Best of Sanibel Captiva Beach Blog

New Doc Ford Novel Signing Events

2011-01-09T20:31:00.000-05:00

Mark your calendars - New York Times Best Selling author, Randy Wayne White will be signing copies of Night Vision, the newest novel in the thrilling Doc Ford series at Doc Ford’s Sanibel Rum Bar & Grille and Doc Ford’s Fort Myers Beach.

Doc Ford’s Sanibel is the place to be on Sunday, February 20th and Monday, February 21st from 12 – 2pm and again from 4 – 6 pm, both days.

On Sunday, March 13th White will be appearing at Doc Ford’s Fort Myers Beach from 12 – 2pm and again from 4 – 6 pm.

Doc Ford’s Sanibel Rum Bar & Grille
975 Rabbit Road, Sanibel Island
239.472.8311
(at the corner of Rabbit Road and San-Cap Road)
http://www.docfordssanibel.com/

Doc Ford’s Fort Myers Beach
708 Fisherman’s Wharf, Fort Myers Beach
239.765.9660
(on the east side of the Fort Myers Beach Bridge)
http://www.docfordsfortmyersbeach.com/

Sanibel Celebration for Toys for Tots

2010-11-18T09:04:00.000-05:00

Have fun & help the Marines deliver a message of hope to less fortunate children this holiday season.
Bounce House ~ Face Painting ~ Real Working Fire Truck!

Periwinkle Place Shopping Center
Friday, Dec. 10, 2010 from 3 - 7pm
Admission for all activities & shops: Donation of a new, unwrapped toy

During this timeframe there will be ADMISSION required to all shops & activities.
** Only 1 toy is required to participate in all activities and enter all shops. If you would like to donate more, that is certainly welcome!

"Style Your Sole" at Sanibel's Island Pursuit

2010-11-11T16:41:00.001-05:00

Come out to Sanibel's Island Pursuit - buy a new pair of shoes and help a child in need!
Raffle with proceeds to C.R.O.W.

Bring any canned food item for F.I.S.H. & receive a 10% discount.

"Style Your Sole" Event at Island Pursuit
Sunday, November 14th - 12p to 5p
Periwinkle Place Shopping Center
2075 Periwinkle Way
Sanibel Island
239.472.4600

Fun, Food & TOMS! - For every pair of TOMS purchased, a pair will be donated to a child in need.

Purchase a pair of TOMS plain canvas shoes and customized them however you want. Participants are limited only by their imagination. All supplies will provided.

One for One - TOMS has donated more than 1,000,000 pairs of shoes in four shorts years.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Voted Top 10 by Travel Channel

2010-11-04T10:07:00.000-04:00

Both Sanibel Island and Captiva Island have been voted in the Top 10 Florida Beaches by the Travel Channel!

Sanibel Island

Sanibel is a unique barrier island with east-west orientation that differs from the typical north-south layout. This east-west designation has helped Sanibel earn its reputation as one of the Shell Islands - prime spots along Florida’s coastline for gathering perfectly intact shells in every shape and size. Hit the beach with a bucket, shovel and small net and stroll the beach at low tide to peruse the ocean’s bounty of conch, cockles and scallop shells. Bowman’s Beach is the quietest and most remote stretch of sand in Sanibel, while a historic lighthouse beckons visitors to take a stroll on the rustic boardwalk at Lighthouse Beach.

Captiva Island

Along with Sanibel, Captiva Island shares the distinction of being 1 of Florida’s Shell Islands. Captiva is generally the spot to find the larger of the intact shells. Turner Beach, though not good for swimming because of fast currents, is the perfect spot for a shell-hunting adventure. Just be sure to leave any live shells on the beach or risk breaking the strict shelling laws. At sunset, head to Captiva Beach at the end of Captiva Drive to take in a spectacular sunset.

Get A Taste of Sanibel & Captiva

2010-10-31T14:05:00.000-04:00

Taste of the Islands
Sunday, November 21, 2010 from 12p - 5p
Sanibel Community Park - 2231 Periwinkle Way

Don't miss your chance to get a Taste of the Islands and help Sanibel & Captiva's wildlife at the same time!

An island tradition, Taste of the Islands is one of the largest fundraisers for the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) and will feature delicious dishes from 22 of Sanibel and Captiva’s finest restaurants, live music and kids' activities, all to benefit CROW’s mission of saving wildlife through compassion, care and education.

Admission tickets are $5 per person (children 10 and under are free) and are available at the gate or for advance purchase starting November 1st at a discounted rate of five tickets for $20 from CROW’s Visitor Education Center 3883 Sanibel Captiva Road or Bank of the Islands at the corner of Periwinkle Way and Casa Ybel Road.

