Thank you for voting us “The Best”
Each year our local paper, “The Island Reporter”, devotes two issues to asking residents and guests who they consider the best business providers in specific categories. Since 2015 Island Vacations has been pleased to have been nominated the best in several areas.
We thought you’d enjoy this brief video and we want to thank our owners for providing us with such wonderful properties to offer our guests. With all of us working together, we hope to continue being “The Best” for many years to come. THANK YOU!
Fall colors paint the Sanibel sky
Seashells, Sunsets, Sea Life, & Serenades
September is a special time on Sanibel Island. It’s perfect for couples, romance, and quiet times with friends.
The sky becomes a more vibrant shade of blue, the Sanibel summer crowd disappears and the warm breezes and the spectacular sunset are all the excuse you’ll need for a romantic evening beach stroll. If you’re lucky, you may come across turtle hatchlings as they emerge from their nests to begin a life at sea. Fall colors on the island are displayed in the sunsets. Toward the end of the month, Grammy award winning Country Music stars arrive in the area to serenade residents and guests. Many of the events are free and all are open to the public. Read on for more information.
Romantic Sanibel Island Beach Walks
It’s the perfect time to stroll the beach and discover the seashells that make Sanibel Island a world-famous destination. Each wave brings with it new and different treasures. Shelling is best at low tide, but who needs a reason to walk the beach? A walk by the shore is a wonderful way to spend some time and reconnect with your special someone or group of friends.
Strolling the beach, a perfect way to spend the day.
Sanibel Island is often thought of as a great family destination or seasonal rental location. Recently we are becoming a sought-out destination for couples looking for a romantic place to get engaged, tie the knot or renew their vows. Many people recall coming to Sanibel as a child and the happy memories call them back as an adult to recapture those memories and begin making their own.
Sanibel Island is a romantic place to pop-the-question or rekindle your romance.
On The Water
When the urge to get on the water hits, choose from kayaks, stand up paddleboards or motorized watercraft. We have protected waters to explore or you can head out to the Gulf. The bay side of the island will provide you with the most wildlife sightings. You’ll see manatees, all types of water birds, dolphins, and a large variety of fish. It’s a great way to explore Sanibel Island and Captiva Island. Get a different perspective of the islands from the water.
Head out for a day of exploring on the water
Sunsets
A favorite evening pastime is watching the sunset. You can do this from your screened-in lanai, if you are staying in one of our Sanibel Island beachfront rentals, or bring chairs to the beach and watch the sun sink into the Gulf. Each sunset is unique and is always an awe-inspiring way to end the day. Bring your favorite beverage to the beach and toast this evening event.
Create your own evening Sanibel sunset celebration.
Turtle Hatchlings
In the spring, sea turtles arrive on Sanibel’s beaches to dig their nests and lay their eggs. In September the hatchlings emerge from the nests and scurry to the sea to begin their lives. The turtles are the reason beachfront guests are asked to close their drapes, remove debris and fill in holes on the beach, and keep exterior lights shaded away from the beach at night. When the baby turtles hatch, they use the light of the moon and stars reflecting off the water as their guide back to the water. Lights from human activity confuse them. They travel in the wrong direction and the outcome can be fatal to them. If you are lucky, you may witness a nest hatch. Please watch from a distance. It’s an experience you won’t forget.
Turtle hatchlings on their way to the sea
Island Hopper Songwriter Festival
The weekend of September 22nd the Fourth Annual Island Hopper Songwriters Festival comes to Captiva Island. It moves to downtown Fort Myers during the week and finishes on Fort Myers Beach Sunday, October 1. Give Island Vacations a call. We have a limited number of properties that can accommodate the unusual stay schedule. Call early to before they are booked. These reservations must be made by phone – 1-800=451-7277. This gathering of Grammy Award Award-winning country music songwriters is a must see for country fans. Most shows are free. You just walk from venue to venue listening to these talented singer/songwriters and enjoy the stories they share that lead up to the song\’s creation! It’s becoming known as one of the best events in Southwest Florida.
Brian Sutherland performs at last year’s Island Hopper. Casual dress is a must!
Sanibel Island in September is a perfect destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway, a quiet, relaxing stay or time with friends. Wrap up your September stay with a weekend of award winning musicians. Visit us in September for a different type of Island Vacation experience.
Island Vacations Kicks-Off Its 20 Year Celebration!
