for getting to the mainland for shopping and other activities.
Fly into the Fort Myers airport. Not all airlines fly to Fort Myers year-round, depending on where you live. You also can fly into Tampa, but be prepared for a 100-mile drive.
Get active. Sanibel Island is a prime place for shell lovers. There are bike rentals and paved bike paths. The J.S. "Ding" Darling Wildlife Refuge is a 5,000-acre sanctuary for birds, turtles and other wildlife. You can rent a boat or play a variety of sports, including golf and tennis.
Enjoy the history. The Sanibel Historical Village and Museum is a collection of buildings representing life in the 19th and early 20th century. The Point Ybel Lighthouse dates back to 1884.
