During spring and summer on Sanibel and other Florida beaches, shorebirds build nests out of sand and shells and hatch chicks that can barely be seen. So well-camouflaged are the nests, eggs and chicks of shorebirds like the snowy plover that they can easily be stepped on or missed unless people know to watch out for them.
People at the beach, including those paddling canoes, kayaks and boards along the shore, can help beach-nesting shorebirds by following basic guidelines. The Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) offers this advice to Sanibel visitors and residents:
• Honor the leash law- An unleashed dog can kill an adult bird or chick or trample a nest.
• Respect marked nesting areas- Too much human disturbance can cause birds to abandon their nest. It’s important to remain outside of the staked area.
• Avoid flying kites near nesting areas- Kites are viewed as predators. They can cause a bird to abandon its nest.
• Never chase birds on the beach- Shorebirds use the beach to nest, rest, and feed. Forcing them to fly interferes with all of these activities.
• Fill in holes- Holes on the beach can trap chicks that cannot fly. If trapped, chicks can die from predators or exposure.
Further suggestions were made by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reminding beachgoers to be on the lookout and avoid disturbing bird nurseries on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of Florida. “By taking a few simple steps, people can enjoy the beach without disturbing beach-nesting shorebirds and their chicks, which increases the birds’ chances of survival,” said Nancy Douglass, who works on shorebird conservation at the FWC.
“While the populations of beach-nesting birds are declining, people’s willingness to protect shorebirds and their chicks can make a difference. Food scraps attract predators such as raccoons and crows. Litter on beaches can entangle birds and and other wild life."
Sounds like there are plenty of things we can do or not do to help the Snowy Plovers!
Saturday, March 29, 2014
Friday, March 21, 2014
About the Bridge: Causes for Pauses on the way to Sanibel
One may wonder, seeing the Sanibel Causeway ranked high on the attractions of Sanibel Island, how a bridge can gain such favor.
But to best understand the popularity of the Causeway, a little history is in order.
As early as 1912, automobile ferries serviced Sanibel Island from the mainland at Punta Rassa. The idea of building a bridge from the mainland to the island was highly controversial amongst the early residents of the island, as many thought a bridge would ruin the beauty and isolated feel of the island. One of the largest proponents of building a bridge, however, was island resident Hugo Lindgren who saw the island's potential and tried to convince Lee County to build a bridge. Despite the opinions of the islanders, it was clear that the ferries were insufficient by the mid 1950s as demand increased leading to long lines of vehicles waiting to cross the bay. Wildfires on the island in 1955 further convinced the county to build a bridge as it would improve access to the island for firefighters.
In early 2003, during a routine inspection, severe cracks were discovered underneath a 48-foot (15 m) deck section on Bridge B. After this discovery, all three of the bridges were very closely monitored, and the damaged section was braced with additional steel pilings. Construction of the current bridges commenced in August 2004. The three dollar toll was increased to six dollars in November 2004 in order to finance construction. Construction on the current spans lasted three years, and cost $137 million.
And while there are a few who would argue that the charm of the island was compromised by a high, set bridge, there are many good points demonstrating the contrary. The causeway not only helps to facilitate a quick access onto the island, it provides the "best view" of the island. Crossing over the causeway is like driving into heaven. Water everywhere, the Sanibel lighthouse in the distance, osprey resting on the railings, pelicans perusing the bay and diving for fish are among the sights to be seen and enjoyed as you ride the new bridge.
But being on the causeway is only half the fun. There is also the Causeway Beach, where visitors can swim, fish, gather shells, picnic and ride (cautiously) on jet skis. And though most of these activities are available on the Island beaches, there are two rarities witnessed along the causeway....shade and close to beach parking.
We are not suggesting the causeway as a substitute for a stay on Sanibel, but as many have noted, it is a beautiful transition on to the Island with its own special set of delights!
But to best understand the popularity of the Causeway, a little history is in order.
