Category: Island Update

After weathering a series of challenges—including permitting delays and the impact of Hurricanes Ian, Helene, and Milton—Keylime Bistro on Captiva Island officially reopened its doors on May 24. To celebrate this milestone, the SanCap Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 27, honoring the resilience and determination behind one of Captiva’s most beloved dining spots.

A Symbol of Island Resilience

Chamber President and CEO John Lai praised the efforts of owner Sandy Stilwell Youngquist, calling her achievement a symbol of perseverance and community leadership.

“We are so proud of owner Sandy Stilwell Youngquist for arriving at this peak achievement at the flagship property in her kingdom of Captiva hospitality,” said Lai. “She has set a remarkable example for fellow island businesses to work hard, believe, and endure. Congratulations!”

Youngquist echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the important role the chamber has played throughout the island’s recovery.

“The chamber has been invaluable in keeping the business community together and celebrating each opening of businesses,” she said. “We’ve all been through a lot, and I appreciate having the chamber as our voice to the community.”

Supporting the Community After the Storm

In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian in September 2022, Youngquist and her team were among the first to step in and support Captiva’s recovery efforts. She personally ran three boats to transport residents and workers back to the island, helping jumpstart the rebuilding process.

She even loaned her Jeep and S Car Go Trolley—a whimsical tram-like vehicle—to island firefighters who were without transportation.

“It was pretty funny to see the first responders running around the island in my Jeep that looks like a snail,” she recalled.

Growth Beyond Captiva

Despite the setbacks, Youngquist has continued to expand the Keylime Bistro brand. She opened a second location in Boca Grande, which had been in development prior to the hurricanes and reopened just last month after damage repairs. A third Keylime Bistro is currently under construction at Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) and is expected to open by November.

In addition to the bistro, Youngquist has reopened several other Captiva staples, including:

• RC Otter’s Island Eats

• Cantina Captiva

• Sunshine Seafood Café

• Portions of the Captiva Island Inn, including two houses and guest rooms

• Latte Da Coffee Shop, expected to reopen this summer

• New inn buildings, with construction starting later this year

Visit Keylime Bistro

Located at 11509 Andy Rosse Lane, Keylime Bistro is once again serving up its signature key lime pie and tropical-inspired cuisine that has made it a local and visitor favorite.

The City of Sanibel has announced that the 32nd Annual Independence Day Parade, originally scheduled for July 4, has been canceled due to forecasted inclement weather.

The decision was made by the Friends of Don, the parade’s organizing group, out of caution for participants and spectators.

What’s Canceled:

• Independence Day Parade on Periwinkle Way

What’s Still Happening:

All other planned Fourth of July events on Sanibel will continue as scheduled — including the pancake breakfast, community celebrations, road rally, and the city’s fireworks display.

For the most up-to-date event schedule, visit:
Star-Spangled Sanibel Event Lineup (PDF)

Stay Informed:

• Visit: mysanibel.com

• Sign up for city alerts: City Email Notifications

For questions about the parade cancellation, contact Trish Phillips at 239-246-2981.

To celebrate the holiday weekend, The Community House (TCH) on Sanibel Island is hosting a special summer edition of its beloved Arts and Crafts Fair on Friday, July 5, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Normally held monthly during season (October through April), this one-time summer fair was created in response to community demand—and it’s shaping up to be a vibrant, family-friendly event.

What to Expect

33 to 35 local vendors will fill the indoor space at TCH, showcasing a wide array of handmade, one-of-a-kind items. From paintings and shell crafts to handmade jewelry and unique home decor, there will be something for everyone.

“Everything is handmade—that’s one of our key requirements for participation,” shared Kristin Van Olst, TCH’s Director of Engagement. “We want to spotlight the creativity of our local artists.”

Outside, enjoy fresh-squeezed lemonade sold by TCH to help support the fair’s seasonal operations, and grab a bite from J Dubs Chi-Town Dawgs food truck with a variety of menu options.

Why Attend?

• Free admission & free parking

• Indoor venue—beat the summer heat while exploring handcrafted goods

• Support local artists from Sanibel, Fort Myers, Naples, and surrounding communities

• Celebrate the holiday weekend in a relaxed, welcoming setting

“It’s a celebration of our local artists and a chance for the community to connect with them,” said Van Olst. “We’re excited to offer something special this July.”

