In 1999 Fran Peters realized a dream of hers when she founded Island Vacations of Sanibel and Captiva. Over the next few decades, Fran and her team grew Island Vacations into one of the premiere vacation rental companies on Sanibel. The company drew plaudits, won awards, and set new standards in customer satisfaction. 

Early in 2022 My wife and I were introduced to Fran by a mutual friend because Fran wanted to sell the business due to her impending retirement. Having already built Gulf Coast Property Management Jess and I saw the Island Vacations as the perfect opportunity to extend our management presence into Lee County, specifically Sanibel and Captiva islands. 

As part of the acquisition, we inherited the fantastic Island Vacations team, and between us all we set about building on Fran’s efforts with the goal of becoming the Island’s leading property management company. 

From June through September, everyone on the team worked hard, combining the best practices of both Island Vacations and Gulf Coast Property Management, learning new processes, and introducing new software. The future was bright. 

Unfortunately, on September 28^th, 2022, Southwest Florida was turned upside down when Hurricane Ian made landfall on Cayo Costa, FL. Sanibel Island and Fort Myers Beach suffered the most devastation, with a combination of the wind and a 15’ storm surge ripping through the area tearing down properties and making the whole area inhabitable. The causeway between the mainland and Sanibel Island was washed by the storm surge rendering Sanibel and Captiva Islands inaccessible by vehicle. 

From a selfish perspective, Jess and I were devastated. The purchase of Island Vacations was a huge financial investment on our part, and we quickly came to the realization that our investment had essentially been washed away. 

Over the next few days, as the full impact of the damage became evident our personal situation paled into insignificance. The immense scale of the devastation was becoming evident for everyone associated with the island to see. The majority of our client’s properties were damaged in the storm, some had even been washed away or destroyed beyond economic repair. 

Perhaps more importantly, our team were firsthand victims of the storm. The team all live and work in the area and their homes were not immune from the impact of Hurricane Ian. With flood and wind-damaged homes, and without power or water it was a desperate situation. Jess and I managed to rehouse some of the team in properties located in Manatee and Sarasota counties, however, some made the decision to tough it out and protect what was left of their homes. They were desperate times.

A few days after the storm, we hired a boat captain and a few of the team visited the Island to begin inspecting the properties belonging to our clients. The damage was unfathomable. A war zone is the only way I could describe what I experienced on that day.

Darkest Days Are Behind Us

Hurricane Ian, Island Vacations, and Sanibel have been a constant in my thoughts for the last 6 months. Quite honestly, I didn’t know if we would ever recover or what the future would bring. As I write this in March 2023, my outlook is far more optimistic.

The bridge from the mainland was rebuilt within a timeframe that no one anticipated. In fact, the speed of the rebuild may have set some false expectations for how quickly the island would recover fully.  Critical infrastructure is being continually re-established. 

During the initial recovery period, we certainly made mistakes. We were perhaps not as communicative as we could have been. We caused confusion and upset when deciding how we went about refunding the hundreds of guests with existing reservations. With that said, I am overall very proud of what we have accomplished in very trying circumstances.

We managed to retain the heartbeat of the Island Vacation rental team that you have come to know and love; Beth Rizzo, Susan Heath, Paige Lowman, and Samori Paulin. All four were severely impacted by the storm, however even through displacement off the island, flooded homes torn down to the studs, and working through arduous insurance claims, these four have never stopped working on behalf of our clients and the guests that we serve. 

Immediately after the storm, we hosted a series of educational seminars. We implemented a bi-weekly inspection program, providing insight for our clients on the status of their property and rebuild progress.  

Led by Beth, we have refunded over 1000 reservations, totaling more than $4M. 

We have completed our software migration and have almost completed remodeling our office, so that when guests do begin to return to the island, we have a great facility to greet them in. 

We expect to see guests returning in a limited capacity over the next few weeks. 