As early as 1912, automobile ferries serviced Sanibel Island from the mainland at Punta Rassa. The idea of building a bridge from the mainland to the island was highly controversial amongst the early residents of the island, as many thought a bridge would ruin the beauty and isolated feel of the island. One of the largest proponents of building a bridge, however, was island resident Hugo Lindgren who saw the island's potential and tried to convince Lee County to build a bridge. Despite the opinions of the islanders, it was clear that the ferries were insufficient by the mid 1950s as demand increased leading to long lines of vehicles waiting to cross the bay. Wildfires on the island in 1955 further convinced the county to build a bridge as it would improve access to the island for firefighters.
In early 2003, during a routine inspection, severe cracks were discovered underneath a 48-foot (15 m) deck section on Bridge B. After this discovery, all three of the bridges were very closely monitored, and the damaged section was braced with additional steel pilings. Construction of the current bridges commenced in August 2004. The three dollar toll was increased to six dollars in November 2004 in order to finance construction. Construction on the current spans lasted three years, and cost $137 million.
And while there are a few who would argue that the charm of the island was compromised by a high, set bridge, there are many good points demonstrating the contrary. The causeway not only helps to facilitate a quick access onto the island, it provides the "best view" of the island. Crossing over the causeway is like driving into heaven. Water everywhere, the Sanibel lighthouse in the distance, osprey resting on the railings, pelicans perusing the bay and diving for fish are among the sights to be seen and enjoyed as you ride the new bridge.
But being on the causeway is only half the fun. There is also the Causeway Beach, where visitors can swim, fish, gather shells, picnic and ride (cautiously) on jet skis. And though most of these activities are available on the Island beaches, there are two rarities witnessed along the causeway....shade and close to beach parking.
We are not suggesting the causeway as a substitute for a stay on Sanibel, but as many have noted, it is a beautiful transition on to the Island with its own special set of delights!
Thursday, March 13, 2014
Authors on Sanibel Attract Readers and Eaters
Sanibel Island is a tropical destination that attracts those who write, those who read and those who sell books.
Marion “Doc” Ford, a moody marine biologist and environmental consultant with a murky past as a covert government assassin, exists only in the imagination of novelist Randy Wayne White. Yet Sanibel's Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille is a real place, where White can be found many nights chatting with diners and readers.
His novels are based in what White calls “Doc Ford country”: Sanibel, Captiva and Pine islands in southwest Florida, picturesque blends of beachfront mansions and working-class marinas. White says, “Ever since the first tarpon, the first great game fish, was landed in Tarpon Bay in 1898, those have been the two main elements here: the ultrawealthy and working-class fisherman. Before then, it was mostly wilderness.”
His novels make use of Florida history and environmental debates. It’s fiction, but he says he works hard to get his facts right.
With “Bone Deep,” the 21st book in his Doc Ford series of thrillers, White gives new meaning to the idea of a literary franchise. Or, as he puts it, “I’m one lucky guy.” All the Doc Ford restaurants sell signed copies of White’s books, along with Doc Ford shirts, hats and hot sauce.
Another Sanibel Island author Dan Perkins recently put the finishing touches on the third book in his "The Brotherhood of the Red Nile" trilogy, yet the real story was how he went from having no interest in writing to producing three, full-length thrillers in 18 months.
Perkins said readers have been enjoying his books and his online reviews on Amazon and Barnes & Noble have been positive. The trilogy was also optioned for adaptation into a film by Producer Chase Chenowith from Back Fence Productions in Atlanta, Ga. Although he had no training as a writer, Perkins understood the importance of conducting research to make the novel as real as possible. He said his analytical experience as a money manager prepared him for the tedious aspects of researching all the specifics about explosives and the Middle East. "I did an incredible amount of research," he said. "I found myself amazed at what information is available on the Internet."
New York Times-best selling author Tim Dorsey signed books and greeted fans at the Sanibel Island Bookshop recently. Dorsey, a former political reporter and editor for the Tampa Tribune, has published 17 novels since leaving the newspaper business to write full time. His latest novel, Tiger Shrimp Tango, went on sale Jan. 28 and features the self-appointed Sunshine Sheriff Serge Storms - a mentally ill serial killer - his sidekick Coleman, and a private eye named Mahoney -
Often compared with fellow Florida crime writers Carl Hiaasen and Dave Barry, Dorsey infuses Florida culture and history into humorously written crime novels.
So even though our little Island is a haven of peace, tranquility and nature, if you want mystery and excitement, you can find it here. Just pick up a book and read it!