Event Details:

• Event: Arts & Crafts Fair

• Date: Friday, July 5

• Time: 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

• Location: The Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

• Admission: Free and open to the public

• Website: sanibelcommunityhouse.net

• Contact: Kristin Van Olst at (239) 472-2155 or kristin@sanibelcommunityhouse.net

Whether you’re a local resident or visiting for the holiday, don’t miss this opportunity to explore unique handmade items, support local talent, and enjoy a festive, family-friendly atmosphere.

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has provided a project update on ongoing improvements to the Sanibel Causeway. Crews are currently finalizing work west of the toll plaza, and the speed limit in that area has been restored to 35 mph. Reduced speed limits will remain in effect east of the toll plaza. As a safety precaution, pedestrian access across the causeway continues to be prohibited.

Upcoming and Ongoing Work Highlights:
(Please note: All activities are subject to change due to weather and other unforeseen conditions.)

• Frontage Road at Span A: Construction crews will continue work along the frontage road under Span A. Drivers should use extra caution in this area.

• Punta Rassa Staging Area: Efforts are underway to restore the staging area at Punta Rassa. Once complete, the area will be returned to Lee County later this summer.

• Bay 3 Access: Bay 3 remains temporarily closed as Lee County continues to upgrade the tolling equipment. Travelers should plan accordingly when entering or exiting the island.

• Signage & Lighting Installation: Crews are also working on new signage and lighting installation east of the toll plaza to improve safety and visibility.

Safety Reminder:
All motorists are asked to remain alert and share the road responsibly, especially where bicyclists are present. Extra caution is advised near the public beach access points of the Causeway Islands Park, where vehicles frequently enter and exit.

For further updates or inquiries, visit www.swflroads.com/SanibelCauseway or contact Jennifer Dorning at Jennifer.Dorning@dot.state.fl.us or 239-338-7723.

f you’ve ever found yourself daydreaming of turquoise waters, quirky island charm, and a laid-back atmosphere, you might think a passport is required. But according to the experts at Southern Living, you only need a trip to Florida’s Gulf Coast. In a recent feature highlighting “19 Florida Beaches That Could Pass For The Caribbean,” the beloved publication gave a special nod to our very own Captiva Island, and for good reason.

It’s an honor that confirms what locals and seasoned visitors have known for years: Captiva possesses a unique magic that transports you to a paradise reminiscent of a Caribbean escape.

So, what was it about Captiva that caught the eye of Southern Living? The magazine points to a perfect trio of qualities:

1. “Pure Perfection” Beaches: This is the most immediate and striking parallel to the Caribbean. The article praises Captiva’s flawless coastline, where soft, white sands meet the calm, crystal-clear waters of the Gulf. It’s a serene and stunning landscape that invites you to slow down, soak up the sun, and simply be.

2. A “Quirky and Artsy Vibe”: Beyond the beach, Captiva exudes a distinct personality. Southern Living highlights the island’s “funky, quirky… distinctly artsy vibe,” which they note is “exactly the kind you expect to find in the Caribbean.” From colorful village galleries to unique local boutiques, there’s a creative and free-spirited energy that makes the island feel like a true escape from the mainland hustle.

3. A Legendary Past: Every good island needs a bit of lore. The article delves into the legend of the pirate José Gaspar, who supposedly used the island as a holding place for his prisoners, or “captives,” in the early 1800s. This splash of pirate history gives “Isle de los Captivas” an added layer of mystique and adventure that enhances its far-flung, romantic appeal.

These three elements—stunning natural beauty, a unique cultural atmosphere, and a storied past—combine to create an experience that truly feels a world away. Captiva isn’t just a beach; it’s a destination with a soul.

We’re thrilled to see Captiva get this well-deserved recognition. It’s a testament to the island’s enduring charm and its ability to offer a slice of paradise, no passport required.

Read more about what makes Florida’s beaches so special in the original article from Southern Living.

Read the full story: “19 Florida Beaches That Could Pass For The Caribbean” on SouthernLiving.com

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) has unveiled an exciting new tool for conservation and public education: a real-time sea turtle tracking website. This innovative platform allows the public to follow the journeys of satellite-tagged sea turtles as they migrate across the ocean, offering insights into their movement patterns and behavior in relation to changing water temperatures.

“While most sea turtle research happens on nesting beaches, satellite tags help us understand what happens during the vast majority of their lives at sea,” said Kelly Sloan, SCCF’s Coastal Wildlife Director. “These tags give us location data even when we don’t see the turtles again on land.”

The long-term goal? To learn more about how environmental conditions—like water depth and temperature—influence where and how these turtles travel and feed. Beginning next summer, SCCF plans to enhance its research even further by using advanced tags that track not only location, but also dive depth and sea temperature.

