Known for waterfront sunsets, seashells and sandy beaches, Sanibel Island on Southwest Florida's Gulf Coast is a tranquil retreat that's a natural choice for outdoor lovers.

On a recent visit, I paddled through mangrove-lined waterways, swam in warm Gulf waters and fished for snook and sheepshead. Aboard an nature cruise, I caught glimpses of dolphins, ospreys and even a bald eagle.

My stay at the award-winning Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa placed me within easy access to all of these outdoor activities, and more. The upscale-casual luxury resort, located on a private peninsula overlooking Sanibel and Captiva islands, quickly put me in harmony with nature.


Natural Appeal

Nestled among 85 acres of coastal scenery, the resort is surrounded by natural beauty. Cabbage palms, sea grapes and coco palms line the road leading to the lobby, where breathtaking views greet guests.

With more than 400 rooms and suites, the resort also has five outdoor cascading pools, concierge and valet services and championship tennis courts. It features a 40,000-square-foot spa and fitness center and was named among the "Top 10 Spa Resorts in the U.S." by Condé Nast Traveler.

After checking in, I headed upstairs to my spacious room, which opened to a private balcony. I listened to waves lap against the shore and watched a white ibis soar through the sky.
With more than 400 rooms and suites, the resort also has five outdoor cascading pools, concierge and valet services and championship tennis courts.

Exploratory Cruises

I tore myself away from the view and boarded a complimentary trolley to the Port Sanibel Marina, where the resort's outdoors outfitter Adventures in Paradise offers fun-filled activities like sunset dolphin cruises.

Jimmy Buffett sang an aptly named tune called "Holiday" as Captain Bob welcomed me aboard the Sun Princess. Within minutes of casting off, the first dolphin of the evening appeared. The boat continued into San Carlos Bay, where a family of ospreys perched atop the mile marker 15 sign. Great egrets, blue herons and even a bald eagle flew overhead.

The warm yellow sun began to sink, and the first mate poured us each a cold beverage. The Sanibel Island Lighthouse shined in the distance.

Through the resort, you can also book shelling and lunch cruises to the outer islands and sealife encounter excursions with a marine biologist. Or, you can rent powerboats, canoes or kayaks and explore the waters on your own.

Hungry, I returned to the resort, which offers an array of on-site dining options. You can grab a quick bite poolside at The Cove, or dine on filet mignon over a glass of wine at the Courtside Steakhouse.

For a unique experience, board the resort's private luxury yacht, the $3.2 million Sanibel Harbour Princess. Savor gourmet cuisine and postcard-perfect views aboard a Sunday brunch cruise or a sunset dinner cruise. Finish with a nightcap at Charley's Cabana Bar.


An Angler's Paradise

The next morning, I threw open the curtains and soaked up the sunlight. The rays warmed my skin as I watched motorboats head for deeper waters.

Known as an angler's paradise, area waters are home to cobia, trout and Spanish mackerel, to name a few. You can charter a fishing excursion with an experienced captain or simply stroll along the resort's private fishing pier and cast a line over the side. Guests can even rent poles and buy live bait on property.

After grabbing a muffin from the resort's Palm Court Bakery, I picked a spot on the pier, flicked the line into the water and waited. Nearby, people of all ages reeled in sheepshead. I got a few bites, but never landed the big one. Maybe next time.


In Sync with Nature

My next destination was sure to turn up results. A world-class treasure trove, Sanibel Island teems with more than 400 varieties of shells. Barefoot, I combed the beaches for souvenirs before swimming in the clear gulf waters.

My final stop was the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, a 6,400-acre preserve where bird-watching reigns supreme. In a kayak, I paddled through mangrove-lined trails. Visitors can also hike or bike through the pristine preserve.

If your outdoor adventures leave you a bit bushed, return to Sanibel Harbour Resort's spa for natural rejuvenation. The spa offers more than 60 beauty and body care treatments, some of which utilize sea-derived products. Then retreat to a tropical oasis at one of five outdoor pools.

By the time you leave here, you're sure to be in sync with nature.

For more information on planning your own outdoors and nature getaway to the Fort Myers / Sanibel area, call the Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa at 866-283-3273 or visit www.sanibel-resort.com.