Sanibel is a shrimp-shaped island located off the coast of Fort Myers in Southwest Florida. The unique shape of the island allows abundant shells to collect along the shoreline. Hence, Sanibel is a Mecca for shell enthusiasts.

Preserving the island’s natural ecology is important to locals and visitors alike. Approximately 2/3 of the 12,000 acres of land on Sanibel are set aside for conservation by state, city, and county governments, and SCCF.

The West end of Sanibel includes 8 miles of sea turtle nesting habitat from Tarpon Bay Road to Blind Pass. Sanibel Island West is monitored daily for nesting activity from May through October.

Sanibel’s sea turtle program began with Caretta Research Inc. in 1968, making it one of the oldest continuously running programs in Florida. The sea turtle program was transferred to Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation when Caretta Research Inc disbanded in 1992. Over 100 volunteers contribute to nest protection efforts on Sanibel.