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About Sanibel Island

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We’ve gotten to know Sanibel pretty well having lived here for more than a decade now. There’s so much to say about our 16 square-mile barrier island, as you can tell by the 280+ blogs we’ve written so far!

But for those unfamiliar with Sanibel, we thought you’d enjoy this Quick Start to Sanibel, an overview of the island. So let’s start with the basic stats.

Getting To Know Sanibel Island

Sanibel Basic Stats:

Sanibel Population: 7,363 (2017 Census)
Land Area: 16.12 square miles
Water & Land Total Area: 33.25 square miles
County: Lee County
City Incorporation: 1974

 

How dense are we on Sanibel Island compared to other Florida beach towns? You might be surprised to learn that St. Augustine, Marco, Naples, and Venice are 3x more densely populated than Sanibel! Click here to read our full blog “How Dense Are We On Sanibel.”

Preserving Our Island

Did you know Sanibel is more than 60% conservation land? You’ve likely heard about the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, which is a great place to see unique migratory birds, alligators, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. But there’s also the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF), which owns 1,800 acres of land on the islands, preserving it in its natural state.

The founding fathers of Sanibel we’re a huge part in establishing this conservation effort that has kept the island free from high-rise condos and over-development. The building restrictions and regulations around vacation rentals have preserved both the land and the small town appeal of Sanibel, which most people describe as “simple, natural, and friendly.”

Island Community

The Sanibel community is what drew us to live on island and raise our family of four kids. It’s also what’s helped our family-owned real estate practice to be successful, with an abundance of support and collaborations between the businesses on island.

Annual events such as the 4th of July parade, Sanibel Luminary Night, and events at the Sanibel Community House paint a good picture of the community spirit. The numerous non-profit organizations such as CROW, BIG ARTS, the churches on island are a big part in what makes the community special, and how island residents get involved in the community and meet one another.


As I said, I could talk about Sanibel for days. This is just skimming the surface! Below are a few other articles I think you’ll like. If you have questions about a topic I didn’t mention, feel free to reach out! Team@SanibelRealEstateGuide.com or 239-472-1950.

More Blogs About Sanibel Island

downsize sanibel

Is It Time To Downsize?

By Jim McCallion | Mar 18, 2023

If you’re preparing for retirement, now might be a good time to downsize your home.

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Junonia shells on Sanibel

Sanibel Island Resident Finds 9 Junonia Shells!

By Susan McCallion | Mar 8, 2023

My jaw dropped when he told me he found NINE Junonia shells on Sanibel recently. My eyes lit up when he sent me the pictures!

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Charlene Costanzo Sanibel

Never Say Never

By Team McCallion | Jan 2, 2023

A reflection from Sanibel Resident & Author: Charlene Costanzo

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Sanibel Hurricane Ian

The Spirit of Sanibel Island

By Jim McCallion | Oct 26, 2022

Nothing can prepare you for the aftermath of an event like this. But fellowship carries you through it.

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sunrise and sunset on sanibel

Amazing Sunrises and Sunsets on Sanibel

By Susan McCallion | Sep 13, 2022

Where to watch sunrise and sunset on Sanibel Island – as told by a local!

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shelling on sanibel island

Top 3 Best Beaches for Shelling on Sanibel Island 

By Susan McCallion | Aug 17, 2022

If we had to choose, we think Lighthouse Beach, Blind Pass Beach, and Tarpon Bay Road Beach are some of the best for shelling on Sanibel, here’s why…

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Pros and Cons of Living on Sanibel Island

By Susan McCallion | Jun 6, 2022

Every town has its pros and cons. Living on Sanibel Island, is no different. 

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1270 Par View Drive Sanibel

Sanibel Pool Homes For Sale

By Jim McCallion | May 25, 2022

At the top of many home buyer’s search criteria are Sanibel Pool Homes For Sale.

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Sanibel Island Population

By Jim McCallion | Apr 7, 2022

Many of you know that Sanibel is over 60% conservation land. But just how densely populated is the island? And how do we compare to other beach towns in Florida?

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Susan First Time Sanibel

My First Time on Sanibel

By Susan McCallion | Mar 30, 2022

Do you remember your first time on Sanibel Island? I remember mine! It was the Summer of 1990.

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Near Beach Sanibel Homes For Sale

By Susan McCallion | Mar 16, 2022

On an island that’s 3-miles at its widest, its not hard to find Near Beach Sanibel Homes For Sale.

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Sanibel Estates

All About Sanibel Estates – Sanibel Island

By Susan McCallion | Nov 29, 2021

Today we’re talking all about Sanibel Estates, the east-end community on Sanibel Island.

