At least that’s the claim of the Lighthouse Cafe. Based on the number of people waiting for tables, it probably is the best in this part of the world. We walked there from the marina — only about a quarter mile. Along the way we saw and heard an osprey, encountered a “gopher tortoise crossing” sign (the first I’ve ever seen) and enjoyed the lush landscaping all along the way. A sea hibiscus reminded us of the huge tree that used to dominate our side yard. (Alas, the rain and wind of Hurricane Georges brought it down.)
Today is a dinghy day, motoring from the marina to a spectacular beach. We’ve been impressed with the edge of white sand beaches all along the gulf as we cruised into Marco Island and for nearly the entire distance from Marco to Sanibel. A swim in the Gulf is refreshing and a perfect way to spend an afternoon. A close encounter (10 feet away!) with a dolphin was a bit of a shock….especially since Cliff had just casually mentioned “to be on the look out for sharks.”
An osprey we spotted on the walk to breakfast. Must have been resting between fishing trips. Not a bit of water in his view from this pitch pine perch.
Now, here’s something you don’t see every day. Didn’t spot any of the critters tho.
Dinghy safely tucked ashore while we swim.
Looks as though we have this spot to ourselves. Not really the case. Lots of people and boats….plus birds, fish and a dolphin!
I’d heard that Sanibel was a shell collector’s dream. Amazing number of shells across the entire beach line. Did you ever wonder what happened to the animals that were in the shells?
One of the canals we cruised through. Very different from Marco Island and most of the other Florida beach communities we’ve visited. Beautiful homes behind the mangroves, but obviously, these folks aren’t boaters!
Our last passage headed back to the marina….looked very narrow, but we made it!
