Climate Island visitors and residents bask in a mild tropical climate. Even with an occasional cool day, winter temperatures average in the mid-to high 70s. The surrounding waters plus the lush tropical foliage combine to make summer temperatures cooler and more comfortable than many of the state's more populous areas. August's high of 90.5 degrees is gratifying tempered by ocean breezes. Annual rainfall is normally 52 to 55 inches, much of which occurs during the summer months, providing still another cooling factor.
Showers usually occur during the late afternoon and early evening.
Sanibel is about 12 miles long and averages three miles in width. Captiva, connected to Sanibel by a bridge, is nearly six miles long and narrower than its sister island. Both islands boast miles of exquisite tropical vegetation. More than 40 percent of the island's acres are preserved as wildlife sanctuaries. Visitors here rest, walk secluded beaches, watch brown pelicans diving for their daily ration of fish and delight in spectacular sunsets.