The Ultimate Sanibel Scavenger Hunt
One-Day or Multi-Day Family Adventure of Sanibel and Captiva
This Sanibel scavenger hunt is your guide to discovering the best the island has to offer—whether you’re here for the first time or you’ve been coming back for years. From iconic landmarks and beachside sunsets to whimsical sculptures, secret mailboxes, and wildlife encounters, this self-guided adventure is filled with both well-known favorites and Sanibel hidden gems you might otherwise pass right by.
I created this scavenger hunt for my family as a way to experience Sanibel differently. We’ve visited the island countless times, but mapping out stops to spot, photograph, or quietly appreciate helped us see it with fresh eyes. We found small treasures we’d never noticed before—like a manatee mailbox inviting us to leave secrets for a mermaid, or a sculpture tucked behind a wall of sea grapes. It reminded us that the magic of Sanibel often reveals itself when you slow down and look a little closer.
And if you’re wondering whether now is the right time to visit—Sanibel is back. After being deeply impacted by Hurricane Ian in 2022, the island has come back not just physically, but spiritually. Its beaches are open, its community is vibrant, and its beauty—quiet, creative, and resilient—shines through in every corner. This scavenger hunt is a celebration of that.
Each stop along the way gives you something to find, spot, or photograph as you make your way from the Sanibel Causeway all the way to Captiva. Whether you complete it in one day or stretch it out over a weekend, you’ll come away with something more than a photo roll—you’ll come away feeling connected to the heart of the island. All of the Sanibel scavanger hunt stops are fun free things to do in Sanibel and Captiva but I do recommend some activities on the way that have a cost but you can stick to the free activities only. I also share some of my favorite Sanibel resturants and their most popular dishes just in case you get hungry as you explore the island on this fun adventure.
So print the checklist, open the Google Map, and get ready to explore. There’s magic here. You just have to go find it.
Welcome to Sanibel – Causeway & First Stops
Every time I cross the Sanibel Causeway, something in me exhales. No matter how many times we’ve made the drive, it always feels like we’re entering a different rhythm—slower, softer, and somehow brighter. The first time we tried this Sanibel scavenger hunt as a family, we started right here. The moment we slowed down and started noticing the small things—the birds, the colors, even the clouds—everything shifted. Sanibel revealed itself in a whole new way.
These first stops set the tone for the day. They’re easy, joyful, and full of that “you’re on the island now” feeling.
1. Spot the Osprey Nest on the Causeway
Scavenger Hunt Goal: Look up and find the large osprey nest on a pine tree.
Ospreys are one of the first wild residents to welcome you to the island. We almost always spot one guarding its massive nest located in a group of two or three pines, the only ones on the causeway to survived the hurricane Ian. It’s one of those little Sanibel moments I’ve come to love. Bonus points if you catch one swooping down to grab a fish from the water or carrying a fish back to it’s nest.
2. Count the Pelicans from the Causeway Beaches
Scavenger Hunt Goal: Count how many pelicans you see gliding beside your car or perched along the causeway.
My kids always start counting pelicans as soon as we hit the bridge—it’s become our unofficial signal that the adventure has begun. Sometimes we’ll pull off at one of the recently reopened Causeway beaches just to watch them dive or float in formation. But you don’t even have to stop, the pelicans love to glide next to the bridge, so close to the car! It’s pretty magical.
3. Snap a Selfie with the Shell Heart at the Sanibel Chamber of Commerce
Scavenger Hunt Goal: Take a photo in front of the giant seashell heart sculpture.
Just past the bridge, the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce is your first official stop—and a perfect place to snap a starting photo in front of the iconic shell heart. We’ve used it as our “before” photo on scavenger hunt days. Inside, you’ll find helpful locals, maps, and sometimes even tips on current wildlife sightings. If you’re new to the island, this is the place to get your bearings. If you’ve been coming here for years, it still feels like coming home.
This section is just the beginning, but already you’ll feel what makes the island so special. Next, we head to the Lighthouse area—where the sand is soft, the views are wide, and you might just find a secret mermaid waiting for your message.
