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Taste of the Islands: A Sanibel Food Festival Supporting Local Restaurants and Wildlife

February 21–28 & March 1, 2025 —

 Sanibel Island’s beloved Taste of the Islands event is back, blending the island’s incredible culinary offerings with a meaningful cause. This annual Sanibel food festival celebrates local restaurants and raises funds for the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW), a critical resource for the care and conservation of wildlife in Southwest Florida. With Restaurant Week kicking off the festivities and the main event at Sanibel City Hall on March 1, 2025, this festival offers a unique opportunity to enjoy exceptional cuisine, support local businesses, and contribute to the recovery efforts of an essential community organization.


What to Expect at Taste of the Islands

Restaurant Week (February 21–28, 2025)
Over the course of a week, participating Sanibel and Captiva restaurants will showcase signature dishes, allowing diners to sample the best the islands have to offer. Guests can vote for their favorite dishes during Restaurant Week, giving these votes an early impact on the People’s Choice Award. This is the perfect time to explore new eateries or revisit old favorites while directly supporting local restaurants still recovering from recent hurricanes.

The Taste of the Islands Festival (March 1, 2025)
The main event transforms Sanibel City Hall into a lively festival atmosphere with food, drinks, live music, and engaging community spirit. Participating restaurants will offer their finest creations for just six CROW Bucks or less, and attendees will cast their votes for awards like Best Appetizer, Best Seafood, and Taste of the Taste. Local bands will keep the energy high, while families can enjoy interactive activities and a welcoming, vibrant community vibe.


Event Details

  • Restaurant Week: February 21–28, 2025
    • Location: Participating Sanibel and Captiva Restaurants
  • Taste of the Islands Festival: March 1, 2025
    • Location: Sanibel City Hall, 800 Dunlop Rd, Sanibel Island, FL
    • Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
    • Admission:
    • $10 for adults
    • $5 for children under 10
    • Free for children 3 and under

For more information and to buy your tickets visit the Taste of the Islands event page here.

Disclosure: Event details may change without notice. We are not responsible for changes or cancellations. Please check the event website or contact organizers directly for the latest updates.


Participating Restaurants

  • Cielo: This fine dining gem offers an elevated menu featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. 
  • Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grill: A favorite for its Caribbean-inspired menu and laid-back atmosphere. 
  • Lazy Flamingo: A Sanibel staple known for its fresh seafood and relaxed vibe. Try their signature dishes that highlight island flavors.
  • Green Flash: This waterfront restaurant on Captiva Island offers stunning views and a menu rich in fresh seafood and innovative dishes. 
  • Rosalita’s Cantina: Serving a combination of classic Mexican dishes alongside more modern takes on Mexican flavors, Rosalita’s is a favorite for its vibrant atmosphere and flavorful dishes. 
  • Wickie’s Lighthouse Restaurant: Known for its iconic lighthouse decor and creative menu, this restaurant is a must-visit for a unique dining experience. 
  • BRGR Kitchen and Bar: Located at the Sanibel Island Beach Resort, this casual restaurant is famous for it’s signature burgers which are customizable with lots of topping options. .
  • Key Lime Bistro at Captiva Island Inn: Located in the heart of old Captiva serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with a side of live music daily and nightly, this restaurant captures the essence of island dining. 
  • Sunshine Seafood Café and Wine Bar: An intimate spot known for its fine dining experience, featuring expertly prepared seafood and an impressive wine list it’s one of the most elegant dining options in Captiva. 
  • Shima Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar: Experience teppanyaki-style cooking and fresh sushi at this interactive and flavorful dining option, located at the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa . 
  • The Timbers Restaurant & Fish Market:A beloved island destination since 1978, this spot combines fresh seafood, a retail fish market, and a lively gathering place for sports and spirits in a charming nautical setting.
  • Tutti Pazzi: Enjoy authentic Italian dishes made with love and tradition at this charming eatery. 
  • The Bubble Room: Making a highly anticipated grand comeback after being affected by recent hurricanes this iconic destination is known for its whimsical decor and famous desserts. 
  • Island Pizza Company: Serving pizzas in Sanibel since 1977 this is the perfect spot for casual dining, offering delicious pizzas with creative toppings. 
  • Turtle’s Tiki Bar: Located at the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa and known for its island-inspired dishes and refreshing drinks, this family-friendly spot offers Gulf views and a relaxed, poolside atmosphere.
  • Lighthouse Café: Renowned for serving the “World’s Best Breakfast,” this café also offers hearty lunches in a cozy setting. 
  • Mudbugs Cajun Kitchen: Bringing a taste of Louisiana to Sanibel with authentic Cajun flavors and festive vibes. 
  • Sanibel Deli: Known for its hearty sandwiches, great pizzas and extensive gluten free options, this deli is perfect for grabbing lunch to enjoy at a picnic on the beach and ideal if you’re looking for a quick bite.
  • The Shack: Serving fresh frozen custard with a fresh new flavor of the day, The Shack is a family-friendly favorite.

Tips for Attending Taste of the Islands

For Restaurant Week

  • Plan Your Visits: Take advantage of the week-long event to visit multiple restaurants. Spread out your dining experiences to savor a variety of cuisines and enjoy a leisurely exploration of the island’s culinary offerings.
  • Try Signature Dishes: Many restaurants showcase special menu items during Restaurant Week, making it the perfect opportunity to try unique dishes you might not otherwise order. Don’t be afraid to ask your server for recommendations or the story behind their featured dish.

