Bicycling is a terrific way to slow down and explore Sanibel Island. Cyclists who ride from Fort Myers to Sanibel will travel across 3 bridges that connect man-made islands. Bikes are allowed on the bridges, and pay no toll. On the Causeway, it’s a 2.8-mile ride to and from the beaches, shops and restaurants of Sanibel. Many of the trails parallel the island’s main street and are separated from the roadway and connect visitors to many interesting sights.
Bicycling on Sanibel and the biggest hills are the bridges that go over canals and the Sanibel River. There are 22 miles of paved bike paths on Sanibel. The paths on Captiva merge into public roadways on Captiva Drive. There are many places to rent bikes of all sizes and shapes, and so many trails to explore. There are 16 trail sections on Sanibel Island. When the Causeway Road ends at Periwinkle, Lindgren Boulevard Trail continues and passes through a residential neighborhood. Algiers Trail provides access to Gulfside City Park where you can find restrooms. A side trail takes you past the Gulfside Park Preserve and an old historic cemetery. The longest east-west street on the island, Sanibel-Captiva Road, takes you past Ding Darling National Wildlife Reservation and to Captiva Islands.
At the end of Tarpon Bay Road, you will see a magnificent panoramic view of the bay. If you choose to take a break, there is a sea life and nature cruise, or you can paddle a canoe or kayak. Afterwards, you can ride 4 miles up the Sanibel-Captiva Road bike path to the main entrance of the Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge. There are other nature centers to explore near the Refuge, as well as a butterfly house, native plant museum and shell museum. Other places to explore are the Sanibel Lighthouse, shops and eateries, and a fishing pier. Biking is also a fun way to explore the beaches of the islands, and the shopping areas along Periwinkle Way.