SANIBEL ISLAND, Fla.–It feels like it’s been a long time since Hurricane Ian hit, and beachgoers aren’t the only ones looking forward to getting back to their favorite place to be and enjoy the perfect February Florida weather. Residents are also on the quest to rebuild and reopen as fast as they can, after all, getting the economy going will help islanders get back to normal. It might not be too long until Sanibel Island reopens some of its iconic beaches–a task that will be possible thanks to cooperations between the City of Sanibel, the Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation SCCF, and the help of over one-hundred volunteers determined to bring paradise back.
According to the Sanibel Captiva Chamber of Commerce, these are the following restricted beach accesses we can see reopening in the very near future. Beach parking permits go on sale January 31st for non-residents.
Seagrape Lane: mid-February opening expected
Buttonwood Lane (Gulfside): mid-March opening expected
Buttonwood Lane (bayside): mid-February opening expected
East Gulf at Colony: mid-February opening expected
Beach Road: mid-March opening expected
Nerita Street: mid-February opening expected
Donax Street: Not scheduled
Fulgur Street: Not scheduled
Bock Peace Park: February opening expected
Bayview Park/ Balley Rd: mid-March/ April opening expected
West Gulf Drive Access 1, 5 & 6: mid-February opening expected
West Gulf Drive Access 2: mid-March opening expected
West Gulf Drive Access 3,4 & 7: Not scheduled
There is so much work being done on island in the meantime. In times like these where people want to see changes happening and getting back to normal feels more like a demand, it’s imperative to stress the value in volunteering. Volunteering allows individuals to give back to their communities and be part of making a positive impact on the lives of others. Not only that, it can also build connections and relationships with people in these communities, and can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment for the volunteer. Additionally, volunteering can also provide opportunities for personal growth and development.
Are you interested in volunteering to see our islands beautiful again? Reach out to the Chambers of Commerce to be part of the volunteering force that’s helping Sanibel and Captiva islands rebuild connect with SCCF, or the City of Sanibel.
Resources to contact:
SCCF – (239) 472-2329. sccf@sccf.org
F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva – (239) 472-0404. Info@fishofsancap.org
Keep Lee County Beautiful – (239) 334-3488 · trish@klcb.org
Breathe SB 
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