Visitors considering a trip to Sanibel Island, Florida will find there are certainly plenty of boating and water activities to keep them happy in the local area. There are three rivers located in the immediate area; the Caloosahatchee, the Imperial and the Estero. Visitors to the area who are interested in sailing will find the Gulf to be ideal while the causeway is perfect for windsurfing. The local marinas stock everything you might need for local water and boating activities while local guides are always willing to share their extensive knowledge regarding the tides.

There are many ways to become familiar with the waterways in the Sanibel area, including hopping aboard a water taxi or chartering a boat with one of the many knowledgeable area captains. The outer islands are definitely a treat and the pristine beauty you will find on the barrier islands should not be missed during a trip to the area. Sanibel Island hotel accommodations run the gamut on the islands, ranging from four-star accommodations to camping cabins.

Even if you are just planning a daytrip to Sanibel Island you will find plenty to keep you occupied along the local waterways, including collecting shells. There are even shelling charter tours you can take aboard boats that will take you to Cayo Costa and North Captiva where you are certain to find an abundance of beautiful and unique shells. The seasoned local guides will be sure to delight you with tales about the areas cultural history. You might also wish to consider taking one of the nature cruises available which are ideal for all ages and provide a wonderful introduction to the local flora and fauna.

If you happen to have your own personal watercraft, there are plenty of opportunities for servicing at the many marinas scattered throughout the Sanibel beach area. Many of the marinas are full service and even offer overnight dockage.

Sailing more to your liking? One of the best places to catch a good wind is the north end of Captiva Island. New to the art of sailing? Consider taking a class at the Offshore Sailing School, located at South Seas Island Resort.

Whether you are chartering a cruise, setting sail on your own watercraft or joining a shelling tour you will find there are plenty of activities in and around the local waterways in Sanibel, Florida to make your trip enjoyable and memorable.