Author Archives: Blind Pass Condominiums

3 Fun Places to Explore near Sanibel Island this Fall

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Do you and your family have a vacation planned to Sanibel Island this fall? If the answer is yes, allow us to share a few fun things that you can explore nearby. Staying with us at Blind Pass Condominiums will allow you and your family to explore the area a little. Let’s look below at where those three places you can explore near Sanibel Island this fall.

Cayo Costa State Park

aerial view of cayo costa state park in florida

Did you know that there are many barrier islands near Sanibel Island with state parks located on them? One of those state parks happens to be Cayo Costa, located just an island north of our island. The Park is open from 8:00 am until dusk every day of the year. There is admission to the island, which is $2 per person, and they use the honor system, and please only include the correct amount. You will need to take the Ferry ride over there to access the island, but it’s a hop, skip and jump over to it. Some of the things your family can do are hike, search for shells, fish, and enjoy the beach. Think of the memories you can make while at this unique state park.

Lighthouse Beach Park

Lighthouse Beach Park is located at the East end of Sanibel where the tip of the island meets the gulf. The park features about 32-acres and has a lighthouse that is “famous” to many. Here you’ll be able to ride bikes, grill out, fish from the pier and so much more. There is a parking fee for about $5.00 an hour and Handicapped Parking for free. Another plus to this park is that it is handicapped accessible which is great for everyone in the family!

Lovers Key State Park

beautiful beach at Fort Myers in america

Another great state park that is located within a 30-minute drive from Sanibel Island is Lovers Key. Located in Fort Myers is where you’ll find this fantastic stretch of white sands to explore. They are open 365 days a year from 8:00 am until sundown, and it costs $8 per vehicle to park. One of the things that many families love to participate in at Lovers Key State Park is geocaching and swimming. They also offer tours, and they do have different amenities at the park as well. The whole family can get involved in spotting the best shell of the trip and take it home to save for years to come.

While many other state parks are located within a 30-minute drive from Sanibel Island, we wanted to share these with you. If you still haven’t booked your next fall vacation to stay with us at Blind Pass Condominiums, give us a call today. We can’t wait to hear which state park you tried on your vacation this fall!

Fall is a Great Time to Visit Sanibel Island

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Fall is a Great Time to Visit Sanibel Island

Do you and your family have a vacation planned to Sanibel Island this fall? If the answer is yes, then we want to let you know that fall is a great time to visit the island. Staying with us at Blind Pass Condominiums will allow you and your family to enjoy your vacation. Let’s look below at why fall is a great time to visit Sanibel Island this year.

Perfect Fall Weather

Fall is a Great Time to Visit Sanibel Island

One of the best things about vacationing to Sanibel Island during the fall months is it’s a little cooler and sometimes less humidity. Yes, we said it less humid. This can be a great thing because if you have ever visited the south in the past, you may realize that the summer months can bring on a lot of humidity. This means that it will feel hotter than it is. The temps during September here on the island should be around 90° during the day and a low of 74°. October brings a little cooler weather of 86° during the day and 69° during the night. While September can get a little more rain than October, it’s still fewer days compared to the Spring and Summer months.

Turtle Season

Fall is a Great Time to Visit Sanibel Island

Another excellent reason for visiting Sanibel Island during the fall months is that it’s still Turtle Nesting Season. While you may see several nests around the area that are roped off, you may happen to see some of the turtles scurrying to the water. This is a great spectacle to see, and we promise it may make you tear up a bit. There are a few things to remember while you are on the beach during this time.

  • Please Remember to Keep Your Distance! This means that if you happen to see a turtle or hatchling, don’t go up and touch them. Give them space just as if you would want to have.
  • We recommend that you don’t flash any kind of light at the turtles, hatchlings, or nests.
  • If you happen to dig any holes on the beach during the day, be sure to fill them back up.

Less Crowds

Beautiful beach on Sanibel Island, Florida. The Gulf Coast beach is famous for sea shell collecting.

Vacationing on Sanibel Island during the fall months means that its less crowded. Kids have gone back to school and so it means that you’ll be able to find the perfect spot on the beach. No need to wait a long time at a local restaurant for lunch or dinner and more time to shop without the crowds. Sit on the beach with the family as you watch the sunset together with very little people around. We promise that you’ll fall in love with the fall as you get to enjoy your time spent together.

