Sanibel is the shelling capital of the world. We were excited to return there to check out the shells and we headed to Bowman's Beach, one of the few public access points. Most of Sanibel is built up with hotels, resorts, and condos. The roads are crowded and tourists everywhere. We got a late start and it was 36 degrees with a stiff wind. The beach was pretty deserted. We were somewhat disappointed at the shells but we did not hit the tide right. We had a great time anyway just walking the beach and hoping to find that one shell that everyone else missed.

We stayed in nearby Ft Meyers at a Best Western. This is much cheaper than staying at Sanibel ($89 vs. $189) but if you want to be on the beach then you gotta stay on the island.

Feb 5, 2009.