On Thanksgiving, plenty of restaurants on Sanibel and Captiva Islands keep their doors open to serve delicious holiday meals.

On Sanibel, you’ve got choices like Bleu Rendezvous, Sanibel Grill, Timbers, The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club, and The Shack, whereas on Captiva, you can opt for RC Otters, Boops by the Bubble Room, or The Shipyard.

The Old Captiva House is open for Thanksgiving but there are no reservations left.

Wondering where to enjoy a hearty Thanksgiving meal on Sanibel or Captiva Island?

Rest easy, The Sanibel Captiva Guide knows just the places for you.

  • A peek into open restaurants on Sanibel Island.
  • Serving up Captiva Island’s delectable options.
  • What you should know before you head out.

Keep reading to uncover the islands’ dining secrets and make your Thanksgiving meal decision easier and more informed.

Dining on Sanibel on Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving on Sanibel Island is as inviting as the Island itself. And when it’s about dining out, there are promising places awaiting your arrival.

Bleu Rendezvous

This reputable gem on the island is known for its diverse menu and warm ambiance. A perfect place for a Thanksgiving meal filled with rich flavors.

They will be having a full menu as well as a “Thanksgiving” option.
Bleu Rendezvous Website

Jerry’s Foods

Looking for a to-go option? Give Jerry’s Foods a call. They offer a whole Thanksgiving meal for $149.99 that feeds 8-10 people. The meal includes an 11-13 pound turkey, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, green beans, stuffing and more!

Call to order before November 20th 239-472-9300

Jerry’s Foods Website

Sanibel Grill

In the mood to watch some sports on Thanksgiving? Visit the Sanibel Grill. They offer seafood, burgers & pizza, plus lots of televised sports & memorabilia.
Sanibel Grill Website

Timbers

If you’re a lover of seafood, Timbers should be on your visit-list this Thanksgiving. Known for its fresh catch of the day, it could make your holiday meal a memorable one. They will have a turkey option and separate set seating times so call ahead to get on the list. 239- 472-3128
Timbers Website

The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club

The Dunes is opening its doors to everyone this Thanksgiving Day. Enjoy your Thanksgiving dinner with a lush golf club setting. A high-quality buffet coupled with stunning views. They are also offering Thanksgiving To Go!
The Dunes Website

Copy of The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club Thanksgiving menu for 2023

The Shack

Craving some after-dinner sweets? Then The Shack should be your destination. Offering frozen custard, shakes, floats, and more. They will have a signature flavor on Thanksgiving.
The Shack Website

Enjoying Captiva’s Restaurants on Thanksgiving Day

Switching gears to Captiva Island. A range of diverse restaurants are open, and each presents their unique take on Thanksgiving meals.

RC Otters

Known for its fun ambiance and varied menu RC Otters offers an indoor-outdoor cafe setting with live music.
RC Otters Website

Boops by the Bubble Room

Next on the list is Boops by the Bubble Room. It stands out due to its retro vibe and fascinating food options. Thanksgiving here is a memorable occasion with a touch of nostalgia.
Boops Website

The Shipyard

The Shipyard is located at ‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa. This restaurant is a casual eatery with seafood & steaks.
The Shipyard Website

The restaurants on Captiva bring more than just meals to the table. They make Thanksgiving an occasion worth remembering with delectable food, engaging atmospheres, and remarkable service.

Things to Know Beforehand

It’s evident – the combined efforts of these restaurants make Thanksgiving dining on Sanibel and Captiva a true standout. Yet, there are a few considerations worth noting before heading to these establishments for your Thanksgiving feast.

Reservations

While not all require it, many recommend securing a reservation for your Thanksgiving meal – especially if there’s a specific restaurant you’re keen to try. So it’s wise to get in touch early.

Check the restaurant’s website or give them a call for any recent updates.

Special Menu

Rejoice in the special Thanksgiving menus on offer. Be it a twist to the traditional turkey or something entirely different, these menus have something for everyone. All the listed restaurants strive to deliver a memorable culinary journey.

Offering an enjoyable dining experience is the goal of these restaurants. A Thanksgiving meal on Sanibel and Captiva is something to cherish not just for the fantastic food and ambiance, but also for the passion these restaurants pour into their offerings.

Wrapping It Up

As we come to the end of our guide, let’s pen down the key takeaways that ensure your unforgettable Thanksgiving on Sanibel and Captiva Islands.

  • There’s an abundant choice of restaurants open on Thanksgiving, ensuring nobody goes hungry on these spectacular islands.
  • On Sanibel, enjoy the enticing variety at Bleu Rendezvous, Sanibel Grill, Timbers, The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club, and The Shack.
  • Captiva’s RC Otters, Boops by the Bubble Room, and The Shipyard elevate your culinary experience with flavorful Thanksgiving arrangements.
  • Remember, each restaurant brings its unique touch to your Thanksgiving meal – so why not try a new one every year? By letting the islands’ culinary magic blend well with the nostalgia of Thanksgiving, you’re all set for a memorable experience.

Thanksgiving Dining on Sanibel and Captiva FAQs

Do I need to make a reservation for dining on Thanksgiving?

Yes, given the holiday season and the festive rush, it’s recommended to make a reservation. This ensures you get a table at the restaurant of your choice without any last-minute hassles.

What kind of special Thanksgiving menus can I expect?

Restaurants typically offer special menus featuring traditional Thanksgiving dishes, as well as their own unique culinary creations. This often includes roast turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie, alongside locally influenced cuisine.

What are the typical service hours for these restaurants on Thanksgiving?

Most restaurants follow their usual business hours on Thanksgiving. However, it’s a good idea to check the specific restaurant’s schedule or give them a call to confirm the timings for that day.

Do these restaurants accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes, restaurants on both Sanibel and Captiva Islands are known for their attentiveness to customers’ dietary needs. It’s best to mention your dietary restrictions while making a reservation to ensure a pleasant dining experience.

How Can Visitors Help the Islands?

You can contribute by supporting local businesses, both in-person and through online stores.

Use the following lists to see what is open.

List of open businesses.
List of open hotels and resorts
List of open beaches

Stay tuned and subscribe to our newsletter to keep up to date.

May your Thanksgiving on Sanibel and Captiva Islands be filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable memories, (maybe a Junonia is in your future!). We hope your time here is nothing short of amazing.

Warmly,

Nick, Lori, and Max