Category: Island Update

We’re excited to announce that Sanibel’s Gulfside City Park (Algiers) and Bowman’s Beach Park are now open to the public! The City of Sanibel’s Public Works crews have been working diligently to restore beach access following the aftermath of Hurricane Milton.

As you head out to enjoy these beautiful beaches, please exercise caution. Debris may still be present and buried under the sand. We also recommend checking the Florida Department of Health’s website for updates on beach water quality before your visit.

Beach Parking Lots Still Under Restoration:

• Lighthouse Beach Parking Lots (Bayside and Gulfside)
• Tarpon Bay Road Beach (Trost parking lot)
• Blind Pass Parking Lot
• Turner Beach Parking Lot

The City will continue to update the public as more beach parking areas become available. Thank you for your patience as we work to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all!

As of 3:30 p.m. on October 14th, the city of Sanibel has issued the following updates after Hurricane Milton:

• Sewer System: The city’s sewer system is being restored ahead of schedule. While residents can use dishwashers and laundry facilities, water conservation is still encouraged. If you notice any issues or alarms at lift stations, contact the Sanibel Police Department’s non-emergency line at 239-472-3111.
• Trash Pickup: Regular household trash collection resumed today, October 14, following Waste Management’s normal schedule. Recycling and yard waste collections remain suspended.
• Storm Debris Collection: Starting October 16, storm debris pickup will begin for residential properties. Please ensure debris is sorted into five categories, as per city guidelines. Commercial properties must arrange for private contractors to handle debris; however, the city may offer assistance if FEMA approval is obtained.
• Recreation Center: The Sanibel Recreation Center at 3880 Sanibel-Captiva Road will open on October 15 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Available amenities include locker rooms, fitness classes, and outdoor courts. The water features pool will be open from noon to 4 p.m., though the lap pool will remain closed for cleaning. Free childcare will be available for Sanibel School students from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with activities such as arts, crafts, and games.
• Curfew: The city’s curfew remains in place from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. and will be lifted at 6 a.m. on October 15.
• Emergency Permits: Information regarding emergency repair permits is available on the city’s website, including guidelines on work that can be completed without a permit and access to the city’s permit portal.
• Beach Closures: All beach parks remain closed, but the city aims to reopen Bowman’s Beach on October 15. The Department of Health in Lee County has issued an advisory against swimming at local beaches due to water conditions.

Island Partner Updates:

• Island Water Association: General Manager Diana Wilson confirmed that all facilities are fully powered, and the boil water advisory has been lifted. Residents experiencing water issues should check their meter boxes and contact Island Water Association at 239-472-1502 if necessary.
• LCEC: Approximately 85% of the power has been restored on Sanibel and Captiva, with about 450 customers still without power. Report outages at 239-656-2300.
• Comcast/Xfinity: Comcast aims to restore about 90% of the island’s services by October 23.
• SanCap Chamber of Commerce: Island businesses are encouraged to inform the Chamber as they reopen. The Chamber will release updates to the public, similar to previous post-storm efforts.

Stay tuned to the city’s website and social media for further updates.

As of 11 a.m. on October 13th, the Captiva Island Fire Control District shared a comprehensive post-Hurricane Milton update to keep residents informed about ongoing recovery efforts. The district is diligently working to assess storm damage, mitigate hazards, and restore essential services across the island. Please remember that emergency issues should be reported by calling 911, as the district’s phones remain down due to the storm.

A Heartfelt Thanks to Our Partners The district extended its gratitude to the many organizations assisting with recovery efforts, including Sanibel Fire and Rescue, South Trail Fire & Rescue, Lee County Emergency Operations Center, South Seas Island Resort, FISH of Sanibel-Captiva, and the American Red Cross. Their support has been vital in navigating the aftermath of Hurricane Milton.

