There’s a reason Sanibel was named one of the 10 best shelling beaches in the U.S. by Travel+Leisure magazine: the shells. They’re beautiful, unique, and continually replenished by gentle Gulf currents. Shell collectors from all over the world visit Sanibel, where there are hotels equipped with sinks and worktables for cleaning the day’s catch.
When you’ve gathered enough shells for the lamp, jar and aquarium, you can turn your attention to water sports, scuba diving, snorkeling, bicycling, bird watching, tennis, or any number of other activities the islands have to offer.