Island Vacations is kicking-off our 20th year in business and we invite you to become part of the celebration! Book a stay with Island Vacations during August 2017 for any date between August 2017 and August 2018*, and we’ll include a colorful, complimentary Island Vacations beach towel in your welcome bag! It’s our way of saying “Thank You for 20 Great Years!” We couldn’t have done it without you!
Island Vacations is locally owned and operated. Fran Petes, owner and president of Island Vacations, started her company with one condo almost 20 years ago. Today, Fran has over 80 quality condo, home, and cottage vacation rentals in her program. Fran and her staff are the perfect group to help you get the most joy during your vacation because they know the islands; they live here. They can direct you to the best places to go and things to do.
*Blackout dates apply – 1 towel per reservation
Sanibel Island vacation rental choices
Island Vacations has a wide variety of properties located throughout Sanibel Island. Looking for a beachfront condo rental? We have them. Do you desire a tucked away cottage or home where you can relax, escape and enjoy the slower rhythm of island life? Island Vacations has the property you’ve been searching for. All units are furnished and have fully equipped kitchens. Bring your bathing suits, flip flops, and toothbrush and prepare for a great time! The monthly rentals are perfect for seasonal travelers. Invite your friends and family to drop in for a few days to enjoy the island surroundings and escape the cold. Each property reflects the owner’s style, so review them online to find the property that fits your needs.
August Activity Suggestions
August is a great time on the island for those who enjoy discovering the natural side of Florida. This is a quieter time; the summer crowd has gone and the island begins to move at a more leisurely pace. It’s the perfect time to head out on a kayak to sight-see from the water or fish along the shoreline. There are so many things to discover offshore. Choose an outing with Adventures In Paradise or a day trip with Captiva Cruises. Discover some of the special things that make Sanibel and Captiva such a unique place to visit. You won’t be disappointed.
Spend the morning walking the beach looking for sea shells, followed by a dip in the pool. Then stop at The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum to learn about the shells you’ve collected and perhaps take advantage of their craft classes if that is something you enjoy. Or sign up for one of their daily beach walks with one of the museum’s marine biologists.
Do you love birds and wildlife? The ‘Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge is open daily and you can explore it by bike, car or trolley ride (the refuge is closed to cars on Fridays). ‘Ding Darling is located on a migratory flyway and a wonderful destination for birders. August can be a little early for migratory flights, but if you love birds, you should visit. The refuge is home to a variety of wildlife and has an interesting and informative air-conditioned welcome center.
Regardless of your reasons for choosing a Sanibel Island vacation, the evening sunset remains a perennial favorite with guests. No two are alike and they are a favorite source of nightly entertainment with island residents and guests.
Take some time this fall and spend it with Island Vacations of Sanibel & Captiva. See you soon!
July is a great time for an Island Vacation with your family on Sanibel & Captiva Islands. Easy access to water (the Gulf or the pool) means you’ll always be cool. Here are some ways to enjoy your time on Sanibel.
The Gulf of Mexico
With over 17 miles of beach to explore, we’re sure you’ll find a favorite beach. If you’re staying at a beachfront property, or across the street from the beach, sandy shores are steps away. Each condo complex and many of our private residences have their own pool.
Because Sanibel has an east/west orientation, it acts like a big scoop gathering the shells that wash up on its shore. We’re a world-famous shelling destination. This favorite pastime with locals & guests is a wonderful family activity that can be enjoyed by all. The best time to find shells is a low tide or after a storm, but there are plenty of shells to be found at almost any time of day.
Beach Time
Spending hours looking for shells, fishing, or swimming in the warm Gulf waters is what a Sanibel Island Vacation is all about. Kick back in your chair & watch the world go by; there’s always birds, boats & the rhythm of the waves lapping the shore to keep you entertained.
\’Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge
‘Ding Darling is a great place to learn about Sanibel, Captiva & the plants & animals that thrive in our tropical climate. There is an air-conditioned visitor center & gift shop. You can visit the Refuge by car every day except Friday. Watch for alligators, roseate spoonbills, raccoons & other critters that call ‘Ding Darling home.
Tarpon Bay Explorers
Tired of driving? Head over to Tarpon Bay Explorers at the bay end of Tarpon Bay Road. Their trolley tour through the Refuge will be informative & fun for all. Get the scoop on all the critters that live there. And while you’re at Tarpon Bay, check-out their kayak opportunities.
Rent a kayak & go on a guided tour of the mangroves with one of their guides. Once you’ve complete the guided tour, you’re welcome to keep the kayak for the remainder of the day & head out on your own – no additional charge. It’s a great way to explore the Sanibel shoreline from the water. Since you’re on the bay side, in protected waters, it’s perfect for young & novice kayakers. You’ll also see lots of fish!