For many of our clients, we understand they remain at the very beginning of their recovery journey. Wind and flood insurers squabbling over responsibility, delays in insurance payments, condo associations waiting on FEMA determinations, permitting and the overall lack of contractors are all contributing to the frustration. Please know, we recognize these frustrations and are here ready and able to help all past, existing, and future clients in rebuilding their little piece of paradise on Sanibel.

When you’re choosing a vacation destination or a time to take your trip, the weather is probably a big concern. After all, the weather in the area will determine what you’ll need to pack and what you can do when you get there. If you’re thinking about booking one of our Sanibel Island rentals for your next trip, you’re in luck!

While the island does have distinct seasons, Sanibel Island weather tends to be pleasant all year long. Let’s take a closer look at what to expect in each season. 

 

Weather Throughout the Seasons

Throughout the year, the temperatures on Sanibel Island can range anywhere from the mid-50s to the low 90s. Conditions are often mild and allow you to experience many of the island’s activities no matter when you visit. During the summertime, you’ll get those hotter temperatures, as the lows only get down into the 70s during this time of year. On the other hand, the 70s are the high temperatures in winter, and as for lows, you’ll find temps into the 50s.

Rain chances can vary quite a bit depending on when you come to visit. The winter months are the driest of the year, only bringing about a 15% chance of precipitation on any given day. Plus, with the mild temperatures, you won’t have to worry about snow! In the summertime, rain chances drastically increase and can be as much as 70% each day. But don’t worry about your plans getting ruined: this rain is usually in the form of an afternoon shower that’s over quickly and brings in cooler evening conditions. 

 

Best Time to Visit and Things to Do

Now that we know a bit about the weather on Sanibel Island, we can talk about the best time to visit. Of course, the ideal time to visit is dependent upon your preferences. If you don’t mind crowds and want to hang out on the beach in the Florida sunshine, then visit in the summertime. Are you looking to get away from your hometown’s winter wonderland? Then come during the holidays and enjoy Sanibel then! 

Many visitors prefer the off seasons, though. During fall and spring, the crowds are much lower than what you’ll find in the summer and winter. Temperatures are comfortable during both off-seasons, and you can often get cheaper prices on Sanibel Island vacation rentals. It’s a win-win!

If you’re visiting during the warmer months, you’ll probably spend plenty of time at the beach. You can take a dip in the water, get active with watersports, or hunt for the most unique seashell on the sand. In the colder months, you might not be able to swim, but you can still visit the area’s popular museums and historical sites. Finally, in the spring and fall, be on the lookout for annual events that are sure to impress!

 

Your Sanibel Island Vacation

When it’s time to plan your next vacation, you’ll first want to pick your travel dates. Then, get in touch with Island Vacations of Sanibel and Captiva to choose your rental! We have a huge selection of Sanibel Island condo rentals to suit any group, allowing you to enjoy a weeklong getaway with no hassle or stress. During your stay, our team is always here to answer your questions or do anything we can to make your trip more enjoyable. There’s no time to waste! Contact our team today to learn more about our properties and to book your next trip to Sanibel Island.

We’ve collected the below information for our guests to make your Thanksgiving holiday with Island Vacations the best experience possible.

 

Church Services

Captiva Chapel by the Sea – Outdoor Thanksgiving Eve Service

11580 Chapin Lane

4PM

 

Saint Michaels All Angels Episcopal Church Thanksgiving Day Service

2304 Periwinkle Way

10AM

 

Saint Isabel Catholic Church – Daily Mass

3559 Sanibel-Captiva Road

8:30 AM

 

Restaurants with Thanksgiving Specials

(Advanced Reservations Required)

 

Traditions On The Beach

4PM-9PM

 

The Timbers

1PM – 8PM

 

Crows Nest @ Tween Waters

5PM-7PM

 

Old Captiva House @ Tween Waters

12PM-8PM

 

The Pecking Order, Take Out

Order by 11/19 & Pickup 11/25 or 11/26 by noon

 

George & Wendy’s $20 Thanksgiving Dinner

5PM-10PM

 

Sundial Resort – Thanksgiving Buffet

12PM, 1:15PM & 2:30PM

 

Activities

Adventures In paradise – Thanksgiving Sunset Dolphin Cruise – 4:30PM – Advanced Reservations Required

Listening to tropical music, we will cruise the tranquil waters of San Carlos Bay, by \”Bird Island\” while on the lookout for dolphins! Complimentary soft drinks and water. So gather your family and friends and board the Sunset Dolphin Cruise. Narrated By our knowledgeable Captain and First Mate!

