Wondering about things to do in Sanibel Island on your next vacation? There’s plenty to discover! Nature here is simply unmatched, with some of the most highly regarded beaches in the world.
You and your family will also love learning about the fascinating history of the area, indulging in the fresh local seafood, and heading into the local stores to pick out a unique souvenir.
One of the best family-friendly activities in Sanibel is biking! Biking is a great way to see the island while benefiting your health, your wallet, and the planet. But how can you take advantage of the wonderful biking in Sanibel Island? Do you need to bring your own equipment? Where can you ride? This article will answer all of these questions and more.
Bike Rentals
The good news is that you won’t have to bring your own bike on your trip to Sanibel. Convenient bike rentals in Sanibel Island allow you to simply visit a local shop, pick out a bike and helmet, and set off on the trails!
Billy’s Rentals is a favorite local spot for all your biking needs. You’ve got a ton of different bike options to choose from, including flat bar bikes, Catrikes, road tandems, and family bikes. They even have child attachments so your young kids can ride behind you! Bike rental periods are flexible, allowing you to keep your equipment for as little as one day or as long as two weeks.
Trails
Now that you’ve got your bike, you’ll want to know all the best biking trails in Sanibel Island. The eastern end of the island is home to an incredible lighthouse that serves as the focal point for your bike ride. It’s often shady here, so you won’t get too hot, and you can avoid congested roads and parking lots.
For a bit of a history lesson with your bike ride, head to the Middle Gulf Cemetery bike trail. This path is located east of Casa Ybel Road and will take you to the cemetery, across the river, and to the beach when you reach Gulfside Park.
Got a nature lover in your group? They’ll want to ride through Wildlife Drive in J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. You’ll get to see Florida’s most incredible wildlife as you head along the trail, including tons of bird species and land animals like alligators! Keep in mind that this trail costs $1 per person to cycle through, but since it’s paved, it’s an easy ride for the whole family.
If you want a longer bike ride, head to the western side of the island to Sanibel-Captiva Road. You’ll pass Ding Darling Refuge and will bike near incredible attractions like Bowman’s Beach and the Shell Museum along the way. At the end of your journey, you’ll wind up at Blind Pass, which is unarguably one of the best beaches on the island.
Finally, the Sanibel Causeway is a free option for cyclists of all skill levels. Make your way into Fort Myers across Pine Island Sound, which provides an absolutely thrilling experience and an unmatched view of the water. This is one experience you really don’t want to miss out on!
Plan Your Vacation
Whether you choose to take a leisurely trip around the island or discover the incredible Florida flowers in Ding Darling Refuge, you truly can’t go wrong when biking on Sanibel. Ready to plan your trip? Contact us today to learn more about our Sanibel listings!
What to Bring With You
When you’re biking, there are a few things you’ll definitely want to have with you. First, you’ll want to dress for the occasion. Make sure you’re wearing comfortable clothes to keep you cool in the warm weather in Sanibel, as well as close-toed shoes to protect your feet. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are always good to have, too. Bring a water bottle to keep you hydrated, a camera to snap some pictures when you stop, and a small towel to wipe your brow.