Gulf Shores Travel Guide
Sanibel
Visit Gulf Shores
Popular places to visit
Sanibel Island Southern Beach
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Sanibel Island Southern Beach during your trip to Sanibel?
Sanibel Island Lighthouse
You can find out about the history of Sanibel with a trip to Sanibel Island Lighthouse. Wander through the beautiful beaches and seaside in this family-friendly area.
Bowman's Beach
Relax and revel in a visit to one of the area’s most beautiful beaches, great for swimming, fishing and finding special seashells.
Periwinkle Way
The island’s spine is also its commercial hub. Drive or bike the road’s length to find attractions and discover many stores and restaurants.
J. N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge
See almost anything that flies, swims or crawls in Florida in this protected area. Become acquainted with wildlife while learning about varied species.
Causeway Islands Park B
If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Causeway Islands Park B might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Sanibel. Wander the seaside or discover the breathtaking sunrises in this family-friendly area.
Things to do
Southwest Florida Sunset Sail
Dolphin Wildlife Cruise Fort Myers Beach
Parasailing Adventure on Fort Myers Beach (400 Foot Flight)
Half-Day Private Tiki Boat Beach Tour from Fort Myers
Top hotels in Gulf Shores
Margaritaville Beach Resort Fort Myers
"From start to end the stay was great very helpful staff from the parking attendants to the bar service to the food at each station. Great atmosphere and music."
Reviewed on 20 May 2026
Holiday Inn Express Cape Coral-Fort Myers Area by IHG
"Room was clean, breakfast was fresh and well maintained. Elevator is slow and could probably use some maintenance, took the stairs more than once."
Reviewed on 20 May 2026
Lani Kai Beachfront Resort
"My breakfast was cold Two cold eggs With two luke warm sausage Cold unbutter pieces toast And Frozen slightly warm hash browns"
Reviewed on 19 May 2026
Sanibel Island Beach Resort
"A very nice vacation property easily accessible to getting on and off the causeway to Sanibel Island from Fort Myers. The ability to be able to just walk down to the beach and enjoy very nice lounge chairs and collect shells and then cool off at the hotel pool. I had heard that the hotel restaurant ..."
Reviewed on 19 May 2026
Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina
"Amazing spot! Love the view and the activities. Food was also delicious."
Reviewed on 20 May 2026
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ft. Myers-Sanibel Gateway
"No complaints"
Reviewed on 19 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Gulf Shores
Gulf Pines
While Gulf Pines may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like J. N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge and Bowman's Beach.
Chateaux Sur Mer
While Chateaux Sur Mer isn't home to many top sights, Bowman's Beach and J. N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge are some notable places to visit nearby.
Tradewinds
While there might not be top attractions in Tradewinds, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Bowman's Beach and J. N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
West End
If you're spending some time in West End, J. N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge and Bowman's Beach are top sights worth seeing.
East Rocks
While there might not be top attractions in East Rocks, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Sanibel Island Southern Beach and J. N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
Heron's Landing
When in Heron's Landing, you can plan a visit to Bowman's Beach and Blind Pass Beach, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