 

Sundial Beach Resort – Virtual Turkey Trot 5K

Whether you are running at home or running on the island, join in with your family and have some fun before your Thanksgiving feast. Participants are encouraged to dress up and walk, jog or run the 5k, with  proceeds benefiting the Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida. Registration will be $35 prior to 11/1 and $45 up to 9 AM on November 26.  Those racing virtually will be mailed a participation medal and Tshirt. Local runners can come to the Sundial Recreation Hut to pick up their medal and t-shirt. (Registrations after 11/1 will be subject to shirt availability.) Guests are encouraged to create and  run on their own 5k course as there will not be a group start or group course in compliance with social distancing and city regulations. Record your time and submit it prior to Noon on Thursday 11/26, either at the Recreation Hut or by emailing [email protected]. DRESS UP AND EMAIL US YOUR PHOTOS!

by Lucas Murphy

PART of what makes Sanibel the destination to find beautiful beaches and a vast amount of exotic wild life is our Mangroves . The Mangroves are a rare form of ecosystem that creates a unique boundary between the land and sea. In this extra ordinary ecosystem it provides food and shelter for rare species that have made its bountiful green leaves and thick roots it home . The Mangroves act as a natural barrier from storms and keeps our beaches from eroding away. They are also draw in vast amounts of carbon , giving us large amounts of oxygen in return.

Sadly , Mangroves are disappearing far too often. In fact the Mangroves are disappearing three to five times faster than overall global forest losses. If these beautiful ecosystems where wiped out we would lose an abundance of life with it. Storms would hit us harder and there may not be a beach to come back to. So on this day of conservation do something to help out mother nature. Even if it is just the small act of picking up an empty bottle on the beach, Every little bit helps keep this beautiful Sanibel island around . #Mangroveconservation #Savethemangroves

When you are next visiting Sanibel you can check out these beautiful Mangroves and more when visiting Ding Darling Nation Wildlife Refuges. There you can watch and learn more about Sanibel\’s beautiful wildlife and also learn how we can preserve the Mangroves for generations to come.

For more info on the International day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystems click right here !

 

Today, We’re Thankful For You!
Our Guests, Owners, Family & Friends…

As Thanksgiving arrives for guests, owners & the team at Island Vacations, we pause to reflect on the friendship & support you have given us over the past year.

On Sanibel, we have much to be thankful for, and it is because of you that everything we do is possible. This past August we entered into our 20th year in business and were gifted with one of the worst Red Tide blooms we’ve ever experienced. While the past few months have been trying to say the least, we have been reminded how precious our islands are & how much our guests care about the well being of our area. We can’t thank you enough for the outpouring of support we received & for sticking with us. We are relieved to report the beaches are beautiful & patiently waiting your arrival.

As you welcome friends & family into your home this season, we invite you back to the warmth of our Island home to experience quality time with those you love. Visit Sanibel for a reminder of what’s truly important & often forgotten about during the hustle & bustle of our day-to-day lives…

Once again, we thank you for your loyal support of Island Vacations, where we are proud to provide you & yours with the keys to paradise & a place to create memories that will last a lifetime.

From our family to yours, we send our warmest wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving!

Your Island Friends, Fran, Aimee, Beth, Kelly, Crystal, Lucas & Susan

 

Things are heating up on Sanibel Island. Our team is busy taking reservations & making sure properties are ready to host summer arrivals every Saturday! Whether it be from the feel of the bicycle path asphalt under the toes of wandering pedestrians or the smell of a beach side BBQ, there’s a sense of ‘sizzle’ in the air.

