If you’re searching for things to do in Sanibel Island, be sure to put the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on your itinerary. This refuge is a family-friendly spot that holds enough for an entire day (or more!) of activities. You can spend hours enjoying the incredible weather in Sanibel and exploring all the best nature of the Sunshine State. Here’s everything you need to know before you visit the refuge.
What to Expect
Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge is the place to go if you’re looking for the best of Florida’s nature.
The refuge is home to tons of rare bird species, stunning Sanibel Island wildlife, and native marine life in the various ecosystems found throughout.
Before you come, equip yourself with plenty of water, sunscreen, bug spray, and other protection from the elements. This is the easiest way to stay healthy and comfortable during your visit. If you’re driving through, know that speed limits and traffic laws are strictly enforced within the premises. Dogs on a 6-foot leash are permitted on the Bailey Tract, Wildlife Drive, and the Indigo Trail.
Places to Go and Explore
Start your visit at the free Visitor/Education Center. This is where you’ll find a hands-on area for children to explore, as well as interactive exhibits about refuge ecosystems, the Wildlife Refuge System, and more. You can also grab souvenirs from the bookstore here. Be sure to stop in at the beginning or end of your stay at the refuge, or any time you want to escape the heat!
Once you get outside, the Wildlife Drive is a great way to see the incredible wildlife in J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge. You can drive through, as the name implies, or you can hike or cycle along the trail. Other trails available for you to explore include the Bailey Tract, Shell Mound Trail, the Wulfert Keys Trail, and more.
For some outdoor fun on the water, you can participate in fishing, boating, kayaking, or canoeing. Nature photography is an incredible hobby to adopt while at the refuge! Finally, one of the most popular activities here is Florida birdwatching, as the refuge is home to tons of breathtaking bird species.
Hours, Parking, and Fees
J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is open daily from (roughly) dawn until dusk. You can visit the refuge’s website to find specific hours by month. Wildlife Drive is closed on Fridays.
This location is a great budget-friendly addition to your plans. Admission to the Visitor Center (open daily from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.) is free for all. It will cost you $5 per vehicle to park, but if you choose to hike or cycle, you will pay just $1 per person!
Tours
Tarpon Bay Explorers offers guided tram tours throughout the refuge, providing a comfortable way for you to observe and learn about the area.
Tours travel along Wildlife Drive and leave from the Visitors Center parking lot. You can also visit the Tarpon Bay Recreation Area to embark on a kayak or canoe tour or a sealife interpretive tour! They also offer rentals for fishing equipment, bikes, kayaks, canoes, and pontoon boats. Tarpon Bay Explorers has the most experienced guides in the area who will guarantee an incredible tour every time.
The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is one of the most popular family-friendly things to do in the area. Visiting the refuge is a great way to entertain the whole group and create incredible memories together. Once you’re done exploring the refuge and all the other wonderful Sanibel Island things to do, you can head back to your home to relax for another exciting day ahead of you. Browse our Sanibel listings today to learn more!