Roadway Access and Infrastructure Updates

• Captiva Drive and Blind Pass Bridge: Access has been restored to residential traffic, but significant repairs are still needed in areas like Captiva Shores and Jensen’s on the Gulf. Until repairs are complete, travel is restricted to one lane. The Lee County Department of Transportation (DOT) is handling these repairs.
• Wiles Drive: Similarly, road damage in this area will require ongoing DOT repair efforts, with one lane of travel available.
• South Seas Resort: Roads within the resort are being cleared, and emergency vehicle access has been established. Please note that parking along resort roads is strictly prohibited, as it will block critical emergency access.

Be Cautious on the Island Residents are urged to be cautious when checking on properties, as emergency services may still experience delays in some areas. Crews are working tirelessly to remove sand from roads, and Lee County Emergency Medical Services has restored ambulance service on the island.

Essential Services and Supplies

• Clean-Up Kits: The fire station has clean-up supply kits available for residents. These kits include essential items like brushes, gloves, and masks to aid in post-storm clean-up efforts.
• Drinking Water: Fresh water is available for residents at the fire station located at 14981 Captiva Drive. This service is not extended to contractor crews.
• Power Restoration: LCEC is actively working to restore power, and a dedicated outreach team will be available on Monday at Jerry’s Foods in Sanibel to address customer questions.
• Water Services: The Island Water Association has restored most water service, although it remains limited. Fire personnel can access it for emergency services.

Special Alerts on Lithium-Ion Electric Vehicles The district has raised concerns about electric vehicles (EVs) that were submerged in saltwater, posing a significant fire risk. Residents with EVs, including golf carts, should submit an Electric Vehicle Reporting Form to the district. The district urges residents to arrange for inspections or removal of these vehicles as soon as possible to prevent potential fires.

Beach Erosion and Hazards Captiva’s beaches have suffered significant erosion, and crews are still addressing multiple hazards, including large fuel leaks from dislodged tanks. If your generator is near a potential leak, it may need to be turned off temporarily until the area is secured.

Debris Removal and Additional Updates

• Debris Pickup: Lee County will schedule debris pickups soon. Do not pile debris in the roadway, as this could hinder emergency services.
• Comfort Stations: Plans are underway to establish a comfort and information station on the island where residents can access supplies and updates.

Stay informed, stay cautious, and thank you for your patience as we work together to restore Captiva to its full beauty and safety. For the latest updates, check the district’s website and official channels.

Following Hurricane Milton, the Captiva Island Fire Control District has provided an essential update on the ongoing recovery and safety efforts. The district is actively working to mitigate hazards and assess damage across the island. For emergencies, please call 911 as the district’s phones are down due to the storm.

Key Updates:

• Blind Pass Bridge: The bridge is now open for vehicle passage, thanks to repairs by the Lee County Department of Transportation (DOT). However, residents will need to show proper identification to access Captiva. Sanibel-Captiva Road near the bridge is damaged and currently restricted to one lane.
• Captiva Drive: The road is open to residential traffic, but sections near Captiva Shores and Wiles Drive have suffered major damage. The DOT is conducting ongoing repairs, and these areas are limited to one lane. Residents should exercise caution, especially near Jensen’s on the Gulf.
• South Seas Roadways: At present, district fire apparatus cannot access South Seas roads, except for the beach rescue vehicle. Residents checking on their property should be aware that emergency service access may be limited.
• Power and Water: Captiva remains without power, and it will not be restored until crews can safely access the island and assess damage. The Island Water Association has restored limited water service, allowing fire personnel to use it for emergencies.
• Storm Surge and Erosion: The storm surge from Hurricane Milton was similar to what was experienced during Hurricane Ian. The fire station took on two feet of water, and significant beach erosion has occurred, resulting in the loss of a portion of The Mucky Duck.
• Hazard Mitigation: Fire crews are continuing search and rescue efforts and working to clear roadways. Sand removal along Captiva Drive is expected to be completed today. However, several hazards, including large fuel leaks, are still being addressed.
• Emergency Access: Lee County Emergency Medical Services cannot currently access the island with ambulances, and transport to hospitals will be limited until major road debris is cleared.
• Electric Vehicles: Submerged lithium-ion electric vehicles (EVs) on the island pose a significant fire risk. Residents are urged to complete an Electric Vehicle Reporting Form on the district’s website so fire personnel can check EVs for damage. The district recommends arranging for submerged EVs to be inspected or serviced promptly.