You can definitely tell it’s summer time on our small little Island in the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors, new and old, are experiencing vacation sensations at all hours! Babies play in the wake of the shore during the day & long-time lovers sip fruity cocktails while they gaze into the beaming rays of the sunset and await the ‘green flash.’  What do all of our guests have in common, young and old? At the end of the day, they all make their way to one of Island Vacations cozy, homes away from home, after creating memories that will last a life time and traditions that will trickle through to generations next.

We’ve collected some definite ‘good time’ must do’s for your upcoming visit with us over the next couple of months. Check out the list below for details on all things ‘Sanbibelian’ this summer:

• Ding Darling ‘Indigo Trail Walk FREE Summer Program‘ – Naturalists lead a tour identifying and discussing the ecosystem’s plant and animal species. Fun for all ages! Don’t forget to bring your sunscreen, water, and bug spray. Meet at the flagpole in front of the “Ding” Darling Visitor & Education Center.
• VIP Teen ‘After Hours’ at Sanibel Public Library, Tuesday’s – Incoming sixth through twelfth graders are invited to V.I.P. After-hours gatherings on Tuesday evenings in June and July from 6 to 7 p.m. Creating a guitar pick and cupcake decorating are just a few of the planned activities.
• Marine Biologist Guided Beach Walks at the Island Inn – The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum offers guided beach walks throughout the entire year! In addition to daily walks at the Island Inn, we also offer summer monthly guided excursions at Bunche Beach with world-renowned Marine Biologist Dr. José H. Leal. Our scientists are enthusiastic about sharing their knowledge and hope to inspire you to look at our beaches and shelling in exciting new ways.
• Family Beach Walk FREE Programs – Come join guided exploration of the refuge’s Perry Tract. Learn about this vital beach ecosystem. Don’t forget to bring your shell bag, a water bottle, sunscreen and bug spray!
• FREE Wildlife Wonders Program – What makes a bird a bird? Why is a manatee a sea cow? Is it a crocodile or alligator? Find the answers to these questions and more as you join a refuge staff member in learning about the refuge’s unique ecosystem. Program located in the Visitor & Education Center. Subject will change weekly, depending on the presenter.
• Sanibel 4th of July Holiday Weekend Activities
  • 7 a.m. – 9 a.m. – Free Pancake Breakfast
    Sanibel Community Church, 1740 Periwinkle Way
    Info (239) 472-2684
  • 9:30 a.m. – Independence Day Parade
    “Preserving the Red, White, and Blue”
    Parade Route begins at Tarpon Bay Road on Periwinkle Way to Casa Ybel Road.
    Info (239) 246-2981
  • 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. – July 4th Celebration at Jerry’s
    (After Parade) Jerry’s Shopping Center, 1700 Periwinkle Way
    Water slide, food, & refreshments. Info (239) 472-9300
  • 12 p.m. San-Cap Optimist Club’s 38th Annual Road Rally
    Timbers Restaurant, 703 Tarpon Bay Road
    Info (239) 472-0836
  • 9:00 p.m. – Fireworks Display (Rain or Shine)
    The City of Sanibel is sponsoring the fireworks display this year. Fireworks will be launched from the north end terminus of Bailey Road. Best viewing of the fireworks display is from the Sanibel Causeway Islands and the bayside of Sanibel
  • Fireworks Cruise – Adventures In Paradise presents the Sanibel Fireworks Cruise! Enjoy the Sanibel Island fireworks from the water on our Fireworks Cruise! Complimentary soft drinks, bottle water and snacks! Feel free to B.Y.O.B! Listening to tropical music, we will cruise the tranquil waters of San Carlos Bay, by “Bird Island”. Watch the Sunset and then catch a great view of the Sanibel Fireworks!
• 4th OF JULY HOLIDAY SIDEWALK SALES
  • The following retailers and shopping centers have obtained an annual Retail Holiday Sidewalk Sales permit and may be holding special sidewalk sales over the holiday:
    • Olde Sanibel Shoppes, 630 Tarpon Bay Road
    • Tahitian Gardens, 1975 Periwinkle Way
    • Village Shops, 2340 Periwinkle Way
    • Periwinkle Place, 2075 Periwinkle Way
    • Huxter’s Liquors, 1201 Periwinkle Way
    • Gene’s Books, 2365 Periwinkle Way
    • Sanibel Sea School, 455 Periwinkle Way
    • Heart of the Islands, 1616 Periwinkle Way
    • Eileen Fisher, Inc, 2055 Periwinkle Way
    • Whitney’s Bait & Tackle, 1554 Periwinkle Way

