The story of the hidden Perry Tract is another fascinating piece of Sanibel history that has made the island what it is today.



The Story Of The Hidden Perry Tract


When you take a trip to Gulfside City Park, also known as Algiers beach, turn left and you will hit the sand. Look north and you will notice a stretch of untouched, preserved land. This is the Perry Tract and part of the J.N “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge. The only part of the preserve on the Gulfside of the island. Though not accessible to the public, the preserve has an interesting story. It is crucial in the preservation of important species such as turtles and bobcats.
 
The area was donated by Dr. Louise Merrimom Perry. Dr. Perry had vacationed on the island since 1918 and settled permanently in 1926. She was one of the countries first female ophthalmologists. When she moved to Sanibel she developed a huge interest in shells. Her interest drove her to start a second career as a malacologist so she could scientifically study shells. She went on to publish a highly referenced work “Marine Shells of the SouthWest Florida Coast”. She was even able to discover and name 15 types of shells. Until Pearl Harbour, she had a close relationship with Japanese Emperor Hirohito. They both shared a love for shells and he had great admiration for her work. She was active in the community and was the first director of the Sanibel Shell Show. On her passing in 1962 her land was left to the U.S., Fish & Wildlife Service – now part of the J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge.
 
Her legacy continues through this undisturbed and vital piece of preserved land.


Directions


Step onto the sand at Gulfside City Park/Algiers beach, turn left and look to your left.


Restaurants Near Sanibel’s Perry Tract


West wind inn on Sanibel Island

Normandie Seaside Cafe (Located at the West Wind Island Resort)
3345 W Gulf Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957
239-472-1541
Visit Normandie Seaside Cafe Website

Good place for lunch and dinner, excellent wine list, and known for amazing desserts.

Guide to Sanibel Restaurants
Guide to Captiva Restaurants
Guide To Waterfront Dining

tiki bar at Sundial Resort on Sanibel Island

Turtles Tiki Bar (Located at the Sundial Resort)
1451 Middle Gulf Dr #4, Sanibel, FL 33957
239-472-4151
Visit Turtles Website

Tiki bar with a poolside patio serving drinks & comfort eats such as wings, burgers & tacos.

Guide to Sanibel Restaurants
Guide to Captiva Restaurants
Guide To Waterfront Dining

tiki bar at Casa Ybel Resort on Sanibel Island

Coconuts Poolside Bar & Grill (Located at Casa Ybel Beach Resort)
2255 W Gulf Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957
239-472-3145
Visit Coconuts Bar & Grill Website

Open for breakfast, lunch and sumptuous frozen cocktails each and every delightful day.

Guide to Sanibel Restaurants
Guide to Captiva Restaurants
Guide To Waterfront Dining