Other Tour Options
If you don’t have a boat or want to paddle, but would like to explore the area by water, consider these options:
Adventures In Paradise has a trolley that will pick you up at your location, or very close to it, and bring you back after the cruise! They offer dolphin, lunch, shelling, sunset & nature cruises. The kids will have a blast & so will the adults. You’ll learn a lot & have fun in the process! They can accommodate private parties & special occasions too.
While you’re here you might want to head up to Captiva, our sister island, & experience lunch at Cabbage Key. This Olde Florida restaurant is only accessible by boat. Get there with Captiva Cruises.
The trip to the island typically includes dolphin sightings plus local history & wildlife information shared in a fun & entertaining manner. Take in the views from the top deck or relax in air-conditioned comfort below deck & enjoy a beverage or two. The entire family will enjoy lunch at Cabbage Key. Afterward, you can take a short walk on the nature trail or just find a spot outside, relax and wait for the boat to return for a leisurely cruise back to the dock.
For a truly memorable Island Vacation, take advantage of a unique Sanibel experience. Spend some time exploring from the water as well as from land. Bring the family, it’s Family Fun Month!
Head to the beach
The most obvious activity is to explore the beach. With over 17 miles of beaches, you can explore for days. Be sure to hunt for the Sanibel Six, the graphics and information at this link are provided by our friend Pam Rambo of iLoveShelling.com. These varieties can all be found on Sanibel and if you discover all or most of them, you’ll have a good start on your shell collection. If you are lucky enough to find the Junonia shell, stop at the Island Reporter behind The Village Shops on Periwinkle Way. They’ll take your picture and put you in the paper as a shell celebrity!
Go kayaking
You can’t spend every day on the beach, so let’s get on the water. The Gulf of Mexico is a gentle body of water with soft balmy breezes and lots of shallow waters where birds & fish like to gather in the shallows and shade. Start your day with a kayak tour at Tarpon Bay Explorers. Spend some time on the water with one of their knowledgeable guides & then you can keep the kayak for the remainder of the day to explore on your own. This is a chance to sneak in some learning in a fun environment and get a feel for the area as you paddle the shoreline. It’s a great family experience. Tarpon Bay is a good place to visit to get on the water and learn about other locations and activities to explore while you are here. They offer more than kayak trips. Visit them online to see what is available.
Kayaking for the experienced
For more experienced paddlers, check out The Great Calusa Blueway and head out for a day or more of adventure or great Sanibel fishing. There are several access points on Sanibel. This is a wonderful way to explore the many small islands that dot our area. Lots of good shelling, fishing and sightseeing opportunities for those who are comfortable exploring on their own. For our area, I recommend you download the phase 2 trail map you’ll discover in this link.
Go Fishing
Speaking of fishing…our waters are teaming with a variety of sport fish. The Tarpon migrate through our waters each spring, but if you’re lucky, you might find one that likes the area so much they hang around into the summer months. Many of the remaining tarpon are not that large, but put up a great fight! Try the Pine Island Sound side of the island for some active fishing grounds. Or go offshore for some big game fish. Guides can be found here.
After days on the beach or on the water, a day indoors may be in order. We have lots of attractions that can get you out of the sun and keep the day filled with fun. Check back for more information.
May is national bicycle month!
In 2014 the City of Sanibel was awarded a “Silver” designation by the League of American Bicyclists in recognition of being a safe bike city. With over 25 miles of “shared use paths”, Sanibel is the perfect place for the entire family to explore on bicycles. Locally you can rent bikes from Billy’s Rentals (two locations) or Finnimore’s. The city has produced a video about the etiquette of using the shared use paths. View that here.
A stop you won’t want to miss is Sanibel’s Pioneer Cemetary, only accessible by bike path. It’s located off Algiers (Algiers is off Casa Ybel Rd.) next to the Gulf Side Park & will provide some interesting island history. More biking information & maps of Sanibel’s many bike trails & directions to the cemetery can be found here.
Explore some of the paths that go through wooded areas or tour the ‘Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge by bike.
Stop & shop along Periwinkle Way & beyond. Stores typically provide bike racks. Build in a few ice cream & frozen treat stops as you traverse the island. Keep it fun, stay hydrated & enjoy the island at a slower speed.