CROW is an island nonprofit organization dedicated to "Saving Wildlife through Compassion, Care and Education since 1968". CROW provides high quality medical care to more than 4,000 patients annually, representing over 200 different wildlife species. In addition to providing medical care, CROW aims to prevent injuries before they happen by presenting a variety of educational programs designed to help demonstrate personal responsibility and how to protect native wildlife populations.

For more information, visit http://www.tastesanibelcaptiva.com/

First Doc Ford Cotillion Huge Success!

2010-10-30T12:20:00.002-04:00

Selwyn Birchwood

Doc Ford’s Sanibel Rum Bar & Grille was THE place to be October 29th!

The Selwyn Birchwood Blues Band had the joint jumpin’ at the first in a series of Doc Ford Cotillions. Along with the great music, a special Louisiana-style menu was served that included such southern favorites as Fried Catfish, Creole Remoulade, Chicken Jambalaya with Andouille sausage, ham, peppers & onions, collard greens with smoked bacon & onions and cornbread.

The band moves to Doc Ford’s Fort Myers Beach tonight from 7 to 10pm - don’t miss ‘em!

Doc Ford Cotillion Kick-off October 29th

2010-10-22T13:37:00.000-04:00

Mark your calendar and make your plans to be at Doc Ford’s Sanibel Rum Bar & Grille on October 29th and Doc Ford’s Fort Myers Beach on October 30th for the first Doc Ford Cotillion.

While Merriam-Webster defines a cotillion as an elaborate dance or a formal ball, Doc Ford’s has another, more interesting definition thanks to New York Times best-selling author Randy Wayne White. “Each Saturday at sunset, the fishing guides and the live-aboards throw money in a pot to finance Dinkin’s Bay weekly Pig Roast and Beer Cotillion. The name is misleading because pigs and cotillions don’t play a role. Beer, however, does.” - Captiva; 1996.

It is in that spirit that the Doc Ford’s Restaurants are holding the first in a series of Doc Ford Cotillions. Beginning at Doc Ford’s Sanibel Rum Bar & Grille on Friday, October 29th from 6 to 9pm and moving to Doc Ford’s Fort Myers Beach on Saturday, October 30 from 7 to 10pm, the evening will be filled with great food and great, live entertainment.

A special Louisiana-style menu will be served at both restaurants that includes such southern favorites as Fried Catfish, Creole Remoulade, Chicken Jambalaya with Andouille sausage, ham, peppers & onions, collard greens with smoked bacon & onions and cornbread.

Taking center stage, Doc Ford’s is thrilled to showcase the Selwyn Birchwood Blues Band and their unique brand of swampy, Florida Blues. This extremely popular group has performed internationally at premiere venues including “Terra Blues” in New York City, “Big Muddy Blues Festival” in St. Louis, “Beltline Blues Fest” in Calgary, Alberta and “Buddy Guy’s Legends” in Chicago. 2010 has seen them opening for the nationally acclaimed acts of Texas Bluesman Sonny Rhodes, Robert Cray, John Lee Hooker Jr., Zac Harmon and Joanna Connor. Visit www.DocFords.com for more information.

Doc Ford’s Sanibel Rum Bar & Grille is located at 975 Rabbit Rd., Sanibel Island 239.472.8311
Doc Ford’s Fort Myers Beach is located at 708 Fisherman’s Wharf, Ft. Myers Beach 239.765.9660

2010 Ding Darling Amature Photography Contest

2010-07-15T19:21:00.001-04:00

It's time to submit your photos!

Enteries must be received by September 15th. Head to the Ding Darling Photo Contest page for rules and an entry form.

While you're there, check out the previous winning enteries - some gorgeous photos!

Rescued Lousianna Birds Released on Sanibel Island

2010-07-13T01:54:00.000-04:00

An exciting day on Sanibel today! U.S. Fish and Wildlife officers released 21 Brown Pelicans and 11 Gannets into the clean Gulf waters at Algiers Beach (Gulfside City Park).

The birds begain their journey aboard a special Coast Guard flight that left New Orleans at 7am, landing at Page Field. The crates were loaded into waiting vans to head to Sanibel, where the birds were released. All of the birds had been rescued in the past 2 weeks, covered in oil from the BP blow-out. They were cleaned and nursed back to health in LA before being transported.

There is a possibility that more birds may be brought to the area to be released in the future.

