Rainy Day Things to do on Sanibel Island

Though the sun shines on Sanibel most days of the year, we do have some rain fall. The lush landscapes on the Island reflect the perfect blend of sun and rain.

While there are dozens of ways to have fun in the sun, there are almost as many to enjoy those times when the rain is falling, usually gently, on our tropical flora.

In fact, one of the pleasures of vacation rentals is that you don't have to go very far to find your entertainment. Most of the condos and houses on the Island are well equipped to offer rental guests diversions for a rainy day. Books, games, dvd's, cable hook up on tv's all come standard in the vast majority of vacation accommodations.

In addition, almost as easily one can find some pleasant diversions outside of one's vacation rental. Here are a few of our favorite rainy day past times on the Island.

• The Sanibel movie theatre, Island Cinema, is a clean, comfortable venue showing new releases and providing discounts on matinee tickets. Showings are at 1 and 4 and you'll need to call to confirm movie times.


• Big Arts bills itself as "a home for all the arts" and lives up to that promise. In addition to the two galleries, open Monday through Friday, there are numerous art exhibits, lectures, photography shows and lectures that take place daily.


• The Bailey-Matthews shell Museum provides a wonderful glimpse into the shell history of the Island and also has an extensive library with books on shells as well as gift store with some of these same books (and others) for sale.


• And speaking of libraries (which we love to do), the adorable and well inventoried Sanibel library is a great place to hang out on a rainy day. You can browse the stacks, take a favorite out to the screened in porch to read or catch up on emails at one of their many computers open to the public. They even have a separate children's room and teen space. From time to time, they have visiting authors and book signings. Just check their calendar.

And of course, rainy days are quickly filled up with browsing the dozens of neat shops on the Island. Some of our favorites are Wilford and Lee, The Cheese Nook and Tuttles Sea Horse and Sea Shell Shop. We encourage you to find your own favorites. There are plenty to choose from!