Sanibel Lighthouse Area – Secrets & Statues
This part of the island always feels like a deep breath. When we did the scavenger hunt as a family, we slowed way down here—there’s something about the Lighthouse end of Sanibel that invites you to linger. The salty breeze, the tall palms, the old fishing pier that still stands in spirit even if it’s technically closed… it’s where Sanibel’s past and present feel closest together.
This stretch has a little bit of everything: an iconic lighthouse, local legends, and even a spot to leave a secret for a mermaid.
4. Discover the Magical Mermaid Mailbox
Scavenger Hunt Goal: Find the manatee sculpture and leave a secret message inside the mailbox.
If I could only include one true Sanibel hidden gem on this scavenger hunt, this would be it. Just a short walk from Sanibel Sea School, tucked into the landscaping like it’s part of the island itself, there’s a soft-blue manatee mailbox surrounded by painted vines. If you get close enough, you’ll see a sign that says: “Write your secrets in the sand and trust them to a mermaid.”
Inside the mailbox? Pens, notepaper, and heartfelt wishes from strangers. Some are silly, some are deep. Every time we visit, we leave one behind. It’s become our little family ritual—and honestly, one of the most unique things to do in Sanibel.
5. Take a Photo with the Sanibel Lighthouse
Scavenger Hunt Goal: Capture a beachside photo with the historic lighthouse in the background.
There’s something timeless about the Sanibel Lighthouse. It’s one of the most classic Sanibel Island attractions for a reason. We always try to recreate the same photo year after year, just to see how much the kids have grown. And after surviving hurricane Ian it has become an icon of the the island’s sternght and resilience.
Bonus: While you’re here, keep an eye out for another osprey nest and pelicans hanging around the closed fishing pier.
6. Find the Dolphin Sculpture at Grandma Dot’s at Sanibel Marina
Scavenger Hunt Goal: Snap a photo of the two leaping dolphins—and stop in for a bite with a view.
Tucked into Sanibel Marina, this dolphin fountain welcomes you with a splash of charm—two leaping dolphins that make one of the cutest Sanibel Island photo spots. But don’t just grab your photo and go—this is also one of the island’s best hidden gems for breakfast or lunch.
Grandma Dot’s Seaside Saloon is one of our family’s favorite spots to relax after exploring the lighthouse. The fun ship-themed decor makes it especially popular with kids, and the view? It’s one of the best waterfront dining experiences on the island. Boats bob in the marina while you sip coffee or iced tea—total Sanibel vibes.
If you’re there for lunch, don’t miss the curry lobster salad—it’s a local favorite and truly a hidden gem on the menu. They also serve up classic baskets of fried shrimp, fish sandwiches, and creamy clam chowder that hits the spot every time.
This stop brings together so many things I love about the island: delicious local food, coastal art, and moments that make you slow down and savor the day.
Bonus: While you’re there take a photo with the mermaid sculture too!
Periwinkle Fun & Photo Ops
Interesting shops with souvenirs, our favorite family restaurant, and the island’s best ice cream make Periwinkle Place Shops a must-stop for us every time we’re in Sanibel. It’s not just a shopping center—it’s where some of our most fun family memories have been made. This is also where you’ll find some of the best shops in Sanibel along with some fun photo ops, plus delicious bites and treats that are perfect for a mid-hunt break.
7. Find the Seahorse Statue at Periwinkle Place Shops
Scavenger Hunt Goal: Snap a photo with the bright, tropical seahorse.
This colorful statue tucked among the palm bushes at Periwinkle Place Shops has become one of our favorite Instagrammable spots in Sanibel. And the seahorse has now become, for us, a reminder of Sanibel’s resilince after it survived hurrican Ian and hung out on the parking lot for month. Surrounded by lush landscaping and wooden walkways, it’s easy to miss if you’re not looking—but that’s part of the fun! Every time we visit Periwingle Place Shops we love to browse the shops for shell art, island-themed gifts, or a new beachy T-shirt. It’s a great way to mix in a bit of exploring with some island shopping.
8. Dine with the Blue Giraffe
Scavenger Hunt Goal: Take a selfie with the blue giraffee sign outside.