(photo courtsey of News-Press)

Sanibel Island's 4th of July Parade - A Fun Tradition

2010-07-07T10:01:00.000-04:00

Sanibel's 20th Annual Independence Day Parade was a fun success! The route was lined with loads of happy people and the parade went off without a hitch.

Grand Marshall, Ralph Woodring, waving to the crowd.

Visit the BestofSanibelCaptiva.com Message Board - Fourth of July Parade thread to see more photos.

Sanibel - Captiva National Commercials

2010-07-02T12:30:00.000-04:00

The Lee County Visitors Convention Bureau (VCB) filmed several national TV ad campaigns on Sanibel & Captiva. The spots were recently aired on the Nightly News with Diane Sawyer.

Members of the BestofSanibelCaptiva Message Board have reported seeing the commercials on ABC, NBC and CBS as well as their local FOX channel.

We were so excited to be a part of this effort to show that are beaches are still as beautiful as ever! You can visit the VCB website to view the commercials.

Sanibel Island's Sweet Melissa's Cafe NOT Going Out of Business

2010-07-01T11:58:00.000-04:00

Setting a rumor to rest...

There is a nasty rumor going around the islands that Sweet Melissa's Cafe is going out of business - NOT TRUE!!

The folks at Sweet Melissa's have worked hard to become a popular island restaurant with delicious food, great service and live musical entertainment. Let's keep them going!

Stunning Sanibel Sunset

2010-07-01T09:59:00.000-04:00

Sunset from the Sanibel Causeway last night...enjoy!

Sanibel Island's Traditional 4th of July Fireworks WILL Take Place!

2010-06-10T16:04:00.001-04:00

Thanks to the efforts of residents and local businesses, Sanibel's traditional 4th of July fireworks WILL takeplace at dusk over the Bay just like always! Many island residents and business donated to see this great tradition continue. Please, when you patronize these businesses, take a moment to say thanks!
Sharon Michie of Cottages To Castles is organizing and overseeing the donations along with necessities of police, fire and insurance.

From Sharon:
"Here we go, in no particular order:

Mason Meyer (Zambelli Fireworks), Danny Morgan & Amy Zimmerman Morgan, Lynda & Harry King, Becky (Mulka) / Sean Scott/ & Roxy at the Sanibel Grill, Melissa Trumbull, Bill Morris & Family, the Lazy Flamingo, Joe Dennison, Marjorie & Joe Meek, Kathleen Suchora, Claudia Burns, Danny Adams, Bailey's Grocery, Carol Ayers, Rebecca Hopkins, Bob Kern, Tween Waters/Castaways/Beachview Cottages, Rachel Tritaik, Sanibel Air Conditioning, Over Easy & Island Paws, SCI of SW FL, Betty Reynolds, Cathy & Terri Malik, Doc Ford's, Timbers/Sanibel Grill/Matzaluna & Prawnbroker, Trudy Prevatte, Jim Ballenger, Sanibel-Captiva Chamber, BestofSanibelCaptiva.com (Yea, Us!) ;-) , Cottages to Castles, Island Vacations, Sanibel Holiday, Sanibel Accommodations, Select Vacations, Royal Shell Vacations, Re-Max of the Islands, VIP Rentals and the list keeps on growing!"

The Only Thing on Sanibel Island Beaches Is Footprints & Seashells

2010-06-05T16:47:00.000-04:00

On Sanibel Island, the only thing you’ll find on our beaches is footprints and seashells. We want guests around the world hear loud & clear that the beaches of Sanibel are unspoiled and pristine and that it is just another day in Paradise here!

While it’s understandable that guests would be concerned about effects the oil spill in the north Gulf may have, local resorts remain positive that it is safe to book a vacation, thanks to the Loop Current that sits approximately 200 miles off our shores and actually helps to protect the southwest barrier islands. However, in light of guests’ concerns, prominent businesses have modified their usual cancellation policies and adopted “Clean Beach Guarantees” as a way to assure guests that their vacation investments are not at risk.

Casa Ybel Resort, Sanibel Island Florida

"Natural Beach" Guarantee - The beaches of Sanibel and Captiva Island remain unspoiled and abundant with shells. In cooperation with island accommodations, Casa Ybel Resort will provide a nightly room rate refund to any Casa Ybel Resort rental guest should the City of Sanibel or Lee County authorities officially close the resort’s beach area during their stay due to the oil spill.

Sanibel Arms West, Sanibel Island Florida

“No Risk Vacation” - If the beaches of Sanibel Island, Florida experience any unlikely closures related to BP’s incident, you may elect to reschedule your vacation to arrive within 12 months (of your original arrival date) with no penalty. This NO RISK DEPOSIT policy allows you flexibility up to 48 hours prior to your scheduled arrival date. Currently this policy applies to any reservation now through August 20, 2010.

