Category: Island Update

Following extensive repairs and renovations necessitated by Hurricane Ian in 2022, the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium on Sanibel Island has officially reopened Phase 1 of its beloved Great Hall of Shells exhibit as of May 24.

Since its original opening in 1995, the Great Hall of Shells has been a cornerstone of the museum, renowned for showcasing a vast collection of extraordinary shells from around the globe. After significant storm damage, the museum committed to completely redesigning and updating the exhibit to elevate its presentation and educational impact.

“We aim to maintain the Great Hall as one of the premier and most comprehensive public shell exhibitions globally,” said Executive Director Sam Ankerson. “Sanibel and Southwest Florida are ideal locations for this unique experience, and we warmly invite everyone to explore this exciting first step.”

The redesigned exhibits highlight stunning specimens chosen from the museum’s extensive collection of nearly 600,000 shells, now displayed with custom-designed cabinetry, lighting, and individual mounts to accentuate their beauty and uniqueness.

“Our exhibits are crafted to vividly showcase the diversity and splendor of shells, emphasizing the crucial ecological roles mollusks play in biodiversity, natural history, and environmental health,” explained curator and Science Director Dr. José H. Leal. “Visitors will find a refreshed space filled with intriguing new items.”

Exhibit themes in Phase 1 include global biodiversity, the remarkable variety in shapes and colors, and the evolutionary timeline of mollusks. Notable highlights include specialized displays dedicated to cones, cowries, volutes, murexes, scallops, and carrier shells, selected for their exceptional beauty and popularity among collectors.

Phase 2 exhibits, currently under construction and set to open later this summer, will delve deeper into regional shells, world-record-sized shells, land snails, and fossils. They will also explore the role of shells in human culture, the indigenous Calusa people, and critical conservation issues such as habitat loss, invasive species, and climate change.

Once fully reopened, the museum will have completely recovered from Hurricane Ian. Visitors are encouraged to experience this uniquely dedicated museum, open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission prices are $18 for adults, $15 for seniors and veterans, $10 for ages 12-17, students and educators, $5 for ages 5-11, and free for children under 5, active military, and museum members.

For additional information, visit ShellMuseum.org or call (239) 395-2233. The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium is located at 3075 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel.

The Captivaville Songwriters Weekend is back for its seventh year, promising three unforgettable days of live music, coastal charm, and summer vibes at the scenic ‘Tween Waters Inn & Marina on Captiva Island, June 13-15.

This year’s festival boasts an impressive lineup of talented singer-songwriters, including Brian Sutherland, Sheena Brook, Bridgette Tatum, Caleb Neff, Gable Bradley, and Paige King Johnson. Known as Captiva Island’s premier music event, Captivaville offers guests a chance to experience 72 hours of original music poolside at one of Florida’s most beloved island resorts.

“Captivaville is special because it unites friends, family, and music lovers in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere,” says Tony Lapi, Chairman of Sanibel Captiva Beach Resorts. “Great music, good friends, and the island ambiance—it’s an event we eagerly anticipate every year.”

With accommodations expected to sell out quickly, festival-goers are encouraged to reserve their rooms early. Single-day resort access passes will be available starting Monday, June 9, priced at $100 per vehicle. These passes grant visitors full access to the resort’s extensive amenities, including private beach access, kayaking, biking, pools, restaurants, spa services, and more.

For further details or to purchase a single-day pass, contact ‘Tween Waters Inn & Marina at (239) 472-5161 ext. 1.

About ‘Tween Waters Inn & Marina

‘Tween Waters Inn & Marina, perfectly positioned between the Gulf of Mexico and Pine Island Sound, spans 13 picturesque acres on Captiva Island. The resort offers 137 accommodations ranging from suites to pet-friendly rooms, complemented by extensive amenities such as a full-service marina, private beach, pools including a new Serenity Pool, pickleball and tennis courts, a full-service spa, fitness center, and event spaces ideal for weddings or corporate gatherings. Guests can also choose from seven distinctive dining venues, including the historic Old Captiva House, family-oriented Shipyard Restaurant, Crow’s Nest Steakhouse, Oasis pool bar, and Captiva Crust pizzeria.

