7 Local Favorites For A Sanibel Island Sunset 

It’s no secret that one of the main attractions of Sanibel Island is its incredible sunrises and sunsets. So, where are the best places to watch sunset & sunrise on Sanibel Island? 

There are many great spots to see both and, wherever you end up is bound to provide breathtaking views.

In mid-winter, you can see the sunset and sunrise from many Sanibel beaches.

During the summer months, you should be on the east end of Sanibel to see the sunrise. You should be on the west end of Sanibel Island or Captiva Island to see the sunset.

#1 Lighthouse Beach Park

sunset with boat on Sanibel Island

Lighthouse Beach Park is a glorious expanse of white, delicate sand buffered by a beautiful ocean view and a border of lush, green trees. If you’re looking to soak in a Sanibel sunset or sunrise, Lighthouse Beach Park is an excellent choice. 

Situated at the far North end of Sanibel Island, all the views are beautiful at Lighthouse Beach Park

For avid bird watchers, this is a prime spot to see an incredible selection of cool birds. A wonderful spot to see the sunrise or set. 

Location: 10 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957

#2 The Sanibel Causeway (Closed at the moment)

Hugo Lingrens Causeway shot at sunrise on Sanibel Island

The Sanibel Causeway is a glorious stretch to watch the sunset and the parking is free! The best spot to see the sunset would be on one of the causeway Islands, though parking is free you will have to pay the $6 Sanibel toll if coming from Fort Myers. 

If you want to avoid the toll, there is a popular grassy area under the causeway bridge (span A) where people congregate to watch the sunset. Shhh, don’t tell anyone!!!

The Causeway is truly the local’s favorite spot for a Sanibel sunset. Pull your car right up against the shoreline, put on some feel-good tunes, and sit back to watch the sunset. One of our favorite things to do is bring a blanket and some snacks to enjoy a sunset picnic! 

Location: 19931 Sanibel Causeway, Sanibel, FL 33957

#3 Bowman’s Beach

Bowmans Sanibel

Like its peers, Bowman’s Beach offers a majestic stretch of magnificent sand and ocean where the sunset can be appreciated from any spot you may land. With clear and expansive views, there truly is no spot redundant to another however, there is always a local tip to be shared for those willing to go the extra mile.

Once parked and on the beach, a more adventurous roamer might chance a right turn and a solid walk. The further right (North West) you walk, the more stunning the backdrop of the beach becomes. The sand is soft and gentle with a variety of shells to be found as well, as you walk look out for hidden gems!

Bowman’s is a great choice to relax, go for a stroll, and take in a Sanibel sunset in all its glory. This beach is also completely dog friendly, so why not bring your furry friend to enjoy the views as well? 

Top tip: Don’t forget your bug spray, especially in the summertime!

Location: 1700 Bowman’s Beach Rd, Sanibel, FL 33957

#4 Blind Pass Beach

Blind Pass Beach sanibel island

Blind Pass Beach is a fantastic spot to watch the sunset. Either on the Sanibel Island side at Blind Pass Beach Park or on the Captiva Island side at Turner Beach. Whichever side you choose you are almost guaranteed an amazing show by Mother Nature.

It is important to plan your Sanibel sunset trip as the parking here is quite limited.

We suggest arriving a few hours early to hang out on the beach before the show begins!

There is plenty to do on the beach especially if you arrive at low tide when the gorgeous shells are at most visible! 

Turner Beach is also a great place to fish.

Due to having unique access to both the gulf side and the bayside, there is an opportunity to go crab fishing, surf fishing, kayak fishing, net fishing, and more.

You may get lucky if you decide to stop by just for Sunset and grab a parking spot but no matter how or when you end up here the view will be one to remember! 

Location: 6491-6499 Sanibel Captiva Rd, Sanibel, FL 33957

#5 Gulfside City Park (Algiers)

Sanibel Island Beach on Sanibel Island

Gulfside City Park (the locals call it Algiers) is a perfectly picturesque beach tucked away on Casa Ybel Road. This beach tends to see a bit less foot traffic than its neighbors and is just as breathtaking!