Thursday, March 6, 2014
Trips off Sanibel Island: What's worth it and What's not
A few years ago, we wrote a post about leaving Sanibel to tour Naples.
Only a little over an hour away, we noted that Naples is a very different experience than our small Island. It's towering Royal Palms as well as the multi-colored buildings in the architecture of old Italy are charming draws.
And the abundance of good restaurants will feed you in many ways. Some are opulent, some are ethnic and some are simply unique, defying description.
But this post will go beyond and before Naples to highlight some destinations and activities that are worth the drive.
Now this gets sensitive, because we realize that some of the joys of Island living have distinct nuances, difficult to find off island. Yet, these spots have their own charms that you can not duplicate on our barrier paradise.
Sanibel offers a look backward with its "old town" on the east end of the island near the Sanibel Lighthouse. Historically, it was the center of much of the island’s activity; today, it is a place to stroll quaint village shops, inns and restaurants. The Sanibel Historical Society has produced a walking and biking tour to “yesteryear” that is approximately 2 ½ miles long. But if you want another view of "times of old" the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers may deliver great satisfaction. These very special estates contain a historical museum and 17 acre botanical garden on the adjacent sites of the winter homes of Thomas Alva Edison and Henry Ford beside the Caloosahatchee River in southwestern Florida.
Similarly, while Sanibel has a lovely pier where fishermen gather; the long pier in Naples is a focal point for not only fisherman and the flocks of pelicans waiting for their dinner, but for a wide variety of residents and visitors as well. In fact, the Naples Fishing Pier is one of the prime attractions in a town packed with attractions. Originally built in 1888 as a freight and passenger dock, the Naples Pier stands as a community landmark. Narrow gauge train rails spanning the length of the pier transported freight and baggage in the early 1900’s. Part of the structure as well as the post office located on the Naples Pier was razed by fire in 1912. Rebuilt after damage by hurricanes in 1910, 1926 and 1960, it remains a public symbol of the area’s history.
And while there is no doubt that one can find anything they want in the shops on Sanibel, if shopping is your thing, there are a couple of spots off island that will make you happy you invested in a rental car. The Tanger Outlet immediately off island will offer you and your family so many nice shops, all together, where bargains galore can be found. In addition, downtown Ft. Myers has undergone an amazing renaissance in just the last two or three years. For a nostalgic flare, the streets have been repaved with brick. Mom-and-pop shops rule. And nightlife options are buoyed by an exploding culinary scene. There's also an Art Walk the first Friday of each month, a Music Walk the third Friday of each month and a year-round Farmers Market every Thursday. And if shopping is your middle name, head to Coconut Point in Estero where the shops are lovely and the mall is laid out like a park, tropicality blooming everywhere.
In fact, given the number of options off Island, you might want to consider a month's stay so you can see them all!
Only a little over an hour away, we noted that Naples is a very different experience than our small Island. It's towering Royal Palms as well as the multi-colored buildings in the architecture of old Italy are charming draws.
And the abundance of good restaurants will feed you in many ways. Some are opulent, some are ethnic and some are simply unique, defying description.
But this post will go beyond and before Naples to highlight some destinations and activities that are worth the drive.
Now this gets sensitive, because we realize that some of the joys of Island living have distinct nuances, difficult to find off island. Yet, these spots have their own charms that you can not duplicate on our barrier paradise.
Sanibel offers a look backward with its "old town" on the east end of the island near the Sanibel Lighthouse. Historically, it was the center of much of the island’s activity; today, it is a place to stroll quaint village shops, inns and restaurants. The Sanibel Historical Society has produced a walking and biking tour to “yesteryear” that is approximately 2 ½ miles long. But if you want another view of "times of old" the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers may deliver great satisfaction. These very special estates contain a historical museum and 17 acre botanical garden on the adjacent sites of the winter homes of Thomas Alva Edison and Henry Ford beside the Caloosahatchee River in southwestern Florida.