Visit tween-waters.com or call 800-223-5865 for more information or to make reservations.

The beloved community initiative Love Sanibel Back is officially returning for summer 2025, bringing with it a renewed spirit of local support, connection, and celebration across Sanibel and Captiva.

First launched in 2024, Love Sanibel Back was created to spotlight and uplift the small businesses that form the heart of the islands. Each week, the initiative highlights a group of local shops, restaurants, and services, inviting the community to come together — shopping, dining, and gathering — to strengthen island ties and show gratitude for the people and places that make Sanibel and Captiva so special.

As Fr. Bill Van Oss of St. Michael’s Church explains,

“Our mission is to encourage one another in daily life, showing everyone they are loved, equally valued, and that they belong.”

What’s New This Year

For 2025, Love Sanibel Back will journey from the East End to the West End, finishing in Captiva and running through August. The program will culminate with a Love Sanibel Community Gathering on Sunday, November 2, from noon–3 pm at The Community House — an island-wide celebration that promises to bring neighbors and visitors together for an afternoon of fun, gratitude, and community spirit.

Kick-Off Event

The official opening ceremony will take place on:
Wednesday, May 28, at 11:30 am
362 Periwinkle Way (Wickie’s Parking Lot)

The first businesses spotlighted for the 2025 campaign are:

• Wickie’s (restaurant)

• Magic Bus Ice Cream (dessert shop)

• Tuttles Seahorse Shop (local retail)

At the kickoff, visitors can pick up Love Sanibel Back buttons, reusable shopping bags, and stickers — perfect keepsakes to show off their support. Attendees are encouraged to enjoy a meal or treat at the featured businesses and continue shopping and dining at neighboring spots throughout the week.

Community Thanks

St. Michael’s expresses deep gratitude to The Charitable Foundation of the Islands, which has generously provided a $5,000 grant from the Hurricane Recovery Fund as well as in-kind social media services, and to the SanCap Chamber of Commerce for its collaboration in bringing this initiative to life.

Why It Matters

Love Sanibel Back 2025 invites all who love the islands to join together once again in showing appreciation for the businesses, owners, and workers who help make Sanibel and Captiva such vibrant, welcoming places.

With the rallying cry “Let’s spread the love — one week, one business, one neighborhood at a time,” the initiative continues to strengthen community ties and remind everyone that we belong here, together.

Stay tuned for the full summer schedule and weekly business highlights — and follow along on social media using #LoveSanibelBack2025 for the latest updates, photos, and stories from around the islands.

As spring winds down, so does the season for two beloved island traditions—the Sanibel Island and Captiva Island Farmers Markets. Locals and visitors are invited to celebrate the season’s end and support small businesses one last time before the markets take a summer break.

Final Market Dates:

• Sanibel Island Farmers Market:
  Saturday, May 25 | 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  Sanibel City Hall, 800 Dunlop Road

• Captiva Island Farmers Market:
  Monday, May 27 | 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  The Shops at South Seas, 14830 Captiva Drive

Both events are free and open to the public, with Captiva’s market welcoming leashed dogs and Sanibel permitting only service animals.

A Strong Finish to a Season of Resilience

Organized by Local Roots, co-owned by islanders Jean Baer and Betsy Ventura, this year marked the 17th season for Sanibel and 7th for Captiva. Despite recent storms, Baer said the season exceeded expectations and brought in not only loyal locals but also curious new visitors.

“There were so many faces I didn’t recognize—it shows that people from across Lee County wanted to come out, support the islands, and spend locally,” Baer noted.

Market Highlights

Each market features local produce, prepared meals, artisan crafts, and handmade items curated with intention. Between 40–50 vendors on Sanibel and about 25 on Captiva, attendees have a wide array of options, from fresh seafood and guacamole to baked goods and native plants.

