Sanibel Area vs Sarasota Area (Young Kids)

[travelhacker]

We have young kids and we really like Siesta Key because you just can't beat the beach there. We have never been to the Sanibel area (or Marco Island for that matter).

We are going to Florida for Fall Break (I know -- hurricane season), but the silver lining is that I often see some decent availability in both the Sarasota / Sanibel Area.

We have a 6 year old and twin 2 year old boys, what do you think would be best for our family?

 

[Bwolf]

My hunch is Sarasota and we own a timeshare on Sanibel. That said, Sanibel Sea School may interest your 6 year old. Going through Ding Darling may interest all of you, although the 2 year old boys are a bit young. Taking a ride on the Sanibel Thriller should be great fun for the entire family. Dolphins always come and play in the wake. You could also try Tarpon Bay activities. Kayaking with the children as young as they are is probably out, but there are some other activities, like sea life cruises and fishing. If you can convince the youngsters to enjoy the beach, Sanibel works, but so does Sarasota. You could also do a bit on Captiva. Kids are "captivated" by the Bubble Room.

 

[travelhacker]

My hunch is Sarasota and we own a timeshare on Sanibel. That said, Sanibel Sea School may interest your 6 year old. Going through Ding Darling may interest all of you, although the 2 year old boys are a bit young. Taking a ride on the Sanibel Thriller should be great fun for the entire family. Dolphins always come and play in the wake. You could also try Tarpon Bay activities. Kayaking with the children as young as they are is probably out, but there are some other activities, like sea life cruises and fishing. If you can convince the youngsters to enjoy the beach, Sanibel works, but so does Sarasota. You could also do a bit on Captiva. Kids are "captivated" by the Bubble Room.

I am interested in trying something new and Sanibel has been on my radar for a while. However, I do think the two year olds are too young to really appreciate it. The beach at Siesta Key is pretty hard to beat, and while I do think the kids would get a real kick out of shelling, from my limited research it sounds like Siesta Key is probably the better choice for a purely beach vacation.

Maybe we'll try to get to Sanibel in 2-3 years.

I looked at the Sanibel Sea School and I think my 6 year old would be in HEAVEN with that, that's a really great suggestion. I also looked up the Bubble Room and that looks like a home run as well.

Any other suggestions for Sanibel or Siesta?

 

[Bwolf]

I would suggest going to the TA Sanibel forum and asking the same question there. Lots of decent regulars who have experience with young children on Sanibel. Looking forward to seeing you there.

 

[rapmarks]

Here is something kids may enjoy off island. Lakes Park has a miniature train ride, a train museum, and playground equipment in the shape of a train all run by volunteer train enthusiasts.
it also has paddle boats, surreys, and bicycle carriages to rent. Adults peddle, kids sit in small seat.
beautifil scenery and walking paths,
right next door is a very nice mini golf
manatee park is neat on a cool day.

 

[fillde]

I visited the Sarasota Big Cat Habitat and Sanctuary yesterday. Boy was I surprised. Not a big fan of zoo's because seeing caged animals makes me sad. There are over 50 lion's and tigers at this sanctuary and they are the healthiest looking animals you will find anywhere. They even put on a very entertaining show that at least your 6 year old will love. And Veterans are free everyday! Highly recommend for lion and tiger lovers.
https://bigcathabitat.org/

 

[rapmarks]

Do you mean Octagon Sanctuary near Punta Gorda?

 

[fillde]

Do you mean Octagon Sanctuary near Punta Gorda?

No. But the Octagon looks like another sanctuary to be visited.

 

[rapmarks]

All the times we stayed in Sarasota and never knew about it!

 

[ilene13]

The Sarasota Big Cat Habitat is terrific. There is the Ringling Museum. The Circus Museum there is fantastic- free on Mondays. Mote Aquarium is wonderful. Jungle Gardens is for young children.