By Tricia Woolfenden
Sanibel Island off the coast of South Florida is considered a haven for families and nature lovers. Though it is located just miles from popular spring break destinations, Sanibel Island and environs have maintained a calm, natural environment, making it an ideal destination for scuba diving, shelling and snorkeling.
Attractions
Best known for its pristine shelling beaches and excellent snorkeling, Sanibel Island is also home to the Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge, excellent bird watching and miles of bike trails.
Accommodations
The average year-round hotel rate is $140 to $170 per night, though rooms are available anywhere from less than $100 to more than $500.
Time Frame
Sanibel Island provides year-round snorkeling, with peak season in January through April. Water temperatures can dip to 60 degrees in December and January. Hurricane season is June through early November.
Considerations
Most charter boat snorkel trips offer all-in-one packaging, including travel, equipment rental and some basic instruction. To avoid a boat trip bring your own snorkel equipment or purchase gear on Sanibel Island, and begin your adventure from the shore.
Types
There are at least half a dozen reputable snorkel charter trips operating out of Sanibel Island. The Official Sanibel Island and Captiva Chamber of Commerce is a reliable resource for operational charters.
Travel
Sanibel is accessible by a three-part causeway . The 2009 toll rate is $6 per car, with no charge for the return trip to the mainland. Frequent visitors can opt for a transponder, which works on a debit charge system and cuts the toll to $2 per trip.
Resources
About the Author:
Tricia Woolfenden, a freelance writer since 2000, is a former reporter for a large daily newspaper in Michigan who now works in the public relations and marketing department for a mid-sized non-profit cultural institution in Florida. She holds a bachelor's degree in journalism from Central Michigan University.
