The most popular beach on Sanibel Island is the Sanibel Lighthouse Beach. The 45-acre park is the second largest public park on the island and is one of historic significance, due to the Sanibel Island Lighthouse. Given its size, ample parking and location, its popularity isn’t a surprise.
When we visit the islands, this beach is our first stop. One visit, and you’ll see why we keep coming back.
Sanibel Lighthouse Beach Park
The beach park is located at Point Ybel, home to the Sanibel Island Lighthouse, which is reason enough to visit the beach. It also has some of the best spots on the island to take photos.
Dolphins can often be spotted from the beach. The fishing pier at the northern end of the park is great for watching boats pass under the causeway or trying your luck at reeling in the big one.
Amenities
There are several showers and foot washing stations throughout the park, in addition to public restrooms. Want to stay for dinner? Help yourself to one of the grilling stations.
Picnic areas and a pavilion are an option if you need a break from the beach. The beach also has its own fishing pier.
Wondering about the shells you found? Check out the shell identifier from the Bailey Matthews National Shell Museum.
The View
With its U-shaped beach, the park has a variety of views. At the western end of the park, you get a sweeping view of the Gulf of Mexico. Sanibel Island’s pristine shelling beach disappears into the horizon to the north.
Ft. Myers Beach and Ft. Myers proper can be seen off Point Ybel.
From the bayside of the park, you face the Sanibel Causeway, Pine Island and Punta Rassa. And of course Ft. Myers Beach.
Parking
There are 152 parking spaces for cars at the beach parking lot. Spaces are split across two separate lots; one at the northern end of the park and one at the southern end. Both are located off of Periwinkle Way. There’s also limited parking for RVs and bike racks throughout the park.
Parking is available for $5 per hour (2025 rates)
Nearby Dining
Several island favorites are located a short drive from the beach.
Magic Bus Ice Cream is perfect spot to grab a to cool treat on a hot day. Next door, is Wickie’s Lighthouse Restaurant, which serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner. A little further up the road is Grandma Dot’s, located in the Sanibel Marina (don’t miss the key lime pina colada).
Sanibel Lighthouse Beach Overall Impression
Every time we’ve been here, it’s jam-packed. If you’re looking for a vibrant beach with a lot of activity and energy, this is your place.
Even if you’re looking for a mostly deserted beach, this is a fun place to stop. The gorgeous view of the sparkling gulf waters and the historic lighthouse make the Sanibel Lighthouse Beach a must-do Sanibel activity.
What: Sanibel Lighthouse Beach
Location: 110/153 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957
Website: City of Sanibel Beach Website
