Because of Florida’s overall mild weather, every season could arguably be the best time to visit Sanibel and Captiva Islands. What sets our corner of the Gulf Coast apart from other beaches in the state is the preservation of the islands and the natural ecosystem. You won’t find any traffic lights on the islands, but you will find a tropical oasis with miles of pristine beaches, world-class shelling, and scenic bike trails.
Head to our Blogs page to learn more about everything Sanibel and Captiva Islands have to offer!
When Is the Best Time to Visit Sanibel and Captiva Islands?
Winter
On the islands, the coldest month is January. However, many people would consider it the perfect weather with highs in the mid-70s and lows in the mid-50s. December and February are both slightly warmer. The winter also sees the least amount of rainfall. It’s the perfect tropical getaway for people looking to get away from their snowy homes for a while. Several annual events take place throughout the winter! Some of the most popular ones are the Luminary Stroll in December, the Captiva Civic Association ABC Charity Auction Gala in February, and the Sanibel-Captiva Arts & Crafts Festival also in February.
Spring
Spring is the most popular time to visit Sanibel and Captiva Islands because of the ideal beach temperatures. Highs are typically in the mid-80s with lows in the 60s. March, April, and May also see very little rainfall. Because Spring is peak season on the islands, many events happen during those months, especially in March! A few of our favorite Spring events include the Sanibel Captiva Lions Club Arts & Crafts Fair in March, the BIG ARTS Annual Benefit also in March, and the Kiwanis Club President’s Cup Golf Tournament that typically takes place in either late March or early April.
Summer
Florida summers are known for their heat, and the islands are no different. Throughout June, July, and August, the highs are in the 90s with lows in the 70s at night. Because of hurricane season and high humidity in the summer, the season sees the most rainfall. Luckily, it never rains for too long in the sunshine state, and on sunny days, you’ll feel like you have the beach to yourself. Although summer is known as the islands’ slow season, there are still several events to enjoy! National Seashell Day happens each year in June. Because both Sanibel and Captiva are known for world-class shelling, there are events throughout the islands that celebrate the holiday. The Sanibel-Captiva’s Fourth of July Parade is all the family fun you’d expect from a small-town parade. To keep the festivities going the Sanibel-Captiva Optimist Club hosts the Sanibel Captiva Road Rally right after the parade to raise money for island youth.
Fall
Fall weather is much like the spring with highs in the mid-80s and lows in the 60s. September can still see a lot of rainfall, but October and November are known for perfect weather, great shelling, and quiet beaches. Events tend to pick up in the fall with the cooler weather. Some of our favorite local events are the F.I.S.H. Annual 10k Race in October, CROW’s Annual Taste of the Islands in November, and the SCCF Annual Tennis Tournament also in November.
Stay With Dream Vacation Rentals
Now that you can decide which is the best time to visit Sanibel and Captiva Islands for you, it’s time to book your stay. Dream Vacation Rentals has the best selection of beach houses and condos on the islands. We have more than 100 properties for you to choose from! Whether you need a one-bedroom beachfront condo or a large five-bedroom beach house, we’re sure to have the vacation rental for you. We also have more than a dozen dog-friendly homes because we know how important your furry family is.
Browse our properties and start planning your dream getaway to Sanibel and Captiva Islands today!