The beaches of Sanibel Arms West and Sanibel Island are clean and open for business. Our management team and leadership are monitoring the situation closely on your behalf. We have been very fortunate that the area of concern continues to be far from our beautiful island and with our NO RISK DEPOSIT policy you can make your travel plans with peace of mind.

Sandalfoot Condominiums, Sanibel Island Florida

"Open Beaches Guarantee" - We want you to feel comfortable and confident in your vacation plans this year, so in light of the uncertainty surrounding the oil spill in the Northern Gulf, we have adjusted our cancellation policy to provide you with enhanced protections for this year.

In the unlikely event that the beaches of Sanibel are officially closed by Federal, State or Local authorities during your stay at Sandalfoot and you wish to leave, you will be entitled to a prorated refund for the remaining nights of your reservation. If the official closure takes place within 2 weeks of arrival, you will be entitled to a full refund of your deposit if you wish. If the official closure takes place between 14 and 60 days of your scheduled arrival, you may apply your rental deposit fees to any other available date over the next 2 years without penalty.

Gulf Breeze Cottages Memorial Day Weekend Special

2010-05-27T02:37:00.000-04:00

Gulf Breeze Cottages on Sanibel Island has a few remaining vacancies for the holiday weekend and is offering a 2 people for 2 nights package.

The special deal is offered at regular, not holiday rates and includes beach chairs, beach umbrella and towels plus a FREE 1 day bike rental for 2 people.

Call Gulf Breeze Cottages at 239.472.1626 or toll free at 1.800.388.2842 to reserve.

Sanibel Island Sandalfoot Condos Memorial Day Special

2010-05-25T23:33:00.001-04:00

Sandalfoot Condominiums on Sanibel Island is the latest to offer a hot deal for Memorial Day Weekend;

3 Nights from $189 a night - Special 3 night package includes FREE late checkout at your leisure on Monday, a FREE 6-pack cooler, and a FREE “Beach Treasures of the Gulf Coast” shell book by noted international authors S. Peter Dance & Harlan E. Wittkopf.

Visit the Sandalfoot web site to make your reservations!

Memorial Day Weekend Special at Sanibel Arms West

2010-05-24T10:58:00.000-04:00

Sanibel Arms West has a great deal for Memorial Day Weekend!
May 24 - 31, 2010
Stay in a 2 bedroom / 2 bath GARDEN VIEW CONDO for 3 nights for ONLY $500 + tax.
That's just $166 a night on a holiday! Complimentary late check-out on Monday May 31st where available.

Availability is moving fast - don't hesitate! Head to the Sanibel Arms West website and make your reservations today.

Doc Ford's Sanibel Rum Bar & Grille Featured in New York Times Magazine

2010-05-20T09:15:00.000-04:00

On May 16th, Doc Ford's Sanibel Rum Bar & Grille was featured in New York Times Magazine.
They got a great write-up and - for all of you craving a taste of the islands - the Yucatan Shrimp recipe was included!

"Here is a late-spring meal to evoke deep summer, when the heat lies heavy even at dusk and humidity wraps you like a blanket: shrimp tossed in garlic butter made fiery with Indonesian sambal and jalapeño, cut by lime, fragrant with cilantro.

It is a kind of scampi for the sun-kissed and sun-desirous alike, a vacation on a plate. Add a mojito and a couple of beers." Read the entire article on Doc Ford's Sanibel blog - Doc's Journal

Celebrate New Year's Eve at Twilight Cafe

2008-12-06T19:00:00.003-05:00

It's time to make your New Year's Eve plans!

On Sanibel, make plans to celebrate at Twilight Cafe's New Year's Eve Extravaganza from 10:00pm - 1:00am.
The cost is $125 per person and is All Inclusive of:
• Heavy Appetizer Buffet
• Beer, Select Wine and House Drinks
• Tips & Tax
• Entertainment and Dancing

Seating is limited and Reservations Are Required.
Call 239.472.8818 today!

Twilight Cafe Luminary Special & Holiday Open House

2008-12-03T09:59:00.004-05:00

This coming FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5 is Luminary Night on Sanibel Island!
To celebrate the evening, Twilight Cafe is offering Special Discount Dinner Coupons.

Early Bird Dining Special - available 5:00 to 5:45pm only
Choose either a FREE bottle of Select Wine or 10% OFF your entire check. Reservations required.

