The 100 acre Bailey Tract is a great place for nature photography and viewing wildlife. The (surprisingly) freshwater environment offers refuge for many birds that avoid the salty mangrove habitats and provides them an important stopover site during migration.

   Alligators and turtles are frequently seen sunning on the banks. River otters, bobcats and armadillos are present in the Tract but rarely seen. If you're quiet you may catch sight of raccoons, marsh rabbits, opossum and other animals that call this area home.

    On Sanibel-Captiva Road, next to the Sanibel School is the newly completed Recreation Center. Activities and classes are available for all ages.

     Not one to feature just the usual gymnasium, weight and exercise rooms, the Rec Center has all that and more - here you can let the kids splash the pool complete with slide or join in on activities in the Teen Center, enjoy an Arts & Crafts class or take advantage of cooler evening temperatures on the lit public tennis courts. Low cost daily and weekly memberships are available.

   Sanibel's seashells aren't just on the beach! Down the road from the Rec Center and very close to Tropical Winds Motel & Cottages is the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum.

    At the only museum in the world dedicated to shells, you can learn about Sailor's Valentines and see amazing collections of shells in colors you can only imagine. Children are welcome and there is an entire section set aside just for them to explore. Stop by the gift shop before you leave and pick-up a shell identification book to learn more about your own treasures.

    The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) is dedicated to education and the preservation of natural resources and wildlife habitats on and around Sanibel and Captiva Islands.

    SCCF offers a wide array of programs for all ages including beach and trail walks and boat and kayak tours. At their Nature Center you will find four miles of trails (with an observation tower), exhibits, a touch tank, butterfly house and Nature Shop and Bookstore.

    The J. N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge is a 6000+ acre sanctuary that offers wonderful bird watching spots, bike and walking paths, winding canoe trails and a four-mile scenic drive, all lush with tropical native folliage.

    Stop in the Educational Center before touring to pick-up a free booklet that lists points of interest and what may be seen at each. Be sure to bring your camera and binoculars! Low tide, when birds feed, is an ideal time to visit.


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