Sanibel Island offers a quintessential island lifestyle, and no matter what time of the year you visit, you'll love the tropical landscape, pristine beaches, beautiful nature, and abundant things to do. Whether you want to spend your time in nature or try the freshest seafood around, Sanibel Island and neighboring Captiva Island offer the perfect destination to escape the cold this winter. Discover Southwest Florida's most beautiful coastlines while avoiding the cold, wind, gray, and snow.
Winter on Sanibel Island is one of the most popular times to visit, and it's clear why. Enjoy mild temperatures and a laid-back island lifestyle while the northern region of the country is in its darkest and coldest months. Beyond the weather, there are tons of things to do here during the winter. Attend one of the many events, practice your golf game, explore nature, and view wildlife here.
Start planning your trip to Sanibel Island for winter 2021.
Winter 2020 Events in Sanibel
Annual CROW Taste of the Islands
For the entire month of November, participating restaurants will be offering a new experience on a traditional event. The 2020 CROW Taste of the Islands is going to be held at local restaurants, instead of in festival form, and guests can sign up for a 'Taste Passport' try to cuisine from the island's best eateries. You'll get a map and list of participating restaurants with your passport. Keep track and vote for the People's Choice Award! A portion of the proceeds will go toward CROW.
Learn More about the 2020 CROW Taste of the Islands
Luminary Week
The Luminary Festival is an annual event on Sanibel Island, and while it's taking place in 2020, it's going to look a bit different. This year's event is focusing on supporting local shops, restaurants, and other businesses on the island. From December 4 - 11, which is a Friday to Friday, guests and locals alike can take advantage of local discounts and offers available at participating locations.
Learn More About the 2020 Luminary Week
Christmas Lights Displays
Is it ever too early to get excited about holiday lights? Get in the festive mood with Sanibel's most iconic holiday events. See the Lighting of the Village in nearby Punta Gorda or hang out and watch the 32nd Annual Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade. Be sure to stay updated on changes related to these events while planning your winter getaway here.
Learn More About Southwest Florida's Holiday Lights Displays
Things to do on Sanibel in Winter
Winter temperatures are near perfect (OK, they are perfect) in Southwest Florida. Enjoy low 80s and high 70s during the day and low 50s at night along Florida's Southwest coast during the winter months. It makes the perfect setting for enjoying the beautiful scenery and wildlife here.
See Manatees in the Wild
During the winter months, manatees will swim to shallow and warm waters like those at Lee County Manatee Park. It's the perfect place to spot manatees due to its naturally warm water from the neighboring power plant. Between December and February, you can see up to 100 manatees lounging in this park! You can also view manatees at J.N. Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge, Lover's Key State Park, or on a Manatee Eco River Tour.
View More Tips to Seeing the Florida Manatee in the Wild
Practice Your Golf Game
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Sanibel and the surrounding area is home to many challenging and highly rated golf courses, so why not try to tee off at them all? Winter is the perfect time to play because you can tee off at any time of the day without having to deal with the harsh heat. Sanibel Island Golf Club, The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club, South Seas Island Golf, and The Sanctuary Golf Club are all great spots to practice your swing and enjoy the scenery.
Learn More About Sanibel's Top Golf Courses
Book Sanibel Island Winter Rentals
What are you waiting for? Secure your spot in the sun on Sanibel Island this winter. Whether you're planning a quick getaway or plan to spend a month or longer here, browse all of our Sanibel Island rentals to find the perfect one for you. Stay in a monthly rental or bring Fido along to one of our pet-friendly units. All our Sanibel vacation rentals have something to offer, and each complex is different. Browse our communities to find the best destination to suit your needs.