While there are many other reasons why you and your family should visit Sanibel Island this fall, we wanted to share these with you. If you haven’t booked your next family vacation to stay with us in one of our Sanibel Island vacation rentals, now is the time. We hope to see you this fall and enjoy the weather and fun with us!

3 Things to Do on Sanibel Island if it Rains

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Are you and your family planning a vacation to Sanibel Island soon, but you’re afraid it’ll rain? Have no worries, as we at Blind Pass Condominiums have you covered. Staying in one of our Sanibel Island vacation rentals will keep you and your family close to the fun. Let’s look below at three things you can do if it rains while you’re on vacation.

Explore the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum

father showing starfish to his little son

The museum is the one good thing about coming to the seashell capital of the United States (or in Florida). They have recently renovated it and now offer more for everyone to enjoy. Here you’ll be able to see what shells you can find on the beach and learn more about each one. Don’t forget to check out their touch pools and other fun exhibits they have there. Bring home a little souvenir to remember your rainy day adventure from the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum.

Do a Little Shopping

Another great way to spend the day if it rains is to shop around local shops. Sanibel Island is full of fun shops that you have to check out. You’ll be able to find a few unique pieces of artwork over at the Watson Macrae Gallery. This shop is located at The Village Shops and while you’re there, grab a bite to eat at The Island Cow. The other shops at The Village Shops are Macintosh Books & Paper and T2 Gift Shop.

Watch a Movie

family mother father and children watching projector, TV, movies with popcorn in the evening at home

Why not watch a movie together if you don’t feel like leaving your vacation rental? Pop some popcorn in the microwave or use the stovetop for a little extra fun with the kids. Put a movie on that everyone will want to watch or find something on the TV. We can promise you’ll enjoy spending the time together as you relax and watch a movie.

There are many other fun things that you can do on Sanibel Island if it rains, but we had to share these. If you haven’t booked your next trip to stay at Blind Pass Condominiums, now is the time. We can’t wait to hear which of the above was your favorite.

3 Instagram Worthy Spots on Sanibel Island

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Sanibel Island is a hidden gem that many love to take pictures to post to Instagram and share with the world. We at Blind Pass Condominiums decided that we wanted to share our top three spots on the island to grab those beautiful pictures. Staying in one of our Sanibel Island vacation rentals will keep you and your family close to the spots. Let’s look below at our top picks to grab those priceless pictures to share on social media.

Blind Pass Beach

Sunset at blind pass at sanibel/captiva florida

Starting in our backyard is Blind Pass Beach, where you’ll be able to spot some of the most beautiful sunset shots. Here you’ll be able to spot much wildlife in the area, including the Great Blue Heron that loves to wade in the tide. Share with the world pictures of our crystal-clear water with the sun setting in the distance during the “golden” hour. Snap a few pics of the endless seashells you’ll find and share them with friends and family. The possibilities are endless on Blind Pass Beach.

Bowman’s Beach

Another great spot to grab instagram worthy shot is over at Bowman’s Beach. Here you’ll be able to capture the beauty of driftwood, seashells, the clear water, and more. Many love to spend the day at Bowman’s Beach to catch a glimpse of the serene beauty you’ll spot. The early morning is a great time to go before it gets too hot or takes an evening walk along the water. We promise you’ll post those pictures on your feed and stories on your next trip to the island.

Lighthouse BeachSanibel Lighthouse - Point Ybel Light. Sanibel, Florida, USA.

Lighthouse Beach is another favorite for not only our guests but for locals too. Taking shots during the evening of the lighthouse will surely make your profile noticed. If you stick around after the sun has set and the stars are out, you may get a great shot of the Milky Way!

No matter where you are on Sanibel Island, every picture you take will be beautiful. If you haven’t booked your next vacation to stay in one of our Sanibel Island vacation rentals, now is the time. We can’t wait to see your pictures while visiting Sanibel Island!

Benefits of Booking a Vacation Rental with Us

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Benefits of Book a Vacation Rental with Us

Do you and your family want to take a vacation to a tropical beach but don’t want to travel to the Caribbean? Then have no fear because when you book a Sanibel Island Condo vacation rental, then you will be in Florida’s hidden gem. Between the access to the beach and the amenities that we offer to our guests, you won’t want to leave your vacation. Let’s look at what the benefits are when you book with us.

