Attention Foodies: The Beach and Good Eatin' are Compatible on Sanibel

We know some people (not naming names here) who will not go to the beach unless they have something to eat there.


Honestly, as crazy as that sounds, the beautiful Gulf, the sight of shore birds, the dolphins leaping through the water...none of that is sufficient temptation to spend the day at the beach.


And while there are not a lot of beach bistros and restaurants on the Island, there are some.


But for our fussy eaters, they want their own food to eat on their own blanket or at their own beach chair, and a baloney sandwich is just not going to make their day.


Have heart, ye Alexajente's of coastal cuisine! Sanibel can provide you with the fuel you need to not only enjoy our natural wonders but savor some delicious and delightful treats as well. A stop at Jerry's before a beach day is a joy to behold. There are quiches to choose from, a wide variety of cheeses, smoked fish, stromboli and bruschetta and dips and spreads galore. If you think you left good snacking behind you in New York City (or where ever), come and see what Jerry's has in store.


Now, of course, we realize that smoked fish may not be what you think of for breakfast at the beach, so you might want to consider the Sanibel Deli and Coffee Factory for your early day meal by sunrise. The Island Deli will tickle your morning palette with its wide and tantalizing selection of breakfast sandwiches, bagels, hard rolls and croissants. And if an egg and cheese sandwich sounds too healthy, you might want to consider their diverse array of muffins (that range from Banana to Buttered Rum). Or take a liquid beach break with a Cappuccino, Espresso or Latte.


And Sanibel caters to those who prefer not to have to do their own shopping, packing ---or even thinking--- on the Island. In fact, the Island boasts a caterer, Leslie Adams, whose mouth watering concoctions can be the highlight not just of your beach day, but of your whole stay. Some of the sample menus on her website will be sure to make you and your vacation party swoon, including Shrimp or Chicken Asian Lettuce wraps drizzled with Thai Peanut Sauce and Dates stuffed with Gorgonzola and bacon served on Rice Crackers....and those are just appetizers! Catering by Leslie would make particularly great sense if you are an extended family or large group of friends looking to make a beach outing a most memorable dining experience!



For those who want to just go to the beach with no further thought or consideration, there is another gal who will do it all for you. Island Go-fer is a pick up and delivery service run by the owner, Ginny Huking. Island Go-fer will pick up and deliver almost anything, almost anywhere. They will shop for your list at Publix, Albertson’s, Costco, and Sam’s Club or just about anywhere else. They will deliver your items to the house and put them away. Or, deliver them directly to your beach blanket.


And, we have it on good word, that the sushi at Costco's is so delicious that you may never again want a baloney sandwich on the beach. Island Go-Fer is a popular service, however, and you must get on their schedule in advance.