Popular Vendors on Sanibel:

• Fresh Catch Seafood & Meats

• Dynasty Guacamole

• Angelic Desserts Bakery & Café

• Mediterranean Delight (new this year)

• Flèche Healthy Treats Ice Cream

• Ackerman Maple Syrup

Favorites on Captiva:

• 12 Seasons Farms

• Chef Sebastian Mazzotta

• Molly Malone Seafood

• Wholly Smoke BBQ

• Daily Delice Wood-Fired Pizza

Community Impact and Local Nonprofits

Each market also welcomes a rotating nonprofit group, offering them a platform to share their mission. Past participants have included FISH of Sanibel-Captiva, Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club, Sanibel School Fund, Captiva Civic Association, and Captiva Memorial Library.

Vendors at the Sanibel market also have the opportunity to donate surplus produce to FISH’s food pantry, continuing a meaningful partnership.

“The people at FISH really appreciate the support,” Baer said. “It’s a small effort that makes a big difference.”

What’s Next

The Sanibel market returns in October and Captiva in November. Local Roots is now accepting applications for vendors, artisans, crafters, and nonprofits interested in participating in next season’s markets.

“We’re grateful to South Seas Island Resort, the City of Sanibel, BIG ARTS, and the Sanibel Public Library for making these events possible,” Baer added.

Whether you’re a loyal regular or it’s your first visit, don’t miss the chance to experience these community markets before the summer break. As Baer encourages:

“Come out and see what’s new. Try something different. Support your local makers and farmers.”

For vendor applications and updates, visit www.buylocallee.com

The City of Sanibel has announced temporary road closures on Saturday, May 24, to accommodate the Doc Ford’s Yucatán Shrimp 7K Race. Motorists and residents should be aware of traffic adjustments and plan accordingly.

Road Closures (6:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.):

• Tarpon Bay Road: Closed from Sanibel Boulevard to the Trost parking lot. Note: The Bailey Tract parking lot will also be closed during this time, but the Trost lot will remain open.

• Island Inn Road: Closed from Tarpon Bay Road to the gate.

What Drivers Need to Know:

• Expect delays and follow event signage and instructions from law enforcement.

• Be especially alert for runners and pedestrians along the route.

• Consider alternate routes to avoid impacted areas during the event window.

For any questions or concerns, please contact the Sanibel Police Department at 239-472-3111.

Nature lovers and island residents can now enjoy the 38th edition of the Sanibel-Captiva Nature Calendar, a beloved local tradition that captures the heart and habitat of Southwest Florida’s barrier islands. Packed with stunning imagery and educational content, this year’s calendar continues its mission of blending natural beauty with a message of conservation.

A Visual Celebration of Island Life

Curated and published by Jim Fowler, the 2026 edition showcases 14 breathtaking photographs highlighting some of Sanibel and Captiva’s most iconic birds, marine life, and natural wonders. Several images are particularly special this year, capturing wildlife rebounding in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian. Featured species include American flamingos, reddish egrets, white ibises, and even ivory tree coral thriving off Sanibel’s coast.

The cover photo—a charming pair of yellow-crowned night heron chicks taken by Cliff Beittel at J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge—sets the tone for a collection that’s as heartwarming as it is informative.

“When I first saw this image, I just knew it had to be on the cover,” Fowler shared.

More Than Just Dates and Photos

Each monthly image is accompanied by a thoughtfully written narrative, detailing the featured animal’s nesting behavior, range, diet, habitat, and conservation status. Contributors include respected local writers and scientists such as Betty Anholt, Charles LeBuff, and Audrey Albrecht, shorebird biologist at the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation.

Also available is the Blind Pass Tide Edition, a spiral-bound version that includes daily tide predictions for Blind Pass and 24 other points along Florida’s southwest coast. It also lists key sunrise/sunset and moonrise/moonset times—plus all four eclipses expected in 2026.

A Calendar with a Cause

Far more than a keepsake, the Sanibel-Captiva Nature Calendar serves as a tool for environmental education and fundraising. Since its inception in 1988, the calendar has helped raise nearly $29,000 for conservation causes. Last year’s donation supported the Sanibel Sea School, and the tradition of donating a portion of proceeds will continue this fall.