Beach Gear

Whenever you go on a vacation to the beach, that means lugging all the beach items that you’d think you will need. When you book with us, you will not need to bring the beach items with you except for beach toys for the kids and sunscreen. All our units are equipped with 6 beach towels, 4 beach chairs and 1 beach umbrella. This can help leave extra room in your car to bring home souvenirs and even some shells for your collection.

Fun in the Sun

Benefits of Book a Vacation Rental with Us

No beach vacation is complete without heading to the beach, but when you stay with us, we have some other fun things to do. Blind Pass has many different amenities that you will want to not leave the complex. From playing tennis to walking over to Bowman’s Beach on our wood footbridge. To sign up for tennis rackets and balls to loan, stop in the front office to sign up for them.

Benefits of Book a Vacation Rental with Us

We also offer to all of our guest’s complimentary use of our kayaks and canoes for you to take out on the Clam Bayou. Here you will be able to see many different animals such as egrets, herons, and even perhaps a manatee or two. Be sure to bring along with you a camera that you can capture the moments of nature while on the water. Fishing, shelling and nature walks are available nearby and we promise you won’t hear the kids say, “I’m bored”.

Feels Like Home

Benefits of Book a Vacation Rental with Us

Anytime you go on a vacation, you want it to feel like you are at home with comfortable furniture and more. You want to have a full kitchen that you and the family can make homemade dinners or a quick lunch to take on the beach with you. We provide in your unit towels and linens, a washer and dryer and a days worth of laundry and dishwasher detergent. We also provide toilet paper, paper towels and trash bags. While we don’t provide other items, you are just a short drive to the grocery store where you can stock up on the extra items you may need. If you want to save time and be able to enjoy the beach a little more with the family, then you can bring a few items from home to help save time and money. No matter how long you are staying with us, you will feel like you are at home, yet relaxing while on vacation.

While there are many other benefits of booking with us, we thought that these would be more helpful for you when making your decision. Sanibel Island has so much to offer such as shelling, feeling like you are on a tropical island and just spending time with the family. If you are ready to book your Sanibel Island Condo vacation rental, please give us a call today or book it online. We look forward to helping you and your family enjoy a relaxing vacation to our beautiful island!

Where Sanibel Island Located?

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Have you heard of people taking vacations to Sanibel Island but you’re not sure where it is? Allow us with Blind Pass Condominiums to share with you our location and why it’s a great area of Florida. Staying in one of our Sanibel Island vacation rentals will allow you and your family some time to reconnect. Let’s look below and learn a little about where Sanibel Island is located.

Where in Florida?

map of florida showing where sanibel island

Sanibel Island is in Southwest Florida on the Gulf of Mexico and about 20 minutes southwest of Fort Myers. We are on a barrier island of the mainland and our quaint island is about 12 miles long and only about 3 miles wide. You will notice that a good portion of the northern side of Sanibel Island is habituated by the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. We promise that our island is the perfect spot for spending your family vacations on for years to come.

Shelling Capital of the Southeast

Seashells many sea shells shelling foreground on Sanibel Island, Florida during day on Gulf of Mexico shore and bokeh background of colorful blue water ocean

Another big reason that Sanibel Island is a great place to visit is because we are known as the shelling capital of the Southeast. You will notice that our white sand beaches and crystal-clear water will help you find some unique shells you may not find anywhere else, except for the Caribbean. And it’s only natural for our island to have a museum dedicated to shells called the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum. We promise that once you visit the museum, you won’t want to visit any other imposter museum again.

Sanibel Island is the perfect island to sneak away from life back home, enjoy the island life and live it up looking for unique shells. If you haven’t booked your vacation to stay with us at Blind Pass Condominiums, give us a call today. We can’t wait to see you and your family as you explore our beautiful island here in Southwest Florida!

Don’t Miss These Fun Easter Events Happening on Sanibel Island

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It’s hard to believe that Easter and Spring Break will be here before we know it in just a few short weeks. Sneaking away from life at home and getting to spend the week on Sanibel Island is just what you may need. Staying in one of our Blind Pass Condominiums will allow the whole family to enjoy their break from school and get close to the fun. Let’s look below at what fun events are happening this Easter here on the island.

Easter Egg Hunt & Dolphin Cruise

boy holding basket full of colorful easter eggs after egg hunt at spring time

If you’re going to be vacationing with us the weekend of Easter, look no further for something fun and exciting. On Sunday, April 17th at 9:00 am, 10:00 am & 10:45 am, Adventures in Paradise hosts an Easter Cruise. Hop onboard their unique boats and enjoy Easter “island style.” You will cruise in the San Carlos Bay and while you’re on your way to the island, get a glimpse of a dolphin or two. This is a paid event, and the cost is $69 for anyone over the age of 12 and $59 for anyone under 11. Included with the price of the event are easter pails and bottled water, along with a visit from the Easter Bunny. Think of the fun you’ll have at this event, living it up “island style.”

