The Joys of Hurricane Season on Sanibel

Yes, it's that time of year again.

We have reached those months when we are on alert for tropical storms and hurricanes skirting , passing through or actually visiting our beautiful barrier island.

And even though they rarely hit , the fact that they might, does have an impact.

Oh, it can be annoying on a day like today where the sun is in and out and we are wondering when and if it will make up its mind as to what it wants to be.

But so far today there has been no rain, just the threat of it.

And that is what hurricane season is like.  Will we get one or will we not?

But whether we do or we don't, the nice thing about summer weather is that it is fairly predictable.

You can put away your sweaters and jackets.  A cool day in summer may mean dropping down to 82 degrees.  There are no great swings in temperatures now as there can be in high season.

Generally, you can count on rains in the late afternoon and early evening, so don't leave home without your umbrella.  And do expect to see some outstanding electrical storms from time to time, as well as a greening up of the landscaping that you rarely see in winter time.

You can also count on having the beach largely to yourself, seeing more dolphins and manatees patrolling the waters, more pelicans swooping in for some fish, and more shore birds doing their beach blanket bingo walks along the water's edge.

You know that restaurant you can never get in to in high season?  Bet you can get in there now, and even feel totally un-pressured to eat leisurely and enjoy your meal more.

Your favorite condo may not always be available when the crowds invade the island, but you have a much better chance to book it now.

And like the condo costs, the tags on vacation rental homes is generally half priced in summer months.

Another advantage of hurricane season is the diversity of people who visit the Island.  Seniors still flock here though there are probably more families with children on summer holiday now.  And if you sit on the beach and listen closely, you will most likely hear half a dozen languages being spoken as our summer families come from far and wide.

So "hurricane" season is a great time to see Sanibel...for the first time or the fiftieth time.  Come and see for yourself!