Similarly, while Sanibel has a lovely pier where fishermen gather; the long pier in Naples is a focal point for not only fisherman and the flocks of pelicans waiting for their dinner, but for a wide variety of residents and visitors as well. In fact, the Naples Fishing Pier is one of the prime attractions in a town packed with attractions. Originally built in 1888 as a freight and passenger dock, the Naples Pier stands as a community landmark. Narrow gauge train rails spanning the length of the pier transported freight and baggage in the early 1900’s. Part of the structure as well as the post office located on the Naples Pier was razed by fire in 1912. Rebuilt after damage by hurricanes in 1910, 1926 and 1960, it remains a public symbol of the area’s history.
And while there is no doubt that one can find anything they want in the shops on Sanibel, if shopping is your thing, there are a couple of spots off island that will make you happy you invested in a rental car. The Tanger Outlet immediately off island will offer you and your family so many nice shops, all together, where bargains galore can be found. In addition, downtown Ft. Myers has undergone an amazing renaissance in just the last two or three years. For a nostalgic flare, the streets have been repaved with brick. Mom-and-pop shops rule. And nightlife options are buoyed by an exploding culinary scene. There's also an Art Walk the first Friday of each month, a Music Walk the third Friday of each month and a year-round Farmers Market every Thursday. And if shopping is your middle name, head to Coconut Point in Estero where the shops are lovely and the mall is laid out like a park, tropicality blooming everywhere.
In fact, given the number of options off Island, you might want to consider a month's stay so you can see them all!
Monday, February 24, 2014
A Palm by Any other Name: Sanibel's Tropical Trees
Because all 12 miles of Sanibel are lined with green tropicality, it is easy to overlook just how many varieties of trees and shrubs contribute to the Island's lush beauty.
Take the palm trees, as one example.
A short bike ride or ambitious walk will reveal at least a dozen different types easily observed.
And while we quickly recognize all are lovely in their own way; it's worth noting that each one has not only its particular scientific and popular name, but its own contribution to the island.
The Sabal Palm, for instance, has some unique uses. The Sabal Palm is the state tree.
Also called the Cabbage Palm, this palm has the scientific name "Sabal palmetto." Florida designated the Sabal Palm as the official state tree in 1953. The Sabal Palm is the most widely distributed palm tree in Florida. It has many applications, including food, medicine, and landscaping. In 1970 the Florida legislature mandated that the sabal palm tree should replace the cocoa palm on the state seal.
Sabal palms are adapted to a Florida landscape where lightning strikes often causing fires: the Sabal Palms survive fires and send out new shoots. The Sabal Palm has gained popularity on Sanibel because it is very durable and will tolerate a wide variety of soil and weather conditions. It can be used as an ornamental or street tree, well adapted for group, specimen or avenue plantings. This palm is very salt tolerant and can be grown on the beach or directly at the water’s edge of bays and inlets.
Another beauty on Sanibel is the Royal Palm, very special specimens. Though they are pretty much limited to front lawns, their towering stature makes them stand out. The Royal Palm can get up to 60 – 70ft tall and 5 -10 ft wide with a growth rate of around a foot each year. The scientific name for the Royal Palm is "Roystonea oleracea".
The Royal Palm is native to Cuba and North America. Royal Palm Trees are popular in many warm, coastal landscapes, particularly in southern Florida and parts of California. They can be also found in the Caribbean, Central and South American, and Texas. The grace and beauty of a Royal Palm makes it a popular tree along the streets of many cities. Often they are used in the islands of large parking lots or in medians along the highway. Nothing says “tropical” like the majestic Royal Palm. There are 10 species of Royal Palm around the world.
Take the palm trees, as one example.
A short bike ride or ambitious walk will reveal at least a dozen different types easily observed.
And while we quickly recognize all are lovely in their own way; it's worth noting that each one has not only its particular scientific and popular name, but its own contribution to the island.
The Sabal Palm, for instance, has some unique uses. The Sabal Palm is the state tree.
Also called the Cabbage Palm, this palm has the scientific name "Sabal palmetto." Florida designated the Sabal Palm as the official state tree in 1953. The Sabal Palm is the most widely distributed palm tree in Florida. It has many applications, including food, medicine, and landscaping. In 1970 the Florida legislature mandated that the sabal palm tree should replace the cocoa palm on the state seal.
