Sanibel Island vs. Fort Myers Beach for Vacation? (Key West: spring break, rent)

[Country-n-Sunshine]

Hi everyone,

I am looking to plan a vacation to Sanibel Island but also started looking at Fort Myers Beach. I more or less am looking for a relaxing vacation but still want to do some exploring.

I definitely want to be able to enjoy the beach and warm enough to swim. One of the main reasons I chose Sanibel Island is because I absolutely love beachcombing and although I've read the best time of year to do that is in the spring (I think that's what I read), I've already got a vaca planned in April this year so I was looking at more towards the end of the summer/fall. But...then I run the risk of traveling in hurricane season-or is it really not that big a deal?

So, what are some recommendations on the timing of when to plan? And how about which area would be better to stay (I don't mind driving to either area to explore). Also, I'd welcome any tips on things to do (nature, animal, water sports, dining, best beach area, etc.).

Thanks so much!

[Restrain]

If you want fun stuff (beach restaurants, hotels on the beach, etc) then Fort Myers Beach with its condos, restaurants, tiki bars, etc is for you. Rent a boat, rent a jet ski, parasail, etc.

If you want to being your own chair, set on a beach, and look for shells, it is Sanibel. All the restaurants are on the main drag through town.

I would recommend getting your hotel on Fort Myers Beach, then explore Lovers Key, Sanibel, etc. Key West is 3 1/2 hours by ferry (check the hours), 6 by car. As to diving, a lot is down on the keys but there are dive tours. Check out what is happening.

As to timing, September is good, after the thundering herd of summer, before the snowbirds. Storms generally start late September through early November. Most big storms are on the east coast. Haven't had a bad storm on the west coast since 2004.

[Country-n-Sunshine]

Thank you - that was very helpful. I appreciate the information. Now at least I have a timeframe where I can start planning.

I've been to Key West twice and loved it but would like to make visiting the Keys again a separate vacation all on its own. In fact, I love Florida and there's so many areas I want to visit.

[sunshinewi]

Totally agree with restrain. If you loved key west, then stay in fort myers beach. Near times square would have the most bars and fun.

[nhkev]

late august and September is usually when water quality is at it's worst. the area gets all it's rain during the summer it churns up silt and the muck from the rivers end up around the coast. best time to go is April/ May/ June. October the water starts clearing up again and is pretty good time, almost out of Hurricane potential, no snowbirds.

Winter time too many snowbirds, water too cold to enjoy , fish don't bite. leave it for the old folks

[Angelala]

I love going to Sanibel island and usually avoid Ft. Myers Beach. Sanibel is much more relaxing and Ft. Myers Beach is so commercial. I would definitely stay on the island over FMB.

[Izmack]

Originally Posted by Angelala

I love going to Sanibel island and usually avoid Ft. Myers Beach. Sanibel is much more relaxing and Ft. Myers Beach is so commercial. I would definitely stay on the island over FMB.

Ditto - it really all depends on what you are looking for - those 2 places could not be further apart in experience. FMB is more honky tonk....Sanibel is quiet natural beauty. And....unless you like absolutely wild spring breakers, I'd stay away from FMB in April. It's on the tail end of spring break, but they are still there. One doesn't see too many spring breakers on Sanibel, unless they are Vanderbilts.

[Izmack]

Originally Posted by sunshinewi

Totally agree with restrain. If you loved key west, then stay in fort myers beach. Near times square would have the most bars and fun.

FMB and Key West? Not a realistic comparison whatsoever. There's much more to Key West than Duvall Street. FMB? Not so much.

[Country-n-Sunshine]

Yeah, this time around I'm looking for more relaxation than anything so I think it will be best to stay in Sanibel and take a jaunt over to Ft. Myers just to check it out. I think the Gulf side of Florida is absolutely beautiful (not knocking the east coast side, just haven't been)

What I would LOVE to take part in is a group that assists in the migration of sea turtles. The last time I was down there, (St. Pete area), I think I had just missed the season or the dates for the public to take part. Does anyone have a particular group/organization to recommend? I'd also like to make a donation, it's such a wonderful cause.

[SWFL_Native]

Sanibel and it's not even close!

FMB is fine but I far prefer Sanibel beaches, restaurants, and wildlife. Great for pedestrians, biking, boating, kayaking, etc.

FMB is far more touristy / hokey but has some decent spots to eat, bars, and nightlife which on Sanibel nightlife is nill.