Snorkling and Scuba Diving Around Sanibel Island

Most people who come to Sanibel know that it is one of the top 3 shelling destinations in the world.

Many people who come to Sanibel know that the presence of Ding Darling helps to make Sanibel one of the best birding destinations in the world.

The beach and the nature preserve give of their treasures in a very observable and transparent way.

But what may be more of mystery is what lays under the water in the seas of Sanibel.

And there is no better method to observe the life in the Gulf than by snorkling or scuba diving the area.

For the scuba diver, there are several nearby underwater explorations easily accessible. More than a dozen artificial reefs lay within 15 miles of Sanibel and Captiva.

The Belton Johnson Reef, about 5 nautical miles from Sanibel's Bowman's Beach is constructed of concrete culverts.

One of the largest reefs, the Edison Reef, is approximately 15 nautical miles from the Sanibel Lighthouse. The Edison Reef was assembled from the rubble of a former mainland bridge.

Pegasus, Charlie's Reef, is 28 miles off the island and is the newest of the reefs. It has a sunken tug boat for exploring, along with railroad hoppers. Eel, barracuda, nurse sharks and an amber jacks are among the fish that can be observed there.

And the snorkler can be just as easily entertained from the comfort of a secluded and tropical beach. Accessed only by boat, there are deserted, barrier islands a short trip from Sanibel and Captiva. Here, you can snorkel on beautiful natural limestone ledges where you can observe abundant sea life.

There are many boating outfitters that can take you out for a half or full day trip, can offer snorkling or scuba diving or a combination of both and can also customize your trip for you.

Experience how special an Island Sanibel is, not just on land but under water as well!