Right next to the seahorse is Blue Giraffe Sanibel, a colorful and laid-back restaurant that’s a hit with families. Blue Giraffe just reopened in May after more two years. It had always been one of our favorite family restaurants in Sanibel it’s one of those places that feels special and unique to Sanibel. If you’re stopping for breakfast, we recommend the strawberry fields stuffed french toast or the crab cake eggs benedict. If you’re here later in the day, the .
Kids love the new giraffe statue at the entrance, his name is Jerry, and it makes for a fun photo before you dig in. You can also check out the hand painted table tops that where saved from the Blue Giraffe’s other location and that are now hanging on the walls as part of the restaurant’s decor.
9. Say Hello to Pinocchio at Pinocchio’s Ice Cream
Scavenger Hunt Goal: Spot the Pinocchio figure and take a photo with him.
Bonus Challenge: Count how many bunnies are hanging from the ceiling!
Pinocchio’s Original Italian Ice Cream is a Sanibel classic, and it’s been part of our family scavenger hunts for years. The whimsical figure of Pinocchio stands at the entrance, welcoming you with a smile (and a reminder to treat yourself). This is one of those Sanibel Island attractions you just can’t skip.
Try a scoop of their signature “Sanibel Krunch” or the “Dirty Sand Dollar”—both are delicious and uniquely island-inspired. And while you’re inside, take on the bunny-counting challenge! There are plush bunnies hanging from the ceiling all around the shop—see who in your group can find the most.
Arts, Wildlife & Wonder in Central Sanibel
Sanibel is full of surprises, and some of the best ones aren’t on the beach. This stretch of the scavenger hunt blends creativity, science, and wildlife—all wrapped up in stops that offer hands-on experiences and visual delights. Even though we’ve been coming to the island for years, doing this hunt with my kids led us to places we hadn’t explored in ages. These Sanibel hidden gems are a great reminder that the heart of the island isn’t just in the waves—it’s in the stories and discoveries waiting inland.
10. Spot the Panther at BIG ARTS Sanibel
Scavenger Hunt Goal: Find the bronze panther sculpture and strike your best jungle pose.
Right outside the entrance to BIG ARTS Sanibel, you’ll find a sleek, dramatic bronze panther—an eye-catching work of art that celebrates Florida wildlife. BIG ARTS is one of the most unique things to do in Sanibel if you love music, theater, or visual arts, and the sculpture garden is free to explore, BIG ARTS galleries are always free and open to the public so you can check out the current exhibits while you’re there. This stop adds a touch of culture to your Sanibel & Captiva itinerary and is a great reminder that Sanibel is back with creativity and resilience.
11. Find the Oldest Building at the Sanibel Historical Museum & Village
Scavenger Hunt Goal: Spot the Rutland House—the oldest standing building on the island.
Just off Dunlop Road, right next to BIG ARTS the Sanibel Historical Museum & Village is a time capsule of island life dating back to the 1880s. Even if you don’t go in, you can spot the oldest building in the historic viallage by checking the map posted near the parking area. It’s one of the best Sanibel hidden gems for history lovers. But if you do have time, we highly recommend stepping inside—the village includes nine historic buildings filled with artifacts and stories of early Sanibel settlers.
Admission: $10 per adult, $5 for ages 6–17, free for kids under 6. Open seasonally from mid-October to early August (Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.).
12. Count Gopher Tortoise Crossing Signs
Scavenger Hunt Goal: How many gopher tortoise signs can you find between BIG ARTS and the Shell Museum?
One of our favorite family activities in Sanibel is spotting gopher tortoise crossing signs—bright yellow diamonds that pop up all over the island. They’re not just cute—they’re a reminder to protect one of Sanibel’s most charming residents. Keep your eyes on the road as you drive or bike toward the next stop. Bonus points if you spot an actual tortoise (from a safe distance, of course)!
13. Check Out the Giant Squid at the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum
Scavenger Hunt Goal: Find the giant squid in the lobby
The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum is more than just a place to see beautiful shells—it’s a full-on exploration of marine science and coastal life. My kids are always wowed by the giant squid sculpture, you can see it from the lobby and there is no need to go into the museum if you don;t want to. But I would say that the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum is the best thing to do in Sanibel aside from shelling. Don’t miss the Phase I of the Great Hall of Shells (with Phase 2 coming later this summer), and my daughter’s favorite: the touch tank.