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Gumbo Limbo Sanibel

All About Gumbo Limbo Sanibel

By Jim McCallion | Oct 19, 2021

Susan stopped by the Gumbo Limbo Sanibel neighborhood to share some of the highlights of this east-end subdivision.

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5 Tips for Experiencing Sanibel Island Lifestyle & Real Estate

By Susan McCallion | Oct 8, 2021

Experiencing Sanibel Island! Here are 5 tips to help familiarize yourself with the real estate market and island lifestyle. 

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Lakefront Living on Sanibel Island

Lakefront Living on Sanibel Island

By Susan McCallion | Oct 4, 2021

Did you know there’s lakefront living on Sanibel Island? It’s one of a few different waterfront options.

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CROW on Sanibel

Our Visit To CROW On Sanibel!

By Susan McCallion | Aug 25, 2021

We had the pleasure of visiting CROW on Sanibel. Did you know CROW treats around 5,000 wildlife patients each year??

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sanibel beaches for the sunset

Where To Watch The Sunset on Sanibel Island?

By Susan McCallion | Mar 9, 2021

When I’m asked about the best place to watch the sunset on Sanibel, I always seem to blurt out “anywhere!”

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What Does $500k Get You on Sanibel Island?

By Susan McCallion | Feb 9, 2021

Curious what types of homes are for sale in the $500,000 price range on Sanibel Island? Let’s see!

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Thinking Outside the “Single Family Home” Box

By Susan McCallion | Jan 11, 2021

There are only 61 “active” single-family homes listed for sale on Sanibel right now.

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An Insider’s View – What To Do on Sanibel Island

By Susan McCallion | Nov 2, 2020

A client recently texted me asking my insider view on what to do on Sanibel Island. Here’s my response…

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East End vs West End vs Mid-Island

By Susan McCallion | Oct 8, 2019

Which location on island best suits your lifestyle and needs? Here’s a summary of each.

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Sanibel 4th of July Parade

Sanibel 4th of July Parade

By Susan McCallion | Jul 5, 2019

One of my favorite island celebrations is the Sanibel 4th of July Parade! Here’s a glimpse at the Sanibel community pride in action.

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Sanibel Kids Living The Good Life

By Susan McCallion | May 8, 2019

While thinking about Mother’s Day this year, I was flipping through a bunch of photos of my kids enjoying island life that I just had to share.

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Getting To Know Sanibel

By Susan McCallion | May 1, 2019

We’ve written more than 280 blogs about Sanibel! But for those unfamiliar with our island, here’s a quick guide to Sanibel.

Read More

Sanibel Wins “Gold” as Bike Friendly Community

By Susan McCallion | Dec 29, 2018

Sanibel Island received the “Gold” Bicycle Friendly Community Award by the League of American Bicyclists in December 2018. We’re one of only two Florida communities to achieve this elite status!

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Satellite Images Show Sanibel’s Difference

By Jim McCallion | Nov 5, 2018

We know that Sanibel Island is much different than other beach towns along the Gulf Coast… but these satellite images really drive home the point!

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Your Guide To Sanibel Biking

By Susan McCallion | Aug 26, 2018

Biking is one of Sanibel’s main attractions other than the beach. Here’s a guide to get you going, including a Sanibel Bike Map!

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Sanibel Is My Kind Of Boring

By Jim McCallion | Mar 29, 2018

Most people who visit Sanibel Island LOVE the fact that we have zero street lights and 26-miles of bike path. Most everyone loves the peace and quiet. But Sanibel is not for everyone!

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We’re Thankful For Our Sanibel Community

By Jim McCallion | Nov 12, 2017

It might be a bit cliche, but every year around this time I am reminded just how thankful we are to live in the Sanibel Community.

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Is Sanibel The Right Community For You?

By Jim McCallion | Nov 1, 2017

Here are a few tips on how to make sure you’re choosing the right community for your family’s lifestyle.

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What Exactly Is BIG ARTS?

By Jim McCallion | Jul 20, 2017

It’s another organization on island that you see everywhere, but what is BIG ARTS exactly?

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5 Tips for Planning Your Sanibel Visit

By Susan McCallion | Dec 6, 2016

Here are a few tips to make sure your time on Sanibel Island is well spent!

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Sanibel Luminary Night

By Jim McCallion | Nov 25, 2016

Looking back on our first Luminary Night and island holiday experience, I can’t help but to get a little sappy and emotional!

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Have You Seen Sanibel’s Wild Side?

By Susan McCallion | Nov 9, 2016

Where else can you watch ospreys and reptiles from your back porch, and bike a few miles to a nature preservation or the beach to capture images of rare pelicans and other wildlife?

Read More

What’s different about North Captiva?

By Susan McCallion | Oct 25, 2016

We have a lot of customers ask about North Captiva and how it differs from Sanibel and Captiva Island. Here’s what you need to know!