In a creative sustainability effort, the calendar can even be shipped in envelopes made from recycled press sheets, giving new life to waste materials and reducing environmental impact.

Where to Buy

• Standard Edition: $17.95

• Blind Pass Tide Edition (Sanibel-exclusive): $21.95

Available at select bookstores and gift shops throughout Southwest Florida, or by mail:

Mail Orders:
Send $17.95 (+$2 shipping) or $21.95 (+$3 shipping) to:
Sanibel-Captiva Nature Calendar
P.O. Box 3828, Midway, KY 40347

Online Info: www.sancapcalendar.com
Inquiries: Contact Jim Fowler at 859-846-4164

Whether you’re a resident, a visitor, or someone who simply loves nature, this calendar is a meaningful way to stay connected to the wildlife and wild beauty of Sanibel and Captiva all year long.

This Memorial Day, the Sanibel community is invited to gather in a moment of remembrance and unity for Taps Across America, a nationwide tribute honoring the men and women who gave their lives in military service.

William A. Larson, a retired U.S. Air Force colonel, will perform the iconic military bugle call “Taps” on Monday, May 26, at 3 p.m. at his home located at 4597 Bowen Bayou Road, Sanibel.

The Larsons, William and his wife Debbie, are hosting the event as part of the national Taps Across America initiative, which encourages Americans to pause and reflect at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day—a moment designated by Congress as the National Moment of Remembrance.

Event Details:

• Location: 4597 Bowen Bayou Road, Sanibel

• Taps Performance: Monday, May 26 at 3:00 p.m.

• Arrival Time: Please arrive by 2:40 p.m.

• Bugler: Ret. Col. William A. Larson, U.S. Air Force

• Hospitality: Complimentary cake and cold beverages will be served after the performance

• Seating: Limited chairs available — bringing a beach or lawn chair is recommended

This heartfelt event is free and open to the public—no RSVP is necessary. It’s a simple yet powerful way to come together as a community and honor those who paid the ultimate price for our freedoms.

To learn more about the national initiative, visit Taps Across America.

Sea turtle nesting season is officially underway on Sanibel and Captiva Islands, and it’s off to a special start. On the night of May 19, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) confirmed the first green sea turtle nest of the 2025 season—an exciting and relatively rare event compared to the islands’ more common loggerhead nests.

A Familiar Turtle Returns

The nest was laid by Dellora, a green sea turtle well-known to local researchers. She’s been observed 12 times over the past seven years and was originally tagged in 2015 on Keewaydin Island by the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. Since then, Dellora has made consistent appearances on Sanibel Island in 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2022.

According to SCCF sea turtle biologist Jack Brzoza, Dellora has a history of being among the first green turtles to nest each year. “Even though green turtle nesting season typically begins in June, Dellora tends to arrive early,” Brzoza noted.

A Look at the Nesting Season So Far

While loggerhead turtles dominate nesting activity on Sanibel and Captiva—contributing nearly all the island’s annual nests—green turtles also find their way to these shores, with up to 30 nests documented in a season.

As of May 21, SCCF has recorded 81 loggerhead nests, with the first laid back on April 25. Nesting season in Southwest Florida spans from May 1 through October, a critical period for protecting both nests and hatchlings.

How You Can Help Protect Sea Turtles

SCCF reminds everyone—residents, visitors, and beachgoers alike—to help create a safe environment for nesting turtles and their hatchlings by following a few important guidelines:

• Turn off beachfront lights by 9 p.m.

• Fill in any beach holes and flatten sandcastles after your visit.

• Remove trash, furniture, and other items that may obstruct or confuse turtles.

• Stay clear of marked nesting areas and avoid disturbing turtles or hatchlings.

If you spot a problem or have concerns about a sea turtle or a nest, you can contact the SCCF Sea Turtle Hotline at 978-728-3663.