 

You can tell it’s November. The island is rusting back to life.

It’s the time of year when people’s thoughts begin to turn to Sanibel Island & warm weather Island Vacations. Whether you are one of our repeat guests or staying with Island Vacations for the first time, we hope you find this information helpful.

The Sanibel Island Farmer’s Market

The Sanibel Island Farmer’s Market happens every Sunday from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Sanibel City Hall located at 800 Dunlop Road. It’s a great place to stock up with fresh fruits & vegetables, baked goods, meat, fish, flowers & more for your stay. Create your own breakfast with some good coffee, freshly squeezed juices, pastries, fruit & whatever else captures your fancy as you wander through the variety of vendors. It’s a friendly group with a welcoming atmosphere. Stop, chat & learn about the area from the vendors, farmers, & locals who live & shop here. It’s a Sanibel favorite activity.

If you miss Sunday’s market, you can head up to Captiva on Tuesday.   The market is open 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. & located in the parking lot at the entrance to South Seas Plantation. Just head up San-Cap Road to the end & look for the signs. The Captiva Market is new this year & run by the same people.

 

November Weather

While no one can predict the weather, there is a website that attempts to do so. It’s the best place we have found to answer the question, “What’s the weather going to be like during my stay?” It may not be 100% accurate but it will give you a good idea of what to pack. When you’re standing in a snowstorm, it can be hard to imagine that it will be in the 80’s when you arrive!  Pack with sun and fun in mind. 

 

Housekeeping Items

Beach parking has increased to $5/hour this year. Not to worry as many of our accommodations are right on the beach or a short walk or bike ride to the beach. We suggest you bike to the beach if possible. Biking can be more fun plus it gives you the opportunity to discover the island at a slower pace. With 25 miles of bike paths, parking your car & biking around the island might be the best way to explore Sanibel. Ask our staff about the Sanibel Cemetery (only accessible by bike or on foot) and the ‘Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge Drive which is closed to cars on Friday but accessible by bike every day.

If you are driving and wondering about traffic, download the City’s traffic cameras app.  It’s free in your app store. Find it at “City of Sanibel Traffic Cameras” or see it online at MySanibel.com. You can watch from anywhere all year long!

 

Sanibel’s November Events

This is not a comprehensive list of island happenings in November. Please check the local papers & our staff for additional event & activity information when you arrive. We suggest you make reservations for the listed activities with the exception of the Nov. 29^th event at the Refuge & the Dec. Luminary Event.

November Calendar of Sanibel Events

Nov. 1 – Twilight Talk:  4 p.m. – 8 p.m.  Presented by Sanibel Historical Museum & Village

Cost:  $20/person –  Reservations Required   –  Call 239-472-4648

Captiva Cruises will take you on a trip to historic Useppa Island aboard the Lady Chadwick.  The cruise will depart from Captiva Island.

Nov. 5 – Sanibel Blues & Jazz Fest:  Gates open 11 a.m. Showtime: Noon – 6 p.m.

Located “In the backyard” at Bailey’s Center Plaza (Tarpon Bay & Periwinkle) Cost:  $15 – $125. Learn more & purchase tickets here.

