Sanibel and Captiva is definitely one of my top picks because of the beauty it posseses. Its beauty rivals some of the best beaches in Florida and the world. Sanibel-Captiva is a shell collector's paradise. You can find store-quality shells literally lying by the thousands on any beach you choose. Especially on the ends of the islands where the tides are the strongest. On Sanibel island, there are a lot of neat shops, and the city is reminiscent of a carribean village. The local wildlife preserve is entitled J.N. "Ding" Darling. Even though it has a funny name, it is one of the finest bird watching environments in the country. It's even been highlited on "All Bird T.V." on Animal Planet. It offers excellent camping facilities as well. Word to the wise: If you plan a trip to Sanibel-Captiva, be sure to include lots of insect repellent, as there are an abundance of mosquitos and sand fleas which can be very hurtful to you without the proper protection ecspecially after sundown. If you keep repellent handy, they will cease to be a nuisance for the most part. Sanibel and Captiva are very hard to get a reservation on so if you cannot get a reservation on the island then stay in Fort Myers. Fort Myers has great antique shops and has a good beach of its own. It also was the winter home of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, the great inventors. You can see their museum while you are there visiting Sanibel and Captiva. I will warn you that when on the island wear beach shoes while on the beach or in the water as there are so many seashells it will be easy to cut your feet. Be cautious! On the Flamingo Kid's Scale, I give Sanibel Captiva a "9" on a 1-10 basis. It's beauty is amazing and it is one of the best shell collecting islands on earth.