Important Reminders:

• Boat Access: Residents accessing Captiva by boat must use approved docks that are deemed safe.
• Patience Requested: Residents are asked to be patient as fire crews work to address the numerous hazards on the island.

For more details on the electric vehicle reporting process and other updates, visit the Captiva Island Fire Control District website.

Stay safe and continue to follow guidance from local authorities as recovery efforts progress.

As of 2:30 p.m. today, the city of Sanibel announced that the Sanibel Causeway is now open for property owners to return. Access to the island is granted upon presenting either a Hurricane Re-entry Permit or proof of residency.

Entry Requirements:

• Sanibel Residents: Individuals with a green re-entry pass or a government-issued photo ID displaying a Sanibel address will be allowed entry.
• Business Owners: Those with a red re-entry pass can access the island.

While the causeway is open, some roadways still have standing water. Drivers are urged to exercise caution while returning to their homes and businesses.

Curfew and Travel Advisory
A daily curfew is in effect from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. until further notice. The city asks residents to limit travel on the island to help crews with the ongoing cleanup efforts.

Safety Guidelines for Property Owners:

• Water Usage: Avoid using water at your property, as the sewer system may back up.
• Shutting Off Water: If leaving the island, consider turning off your water supply to prevent issues.

The city expressed its gratitude to the community for their cooperation during the evacuation and extended patience throughout the recovery process. They emphasized the ongoing efforts to ensure safe re-entry for all property owners.

Captiva Access Update
While the causeway is open, the Blind Pass Bridge to Captiva remains closed due to ongoing repairs. Crews are working diligently to restore access, though no estimated time for reopening has been provided.

The city will continue to share updates as more information becomes available.

The highly anticipated Sanibel Island Farmers Market is set to return on October 6th, marking its 17th successful season. Running every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Sanibel City Hall, the market will continue through May, offering locals and visitors a vibrant mix of fresh goods, artisanal products, and handcrafted items.

Organized by Local Roots, co-owned by island residents Jean Baer and Betsy Ventura, the market has become a staple for the community. It’s more than just a shopping experience—it’s a place to connect, support local businesses, and explore unique offerings you won’t find elsewhere on the island.

“It’s a wonderful alternative for shopping, and it provides residents and visitors with unique items they wouldn’t typically find on the island,” shared co-owner Jean Baer.

This season, the market will host between 40 to 50 vendors, offering a variety of goods including fresh produce, baked goods, seafood, meats, and more. Returning favorites like Angela’s Tamales, Angelic Desserts Bakery, Dynasty Guacamole, and Jimmy’s Java will be joined by exciting new additions such as Daily Delice’s wood-fired pizza, Flèche Healthy Treats’ ice cream, and Mediterranean Delight’s range of hummus and baklava.

Beyond the food, local artisans and crafters will also be featured on a rotating basis. Shoppers can expect to find unique items like A Work of Heart jewelry, Holi Cow clothing, and The Fouta Spa beach towels.

The market isn’t just about shopping; it’s about giving back. Local Roots continues its partnership with F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva, encouraging vendors to donate any excess products to help stock the local food pantry. Shoppers can also bring their own donations to the F.I.S.H. booth at the market.

“We also offer space for local nonprofits to set up each week,” said Baer, inviting any interested groups to contact her for more information.

A few important reminders for this season:

• The market will now begin at 9 a.m., not 8 a.m.
• Dogs are not allowed, with the exception of clearly marked service animals.
• Bicycle parking is available at the Sanibel Public Library, with vehicle parking at the library, BIG ARTS, and the theater. Handicap parking will remain at City Hall.

Baer expressed her gratitude to the community, emphasizing how essential events like the farmers market are in bringing people together.

“Now more than ever, we need these moments to connect as a community,” she said. “Come out, enjoy the beautiful weather, and maybe even challenge yourself to try something new from our vendors each week.”

