San Carlos Bay and Gulf of Mexico Access
Two very popular beaches located just after the toll booth on the spoil islands used to link Sanibel Island to the mainland. The causeway bisects San Carols Bay close to the mouth of the Caloosahatchee River allowing bay and Gulf access.
Causeway Islands Park is now open (May 1, 2025) with its first phase of amenities.
Amenities available include free on-site parking, portable restrooms, and trash and recycling bins.
Visitors to the reopened park will notice an increased presence of rangers and parks staff to assist with free parking in designated areas and other questions.
Park hours are dawn to dusk; rangers will patrol per usual to ensure park rules are followed.
Volunteers from partnering organizations will be on site to educate park patrons about nesting shorebirds. Nesting areas will be well marked to protect the birds from visitors.
Planned improvements in Phase Two include structured parking areas, restrooms on Islands A and B, beach access and ADA accommodations, outdoor showers, site drainage and irrigation systems, shade structures and landscaping.
Construction of Phase Two is expected to begin in late 2025 and completion anticipated in 2026, weather permitting. Progress of the project can be found on the Lee County Parks Project Information Tool at www.leegov.com/parks.
The Sanibel Island Causeway beaches are also a great place to watch dolphins.
The first of the two islands is referred to as Causeway A, the second Causeway B. You can pull your vehicle right up to the edge of the water at the Sanibel Island Causeway beaches. Florida Sunshine Survival Tips
Both islands offer an opportunity to enjoy a variety of activities including fishing, swimming, picnicking, canoeing/kayaking, windsurfing, kiteboarding, shelling, and sunbathing.
No fee for parking.
Grilling is permitted, and leashed pets are welcome, but visitors must clean up after their pets.
Read our blog article about beach safety, sunscreen protection and things to do in the Fort Myers area.