[CampCrazyMom]

Anyone ever been there? Hints, tips? Help?

Considering a winter trip. We would most likely be driving. Crazy, huh?

Frugal help for the area most appreciated!

 

[duckduckgoose007]

We have been there years ago, but just for a day, to pick shells. I think it is pretty expensive to stay there. Hope someone else can help you. Liz

 

[Its_Donna]

It's a beautiful area and Captiva which is right next door is equally as beautiful but both are pricy. You would be better off to stay in Fort Myers/Fort Myers Beach areas....it's a short drive to Sanibel-Captiva from there.

 

[Laurie in Bradenton]

Winter time is the worst time to come as it is the most expensive. Also the most crowaded. Summer or fall is cheaper. These islands were hit hard during the 2004 hurricanes nd had alot of damage. Most building that were going to be rebuilt have been but many of the large trees are having a hard time coming back. Staying in Ft. Myers is a much less expensive place. Be sure to have your reservations in place as you may find many places booked up. If you have AAA try them for discounts.
Take the tie to visit Edisions Home if you do come. Traffic will be rough as this is our tourist season and snowbird season.
Right now the common joke is to ask someone where the sow is falling and they stop to check the tags in front of the store before answering. We can tell where the snow has fallen by which state is showing up. Lots of Canada and Maine so far. a few Michigan ad Ohios. Natives don't eat out from Nov til Mothers Day because of all the folks from out of state.
If you get all your ducks in a row before hand you'll have a better time.

Laurie in Bradenton

 

[DixieJ]

We spent the day there a couple of years ago on vacation. The one thing that stuck out to me the most was that the people there didn't drive Chevys or Fords, all I saw was Mercedes, Jags, Porsches and Lexus. We did have a great meal at "The Island Cow"--great seafood. I thought it was beautiful there, have fun!!

Dixie Jean

 

[vverkin925]

When we go to Sanibel we camp. If you're willing, this can be a great, reasonable way to go.

http://www.sanibelcamping.com/

Funny story . . . the first night we spent there we were a little distance from the potties. I (as usual) had to go in the middle of the night but it was SOOO dark out there I toughed it out and didn't go. When we woke up in the morning I looked out and saw all the 'gators lounging on the banks not 20 yards from our tents. I'm glad I stayed in the night before!!!

 

[frugal-fannie]

It is almost my favorite spot in Florida and the world. I love shell beach. We stayed in Fort Myers and it was very reasonable. The Holiday Inn was overlooking the River and had fridge,microwave etc. We like to go to some small shops like a mall and they have some really good seafood.