We are all extremely thankful that Sanibel Island and the Island Inn were spared the worst of the Florida-wide storm early this September. While we had a bit of cleanup on the beach immediately after the storm, our accommodations remain spotless and our beaches world-class.
Since the storm, many of our long-time regular guests, as well as upcoming new guests have contacted us, concerned about how we fared. We deeply appreciate your thoughtfulness and kind wishes.
Don’t Worry – the coast is clear on Sanibel Island
We are resilient! Our beaches remain beautiful and the shelling is fantastic, as it often is after a storm. The dolphins frolicking near the shoreline will attest to the pristine nature of our waters. Let us further reassure you that our island bike paths and beach accesses are clear, the Sanibel Causeway was not damaged, and access routes from points North such as I-75 and I-95 are back to normal. All utilities including power were restored within a couple days after the storm. Businesses and attractions on Sanibel Island, Captiva Island, and in nearby mainland communities are open and fully operational. (Although the news media made a big deal out of it, we’ve been here since 1895; this isn’t our first storm!)
For those whose travel plans were disrupted by hurricane Irma or hurricane Maria, Sanibel Island is a beautiful alternative for vacationing this fall and winter. If you normally visit Florida this winter: especially Marco Island, Naples, Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Key West and the Florida Keys, you may need a change of plans because of flooding and wind damage. For many coming months, those whose intended stays were in the British Virgin Islands, US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, the Bahamas, St Martin, the Turks and Caicos Islands, St. Croix, St. Maarten, St. Thomas. Anguilla, Cuba, Barbuda and many other Caribbean Islands will most likely need an alternative. Many of these islands had extensive devastation to infrastructure and support systems that enable a tourism economy to function. Our hearts are with these communities as they rebuild.
Why Sanibel?
As you seek a different destination, we humbly invite you to consider Sanibel and the historic Island Inn. Sanibel in the Fall and Winter season is a delight. Because we are surrounded by the warm Gulf currents in South Florida, our winter temperatures stay warm and our beaches inviting. Fall and Winter also bring majestic flocks of migratory birds to Sanibel and Captiva Islands. Winter is our most popular season, so book your vacation early and be assured that there will be plenty activities and attractions to do on Sanibel Island!