33rd Annual “Ding” Darling Day

Little boy searching with binoculars at the beach dressed as explorer concept for nature, discovery, exploring and education

While this may be on the end part of your Easter vacation or Spring Break trip to Sanibel Island, it was one we couldn’t leave out. Saturday, April 24th, is the 33rd Annual “Ding” Darling Day, located at Lakes Park in Fort Myers. Some of the things you and your family can enjoy at this day event are art demos, nature journaling, urban birding, and much more. Think of all the fun you and your family can have while on your vacation, getting to experience this event.

Many other things are happening on the island this April, but we had to share a few. If you haven’t booked your stay with us at Blind Pass Condominiums yet, call us today. We can’t wait to hear how you and your family spent your Easter break.

Where’s the Best Coffee at on Sanibel Island

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Where's the Best Coffee at on Sanibel Island

Are you and your family going on vacation to Sanibel Island soon and are you looking to know where you can grab coffee at on the island? We at Blind Pass Condominiums can tell you where you can find some of the best coffee shops in the area. Many locals find that getting their daily dose of caffeine will help you enjoy your vacation a little more. Let’s look at our top picks on where you can find coffee at on Sanibel Island.

The Coffee Bar by Bailey’s

Where's the Best Coffee at on Sanibel Island

The Coffee Bar by Bailey’s is located at the Bailey’s General Store and you won’t be able to find another like it on the island. This is a favorite stop for coffee for many of the locals and for many visitors to the island. They have a large selections of coffee drinks that you can pick from and there is something here for everyone. If you visit more than once and are a frequent coffee drinker, then joining the Sanibel Neighbors Club can allow you to get a special loyalty card. Some of the drinks that you can take advantage of and try are a Flavored Latte, Cool Brew, Smoothies and even Butterbeer. Don’t miss this coffee bar on your next family vacation to Sanibel Island!

Sanibel Deli & Coffee Factory

If you are searching for a coffee shop that has some pretty amazing food and coffee, then this is the place for you. Everyone in the family will want to come back on a daily basis to Sanibel Deli & Coffee Factory. Here you are able to grab yourself a coffee drink such as an Espresso, Café Mocha, Latte or an Iced Coffee. They have other foods for you to enjoy such as Pizza, Wings and even Gluten Free options. Don’t forget about the desserts they have for you to drool over such as Ice Cream, Milkshakes, Fresh Baked Pastries and even Key Lime Pie.

Over Easy Café

Where's the Best Coffee at on Sanibel Island

If you are like many who come on vacation to Sanibel Island, there might be a day or two you don’t feel like cooking breakfast. Then hop on over to Over Easy Café for a meal with the family. Located in the Olde Sanibel Shoppes you will find this quaint little café that has an extensive breakfast menu including coffee. They do have different types of meals such as the Egg Reuben Sandwich, Sunrise Sliders or if you are feeling very hungry then grab the Big Bertha’s Breakfast. Over Easy Café serves coffee, Herbal Teas, Fresh Florida OJ and even Mimosa’s for the adults. Stop by one day and enjoy this eggceptional breakfast and shop in their little store too.

Joey’s Custard

Joey’s Custard is not only a coffee shop but it’s also a place where you and your family can head to get a nice cold treat on a hot day. Located at 2467 Periwinkle Way in Sanibel you will find Joey’s Custard that is open 7 days a week from 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm. They do offer their customers both indoor and outdoor seating so you too can enjoy the sunshine and the air conditioning on those hot days. Some of the coffee that you can get is Latte, Cappuccino and a Cuban Coffee. For the kids they can get Ice Cream, Custard, Frozen Yogurt and more. Why not spend the day at the beach and for a late evening treat come to Joey’s Custard.

Sanibel Bean

Young beautiful happy woman with long curly hair enjoying cappuccino in a street cafe

Sanibel Bean is located in the heart of Sanibel and you’ll be able to find some unique coffee-style drinks. Some of the drinks you’ll find at this cute little coffee shop are Cafe Caramel, Island’s Best Espresso, Iced Coffee and more. If you’re not in the mood for coffee, then have no fear as they have several items that would be perfect for you including fresh squeezed lemonade. 

