Forget Key West — Florida's Trendiest Island In 2026 Is Filled With Endless Family-Friendly Fun And Beach Beauty

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Key West may be one of Florida's best beach getaways, but Sanibel Island is getting more love among families in 2026. Located off Florida's southwest coast, Sanibel ranked in eighth place out of 10 on Expedia's "2026 Island Hot List" and was named the best choice for families. Expedia's 2026 search data also showed overall interest in island getaways rising by 55% since the previous year, with Sanibel Island searches increasing by 25% between 2025 and 2026.

Sanibel is a small island, spanning only a few miles across and 12 miles in length, but visitors can easily spend several days here. Not only is it considered America's best destination for shelling, but for an island its size, it also has plenty of family-friendly attractions to discover. Year-round, many visitors come here to explore scenic beaches and wildlife areas.

The region is just a 30-mile drive from Fort Myers' Southwest Florida International Airport, and it's easy to rent a car or book a rideshare to get from the airport to the island. Once on Sanibel Island, sightseers can also rent a bicycle or e-bike at one of the rental shops on the main road, Periwinkle Way.

Among Expedia's top 10 picks, Sanibel was the only island located in one of America's 50 states (though, Puerto Rico's underrated "Hidden Islands" did come in seventh place). The travel site also dubbed this Florida destination a family favorite for its easy access to unspoiled beaches.

For beachcombing and water-based activities, there are a few Sanibel Island beaches worth checking out. Located on the island's northern end, Bowman's Beach is a stretch of natural shoreline accessible via a short walk from the parking lot. Many online reviews remind visitors to pay the hourly parking fee to avoid fines. Another beach popular among families is Gulfside City Beach Park (also called Algiers Beach), a popular place for shell-collectors. North of Sanibel, travelers can also find Captiva Island — a vibrant Florida locale that could easily pass as a tropical Caribbean getaway.

Beaches aren't Sanibel Island's only appeal, however. Another of the area's family-friendly attractions is the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, an idyllic haven for bird watching, hiking, and canoeing. Here, you can trek along the many trails and boardwalks to spot Florida-native species, including manatees, alligators, and hundreds of birds. To get the most out of your visit to this protected area, consider booking a guided tour with Tarpon Bay Explorers. Options include 90-minute tram rides, kayaking trail excursions, and nature cruises.