  
Sanibel & Captiva Islands
Attractions
Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum: The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum was opened in 1995 and is the only museum in the world devoted entirely to the shells of the world. There are more than 30 exhibits, learning labs and a museum store where one can find unique items that cannot be found elsewhere on the Islands.
Sanibel Historical Village and Museum: The Sanibel Historical Village and Museum began in 1984 when the home of pioneer Clarence Rutland, Assistant Lighthouse Keeper from 1918-1926, was moved to the site next to the Sanibel City Hall on Dunlop Road. Typical “Cracker” architecture, The Rutland House is completed with furnishings, artifacts and pictures from the early 1900’s. In 1991-1992, the 1926 Post Office, Miss Charlotta’s Tea Room c. 1930 and the Bailey General Store were relocated to the Museum property. Behind the old store is housed Bailey’s original 1926 Model-T delivery truck. In 1997 the Burnap Cottage c. 1898 and the Packing House were also added. The Museum offers an educational and exciting view into the Island’s past.
Barrier Island Center for the Arts: The Center for the Arts offers concerts, art classes, lectures, and exhibitions throughout the year.
Nature Tours & Trails: Conservation is a high priority on Sanibel Island. The importance of the Island’s natural systems, the mangroves, beaches, freshwater wetlands and estuaries, has attracted the attention of many, including the federal government.
“Ding” Darling Refuge: Some 5,000 acres of Sanibel’s wetlands and Island uplands have been set aside as a national wildlife refuge. Named for J.N. “Ding” Darling, the world-famous political cartoonist and Pulitzer Prize Winner, whose subject matter evidenced his personal commitment to conservation, the Refuge is a favorite attraction for residents and visitors.
Canoe Trail: See the Wildlife Refuge from another angle. Rent or paddle your own canoe. Canoe trails are well marked through the red mangroves in Tarpon Bay and off Buck Key.
Sanibel/Captiva Conservation Foundation: The Sanibel/Captiva Conservation Foundation has as its prime objective the preservation and conservation of the unique combination of natural elements on the Islands. The Foundation owns or controls over 850 acres of Sanibel’s interior wetlands. Headquartered on San-Cap Road, the Conservation Center introduces and explains the rare character that distinguishes Sanibel from other fragile barrier islands. Aquariums feature local fish. The Foundation’s Conservation Center contains a technical library, lecture space, research areas and a sales shop.
C.R.O.W.: Under its ornithologically cryptic title, C.R.O.W. is officially Care & Rehabilitation of Wildlife, Inc., a group devoted to the treatment of sick and injured animals and birds. The ultimate goal of the organization is to rehabilitate and release all creatures back into the wild.
The Lighthouse: Located on the Eastern tip of Sanibel, the lighthouse marks the entrance to San Carlos Bay from the Gulf of Mexico. It was originally built in 1884 to warn cattle ships sailing from Punta Rassa on San Carlos Bay to Key West and Cuba. Its flashing light still warns ships at night. The Sanibel fishing pier is located nearby.
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