A Partnership Rooted in Conservation and Community

This public-facing website was developed through a collaboration with Sanibel-based Hammerhead Technology, a company recognized for its conservation-driven tech solutions across the U.S. and Latin America. One of Hammerhead’s key contributors, Corrie Presland-Byrne, has a master’s in conservation technology and first met Sloan in 2017 as a wildlife intern at CROW (Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife).

“We brainstormed how our GIS work could support SCCF’s research,” said Presland-Byrne. “That’s when the idea for a public turtle tracker was born—and we were happy to donate our services to make it happen.”

SCCF raised funds for the satellite tags through its Nest Fest event in April, while Hammerhead Technology donated their time and expertise to design and launch the tracker site.

Founded by Sanibel resident Peter Presland-Byrne, Hammerhead partners with nonprofits, governments, and private clients to create software solutions for conservation. Their work includes everything from tracking wildlife migrations to preventing howler monkey electrocution on power lines in Costa Rica.

“As a Sanibel-based company, it’s rewarding to bring our global work full circle by helping our own community,” Peter shared.

Meet the Turtles: MumSea and Queen Tutt

So far, two loggerhead sea turtles have been outfitted with the new satellite tags:

• MumSea, named by SCCF supporter Linda Linsmayer, and

• Queen Tutt, named by long-time SCCF volunteer Frances Tutt and her husband Simon.

MumSea was recently spotted nesting again on Sanibel Island on June 20, giving researchers even more data to work with.

“We’ve used metal flipper tags and microchips since 2016, but these new satellite tags provide a much clearer picture of turtle behavior at sea,” said Sloan. “Having a public website makes it easier to share and collaborate on this data with researchers around the world.”

Fostering Conservation Through Engagement

The SCCF hopes that this new tool won’t just support research—but will also inspire locals and visitors alike to care more deeply about sea turtles and marine ecosystems.

“By making this information accessible, we hope to raise awareness and strengthen conservation efforts here on Sanibel and beyond,” Sloan added.

Explore the Sea Turtle Tracker: https://sccf.hammerhead360.com/

In a rare and exciting update for birding enthusiasts and nature lovers, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation’s shorebird team recently re-sighted a long-billed curlew during their June breeding bird survey — marking only the third confirmed sighting since March in our area.

This magnificent bird, known as North America’s largest shorebird, is distinguished by its long, curved bill which it uses to feed on aquatic invertebrates by probing deep into the mudflats.

Why it’s special:
While Florida falls within the curlew’s broader wintering range, it’s highly unusual to spot one here this late into summer — especially in Lee County, where the last recorded sighting was in 2022. Experts believe the bird may be lingering due to weather patterns, migration disorientation, or possibly being a juvenile that hasn’t migrated onward.

Although not endangered, long-billed curlew populations are in decline due to habitat loss. Seeing one up close in Sanibel is a reminder of our area’s ecological richness — and the importance of preserving these coastal habitats.

Have you spotted any unique wildlife recently? I’d love to feature local photos or sightings in future newsletters — reply and share your story!

Looking for something fun to do over the holiday weekend? Mark your calendar for Friday, July 5, from 1 to 3 p.m. and join us at The Shops at South Seas on Captiva for a vibrant afternoon of shopping, sipping, and island-style celebration.

In honor of the shopping center’s exciting renovations and new store openings, South Seas Island Resort is hosting a Sip and Shop event that’s free and open to the public. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the Fourth of July weekend, this is a perfect way to explore Captiva’s upgraded retail scene.

CAPTIVA-SOUTH-SEAS-SPIRITS-1

CAPTIVA-SOUTH-SEAS-SPIRITS-2-1100x734

CAPTIVA-SOUTH-SEAS-SPIRITS-3-1100x825

What to Expect:

• Live Music to set the island mood

• Face Painting and treats for kids

• Complimentary spirit samples for adults

• Delicious local food samples

• Exclusive previews and shopping at all new and redesigned stores

Featured Shops:

• Outfitters – A brand-new two-story store opening this weekend, featuring premium sporting gear, island-chic clothing, designer swimwear, sunglasses, footwear, and even accessories for your four-legged friends.

• J. McLaughlin – Upscale fashion for men and women with a timeless, coastal flair.

• Provisions – The resort’s full-service gourmet market with a deli, perfect for stocking up on beach-day essentials.

• South Seas Spirits – A curated liquor boutique offering high-end spirits and cocktail must-haves.

• Starbucks – Now open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., offering your favorite beverages in the heart of Captiva.