Our staff is always a great source of information on places to bike and things to do during your stay. Many of our owners provide complimentary bikes for guests during their stays, so be sure to check and see if the property you’re interested in includes bicycles in the rental. Don’t hesitate to stop in for some island insights and suggestions to make your stay memorable and increase your enjoyment of this sanctuary island we call home. Happy bike trails!
Springtime on Sanibel Island is a special time of the year. We’re between spring break and summer vacation. It’s the perfect time for couples, or those looking for some quiet time before the kids are home for the summer, to come for a visit. Our Sanctuary Island has its own rhythm this season. Let’s see what’s going on…
It’s Turtle Time!
From April through October several species of sea turtles visit Sanibel to lay their eggs on our soft sandy beaches. Locally, the SCCF (Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation) staff and more than 100 volunteers monitor over 18 miles of shore each morning looking for evidence that a sea turtle has nested during the night. They mark and monitor the nests until the hatchlings emerge from the nest and head to the water. Please observe the lights out request & other turtle precautions. If you are staying in a beachfront unit, you’ll be asked to turn off outside lights at night & use the blackout blinds. These and other simple requests play a huge part in the successful sea turtle nesting population that visit Sanibel yearly. We love our turtles & we know you will too! Please observe them from a distance. The website will give you more information SCCF Turtle Information. If you’re lucky, you might see a turtle dig a nest, or later in the year, observe the hatchlings making their way to the water.
Everyone’s Favorite Pastime – Shelling!
Did you know that Sanibel has over 250 types of shells washing up along its shores? Did you know that The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum on Sanibel Island is the only shell museum in the nation?
Even if you’ve never looked at a seashell before, you can leave Sanibel as a shell “expert”. One walk along the beach and you’ll know why people come from all over the world to hunt for shells. Besides having the only nationally recognized Shell Museum, we have a pretty famous “sheller” in our midst. iLoveShelling is the creation of local resident & shelling enthusiast, Pam Rambo. You can contact Pam for a private shell tour.
Or create your own shelling adventure by walking the shore. Low tide is the best time to collect shells, but anytime is a good time for finding shells on Sanibel. After a rain storm or windy days are also great times to shell!
Stop at our front office for an identification card, or take your best shells to the Shell Museum, you can learn about what you found & possibly make your own souvenir. See our previous blog post for shell museum information.
Here are tide charts, courtesy of iLoveShelling to help you plan the best shelling times: iLoveShellingTideCharts
If you find a Junonia, stop in at the Island Reporter office behind The Village Shops (2340 Periwinkle) Monday through Friday during business hours. They will take a photo of you and your shell, and put you in the local paper!
See you Soon!
Visiting Island Vacations in April? Here’s a list of events taking place that you might enjoy while you’re here!
Every Sunday in April Visit the Sanibel Island Farmers Market!
The Sanibel Island Farmers Market is the brainchild of two island residents, Jean Baer & Betsy Ventura. It has grown to become an island happening and we don’t want you to miss the opportunity to experience this community hot spot. It’s a great place to pick up food for your stay, meet locals & get a feel for the Sanibel community. You’ll find fresh baked goods, fresh flowers, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and meats as well as items that make thoughtful gifts for friends back home. The Farmers Market is located on Dunlop Road, next to City Hall and runs from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Well behaved dogs on leashes are welcome.
‘Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge – April Events
There’s a lot to do at The ‘Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge! Many of their programs are free. To get a better idea of what may interest your group, visit their website in the link above. We’re sure you’ll discover something fun & interesting each time you visit the Refuge!
- Mondays through April 17th – Take a free “Bike the Refuge Tour”. See the ‘Ding Darling Refuge up close on a guided tour with one of the refuge rangers. Meet in front of the education center.
- Tuesday through April 18th – Free Birding Tours – The ‘Ding Darling Refuge is part of a bird flyway, so all types of birds travel this flyway throughout the year. Take a tour and see what species are currently calling the Refuge home!
- Saturdays & Sundays through April 23rd – Free programs at the Refuge. For specific topics visit their website.
The refuge is open 7:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. daily. The refuge is closed to car traffic on Fridays, but accessible by bike or on foot. It is located on San-Cap Road.
Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF)
If you love turtles, this is the place to come. SCCF monitors our turtle population & makes sure nests are marked and the turtles are protected. They watch over the local marine life & environment. SCCF maintains many of the island’s nature trails and house a native plant nursery where the best plants for our local climate are found. Their nature center is informative, they have a great gift shop, and its air conditioned! Stop in and learn about the island environment. You can find walking trail maps here. The refuge is located at 3333 San-Cap Road & is open M-F from 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. through May. They close at 3 p.m. June – September.