After enduring extensive damage from Hurricane Ian in 2022, the iconic South Seas Island Resort on Captiva Island has officially reopened many of its amenities—just in time for the 2025 hurricane season. The reopening marks a major milestone in the property’s ongoing $1 billion recovery effort.

A Fresh Chapter for a Historic Destination

Closed for extended periods since its acquisition in 2021 by Timbers Company and its partners, South Seas Island Resort is welcoming guests back with refreshed experiences. After a soft reopening around Christmas 2024, the resort hosted its official grand reopening celebration on May 22, 2025—just ten days before the start of hurricane season.

The revamped resort now features renovated pools, new and returning dining options, a reimagined golf course, and upgraded recreational facilities.

New and Returning Amenities

South Seas has revitalized much of its infrastructure. Notable reopenings include:

• Harborside Restaurant, a high-end Italian steakhouse with an extensive wine list

• A new fitness center, marina, and rental bikes

• Non-motorized water sports, now available for guest use

• Casual dining spots including a burger bar and poolside eateries

Director of Commercial Strategy Wendy Nicodemus shared excitement about these updates, noting that the restored offerings cater to both families and couples seeking a luxury coastal escape.

Upcoming Features: Captiva Landing

Looking ahead, South Seas plans to unveil Captiva Landing, a $24 million family-focused water amenity, in December 2025. Not to be confused with a water park, this five-acre experience will feature:

• A lazy river

• Family and adult pools

• Splash features like a dumping bucket and water slides

• Cabanas and on-site food and drink options

The goal is to deliver a memorable, family-first atmosphere where kids and adults alike can unwind and play.

Accommodations: More Than Just a Resort

Unlike traditional hotels, South Seas currently offers villa-style accommodations through privately-owned residences available for rent. These residences combine the comforts of home with full access to resort amenities—blending the flexibility of platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo with resort-style convenience.

Currently, around 260 homes are available for guests. That number is expected to increase to 300 by next year, although some units are still under repair due to hurricane damage. Long-term plans include building a traditional hotel to expand lodging capacity.

Pricing Snapshot

As of May 2025, one-bedroom villas are priced at just under $3,000 per week (inclusive of fees and taxes), with Florida resident discounts and promotional packages available. Larger accommodations—like the resort’s Homes of Distinction, which range from three to nine bedrooms—can cost upwards of $1,100 per night.

Expansion Plans and Community Challenges

Future development plans include a new 435-room hotel and 193 multi-family residences. However, these proposals have sparked concerns from residents and conservation groups about the potential impact on Captiva’s natural beauty and infrastructure. The resort occupies about a third of the island and shares a narrow access road with Sanibel Island, adding to traffic and environmental worries.

A county amendment in 2023 altered the property’s zoning density, leading to ongoing legal disputes. Resort leadership chose not to comment on these issues during the reopening celebration.

Ownership and Legacy

South Seas Island Resort is owned by Timbers Company, Wheelock Street Capital, and The Ronto Group. With a legacy spanning over 75 years, South Seas is now part of a portfolio that includes prestigious properties in Vail, Aspen, Napa, Tuscany, Scottsdale, and Hawaii.

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) is teaming up with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Lee County, and dedicated community members to help protect least terns, a state-listed threatened bird species, as they return to nest on the Sanibel Causeway Islands.

These delicate shorebirds nest in colonies on open, sandy beaches—making the recently reopened causeway islands an important, yet vulnerable, habitat. To safeguard their nesting sites, SCCF volunteers will be present on weekends and holidays to educate beachgoers about how to responsibly share the shore with these protected birds.

“The least tern is one of Florida’s most charismatic and vulnerable beach-nesting birds,” SCCF notes. “Protecting their nesting grounds is essential to ensuring their future on our barrier islands.”

How You Can Help

Volunteer: SCCF is actively seeking more volunteers to assist with education and outreach on the causeway. No prior experience is needed—just a willingness to engage with the public and protect local wildlife.

To get involved, email: shorebirds@sccf.org

Learn More: For tips on how to enjoy the beach while respecting nesting birds, visit
https://sccf.org/sharing-the-shore/