Sanibel Island

Sanibel - Called The Seashell Island, Sanibel is legendary for its miles of white, shell-strewn beaches, abundant wildlife and the huge nature preserve - the "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge - that takes up about two-thirds of the island. So popular is the pastime of bending to pick up shells that locals dub the unmistakable stance "the Sanibel Stoop." Credit Sanibel's shape, location and shallow offshore shelf for its unique ability to scoop up seashells carried by the currents.

Sanibel has one of the leading shell museums in the world, the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum. The island also hosts a four-day shell show each year that is attended by exhibitors from all over the world.

Birdwatchers also flock to the island to see bald eagles, ospreys and roseate spoonbills and, in the winter months, dozens of species of migrating birds.

Accommodations range from quaint beach cottages to full-service resorts. Unlike most Florida beach towns, Sanibel has few chain stores and fast food outlets, so most stores are of the small, independent variety and include stylish boutiques and gift shops. The island restaurants serve fresh, succulent local seafood such as gulf shrimp, grouper and clams.

Sanibel is joined to the mainland by a causeway consisting of three bridges and two small islands. The high-span bridge, opened in 2007, offers an unparalleled panorama of San Carlos Bay, which is dotted with uninhabited mangrove islands and is a paradise for anglers and boaters.

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