This year’s headliners: Elvin Bishop, Matt Schoenfield, & Marty Stokes. You are encouraged to bring your own chairs & please, no coolers. Enjoy a day of live blues & jazz in a relaxed, family-friendly environment. Sponsored by the Sanibel-Captiva Optimist Club.

Nov. 15 – Small Stage Symphonies: 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.  BIG Arts – Schein Hall – Periwinkle Way

Cost:  $5 (child & students) $39 (adults). Learn more & purchase tickets here.

Nov. 23 – Thanksgiving Day Dolphin Cruise: 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Cost:  $29/person – Reservations Required – Adventures In Paradise

Bring your family & friends. Adventures In Paradise will bring the soft drinks & water!

After a day of feasting & family companionship, take your crew out on the local waters. Cruise the area watching the dolphins play and the birds soar overhead as they begin getting ready for their nightly roost. Watch a beautiful sunset from the comfort of one of Adventures In Paradise pontoon boats piloted by an experienced captain. It’s a trip everyone will be thankful they experienced & the perfect way to end the day.

Nov. 29 – Holiday Shopping After Hours:  5 p.m. – 7 p.m.

‘Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge

Cost:  Free –Your shopping proceeds support conservation & education efforts at J.N. ‘Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge.

Complimentary hors d’ oeuvres, drinks & gift wrapping. Spend $20 and receive a free gift. If you know someone who appreciates the “wildlife” things in life, this could be your best shopping spot. The store is full of nature-themed gifts for all ages. Stop in & do some shopping!

 

Luminary Festival

Dec. 1-2 Luminary Event: 5:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.

The 33^rd Annual Sanibel-Captiva Luminary Event

Cost:  Free & Open to the Public.

This Annual Event is the kick-off for the Holiday Season on the Islands. Enjoy Friday night on Sanibel & travel up to Captiva on Saturday night for their Luminary Event. It’s a great way to end your stay or a fun way to begin your island time. Lots of complimentary tidbits & beverages along the route!

Park at the main shopping centers on Periwinkle on Friday night. Stroll the mixed-use paths to take advantage of the many holiday delights that mark the Luminary Trail. Complimentary trolley rides will take you to the main Sanibel locations.

 

Until next month! Happy Thanksgiving & we’ll See you Soon!

Fran & The Island Vacations Staff

Fall is always the quietest time of the year on the islands. It’s also one of our best-kept secrets.

Businesses have been spruced up during the summer months, the sky becomes a cerulean blue, the humidity drops and the beach beckons with its offerings of shells and long, slow, intimate walks.

Over the past few years, we’ve had more and more people tell us they visited us during the fall or the holidays and fell in love with the islands and each other. They got engaged or decided to renew their vows. There is something about slowing down and spending time getting reacquainted on our beautiful island that leads to these romantic outcomes. We hope you decide to ignite or rekindle your relationship with us this fall.

Stop back next month to see what’s new at Island Vacations!

‘Ding Darling Days has been a favorite pastime for residents and guests for years. This weeklong event is a wonderful experience and a great way to learn about the many aspects of the refuge and the benefits it provides to our human and wildlife community. The activities are varied with an eye to offering fun & educational experiences for all family members. Many are free. Be sure to check out the calendar of events.

If you love birding, don’t overlook Oct. 20^th.

Tour on your own, or let the folks at Tarpon Bay Explorers take you on one of their informative trolley tours!

 

Island Vacations takes pride in our award-winning selection of condos, homes, and cottages. Our owners continue to update their properties for your comfort and convenience.  This summer we have added some new options for your 17-18 Sanibel stay! We have more properties waiting for their photo shoot, so check back again for updates.

Here are some of our new options:

Beachy Keen – Monthly Rental

 

Egret Home – Monthly Rental

 

Pointe Santo E3 – Weekly Rental

 

Pointe Santo E7 – Weekly Rental

 

Sunflower Cottage – Monthly Rental