While there are other coffee shops that are in Sanibel, we thought that you’d enjoy these. If you are still looking for a place to stay for your next vacation to Sanibel Island, check out what is available at Blind Pass Condominiums. We look forward to seeing you and your family on your next vacation to the beach!

Don’t Miss this Year’s #BookDirect Day

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Are you and your family planning a vacation to Sanibel Island this year? We need to tell you why you should #bookdirect with us if you are. Many online third-party vacation rental sites can add a 5%-20% additional fee to your reservation. We know that your vacations are significant and may limit how much you can spend each year. Blind Pass Condominiums wants to make sure that you get the most out of your money when visiting Sanibel Island. The only way that you’ll be able to enjoy your vacation without getting hit with that unexpected fee is by booking direct today!

A Little About #BookDirect Day

On February 2nd, 2022, we celebrate the 5th Annual Book Direct Day, which was created to help educate vacation rental guests on the benefits of booking directly through an owner or Property Management Company vs. using a Third-Party agency such as Airbnb, HomeAway, VBRO & TripAdvisor.

While you may recognize these big-name companies and their gimmicks in helping you save money, you will soon learn that they will charge you a fee for using their website. Who wants to pay extra just to try and save a little money? Some of the expenses that you may incur when you book with an OTA can range from 5%-20% of the total cost of your vacation rental, which in turn can cost you thousands of dollars extra depending on which rental you choose.

Why You Should Book Direct with Us

When you book direct with Blind Pass Condominiums, you will not only speak with one of our vacation specialists who are local to Sanibel Island and can give you the best information on the area. We know all the details on each property because we have personally been to them. We can provide you with our recommendations on where to dine, play, shop, and visit businesses in the area. Our office is conveniently on Sanibel Island, so if any problems arise while you’re on vacation, we’re here to help.

How You Can Book Direct with Blind Pass Condominiums

You will find that booking directly with us at Blind Pass Condominiums is easy! We encourage all guests to book their vacations directly through our safe & secure website, www.blind-pass.com or call our office at (800) 852-2038. Rest assured that we will never charge any hidden fees, and we will always provide you with the best available rates on our professionally managed vacation rentals. We don’t want you to have to pay anything extra so that you can use that money to go out to eat, explore the island or make a local day trip. We understand that your money is precious, and we can help you see that your vacation to Sanibel Island is the best one it can be each year!

Family making a sandcastle in the sand with water in the background

Are you ready to plan your vacation today? #BookDirect with Blind Pass Condominiums today to have the best-planned vacation year after year!

Ring in the New Year on Sanibel Island

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Do you and your family have a vacation planned to stay on Sanibel Island this New Year’s Eve? If the answer is yes, allow us at Blind Pass Condominiums to share a few events happening in the area. Staying in one of our Sanibel Island vacation rentals will keep you and your family close to the celebrations. Let’s look below at how you and your family can ring in the New Year on the island.

Downtown Countdown

Realistic Colorful firework with smoke for celebrate happy new year 2021 countdown festival anniversary birthday party

If you’re looking for something that the whole family can do on New Year’s Eve, then head on over to Fort Myers. On Friday, December 31st, beginning at 6:00 pm in downtown Fort Myers is where you’ll find this big celebration. This year there will be about five stages with different live music performances to enjoy. Not only will there be live music but there will also be food vendors, live entertainment, the ball drop, and we can’t forget the fireworks. Don’t ring in the new year without checking out this fun and exciting evening with the family!

Celebrate in your Vacation Rental

Happy multiracial family drinking champagne during holiday celebration in decorated flat. Christmas, New year, Thanksgiving, Anniversary, Hanukkah, Mothers day, Easter, engagement celebration

Another great way to ring in the new year is to celebrate in your vacation rental. One of the benefits of staying with us at Blind Pass Condominiums is the space you’ll have for the whole family. Whether you have just your immediate family or you’ve brought along some stowaways, you’ll have just as much fun. There is something for everyone, from making a little fun celebratory dinner to watching the ball drop on the television. Even if the littles can’t stay up to ring in the new year, celebrate with those you care about in the rental.

Other fun events are happening in the area, but we wanted to share some ideas with you. Now is the time if you haven’t booked your next stay with us at Blind Pass Condominiums. We can’t wait to see and hear all about how you rang in 2022!