Did you know that Sanibel Island has more than 22 miles of paved bike trails? Known for its white sand beaches and gorgeous sunsets, the many Sanibel Island bike trails also make it a haven for bicycle enthusiasts. Grab your bike as we map out the best Sanibel Island bike trails for you to enjoy on the island.
Coast on the Sanibel Causeway
The Sanibel Causeway is both free and open to bicycle riders. The best part about riding your bike over the causeway is enjoying the scenery of Pine Island Sound and avoiding a $6 toll that motorists pay for driving over the bridge in cars. The causeway is also connected to islands that act as popular parks for bicyclists and walkers.
Causeway Warning: Only avid bicyclists with high endurance can pedal their way to the top of the steep Sanibel Causeway. Walk your bike to the top if you are concerned about making it and coast your way down the other side.
Pedal on Periwinkle Way
Periwinkle Way is a great place for bicycle rentals and cyclists. Pedal downtown with other cyclists and do some window shopping. The bike trails are separated from the roadways, which make the bicycle paths safe for families too.
Ride to the Sanibel Lighthouse
The eastern portion of Sanibel Island is shady and filled with bike trails, making it easy to enjoy the scenery of the Sanibel Lighthouse. Take a ride to the Lighthouse Café for breakfast, where there are plenty of places to park your bicycle out front.
Bike Ride at J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
The Wildlife Drive at J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to see wildlife, including birds, alligators and marine life. The four-mile path is paved and provides a good bicycle-riding experience. Cyclists pay $1 per person to enjoy Wildlife Drive.
See Seashells along Sanibel-Captiva Road
Take a leisurely bike ride on the western portion of the island on Sanibel-Captiva Road. Pedal almost to Blind Pass and stop at the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum to learn about the great shelling opportunities on the island. Continue on your way and stop at Bowman’s Beach to take advantage of some great shelling opportunities.
Middle Gulf Cemetery Bike Trail: Travel Through Time
Take an historic bike ride through the Middle Park Sanibel Island Gulf Cemetery bike trail. Travel through time as you experience the pioneer cemetery before you follow the trail to the beach at Gulfside Park.
Stay at Port Sanibel Marina and Royal Shell Vacation Rentals
Now that you know how to tackle the best of Sanibel Island’s bicycle trails, make sure you also schedule some time to enjoy the water too. All of your watersport rental activities can be accommodated at Port Sanibel Marina. The marina rents boats and kayaks and canoes. You can also schedule a fishing charter or sunset charter. Call Port Sanibel Marina at (239) 437-1660 to plan your trip today!