Beaches on Sanibel and Captiva

Where are the Beaches on Sanibel and Captiva?

Sanibel is one of the unique barrier islands of the world, having an east-west orientation when most islands are north-south. Hence, the island is gifted with great sandy beaches and an abundance of shells. Check out the Sanibel Shelling Center for information on the islands beaches and seashells.

There are a few rules that keep our beaches pristine. Pets on Sanibel Island must be leashed, and should be cleaned up after. Captiva beaches do not allow pets. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited November through May. No open fires and no collecting of live shells please. Click Here to see the 5 reasons to leash your dog.

Basic restrooms are located at all public beach accesses. Some have picnic tables and showers, all have free handicap parking. Parking at Sanibel Island and Captiva Island public beaches costs $2.00 an hour, Cash and credit cards are accepted. Paid parking tickets are not interchangeable between Sanibel and Captiva.

Causeway Beaches

Great for swimming, fishing, windsurfing and picnicking. Pull your vehicle right to waters edge. There is no fee when you park on the causeway beach. Located along both sides of the road. Restrooms are available.

Lighthouse Beach & Fishing Pier

This is the site of our historic functioning lighthouse. Located on the eastern tip of Sanibel, wrapping around to the bay side. This is where the t-dock-fishing pier is and a boardwalk nature trail winding through native wetlands. Turn left on Periwinkle Way from Causeway Road.

Gulfside City Park

Picnic tables and seclution welcome you, located mid-island on Algiers Lane off Casa Ybel Rd. Mid Island

Tarpon Bay Beach

Easy parking for recreational vehicles, and a short hike from the parking lot to the beach. Located at the south end of Tarpon Bay Rd. at West Gulf Drive. Mid Island

Bowman's Beach

Pristine and quiet, you won't find any hotels here. Park and walk over a bridge to secluded white beach. There is an outdoor shower located at this beach. This is the only beach with barbecue grills. Located off Sanibel-Captiva Rd., turn left on Bowman's Beach Rd. Up Island

CAPTIVA

Turner Beach (Blind Pass)

Located on both the Sanibel and Captiva side of the Blind Pass Bridge, this beach is popular with shellers and fishermen. Signs warn against swimming because of the swift currents. Located on Sanibel-Captiva Rd. at Blind Pass Bridge. No restrooms on the Sanibel side.

Captiva Beach

A great place to watch the sunset. There are no restroom facilities here and parking is very limited. Located at the end of Captiva Dr.