Memorial Day Weekend
Summer is almost here, and it’s time to start planning your 2022 Memorial Day weekend. During the weekend of remembrance, why not plan a Sanibel Island getaway? There are plenty of things to do in the area, but a Memorial Day weekend on Sanibel is still full of opportunities to relax and unwind. Sanibel beaches are beautiful and make a great destination with their light crowds and space to spread out and enjoy. Whether you're looking for a relaxing weekend away or a weekend of exploration, our Sanibel island rentals offer the perfect home base for Memorial Day 2022.
Here are our top 5 favorite ways to spend the holiday weekend.
Shelling
If Sanibel Island is known for one thing, it’s for the beautiful seashells that cover the island's beaches. Rated among the top places in the U.S. for shelling, Sanibel Island is the place to find unique shells in great condition. Some of the best places to go shelling on Sanibel are Lighthouse Park, Gulfside City Park, Captiva Beach, Bowman's Beach, and Blind Pass Beach. Go at low tide if you can when more shells are exposed.
Memorial Day Cruise
Head out on a cruise along the coastline for Memorial Day. This tour gives the opportunity to view wildlife and take in the stunning scenery from the water! Pure Florida is offering free cruises May 27-30 for veterans and active-duty service members when accompanied by paid adult or child admission. The cruises will leave from Fort Myers at 10 am, 2 pm, 4 pm, and 1 hour from sunset. Pure Florida cruises are available for $35 per passenger during the day and $32 for the sunset cruise
Bike Ride
Sanibel Island features more than 25 miles of bike paths that allow you to explore this beautiful island. Some of the best Sanibel Island bike trails include the Sanibel Causeway, Rabbit Road Trail, and East Gulf Drive. The four-mile wildlife drive loop through the J.N. ‘Ding’ Darling National Wildlife Refuge is among the best places on the Island to explore and see more than 200 species of birds.
Sanibel Island Farmers Market
The Sanibel Island Farmers Market ends its season on Memorial Day weekend and is a great way to spend your Sunday afternoon. Established in 2008, the Sanibel Island Farmers Market is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Pick up local honey, produce, bread, meat, cheese, flowers, and much more. Keep in mind that dogs are not allowed in the market.
Eat a Hamburger
When you’ve had time to relax and explore the best of Sanibel, you might be ready to celebrate Memorial Day a traditional way, with a hamburger! If your vacation rental has a grill, head to the store and find everything you need to whip up a Memorial Day BBQ or pick up burgers from one of Sanibel Islands' famous burger spots!
- Opened by author Randy White, the Doc Fords Rum Bar & Grille is a laid-back establishment that serves gourmet finger foods and has an excellent burger that many locals recommend. Feel inspired by Doc Ford’s adventures as you sip their famous Island Mojito as a warm breeze blows while seated on their porch.
- Need a fan favorite for a memorable dinner? Head to The Island Cow and enjoy delicious food, cold drinks, yard games, and entertainment! One of the most popular restaurants on Sanibel Island, The Island Cow is perfect for a fun dinner the whole family will get a kick out of!
- Looking for something to go? Grab your burgers and some shakes from Cheeseburger Cheeseburger then head to one of the many beachside parks to enjoy as the sun sets on a beautiful Memorial Day weekend.
Kick-off your summer on the island. Memorial Day on Sanibel Island offers the perfect escape, and you’ll find plenty of ways to celebrate the weekend. Browse our entire inventory of Sanibel Island vacation rentals and book today.
During this weekend of remembrance, we will not forget the reason we celebrate. In honor of those brave service members who gave their lives, we wish you a beautiful Memorial Day.