For those fortunate enough to be on the Island for Father's Day, June 17, the opportunities to wine, dine and gift dad make it an especially nice place to be.
Day activities might range from a picnic at the beach to a bike ride around the island.
But if that sounds too tame for the "father" in your life, consider water, water, everywhere. If your guy in question is a do it yourself-er or an intrepid explorer, he might get the most enjoyment exploring the calm waters of the bays and bayous. Tarpon Bay Explorers allows the adventurer to tour the Wildlife Refuge by kayak, canoe, bike, or pontoon boat on their own. Or to see wildlife up-close and discover J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge with an experienced naturalist by your side. Tarpon Bay Explorers offers many guided tours designed to be both educational and fun! Birds, dolphins, manatees, and alligators are just some of the amazing wildlife found in the pristine native tropical and subtropical vegetation of Sanibel Island.
Similar activities are offered by Adventure Sea Kayak & SUP a dandy way to find your balance on the water.
If dad is fisherman, you might want to treat him to a day of fishing with Adventures in Paradise. Back water fishing is often an option on Sundays.
In fact, the fishing is fantastic on Sanibel and Captiva Islands, from deep-sea fishing to light tackle. Whether you hire one of the very proficient fishing guides or captains and go on a half or full day charter. Rent your own boat from one of the marinas, surf cast from the beach or fish from one of the bridges or docks. Three popular places to fish are: the Causeway, Blind Pass Bridge and the pier on the bayside of the Sanibel Lighthouse (Point Ybel light).
But man does not live by fish alone, there is still great adventure to be found sailing the surface. In fact, a really neat gift for dad might be lessons so he can learn to charter his own way around. At the Off Shore Sailing School, located on Captiva, dad can learn the basics or add to the knowledge he has. There are courses for beginners, intermediate or seasoned sailors. Now that is Father's Day gift he will remember and use for the rest of his life.
End of day wining and dining can be simple fare at Doc Ford's or the Great White Grill where the sports bars will be sure to keep any guy happy. But for a more demure experience, you might want to look into dinner at Traditions, The Thistle Lodge or any number of Island eateries where comfortable seating, excellent food and a good bottle of wine can mark this important celebration.