Sanibel Island and Captiva Island, Florida are a nature lover’s paradise with world-class shelling, unspoiled beaches, and abundant birding and wildlife. Their breathtaking natural beauty also make them ideal spots to chase the Florida sunset. Here’s where to go to see the sun settle into the Gulf of Mexico and enjoy an evening of waterfront fun.
Take a Sunset Cruise with Captiva Cruises
There’s nothing quite like experiencing a Florida sunset cruise over the Gulf of Mexico, and Captiva Cruises offers three ways to do it. On Thursdays, their Sunset Serenade provides live music, cocktails, and an open-air top deck aboard the Lady Chadwick. Offered periodically throughout the week, the Wildlife Sunset takes guests on a relaxing cruise to see dolphins, birds, and other wildlife in the Pine Island Sound before the sun settles over the Gulf. Or hop aboard Captiva Cruises 40′ sailing catamaran, Adventure, for a unique sailing experience offered various days during the week.
Blind Pass and Turner Beach
Turner Beach is located on the southern tip of Captiva right at the “Welcome to Captiva” sign at Blind Pass Bridge. Blind Pass Beach is on the Sanibel side of the Blind Pass Channel. Arrive before the breathtaking Florida sunset and hunt for a variety of impressive shells before the sun dips over the Gulf of Mexico.
Bowman’s Beach on Sanibel Island
Bowman’s Beach on Sanibel offers a quiet retreat for exploring. This popular award-winning beach offers miles of white sandy beach to play, relax, or gather shells. Bring a picnic for a beachfront dinner. Follow the marked trail through the wooded area over the footbridge and dunes. Once the sun starts to dip, spread out your favorite picnic blanket or towel on the beach and dig your toes into the warm sand and watch the sun slowly set.
The Mucky Duck on Captiva Island
Captiva Island offers plenty of nature and wildlife spots, but there are also fun places to grab a cold beer and dig into some seafood while watching the Florida sunset. Located in the heart of Captiva, the Mucky Duck has become so famous for sunset-watching, you can actually check the sunset times on their website.
Make seeing a Florida sunset the main attraction on your next Sanibel and Captiva Island vacation. Choose your favorite spot and get ready for an evening light display of dazzling color across the Gulf.
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