Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, located just 5-minutes from the Island Inn, connect people to the natural world through their love of shells and the animals that create them. Visiting the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum is a great family activity to do with kids on Sanibel Island, as well as adults! Engage with live animals in two large interactive touch tanks while learning from the museum’s knowledgeable staff about the beautiful creatures you’re holding. Then, head over to see world-record sized shells from around the world, as well as how and where to find shells on Sanibel and Captiva Islands. You’ll even learn the best way to clean and transport your gifts from the sea back home with you. The museum offers more than 30 permanent exhibits and several traveling exhibits, but the most exciting is their Giant Pacific Octopus! You can even watch the octopus via the museum’s Live OctoCam before you meet this beautiful creature in-person!

For more information about the museum, including current hours and rates, visit their website by clicking on the MORE INFORMATION button below.