Dining Special - available all evening
Choose either a FREE bottle of House Wine or 15% OFF your entire check. Reservations required.

• Follow this link to the BestofSanibelCaptiva.com Message Board
• Print the coupons
• Call 239.472.8818 for reservations
____________________________________

Twilight Cafe 1st Annual Holiday Open House - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6

Twilight Cafe invites you to their 1st Annual Open House from 9:00 - 10:30am.
Enjoy COMPLIMENTARY breakfast for every guest bringing a new, unwrapped toy for donation to the Boy's & Girl's Clubs. Santa will be available for photos during open house.

Twilight Cafe
2761 West Gulf Drive, Sanibel Island

Best of Sanibel Captiva 2009 Calendar

2008-11-27T00:28:00.007-05:00

The 2009 Best of Sanibel Captiva Calendar is now available!
Get yours and spend a year on the Islands!

The 2009 calender features stunning, full-color pictures of both Sanibel and Captiva Islands courtsey of Best of Sanibel Captiva Message Board Member - Photos by Glenna.

Each calendar includes:
• 100 lb cover weight paper throughout
• wire-o bound
• a 2010 preview
• U.S. holidays indicated
• Each page Measures 8.5” x 11”, overall size of 11” x 17” when hanging

Warm up your home and office space - Visit the BestofSanibelCaptiva.com Cool Stuff Store and get your calendar today! (They make great Holiday gifts too!)

Black Friday Sanibel Island Style

2008-11-26T08:58:00.005-05:00

Tahitian Gardens is having a sidewalk sale this Friday, November 28 through Sunday, November 30.

Come get your Holiday shopping done - all of the shops have great selections for everyone on your list and many are discounting items up to 50%. Everyone loves a gift from Sanibel!

Tahitian Gardens is located at 1975 Periwinkle Way.

Guess Who?

2008-11-26T00:09:00.003-05:00

How many islanders and frequent visitors can name this handsome young man?
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Give up? That's none other than Sam Bailey!

Born and raised on Sanibel Island, Sam Bailey's family history dates back to the late 1800s, a time when life on this Gulf Coast island was difficult and the people who lived there were hard working and hardy.

In his newly released book, A Sanibel Son Looks Back, Bailey tells the tale of what it was like to grow up on this tiny but magnificently beautiful island and takes readers on journey back to the rugged early years of this now world-famous vacation get-away.

A Launch Party and book signing for A Sanibel Son Looks Back will be held at the Sanibel Community Center, 2173 Periwinkle Way, Saturday December 13th from 6 to 8 pm.

Sanibel Orchid Show, Sidewalk Sale & Art Show

2008-11-21T11:03:00.003-05:00

The 15th annual Orchid Show and Sidewalk Sale starts today and continues through Sunday, from 10-5 each day.

Orchids are available to purchase and lectures on orchid care and repotting will take place throughout the weekend.

Various stores are also holding a sidewalk sale, with some deep discounts - perfect for holiday shopping!

The Village Shops are at 2340 Periwinkle Way.

Sanibel Tree Tops Art Show
A unique group of local artists are gathering for the first annual Tree Tops Art Show. Partial proceeds will benefit F.I.S.H. (Friends in Service Here), a Sanibel based group that provides many community services for people in need of food, transportation and reassuring support.

The event will be held November 22nd from 10am to 3pm at Tree Tops Center 1101 Periwinkle Way on Sanibel Island (across from the Dairy Queen).

Local artists are looking forward to displaying their works and raising funds for a worthy cause. Art to include: Original Paintings, Wooden Creations, Stained Glass, CeramicsMosaic Stepping Stones, Candles, Children's Art, And More!

Thanksgiving on Sanibel and Captiva Islands

2008-11-20T18:18:00.004-05:00

Don't feel like cooking on your vacation but still want all the traditional Thanksgiving goodies?

BestofSanibelCaptiva.com has got you covered with delicious restaurant suggestions as well as fully cooked dinner packages.

Follow this link to our Message Board for all the details.

Sanibel Island Among the Best in the World - 5 years in a row!

2008-11-20T00:02:00.002-05:00

Once again Sanibel Island has been named as one of “the best in the world” in Condé Nast Traveler magazine’s 21st Annual Readers’ Choice Awards. This is the 5th year in a row that Sanibel has received this honor.

According to Condé Nast Traveler Editor-in-Chief Klara Glowczewska remarked that “The highest standards of hospitality are achieved without sacrificing the distinct qualities of local cultures and concerns. In fact, the definition of excellence is continually being revised upward."

SCCF Sale

2008-11-19T23:56:00.002-05:00

More holiday gift ideas!

The Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation is having a Porch Sale this coming Friday, November 21 from 9am - 4pm.

Items for sale include t-shirts and children's toys all marked at 50% off.

The SCCF is located at 3333 Sanibel-Captiva Road, near Mile Marker 1. Cash and checks only, please.

Doc Ford's Sanibel for the Holidays

2008-11-18T14:15:00.003-05:00

Here's a terrific idea for anyone on your gift giving list - a Doc Ford's Sanibel Rum Bar & Grille Gift Certificate.
Everyone loves Doc's food & drink and ordering couldn't be easier; its all on-line! Select the amount you wish to give and let Doc Ford’s take care of everything. Mojito anyone?

Head to Doc Ford’s Sanibel web site and Give the Gift of Good Taste Today!

A Thistle Lodge Thanksgiving

2008-11-17T18:20:00.011-05:00

Dine at Sanibel Island's historic Thistle Lodge this Thanksgiving.

Thistle Lodge is pleased to serve a Thanksgiving Buffet on Thursday, November 27, 2008 from 11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

The exquisitely prepared Thanksgiving Buffet is an excellent choice for a fine holiday meal that your entire family will enjoy. Traditional holiday fare, along with Sanibel favorites, will be offered. Reservations are required.

Click the image above to see the Holiday Menu.

Make your reservations today! Call 239.472.9200

Thistle Lodge Beachfront Restaurant
at historic Casa Ybel Resort
Sanibel Island

Sanibel Arms West Announces Baseball, Beach & Bikes Package

2008-11-14T03:34:00.008-05:00

Stay at Sanibel Arms West for one week during February and March 2009 and enjoy their "Baseball, Beach & Bikes Package" for Spring Training 2009!

• 2 bedroom/2 bath Gulf Side Condominium
• Complimentary use of 2 adult bicycles during your stay
• 2 Complimentary tickets to either a Twins or Red Sox spring training baseball game
• 2 Sanibel Arms West coolie cup holders to keep your beverage cold at the game or on the beach

This package is available for weekly rentals only (7 nights) at a rate of $2150 plus tax.
Packages are available for each week of the Spring Training schedule.
Reservations must be booked by January 31, 2009.
Reservations can ONLY be made by calling Sanibel Arms West direct at 800.950.1138 (toll free).

Captiva Sunset

2008-11-05T11:35:00.014-05:00

In our travels through the internet, we came across this beautiful photo taken on Captiva in 1992 and featured in National Geographic.....Enjoy!

Sunset and Palm Trees, Captiva Island, Florida, 1992
Photograph by Raymond Gehman

A fuchsia sunset backdrops a stand of palm trees on Florida's Captiva Island. Captiva is one of four quiet barrier islands on the Gulf coast of Florida - Sanibel, North Captiva, and Cayo Costa are the others - renowned as havens for boating, fishing, and seashell-collecting.

All hands on deck for the Sink or Win Contest

2008-11-04T19:12:00.012-05:00

OK, its not exactly about Sanibel or Captiva, but Ft. Myers is close enough! Raise your hand if you'd like a new boat....

Win a new boat at the Fort Myers Boat Show

One lucky contestant will win a new 18' Angler Center Console with a t-top, 115 HP Suzuki motor and an aluminum trailer from Boater's Warehouse in the "Sink or Win" Contest, announced boat show organizer John Good.

Eight contestants will be chosen at random from online registrants to participate in the endurance portion of the contest. Each contestant will place one hand on the prize boat at 9 a.m. on Nov. 13. The last one to keep their hand on the boat will win it.

Contest rules provide for 15 minute breaks once every three hours. Contestants will not be permitted to have their cell phones, read books or do other things to entertain themselves while in the contest. There will also be a live web-cam set up to capture every moment of the contest.

"We wanted to make it difficult to win," said Good. "But not so hard that the contestants won't have a little fun. The contest should add an element of excitement to the already interesting boat show."

To register for a chance to win visit www.fortmyersboatshow.com and other sponsor sites including The News-Press, NBC-2, ABC-7, 95.3 OLZ, Cat Country 107.1, Smooth Jazz 100.1, and 105.5 The Beat. Registration opens Oct. 24 and closes on Nov. 9. One contestant will be chosen from each site on Nov. 10 in preparation for the contest start on Nov. 13.

The 36th Annual Fort Myers Boat Show will take place along the waterfront of the Fort Myers City Yacht Basin on Edwards Drive and Monroe Street and in the Harborside Event Center November 13 – 16.