Sabal palms are adapted to a Florida landscape where lightning strikes often causing fires: the Sabal Palms survive fires and send out new shoots. The Sabal Palm has gained popularity on Sanibel because it is very durable and will tolerate a wide variety of soil and weather conditions. It can be used as an ornamental or street tree, well adapted for group, specimen or avenue plantings. This palm is very salt tolerant and can be grown on the beach or directly at the water’s edge of bays and inlets.
Another beauty on Sanibel is the Royal Palm, very special specimens. Though they are pretty much limited to front lawns, their towering stature makes them stand out. The Royal Palm can get up to 60 – 70ft tall and 5 -10 ft wide with a growth rate of around a foot each year. The scientific name for the Royal Palm is "Roystonea oleracea".
The Royal Palm is native to Cuba and North America. Royal Palm Trees are popular in many warm, coastal landscapes, particularly in southern Florida and parts of California. They can be also found in the Caribbean, Central and South American, and Texas. The grace and beauty of a Royal Palm makes it a popular tree along the streets of many cities. Often they are used in the islands of large parking lots or in medians along the highway. Nothing says “tropical” like the majestic Royal Palm. There are 10 species of Royal Palm around the world.
Friday, February 14, 2014
Some Newbies on Sanibel's Dining Scene!
Restaurants come and restaurants go all over the world, including our beautiful and tropical Sanibel Island. Some times they are brand new, but more often then not they are transformations.
And when a restaurant changes hands, changes menus and changes names, it---for all intents and purposes---is a discovery.
We were recently advised that the former Beachview Golf Club , which had a marginal reputation beyond being a hang out for tennis players who drowned their bad games at a fundamental bar, had morphed from moth to butterfly.
According to the word on our colorful streets, the whole place has been remodelled and is now operated by the very posh Blue Coyote in Fort Myers. Owners and staff are still rushing round making improvements and the whole place is very plush with the bar being quite unrecognisable, we are told.
According to all reports, now there is a very pleasant bar and behind the bar supposedly the best service you will find on Sanibel even if the TV was on the golf channel. Before 5pm there is a short menu of good food bargains including the Coyote burger which is typified as "just excellent" and both cooked and served with care. Best of all, these early bird prices are quite within reach. The Coyote burger and two large drinks can be purchased for $12. Quite a bargain, indeed.
The later full menu, a bit more expensive, includes all time favorites like seafood and steak. Best of all, perhaps, is the Sunday brunch. We are told that the signature Bloody Mary's with applewood smoked bacon and deviled eggs are close to perfection.
Another notable transformation is the The Sandbar. Though the jury is still out, the feedback at this point is that some renovations and a new spin on the menu has created a much more savory dining establishment. Of particular note, the shrimp and fish dinners are quite good. Certainly the descriptions alone are enticing: spicy clam chowder, macadamia nut grouper, crab cakes with caper sauce. The list goes on, most items evoking a yum-yum factor!
So whether you are returning to one of the dining dowagers or trying out a pretty Pygmalion, there is a large variety of choices on little Sanibel!
And when a restaurant changes hands, changes menus and changes names, it---for all intents and purposes---is a discovery.
We were recently advised that the former Beachview Golf Club , which had a marginal reputation beyond being a hang out for tennis players who drowned their bad games at a fundamental bar, had morphed from moth to butterfly.
According to the word on our colorful streets, the whole place has been remodelled and is now operated by the very posh Blue Coyote in Fort Myers. Owners and staff are still rushing round making improvements and the whole place is very plush with the bar being quite unrecognisable, we are told.
According to all reports, now there is a very pleasant bar and behind the bar supposedly the best service you will find on Sanibel even if the TV was on the golf channel. Before 5pm there is a short menu of good food bargains including the Coyote burger which is typified as "just excellent" and both cooked and served with care. Best of all, these early bird prices are quite within reach. The Coyote burger and two large drinks can be purchased for $12. Quite a bargain, indeed.
The later full menu, a bit more expensive, includes all time favorites like seafood and steak. Best of all, perhaps, is the Sunday brunch. We are told that the signature Bloody Mary's with applewood smoked bacon and deviled eggs are close to perfection.