Here you’ll find picnic tables and showers among the amenities making it a good beach to spend the day at, and of course stay for the sunset! 

Parking is fairly limited so be sure to arrive with plenty of time to find a spot.

This beach is one of Sanibel’s better shelling spots if you’re looking to bring home a piece of the island you may just find one here!

Of course, there are many ways to enjoy the Sanibel sunset any way you like, take a seat in the sand, go for stroll down the shore or even a swim! However, you like to end your long day at the beach there’s a way to do it here. 

Location: 2001 Algiers Lane, Sanibel, FL 33957

#6 Captiva Cruises – Sunset Cruise

Captiva Cruises on Captiva Island

If you’re looking to turn that Sanibel sunset into an experience looks no further than Captiva Cruises! This family-owned boat charter company has so many exciting day trips and boating options available.

Our favorite is the Sunset cruise aboard Lady Chadwick where you’ll hear live music, have access to the bar, choose between indoor (air-conditioned) or outdoor seating, and most importantly guaranteed beautiful sunset views. 

The best part about cruising for sunset is the chance to see dolphins splashing around as the sun goes down!

Captiva Cruises is known for its luck with dolphins and we always get a chance to see some when on board.  

Location: 11401 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva, FL 33924

#7 The Mucky Duck

People watching sunset on Captiva Island

Not on Sanibel Island but we snuck The Mucky Duck in the list as it is truly one of the most iconic sunset spots on both Islands.

On neighboring Captiva Island nestled right on the shore with a direct view of the setting sunset. 

The Mucky Duck Restaurant is located right on Captiva Beach and offers traditional pub fare, fresh seafood, and a variety of cold beer and wine.

With an abundance of outdoor seating on the beach, The Mucky Duck might be the best place for sunset. 

Casual and welcoming, the laid-back environment coupled with friendly staff make this a wonderful relaxing end to another captivating island day.

The Mucky Duck is located at the end of Andy Rosse Lane which is the most vibrant street for Captiva nightlife housing fun art galleries, small boutiques, and places to hear live music.

Location: 1156 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva, FL 33924

Contact: 239-472-3434

Visit the Mucky Duck Website

Where To Stay For A Sanibel Sunset?

There are plenty of ways to see a sunset without setting foot outside! Our favorite beachfront hotels and cottages to view the sunset from home are at South Seas Island Resort on Captiva.

Choose between an array of 2-3 bedroom cottages and villas that sleep up to 8 people! These homes away from home are located all throughout the island with a handful located right against the water with the sunset just outside! 

👉Start Planning Your Stay At South Seas!

While there are many beachfront hotels on Sanibel Island it is not always a guarantee you’ll be able to see the sunset! The sunset changes through the seasons and Captiva has a more sure likelihood you’ll catch the view from your room!

👉Discover All The Ways To Stay On Sanibel!

If you’re interested in learning more about Sanibel’s Best Beachfront Hotels check out this article!

👉11 Of Sanibel Islands Best Beachfront Hotels 2022

Viewing The Sunset & Sunrise By Season

January – Winter

April – Spring

July – Summer

October – Fall


Restaurants To Visit After Sunrise On Sanibel Island


Lighthouse Cafe
362 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957
239-472-0303
Visit The Lighthouse Cafe Website

While there is no spot to see a sunrise as you fuel up for your day on breakfast, The Lighthouse Cafe is a stone’s throw away from Lighthouse Beach Park and is a Sanibel Island staple. The Lighthouse Cafe has an expansive breakfast and lunch menu. It opens early so it’s a great stop after watching the sunrise. Tell Bill we said Hi!

breakfast cafe on Sanibel Island

The Sanibel Cafe 
2007 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957
239-472-5323
Visit Sanibel Cafe Website

The Sanibel Café is about 3.5 miles from the Lighthouse in the Tahitian Gardens Shopping Plaza. It was established in 1984, and over 30 years later it has become famous around the world for its delicious food and spectacular fossilized seashell tabletops! Tell Richard we said HI!

Cafe on Sanibel Island