For more information about the Sanibel Island Farmers Market, visit Local Roots

Event Details
What: Sanibel Island Farmers Market
When: Sundays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (October through May)
Where: Sanibel City Hall, 800 Dunlop Road, Sanibel
Organized by: Local Roots
Cost: Free and open to the public

Captiva Island is ready to launch the 10th Annual Island Hopper Songwriter Festival, a beloved celebration of music across Southwest Florida. While you won’t see Garth Brooks, Tim McGraw, or Rascal Flatts headlining, you’ll find the talented songwriters behind their biggest hits. This year’s festival promises to be one of the best, with performances scheduled across Lee County from Sept. 20 to Sept. 29.

Expect to hear from some of the industry’s finest songwriters, including Earl Bud Lee, who co-wrote Garth Brooks’ anthem “Friends in Low Places,” Danny Myrick, the writer behind Tim McGraw’s “Truck Yeah” and Jason Aldean’s “She’s Country,” and Jeffrey Steele, who penned Rascal Flatts’ hits “My Wish” and “What Hurts the Most.” In total, 90 talented singer-songwriters will perform, including country star Scotty McCreery, winner of American Idol, at venues such as Key Lime Bistro, The Green Flash, and Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina.

“You may not recognize their names, but you’ve probably heard their songs on the radio, performed by some of country’s biggest stars,” said Nancy MacPhee, lead organizer of the festival and a representative of the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau (VCB).

Island Hopper, now one of Southwest Florida’s biggest music festivals, has attracted thousands of fans since its debut in 2014. The festival offers an intimate concert experience, allowing fans to get up close with songwriters and hear the stories behind the music. This unique format has made Island Hopper a hit, growing from just two locales—Captiva Island and Fort Myers Beach—to include Cape Coral and downtown Fort Myers.

The Big Draw: Country Music and Intimate Venues

Though the festival began with a mix of musical genres, country music has always been the focus, especially with the headliners. Performers like Chris Janson, LOCASH, and even Maren Morris have graced the Island Hopper stage early in their careers, with Morris performing just before her rise to fame in 2016.

Past performers include Kristian Bush of Sugarland, who has played six or seven Island Hopper festivals, and will return again this year. Other highlights from the 2024 lineup include:

• Scotty McCreery (“Five More Minutes,” “This Is It”)
• Jeffrey Steele (Rascal Flatts’ “My Wish,” “What Hurts the Most”)
• Kristian Bush (Sugarland’s “Stuck Like Glue”)
• Earl Bud Lee (Garth Brooks’ “Friends in Low Places”)
• Kassi Ashton (“Drive You Out of My Mind”)
• Shane Profitt (“Better Off Fishin’”)

A Nationally Acclaimed Festival

Island Hopper’s reputation has grown beyond Southwest Florida. In 2024, USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards ranked it the fourth-best music festival in the country, ahead of major events like Tennessee’s Bonnaroo and California’s Monterey Jazz Festival. What sets Island Hopper apart? Its relaxed atmosphere, intimate venues, and the fact that most performances are free of charge.

“You can swim in the pool at Pink Shell and strike up a conversation with Earl Bud Lee,” MacPhee says. “It’s a very laid-back, authentic experience.”

How to Experience Island Hopper

This year’s festival will take place across 23 venues in Lee County, with most performances being free. However, a few ticketed events are available, including:

• Jeffrey Steele and the Gulf Coast Symphony at the Florida Repertory Theatre (Sept. 26)
• Kristian Bush, Kassi Ashton, and Shane Profitt at Margaritaville Beach Resort (Sept. 27)
• Scotty McCreery at Pink Shell Beach Resort (Sept. 29)

For tickets, the full lineup, and show dates, visit island-hopperfest.com or download the Island Hopper map. This year’s festival promises to be bigger than ever, offering a chance to experience incredible music, intimate settings, and a laid-back Southwest Florida vibe.

