“Rain, rain, go away,” you might find yourself singing on any given Summer day in Florida. While rain is needed to help maintain the lush, natural environment on island, too much rain can sometimes be a drag, especially for those visiting for a limited timeframe.
The good news is that the rain patterns in the Summer are usually predictable, with a guaranteed afternoon thunderstorm, some stronger than others.
What To Do When It Rains on Sanibel
There’s actually an array of “indoor” fun to be had on island. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
1. The Movies
A classic indoor, rainy day activity… when’s the last time you went to a movie theater? Island Cinema is a small theater next to Bailey’s General Store, that usually has three or four movie selections to choose from. It’s a fun small-town experience that you and your family will appreciate, I’m sure.
Click here to see what’s playing at Island Cinema now.
2. Theater Production
While BIG ARTS is currently closed for renovations this Summer of 2019, it is a great option to keep in mind for the future. A variety of shows and performances take place at BIG ARTS, including theater productions, musical concerts, art shows, dance performances, lectures and more.
Click here to visit the BIG ARTS website.
3. Shopping
In our blog, McCallion’s Model Local Fashion, we not only show off our secret talent of modeling, but also list the four shopping plaza’s along Periwinkle Way. While the shopping plazas are technically outdoors, most have an overhang connector between the stores, making it a good rainy day activity as well.
Click here to see our list of shopping plaza’s on Sanibel.
4. Community House
The Sanibel Community House always has something going on. Enroll in a cooking class at the Culinary Education Center of Sanibel, check out a community social event, or even host your own event! Between the weekly Shell Crafters club, garden club, Sanibel yoga, and seminars, you’re sure to find something to do.
Click here to check the Community House calendar of events.
5. The Library
Another calendar to keep in mind is the Sanibel Public Library. They usually have featured speakers and lectures on a variety of topics to keep your mind sharpe. If you haven’t been since their recent renovations, you should grab a book, or bring your Kindle and sink into a chair overlooking the peaceful conservation land behind the library.
Click here to view the Sanibel Library calendar of events.
6. Ding Darling
Yes, we agree Ding Darling is better experienced without rain, while biking or walking the trail. But, driving along Wildlife Drive you might catch a cool glimpse of wildlife, especially birds, bathing in the rain. And, don’t forget about the visitor center, which has games, activities and educational programs for all ages.
Click here to visit the Ding Darling Society – Friends of the Refuge website.
7. Shell Museum
While the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum is currently closed for renovations as well, it will be the ultimate rainy day activity when it reopens. Aside from the array of sea shell collections in the museum, there will be a new aquarium opening in 2020!
Click here to track the progress on the Shell Museum website.
Keep It Simple
Aside from these indoor island attractions, we suggest keeping it simple with a puzzle or board game enjoyed with friends and family. The rain can sometimes remind us to kick back and relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of island living.