Read More

You Gotta Love Sanibel Mailboxes!

By Tiffany Stokes | Sep 15, 2016

Driving around the island your bound to spot of a few classic Sanibel mailboxes that make you smile!

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Susan Tops List of “Women You Should Know” in SWFL

By Tiffany Stokes | Aug 31, 2016

Susan McCallion has been selected as one of the women you should know – Movers & Shakers in Southwest Florida!

Read More
Baileys General Store

Bailey’s General Store

By Susan McCallion | May 24, 2016

Bailey’s General Store is an island favorite for visitors and locals alike! What’s the history behind the Bailey family?

Read More

Does Southwest Florida Have Fall?

By Tiffany Stokes | Sep 22, 2015

In the state of “Endless Summer” does Florida even celebrate Fall?

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Help Susan Keep the Title!

By Tiffany Stokes | Jul 17, 2015

Last year, Susan won the “Best of the Islands” award for Best Real Estate Agent of Sanibel and Captiva Islands. Thrilled with the nomination, Susan was extremely grateful for the residents who voted for her over more than 350 Realtors who practice on the Islands.

Read More

Independence Day Celebrations on the Islands

By Tiffany Stokes | Jul 1, 2015

Every year, the islands celebrate Independence Day with a patriotic parade down Periwinkle Way. Celebrate America’s Birthday, Island-Style!

Read More
Sanibel Lighthouse

History of the Sanibel Lighthouse

By Tiffany Stokes | May 27, 2015

The Sanibel Lighthouse is a well recognized symbol of quant Sanibel Island and a historical landmark on the Gulf of Mexico. It is the first lighthouse on Florida’s Gulf Coast that is north of Key West.

Read More
Sanibel Island Weather

How’s The Weather on Sanibel?

By Tiffany Stokes | Feb 26, 2015

Snowbirds Welcome Sanibel Island Weather During the winter months, it’s pretty cold up north and many people flock to Southwest Florida to thaw out. Down south, we call these people “snow birds” and we warmly welcome them to paradise. We encourage visitors to leave their winter parkas behind, because here on Sanibel Island, it rarely […]

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Sanibel Causeway at Sunrise

The Magic of the Sanibel Causeway

By Tiffany Stokes | Jan 30, 2015

The Sanibel Causeway evokes an emotional response in even our most stoic visitors. Below are some thoughts from folks that cross it often. Jim McCallion’s, Marketing Director at McCallion & McCallion, Take on the Sanibel Island Causeway Most bridges simply allow you to travel from one side of an obstacle to another. But the Sanibel Causeway […]

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Naples high rise condo

What Sanibel Doesn’t Have

By Susan McCallion | May 9, 2012

I want to share the story of my client Gerald. Gerald wanted a get-away home on the Gulf Coast of Florida, but didn’t know exactly where. When I spoke with him, he was concerned about “Quality”. He desired a quality condo with quality construction, quality finishes, and in a ‘quality’ neighborhood. No problem, I thought, […]

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Sanibel Lighthouse Beach Facing Causeway

Sanibel’s Incredibly Low PPBM

By Jim McCallion | Dec 19, 2011

I have often expressed how peaceful I find Sanibel beaches and how favorably they compare to other locations – but you probably think I’m biased (you’d be right!). So I’ve coined a new statistic for you analytical types: Population Per Beach Mile (PPBM). Divide Sanibel’s low population by our 15 miles of pristine beaches and […]

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Satellite Images Reveal Sanibel’s Difference

By Susan McCallion | Dec 7, 2011

I have visited many coastline communities of Florida and know first-hand that Sanibel’s beauty is unique. Take a quick look at these satellite images from Google of nearby beach destinations and see for yourself how Sanibel is different (note: images are not to scale). Sanibel Island Look at all the green on the island. Over […]

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Gulf Pines Sanibel Island

By Jim McCallion | Nov 17, 2011

Gulf Pines is a neighborhood of 114 single-family homes tucked away at the end of a quiet sandy lane on Sanibel Island. A Nature Lover’s Paradise Gulf Pines was developed in 1972 – before the City of Sanibel was incorporated. Careful planning of the Gulf Pines neighborhood preserved the authentic beauty of Sanibel better than […]

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The Sanibel Legacy Video Series

By Susan McCallion | Aug 31, 2011

Sanibel is special – it was saved from bulldozers and the over-development that has scarred most of Florida. This unique character has attracted a community of folks who value living where nature and the environment are given high regard. This is what attracted our family to the island. I believe that Sanibel’s unique character and […]

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McCallion & McCallion Realty
1640 Periwinkle Way, Suite 1
Sanibel Island, Florida 33957
(239) 472-1950

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