This year the show will feature 800 boats from more than 150 manufacturers with exhibits and information about indoor and outdoor water-oriented lifestyles and activities available in Southwest Florida.

Boat show attendees can watch the contest as well as view and purchase the newest models of a broad variety of vessels from dinghies to yachts and experience the newest in boating related equipment and accessories. Other activities include fishing, water-safety and SCUBA diving seminars and exhibits featuring vessel storage, financing options, luxury waterfront communities and more.

Admission to the show is $9.00 per person, with children 12 and under attending for free. Discount coupons are available online at www.fortmyersboatshow.com . Park and ride event parking is available at the City of Palms Park / Red Sox Stadium.

For more information about the Fort Myers Boat Show, the contest and discount tickets call (239) 656-7083 or visit www.fortmyersboatshow.com . Contest specific questions should be sent to contest@spiroandassociates.com .

2008 "Ding" Darling Photo Contest Winners

2008-10-25T12:53:00.005-04:00

The 2008 winners of the Sanibel's annual “Ding” Darling Photography Contest have been announced.

In September, judges made difficult choices and selected 13 winners from over 100 stunning entries. Winners were announced on October 24, at a special presentation during Ding Darling Days.

View the top 3 winners and 10 honorable mentions by visiting the Ding Darling Wildlife Society web site here.

Official Opening Dates for Twilight Cafe Sanibel

2008-10-20T18:04:00.002-04:00

After a two-year absence, local chef and restaurateur Robert Parks is proud to announce his return to Sanibel and the re-opening of his popular and award-winning Twilight Café on Sanibel with a soft opening (for those of you who just can't wait!) on Thursday, October 23rd through Saturday, October 25th at 2761 West Gulf Drive, former location of the Nutmeg House and Riviera restaurants.

This Twilight Café re-incarnation will offer breakfast and lunch during season and a year-round dinner menu with plenty of familiar favorites (including the world famous broccoli) and tasty new creations. Patrons can start their day with biscuits and gravy or a savory omelet, tucked into a delicious soup and large salad for lunch; and for dinner, choose from a large entrée selection ranging from pan-seared duck breast and beef medallions to Asian pineapple stir-fry and grilled grouper.

A soft opening is scheduled for:
- Thursday, October 23rd
- Friday, October 24th
- Saturday, October 25th

The Café will be closed Sunday, October 25th.

Beginning Monday October 27th, Twilight Café will be open for dinner from 5 pm to 10 pm seven days a week and the Grand Opening celebration will take place the week of Saturday, November 1st.

Robert plans to begin offering breakfast and lunch daily just prior to the Thanksgiving Holiday.

Twilight Café Hours of operation - after November 1, 2008:
Dinner: Monday – Sunday 5pm to 10pm
Breakfast and Lunch: - Monday – Sunday 7:00am to 3:30pm
Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas

2761 West Gulf Drive Sanibel, Florida 33957
www.twilightcafesanibel.com

Sanibel Island Welcomes Back Twilight Cafe and Robert Parks

2008-10-01T08:42:00.003-04:00

Great news!!

Robert Parks is re-opening Twilight Cafe - the same incredible dining, in a new location. Twilight will now be on West Gulf Drive in the old Riviera restaurant.

The menu will still feature Crab Cakes, Scallops and their famous Broccoli but will also include some new offerings. Twilight Cafe will also be open for breakfast and lunch seasonally.

Keep an eye on the Twilight Cafe website as it is updated for more information. While you're there, log on to their message forum and leave a note welcoming Robert back to Sanibel!

HOT Labor Day Special!

2008-08-25T21:54:00.004-04:00

Sanibel Arms West Condominiums on Sanibel Island are offering an unbelievable holiday rate of $149 per night for Gulf View rooms! Spend Labor Day on Sanibel!

Hurry! Head to Sanibel Arms West and plan your last minute getaway.

Last Minute Vacancies & Short Term Rentals

2008-03-07T13:53:00.004-05:00

More exciting news for BestofSanibelCaptiva.com! We are now bringing you Last Minute Vacancies and Short Term Rentals.

Why is this such a big deal? The vacancies, at popular Sanibel resorts, normally have a Saturday to Saturday stay requirement - no more! At this time of year, there is high demand for accommodations; take advantage of last minute cancellations; many of which are deeply discounted. Be flexible with your dates and you're going to find some great deals!

