While you enjoy your vacation at Tropical Winds Motel & Cottages, its natural that you'll want to get out and explore our beautiful islands. Your Hosts are well equipped to make some great recommendations that will help you take advantage of all that Sanibel and Captiva have to offer.

    To peak your interest, we have put together this overview of the Islands highlighting some of the most popular "don't miss" attractions, starting at the East End of Sanibel and going all the way to Captiva.

    At the eastern tip of Sanibel is the historic, still functioning Sanibel Lighthouse. Built and first lit in 1884, today it is maintained by the Coast Guard. While not open to the public, this is one of the most popular spots on the island for photographers. The two stilt buildings next to the lighthouse are the original homes of the Keepers. Lighthouse Beach is a great spot to look for miniture seashells.

    Just around the tip of the island is the Fishing Pier where day or night, the action can be hot! You'll also find a boardwalk nature trail winding through native wetlands.

   Sanibel has wonderful shopping opportunities! Spend an afternoon cooling off while you "shop in a park" at the unique shops and restaurants in Periwinkle Place. There's even a playground to keep the kids happy.

    Boutiques are scattered across our Islands and we're sure you will be able to find that perfect one-of-a-kind item that you're searching for.

    From neighborhood Chocolateers to Custom Jewelry and Tropical Apparel, we have something for everyone!

    A dedication to the arts is apparent at every turn and has lead to many calling Sanibel the "Island of the Arts." One prominent organization, Barrier Island Group for the Arts (BIG Arts), offers first class concerts, literary discussions and a wide variety of workshops.

    At the Schoolhouse Theater performers and special guests stage musical reviews, comedies and well known plays.

    Local restaurants like Ellington's Jazz Club and Dolce Vita have regular evening performances.

    History buffs will want to be sure to spend time at the Sanibel Historical Village and Museum. Visitors trace footsteps from the past as they stroll along trails that skirt a mangrove bordered pond and lead to a facinating look at our past.

    The Village opened in 1984 and is now comprised of eight separate buildings, each fully restored to its original state. The collection of photographs and newspapers alone is amazing.



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