81st Annual Sanibel Shell Festival

The 81st Sanibel Shell Festival is only days away, meaning that the Sanibel Community House will once again take center stage as host of the unique event that draws visitors from around the globe year after year.

The festival features juried scientific and artistic exhibits, along with shell displays, demonstrations, crafts, prizes, food and entertainment, and a raffle with more than $8,000 in prizes.

The Annual Shell Festival is a cooperative endeavor between The House’s Shell Crafters Club,  » Read more

New Hobie Fishing Kayaks

Tarpon Bay Explorers now offers an upgraded alternative for anglers to rent and fish within the JN “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.

Hobie fishing kayak rentals are available for visitors and residents to provide anglers a stealthy, efficient and hands-free fishing experience.

The Explorers team replaced its motorized canoe fleet with Hobie fishing kayaks to provide increased reliability and flexibility. Hobie kayaks are pedal-powered.  » Read more

Searchin’ For My Lost Shaker of Salt

Today is National Margarita Day!

Since it is reportedly the most commonly ordered drink in the U.S., accounting for 18% of all mixed drink sales (runner up is the martini), we thought that we would throw a shout-out to the frozen concoction that helps many hang on.

No-one knows who invented the margarita, but as with most things, it’s likely that it involved a beautiful woman.  » Read more

The Poetry of Kite Flying

One of the reasons we look forward to this time of year is having longtime guest Bob P. from Plymouth, MN back to delight beachgoers with his kite flying finesse.

It’s wonderful to see all of the vibrant colors sailing against the backdrop of a crystal blue sky. As always, Bob, thanks so much for the treat!

“A kite is a victim you are sure of.  » Read more

Whet Your Appetite!


The Kiwanis Spaghetti Dinner is coming!!

Fun Fact: An old propane tank from the “Algiers” steamboat was salvaged and now fuels the outdoor kitchen for the Kiwanis Spaghetti Dinner!

The Kiwanis Spaghetti Dinner is coming!! The annual fundraising event will be held this year on Saturday, February 24 at the Sanibel Community House.

For $10 per person (kids under 10 are free),  » Read more

SCCF Open House Today!

Have you ever wondered how SCCF’s researchers study seagrasses, diamondhead terrapins and sea turtles? How do you track eastern indigo snake populations across different islands in Pine Island Sound? How do you measure water quality and use the raw data to tell a story? What can tracking the movements of green sea turtles tell us about them? How do you restore an oyster reef, and why do it?

Meet the scientists and staffers at Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation who are always happy to answer your questions and talk more about how guidance from SCCF helps in the continued success of managing our island wildlife and environment.  » Read more

Who’s Your Daddy?

We ran across this groundbreaking study from Florida Atlantic University which documents multiple paternity in loggerhead sea turtle nests in Southwest Florida. What started out as a study on female sea turtle promiscuity is proving to be very good news for this female-biased species facing risks of extinction due to climate change.

To read about the fascinating findings published in Science Daily, click here.  » Read more

Crafts on the River

This weekend, Centennial Park will be transformed into a craft lovers dream with 100 exhibitors displaying their hand-crafts along the historic riverfront in downtown Fort Myers.

The annual Crafts on the River is a non-juried event open to local and national artisans and crafters. The event delights in old, new and unique items that come from all over the world. Original designs are displayed by nearly 100 artists in an informal atmosphere that encourages visitors to talk with the artists about their work and,  » Read more

Sign Up to Receive Special Offers