Another notable transformation is the The Sandbar. Though the jury is still out, the feedback at this point is that some renovations and a new spin on the menu has created a much more savory dining establishment. Of particular note, the shrimp and fish dinners are quite good. Certainly the descriptions alone are enticing: spicy clam chowder, macadamia nut grouper, crab cakes with caper sauce. The list goes on, most items evoking a yum-yum factor!
So whether you are returning to one of the dining dowagers or trying out a pretty Pygmalion, there is a large variety of choices on little Sanibel!
Friday, February 7, 2014
Night Music on Sanibel Island
Although the sound of the surf, the calls of the wild, and the insect symphonies are among the most lovely songs the night can bring; there are human musical accomplishments well worth paying attention to on Sanibel and Captiva.
Of course there are the formal concerts held at Big Arts. These delightful treats range from classical quartets to opera recitals.
But if you are looking for a more casual venue or perhaps one where you can satisfy your taste buds as well as your ear drums, you might want to consider our tropical spots where you can dine and listen at the same time.
The Jacaranda, a dowager of establishments on Sanibel, has very lively music from the bar. Although the food and the service are quite nice, it's the music that appears to get the biggest raves. Apparently it does not start until 8 p.m., so early diners will be disappointed, but some folks think it is the only game in town.
Prefer to be outside for some lively sounds? Then you might want to consider Key Lime Bistro on Captiva. The Award winning Keylime Bistro serving breakfast, lunch and dinner is sure to tantalize the most demanding palate,with a full bar and live entertainment featured 7 days and nights. Awarded News Press 1st Place Island Dining. Also on Captiva, you can enjoy both inside and outside dining and great music at RC Otter's. Award winning RC Otter's Island Eats is a place for the whole family! Located in the Heart of Old Captiva Village with lovely shopping and dining, you can enjoy live music daily with dining inside and outside. New Game Room!
Back on Sanibel, the long loved Island Cow is a good bet to hear sweet sounds. At dinner time dine under the stars while you listen to live music on one of Sanibel's only al fresco eating porches. Stop in at the bar anytime for a snack or take away orders. You're just like family at the Island Cow so feel free to call ahead for large parties or when you're in a hurry. And don't forget that you can get three squares here with breakfast, lunch and dinner served year round.
But there are also surprises on our tropical little islands. George and Wendy's Seafood Grille often sports karaoke nights where you could end up being the entertainment. And it's worth calling ahead to see who else is on the musical menu. This colorful, happy place always has something delicious to eat on the food menu and often a delight for the ears waiting as well.
Of course there are the formal concerts held at Big Arts. These delightful treats range from classical quartets to opera recitals.
But if you are looking for a more casual venue or perhaps one where you can satisfy your taste buds as well as your ear drums, you might want to consider our tropical spots where you can dine and listen at the same time.
The Jacaranda, a dowager of establishments on Sanibel, has very lively music from the bar. Although the food and the service are quite nice, it's the music that appears to get the biggest raves. Apparently it does not start until 8 p.m., so early diners will be disappointed, but some folks think it is the only game in town.
Prefer to be outside for some lively sounds? Then you might want to consider Key Lime Bistro on Captiva. The Award winning Keylime Bistro serving breakfast, lunch and dinner is sure to tantalize the most demanding palate,with a full bar and live entertainment featured 7 days and nights. Awarded News Press 1st Place Island Dining. Also on Captiva, you can enjoy both inside and outside dining and great music at RC Otter's. Award winning RC Otter's Island Eats is a place for the whole family! Located in the Heart of Old Captiva Village with lovely shopping and dining, you can enjoy live music daily with dining inside and outside. New Game Room!
Back on Sanibel, the long loved Island Cow is a good bet to hear sweet sounds. At dinner time dine under the stars while you listen to live music on one of Sanibel's only al fresco eating porches. Stop in at the bar anytime for a snack or take away orders. You're just like family at the Island Cow so feel free to call ahead for large parties or when you're in a hurry. And don't forget that you can get three squares here with breakfast, lunch and dinner served year round.
But there are also surprises on our tropical little islands. George and Wendy's Seafood Grille often sports karaoke nights where you could end up being the entertainment. And it's worth calling ahead to see who else is on the musical menu. This colorful, happy place always has something delicious to eat on the food menu and often a delight for the ears waiting as well.
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