Whether you’re hunting for resort wear, grabbing a bite, or sipping something smooth, The Shops at South Seas has something for everyone.

Location:
The Shops at South Seas
14830 Captiva Drive, Captiva, FL
For more info, call 800-237-6000 or visit SouthSeas.com

As the rainy season arrives in Southwest Florida, the City of Sanibel is reminding residents and property owners that its annual fertilizer ban goes into effect from July 1 through September 30. This blackout period helps protect Sanibel’s delicate water ecosystems from harmful nutrient pollution caused by fertilizer runoff.

What’s Banned?

During this seasonal ordinance, fertilizers containing nitrogen and phosphorous are strictly prohibited. These nutrients, while essential for plant growth, can lead to harmful algae blooms when washed into surrounding waterbodies.

“Fertilizer applied right before a rainstorm can easily be swept into canals, wetlands, and the Sanibel Slough,” explains Dana Dettmar, Environmental Biologist with Sanibel’s Natural Resources Department. “That runoff becomes an unnatural buffet for algae, fueling blooms that damage water quality and marine life.”

Alternatives You Can Use

Don’t worry—there are eco-friendly options available:

• Use fertilizers containing iron, potassium, or magnesium, which are allowed during the summer months.

• Mulch your grass clippings as you mow; they naturally break down and return nutrients to the soil.

• Consider going fertilizer-free altogether by adopting the “mow what grows” approach or replacing turf grass with native groundcovers like sunshine mimosa, matchweed, frogfruit, or bacopa.

Additional Year-Round Fertilizer Rules:

Even outside the blackout period, Sanibel’s fertilizer ordinance enforces best practices all year:

• Do not apply fertilizer within 25 feet of any waterbody, including lakes, canals, and wetlands.

• Do not apply fertilizer to hard surfaces like sidewalks or driveways. Spills must be cleaned up immediately.

• Avoid fertilizing stormwater conveyance systems, such as roadside swales or catch basins.

Content & Application Limits (Year-Round):

• Fertilizer must contain 2% or less phosphorous and less than 20% nitrogen, with at least 50% slow-release nitrogen.

• No more than 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 sq. ft. per application and no more than 4 pounds total per year.

Why It Matters

Overfertilization is one of the leading causes of poor water quality across Florida. On Sanibel, clean water is essential for both the environment and our island’s economy. By following the ordinance, every resident helps preserve our ecosystems and way of life.

“We rely on clean water for everything—from wildlife and recreation to property values,” Dettmar said. “Adhering to the fertilizer ordinance is an easy, meaningful way to protect what we love about Sanibel.”

Quick Recap – Sanibel’s Fertilizer Ordinance:

• ❌ No nitrogen or phosphorous fertilizer from July 1–Sept 30

• Stay 25 feet away from waterbodies when applying fertilizer

• ⚠️ Don’t apply fertilizer on hard surfaces or near storm drains

• Follow year-round limits on nutrient content and application rates

Questions?

For more details or questions, contact:
Sanibel Natural Resources Department
239-472-3700
mysanibel.com

Explore ways to protect our water at Sanibel Communities for Clean Water.

The Captiva Erosion Prevention District (CEPD) has announced a vacancy for Seat 1 on its Board of Commissioners, and they are now accepting applications to fill the position through appointment. If you’re passionate about protecting and preserving Captiva Island, this is a meaningful opportunity to get involved and make a difference.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Be a registered voter residing within the Captiva Erosion Prevention District.

• Be legally qualified to vote in local elections within the district.

How Appointments Work:

When a seat becomes vacant mid-term, the remaining CEPD commissioners may appoint a qualified candidate to serve out the rest of the unexpired term.

What Does a Commissioner Do?

Commissioners play a vital role in guiding CEPD’s mission. Responsibilities include:

• Attending monthly board meetings regularly.

• Participating in weekly briefing workshops when possible.

• Proposing motions and resolutions, engaging in discussions, and voting on district matters.

• Being present for public hearings, emergency sessions, and special meetings when required.

• Potentially serving as an officer (Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, or Treasurer) if elected by fellow board members.

Commissioners serve a four-year term and do not receive compensation.

How to Apply:

If you meet the qualifications and are interested in contributing to Captiva’s future, submit the following by August 1:

• Completed application form

• Copy of your registered voter card

• Your resume

Email your documents to: mycepd@mycepd.com

Download the Application Here:
CEPD Commissioner Application (Fillable PDF)

More Details:
Visit the official CEPD website: www.mycepd.com/become-a-cepd-commissioner