In a recent decision, the Sanibel City Council has approved new regulations concerning the use of e-bikes on the island’s shared-use paths. While the original proposal allowed both Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes, the final ordinance only permits Class 1 e-bikes, with Class 2 being restricted from these paths. The ordinance also includes a speed limit and age restrictions, allowing riders aged 16 and older to use the paths at speeds between 10 and 20 miles per hour, with a default speed limit of 15 miles per hour.

This decision followed extensive debate. Some council members expressed concerns about safety, with Vice Mayor Mike Miller noting the dangers of forcing Class 2 e-bike riders onto the road. He referenced a serious accident where a couple, unable to ride on the path due to Class 2 restrictions, were hit by a vehicle. This incident raised questions about the safety of the roads for e-bike riders, given the lack of shoulders on Sanibel.

Despite these concerns, Councilmember John Henshaw remained firm in his opposition to allowing Class 2 e-bikes on the shared-use paths, citing the path’s design for human-powered vehicles and the difficulty in controlling speeds. He suggested bike lanes on the roads as a safer alternative and argued that adding motorized vehicles like Class 2 e-bikes could lead to further issues with motorized transportation, such as scooters, on the paths.

Councilwoman Holly Smith and Laure DeBruce supported Henshaw’s position, emphasizing the need to prioritize public safety, particularly with Sanibel being a tourist destination. Smith pointed out that many visitors may not be aware of the local rules, while DeBruce highlighted concerns raised by members of the Sanibel Bicycle Club regarding the risks posed by both Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes on the narrow, winding paths.

Police Chief Bill Dalton added to the discussion by noting the increasing prevalence of e-bikes on the island’s paths and the difficulty in enforcing the distinction between Class 1 and Class 2 bikes. He acknowledged the challenges the council faces in balancing safety concerns with the growing popularity of e-bikes.

Ultimately, the council voted unanimously to approve the ordinance, which excludes Class 2 e-bikes from the shared-use paths. The new regulations aim to ensure safety while allowing Class 1 e-bikes, which offer pedal assistance rather than full throttle, to continue using the paths under controlled conditions.

For more information and to view the bicycle path speed limit map, visit mysanibel.com and navigate to the City Council meeting agenda for September 9.

Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille’s Fort Myers Beach location has once again been recognized for excellence, winning the titles of Best All Around Restaurant and Best Waterfront Restaurant in The News-Press’ 2024 Best of the Best Fort Myers Community Choice Awards. This marks the second consecutive year that Doc Ford’s has received these prestigious honors.

The Best of the Best Awards highlight top businesses across Southwest Florida, with nominations and voting conducted online throughout the summer. The winners were officially announced during a gala event on September 5.

“We’re incredibly grateful to be recognized by the Southwest Florida community for our food, service, and atmosphere,” said Joe Harrity, a partner with HM Restaurant Group, the parent company of Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille. “These awards are a testament to the dedication and passion of our Fort Myers Beach team.”

Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille is known for delivering an exceptional guest experience, offering a unique blend of Caribbean-inspired cuisine with a signature flair. The restaurant is open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and features live music most evenings at both its Fort Myers Beach and St. Petersburg Pier locations. In addition to Fort Myers Beach, Doc Ford’s has locations on Sanibel Island, the St. Petersburg Pier, and Jungle Terrace in St. Petersburg.

Owned by HM Restaurant Group, Doc Ford’s is famous for its flavorful dishes, including the iconic Yucatan shrimp, savory sauces, and spices that draw inspiration from the Caribbean Rim. Since its founding on Sanibel Island in 2003, the restaurant has earned a loyal following and numerous accolades, including the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award. Its St. Petersburg Pier location was also named the county’s Best of the Best Restaurants for Everyday Eats in 2023.

Beyond its culinary success, Doc Ford’s is deeply committed to giving back to the community. The restaurant supports local conservation efforts and children’s hospitals, with proceeds from its specialty cocktails going toward these causes. Additionally, Doc Ford’s hosts the “Ding” Darling Doc Ford’s Tarpon Tournament, which has raised nearly $1.3 million for Sanibel’s J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge since its inception in 2012. The 13th annual tournament is scheduled for May 9, 2025.

For more information about Doc Ford’s and to explore their menu, visit docfords.com.