Sanibel Island’s Gulfside City Park/Algiers Beach
Sanibel Island’s Gulfside City Park is a gorgeous beach with great amenities & also an interesting story of how it has 2 names.
The History Of Algiers Beach Sanibel
Gulfside City Park or Algiers Beach as it is known to the locals is a picturesque beach tucked away off Casa Ybel Road. The park is often referred to as ‘Algiers Beach”.
The name was developed in the 1950s. A wealthy and affluent couple, Lathrop Brown and Helen Hooper Brown visited and fell in love with Sanibel Island. They purchased 30 acres of land, 1,000 feet of it being beachfront.
Lathrop and Helen were known for their love of unconventional living spaces. They purchased a Mississippi Riverboat called the “Algiers”.
They had the boat delivered to Fort Myers where it was converted into a 6-bedroom, luxury home. It even had living quarters for servants!
After the arduous process of moving it to their land on Sanibel in 1959, Lathrop passed away and Helen moved back to Boston.
The “Algiers” was left to a caretaker until 1979. The city purchased the boat and the land in 1979 and parts were auctioned off with whatever was left being burnt in 1982.
Where To Stay Near Gulfside City Park/Algiers Beach Sanibel
Casa Ybel Beach Resort (TEMPORARILY CLOSED DUE TO HURRICANE IAN)
The nearest resort to Algiers Beach on Sanibel Island is Casas Ybel!
This resort is home to many wonderful amenities and is within walking distance to both Algiers Beach and Casa Ybels private beach in front of the resort.
There are many delicious restaurants within Casa Ybel and a pool filled with ample seating! The pool is home to Coconuts Bar and Griller where you’ll be served numerous poolside cocktails!
Every room at Casa Ybel has an ocean view as well as a fully equipped kitchen!
👉Start Exploring Ways To Stay At Casa Ybel Today!
Directions To Gulfside City Park/Algiers Beach Sanibel
When you drive over the Sanibel Causeway turn left on Periwinkle Way at the four-way stop. Follow Periwinkle down to Casa Ybel Road and take a left, and follow until you get to Algiers Lane.
Gulfside City Park
Sanibel Island, FL 33957
Amenities: Outdoor showers, picnic tables, BBQ’s, bike racks, and parking. Parking is $5 per hour.
Restaurants Near Gulfside City Park/Algiers Beach Sanibel
Thistle Lodge Beachfront Restaurant (TEMPORARILY CLOSED DUE TO HURRICANE IAN)
This waterside restaurant offers a tropical take on both Floridian and European culinary experiences! The Thistle Lodge is known for its wide-ranging, fine dining menu in a historic, waterfront setting.
Located at the Casa Ybel Beach Resort.
2255 W Gulf Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957
Visit The Thistle Lodge Website
Sea Breeze Café (TEMPORARILY CLOSED DUE TO HURRICANE IAN)
This cafe is popular for its breakfast buffet, seafood & wine, plus outdoor seating, ocean views, and sports games! This is a casual and enjoyable relaxed island restaurant for family and friends alike.
Located at The Sundial Resort.
1451 Middle Gulf Dr Suite #3, Sanibel, FL 33957
Coconuts Poolside Bar & Grill (TEMPORARILY CLOSED DUE TO HURRICANE IAN)
Open for breakfast, lunch, and sumptuous frozen cocktails each and every delightful day! This delicious poolside restaurant has seafood and classic American foods fit for everyone in the family!
Located at Casa Ybel Beach Resort (note pool is for guests only).
2255 W Gulf Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957
Visit Coconuts Bar & Grill Website