For program descriptions, times and fees visit their website above. Here’s an example of April Events at SCCF:
- Thursdays – April 13th & 27th – Turtle Talks – Learn all about the turtles that nest here & how SCCF & Island residents work to keep them safe.
- Friday – April 21st – Earth Day – Check in with SCCF and see what special event they have scheduled.
- Wednesdays – from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. – Enjoy a walking tour of the Bailey Homestead on Periwinkle Way. The Bailey Family is one of the pioneer families still living on the island and their original homestead has been restored. Experience life on the islands as those who settled on Sanibel in the 1800’s did.
Holiday Services on Sanibel
The community has several Easter Services planned throughout the island. Please see your preferred house of worship for details. There is a Seder scheduled for April 10th at the Sanibel Community House (more information here).
April is a beautiful month on Sanibel. We hope you’ll enjoy the island and all it offers. Your best Island Vacations experience is waiting for you. See you soon!
Island Vacations recommends our guests visit The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum while they are here. Beach walks become more interesting once you know a little something about all those fabulous shells washing up on the shore. The displays include interactive touch tanks, shell craft displays, scientific and general shell knowledge for all to enjoy. They have a beautiful gift shop full of amazing items to remember your visit or purchase an item as a gift for those taking care of things for you back home. People find they transform from being a casual shell finder to a more focused shell collector once their knowledge level increases!
During the past year, Island Vacations has participated in several Adopt-A-Class events at the museum. These trips bring area school children to the museum where they learn about the mollusks that call local waters home. The students interact with the mollusks in the touch tank, learn about these fascinating ocean creatures from the marine biologists that work at the museum, and create a memory about their trip during the arts and crafts segment of the trip.
Island Vacations’ owner, Fran Peters, has been intrigued by shells since she was a little girl. Being able to expose children to the creatures that live in the Gulf waters surrounding their home is something she truly enjoys.
“Children are like sponges and if we teach them early about seashells, then perhaps they will follow in our footsteps and continue to give back to the museum when they are able,” said Fran Peters, Owner of Island Vacations.
For more information on hours, admission fees and programs for the public visit http://www.shellmuseum.org/.
Sanibel, FLA (Nov. 14, 2016)- Fran Peters, Owner and President of Island Vacations of Sanibel & Captiva, Inc., is a new member of the Keiser University Fort Myers Advisory Board. Keiser University prepares graduates for careers in the fields of business, criminal justice, health care, technology, hospitality and education.
The recent appointment resulted from Peters being approached by a Keiser University Hospitality student for an interview. After that meeting, they found themselves at some of the same business functions, and a student/mentor relationship developed. The student invited Peters to attend a class and listen to her report. During that visit, Peters ended up speaking to a group of Keiser Hospitality students about how she started her business and what she feels constitute the key ingredients of a successful Hospitality career. She was then approached by a Keiser professor and board member about serving on the Keiser University Advisory Board.
“I was honored to be asked to take this role as I enjoy helping people pursue their passion and excel in their careers. Working with the next generation of Hospitality professionals will be very gratifying and I look forward to serving on the Keiser University Fort Myers Advisory Board,” Peters said.
About Island Vacations of Sanibel & Captiva, Inc. – Fran Peters, Owner & President of Island Vacations of Sanibel & Captiva, Inc., began renting condos, homes and cottages to Sanibel Island guests over 20 years ago.
Starting with one condo, she has expanded her business to over 80 condos, cottages and home rentals. Stays run from weekly condo and cottage rentals to monthly and seasonal home rentals. Island Vacations has some of the best properties available on Sanibel Island and was voted a “Sanibel Best” in 2015 & 2016. The local reservationists will make you feel at home and provide you with the information and resources necessary to make your vacation stay an experience you’ll want to repeat year after year. Island Vacations can be reached at 239-472-7277.
About Keiser University: Keiser University, co-founded by Dr. Arthur Keiser, Chancellor in 1977, is a private, not-for-profit University serving nearly 20,000 students offering 100 degrees at the doctoral through associate level on 18 Florida campuses, online and internationally, employing 3,800 staff and faculty.
Ranked #23 by US News & World Report in its 2017 Best Regional Colleges South category, Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges as a Level VI to award certificates and degrees at the associate, baccalaureate, masters, specialist, and doctoral levels. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Keiser University.
For additional information regarding Keiser University, visit www.keiseruniversity.edu.