For the Festival

  • Purchase Tickets in Advance: This popular event often sells out, so buying your admission tickets online is the best way to secure your spot.
  • Arrive Early: Early arrivals can secure better parking and enjoy the festival without long lines.
  • Bring Cash for CROW Bucks: Food items are purchased using CROW Bucks, which can be bought at the event. Having cash makes transactions smoother.
  • Wear Comfortable Clothes and Shoes: The festival is held outdoors, so casual attire and comfortable shoes will keep you at ease while exploring.
  • Don’t Forget to Vote: Cast your vote for the People’s Choice Award when you sample the dishes, ensuring your favorites have a chance to win.

Other Things to Do in Sanibel

Here are some of my favorite things to do in Sanibel. If you’re visiting with family be sure to check out my article about the best things to do in Sanibel with kids

Go Shelling and Learn the Sanibel Stoop

Of course, my favorite thing to do in Sanibel is shelling—it’s everyone’s favorite! So head out to one of Sanibel’s beaches and do the Sanibel stoop, the classic bent-over stance shell hunters take as pick up shells. Read more about one of my favorite spots for shelling in Sanibel: Lighthouse Beach. You can also book a shelling and dolphin cruise from Fort Myers Beach here. And if you’re venturing further south don’t miss my article about the best shelling spots in Naples and Marco Island. 

Visit the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge

I’ve spent hours walking the trails or driving through J.N. “Ding” Darling, and it’s one of my favorite spots for birdwatching. The wildlife refuge offers a peaceful experience surrounded by nature, and I never tire of its beauty. 

Take a Sunset Tour From Fort Myers Beach

Sunsets in Southwest Florida are something special, and this cruise is one of my favorite ways to experience them. You’ll sail through calm waters, pass scenic islands, and watch as the sky turns into a masterpiece of colors. It’s so peaceful and romantic—perfect for couples, families, or even a solo treat. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable evening! Reserve your sunset cruise here.


Sanibel Annual Events and Festivals

Sanibel Island hosts a variety of festivals that celebrate its unique culture and natural beauty. From shell enthusiasts to music lovers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on this charming island.

  • Ding Darling Wellness and Nature Festival (January 25 2025,): Celebrate the beauty of Sanibel’s natural habitats with wellness activities, environmental education, and family-friendly fun.
  • Sanibel Music Festival ( March 1 to 22, 2025):  A renowned celebration of classical music, featuring world-class artists and ensembles at the Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ.
  • Sanibel Shell Show (March 6-8, 2025): A unique combination of art and science, featuring shell-inspired artistic and scientific exhibits.
  • Luminary Festival (December 2025, exact date TBA): Kick off the holiday season with island-wide festivities, including live music, decorations, and a special concert by Florida Gulf Coast University’s Bower School of Music.

Where to Stay in Sanibel

Sanibel is such a magical place, and finding the right place to stay makes it even better. Whether you choose a beachfront rental or a cozy island inn, you’ll love waking up to peaceful beaches and the sound of the waves.

The Palmview Inn and Sandpiper Inns:At the Palm View Inn, you’ll stay in beautifully restored historic bungalows that perfectly capture Sanibel’s charm. They’ve kept the vibrant island character while adding modern coastal touches, making it a cozy and unique place for your getaway! Book your room or cottage here

The Sanibel Inn: You’ll love staying in your own condo-style retreat, perfect for relaxing after a day at the beach or the nearby golf course. With a private beach, poolside bar, and plenty of activities like kayaking and biking, it’s the ideal spot for your island getaway! Reserve here.

South Seas Island Resort: At South Seas Island Resort, you’ll wake up to the sound of the ocean and enjoy all the perks of a private beach getaway. From two outdoor pools with waterslides to a marina and beach cabanas, this resort has everything you need for fun and relaxation. With on-site dining, activities like beach volleyball and kayaking, and spacious rooms with separate sitting and dining areas, it’s the perfect place to unwind and soak in the island vibes! Book your stay here!


Supporting Wildlife Conservation with CROW

Proceeds from Taste of the Islands directly benefit the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW), a teaching hospital and visitor education center that has been a cornerstone of wildlife rehabilitation in Southwest Florida for decades. Dedicated to providing state-of-the-art veterinary care, research, education, and conservation medicine, CROW works tirelessly to save and protect the region’s precious wildlife.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, the CROW campus suffered extensive damage, including the loss of vital rehabilitation enclosures. Funds raised through this Sanibel food festival play an essential role in rebuilding the facility with greater resilience, ensuring it can continue its mission for years to come. By attending the event, you’re not only indulging in the island’s best cuisine but also contributing to the preservation of wildlife and supporting a community effort to create a stronger future for Sanibel Island’s ecosystem.


Taste of the Islands is a celebration of resilience, community, and exceptional cuisine. This Sanibel food festival not only spotlights the culinary talents of local restaurants but also supports the vital work of CROW, ensuring the preservation of wildlife for generations to come. Whether you’re a foodie, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for one of the best events in Sanibel and Captiva, this festival promises a day of delicious food, live music, and meaningful impact. Don’t miss the chance to make memories while making a difference!

Be sure to follow @365swfl on Instagram and give 365 Things To Do in Southwest Florida a like on Facebook to stay up to date with the latest SWFL events and the best things to do in Southwest Florida.

 

Paula

Paula is a writer and social media consultant. She has lived in Cape Coral for over 15 years and loves exploring Southwest Florida with her two teens and two doodles. Whether hiking at Six Mile Cypress Slough, dining in Naples, or catching a festival on Fort Myers Beach, she’s always on the lookout for fun events and unique experiences. She enjoys shelling on Sanibel, birdwatching at Corkscrew Swamp, checking out art exhibits at The Baker Museum, and paddling hidden waterways along the Calusa Blueway. As the founder of 365 Things to Do in SWFL, Paula loves to share the best events, family-friendly activities, and local hotspots, helping visitors and locals make the most of life in paradise.

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