Explore Sanibel’s Natural Side
Sanibel is known for its beaches, but what truly sets it apart is how easy it is to connect with nature here. From wildlife refuges to quiet trails, this part of the scavenger hunt is all about discovering the wild side of the island. These are some of our favorite places to stretch our legs, spot wildlife, and take in the peaceful beauty of Sanibel—whether you’re visiting for the first time or the fiftieth.
14. Spot a Black-Necked Stilt at the Bailey Tract
Scavenger Hunt Goal: Look for a black-necked stilt—either the real bird or its photo on one of the trail signs.
The Bailey Tract is one of Sanibel’s hidden gems and a spot we almost always have to ourselves. It’s a little less developed than other parts of the refuge, and that’s what makes it feel like a real adventure. This is one of our go-to birding trails when we want something short and scenic. Look for the striking black-necked stilt—a tall, elegant bird with long pink legs and black-and-white feathers. If you don’t spot one on the water, you’ll usually find its picture on the informational display at the trailhead.
15. Collect Shells at Turner Beach or Bowman’s Beach
Scavenger Hunt Goal: Find a coquina, a fighting conch, and one shell you’ve never seen before.
Shelling is the thing to do on Sanibel—and even though we have buckets of them at home, somehow we always end up collecting more. These two beaches are favorites, especially early in the morning after high tide. And yes, you’ll probably end up doing the “Sanibel Stoop.”
16. Spot a Sea Turtle Nest (Seasonal Bonus)
Scavenger Hunt Goal: Find one protected sea turtle nest and learn why they matter.
From May to October, beaches on Sanibel are dotted with clearly marked turtle nests. It’s a great way to talk with your kids about conservation—plus, it’s a cool seasonal addition to your Sanibel and Captiva itinerary. Just observe from a distance and never use flashlights at night.
17. Explore J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge
Scavenger Hunt Goal: Spot the black-bellied whistling duck in the visitor center, and as a bonus, find the manatee mom and calf sculpture near the restrooms.
We’ve been to “Ding” Darling more times than I can count, but there’s always something new to see—and this scavenger hunt made us notice even more. Start at the free visitor center (trust me, it’s worth going inside!) and look for the mounted black-bellied whistling duck on display. Then step outside and head toward the restrooms to find one a manatee mother and calf. Don’t forget to check the restrooms, which won America’s Best Restroom contest in 2018 (once you go in you will see why).
If you’ve got more time, don’t skip the Wildlife Drive. It’s one of the best outdoor activities in Sanibel, and it only costs $10 per vehicle. We love bringing binoculars and seeing who can spot the most birds—roseate spoonbills and white ibis are always a hit.
18. Spot Pelicans by The Green Flash Restaurant
Scavenger Hunt Goal: Count how many pelicans you can find perched on the docks behind The Green Flash.
This is one of our go-to spots on Captiva—not just for the food but for the views and wildlife. Walk around the back of the restaurant (there’s a small dock area) and look out over the water. It’s almost guaranteed that you’ll spot a pelican or two hanging out on the pilings. It’s such a simple but joyful moment, especially with younger kids who get excited every time they see one.
And if you’re ready for a break, The Green Flash is a fantastic place for lunch or dinner with a view. They serve breakfast on weekends too. Their seafood is top-notch (try the crab cakes or grouper sandwich), and for grown-ups looking for some fun later in the day, they host karaoke on Friday nights. We’ve had so many memorable family meals here—and a few laughs when someone in our group braved the mic!
19. Snap a Photo with the Giant Adirondack Chair at RC Otter’s
Scavenger Hunt Goal: Sit in the oversized pastel Adirondack chair out front and snap a photo.
This one’s easy to find and so worth the stop. RC Otter’s is known for its laid-back island vibe, live music, and colorful decor—but the giant Adirondack chair out front might be the most photographed thing on Captiva. My teens rolled their eyes at first, but even they couldn’t resist the photo. If RC Otter’s is open during your visit, it’s a great lunch option too—check the chalkboard for specials or grab a key lime pie to share.