Sanibel Island Seashells

2008-01-16T11:28:00.002-05:00

Exciting news for BestofSanibelCaptiva.com!
Our amazing message board moderator Kim, was down for a visit recently. While she was here, she spent some time in a production studio and the result is a fabulously entertaining VIDEO called Sanibel Island Seashells - Secrets of SW Florida's Best Vacation Beach. We posted it to YouTube last night, and you can watch it here. PLEASE SHARE IT WITH ANYONE YOU KNOW WHO LOVES SANIBEL! ;-)

I've lived here 18 years, and I have to tell you, I learned a lot when I watched Kim's completely unscripted narrative on oddball beach finds. She really knows her stuff, and we are so lucky to have her as our resident Expert.

Writer's Strike? Who needs a writer, when you have Kim Brock winging it on the subject she loves best ?!?!??!
Libby McMillan

Sanibel Captiva 2008 Calendars

2008-01-12T18:48:00.003-05:00

We're bumping this back to the top - Calendars are still available!
If you're on the Islands, you can get yours at MacIntosh Books. Otherwise, use the link below for fast delivery to your door.

Are you missing the Islands? Wish you could be here year 'round? Now you can with the 2008 BestofSanibelCaptiva calendar!

This year's calendar once again features beautiful, full color pictures taken by our Message Board members. Warm up your home and office space - Visit the BOSC Cool Stuff Store and get your calendar today!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-01T00:48:00.000-05:00

Best wishes for a wonderful 2008 from BestofSanibelCaptiva.com!

Silent Sunday - Lazy Afternoon

2007-12-30T16:41:00.000-05:00

Silent Sunday - Silent Night

2007-12-23T15:10:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas from BestofSanibelCaptiva.com

Silent Sunday - 'Tis The Season

2007-12-16T12:42:00.000-05:00

Silent Sunday - Return of the White Pelicans

2007-12-02T15:53:00.001-05:00

Silent Sunday - Soaring

2007-11-25T14:32:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-21T11:25:00.000-05:00

Can you believe tomorrow is Thanksgiving? While we haven't quite come to terms with the fact that the holiday season is here, we have been thinking about all we have to be thankful for. Family and friends top our list, but we're also giving thanks for:

- Another quiet hurricane season
- Abundant shells, gentle beaches and calm waters
- Amazing sunsets and the time to appreciate them
- Warm, sunny days followed by dark, star-filled nights
- Dolphin "Welcoming Committees"
- Gulf breezes that lull us to sleep, rustling through the palm fronds
- Rainbows after afternoon showers
- A great nature preserve and the wildlife it shelters
- Completion of flyovers and the causeway - a faster trip to paradise!
- Still no stop lights, just thoughtful people
- The small town feel shared by residents and visitors alike
- The great folks on our Message Board who make it a pleasure to go to 'work' every day
- The islands of Sanibel & Captiva themselves!

Share your list with us and we hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Silent Sunday - Sunrise from the Causeway

2007-11-18T16:11:00.000-05:00

Taking a cue from Snowbird's (highly entertaining!) Sand Between My Toes blog, we're going to start featuring 'Silent Sunday'- nothing more than a beautiful photo from Sanibel or Captiva for your contemplation. Enjoy!

2008 Sanibel Captiva Calendar

2007-11-13T15:38:00.000-05:00

Are you missing the Islands? Wish you could be here year 'round? Now you can with the 2008 BestofSanibelCaptiva calendar!

This year's calendar once again features beautiful, full color pictures taken by our Message Board members. Warm up your home and office space - Visit the BOSC Cool Stuff Store and get your calendar today! (They make great Holiday gifts too!)

A "Top-10 Family Beach"

2007-11-12T12:37:00.000-05:00

Sanibel Island’s appeal to both kids and grown-ups has earned it a spot on the “Top-10 Family Beaches” list released recently by ShermansTravel.com, a leading publisher of travel deals and destination advice.

ShermansTravel.com hails the island for having “all the ingredients for a kid’s dream vacation – soft white sand, gentle surf and shallow water . . .” while “Tennis, golf, shopping and biking means there’s plenty for grown-ups to enjoy too.” Our area’s shell collecting and educational offerings at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, where bald eagles and over 240 other species of birds, reptiles and mammals reside was also recognized.

Conda Nast Too!

Sanibel & Captiva Islands have been voted as being among the "Best in the World" according to Conde Nast Travelers 2007 Reader's Choice Awards.

This is the fourth year in a row that our islands have been in the top 10 in the North American island list!

Welcome!

2007-11-12T11:35:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the Beach Blog!
We have created this blog to be a compliment to our main site BestofSanibelCaptiva.com and accompanying Message Board. We'll be posting stories of the Islands, beautiful pictures, news items and all sorts of fun things! Be sure to check back often!