We used to have a draw bridge on the Sanibel causeway that backed up traffic for miles in season coming on the island and going off island. It had charm but charm wears thin when you miss your flight or sit in gridlock for hours. Now with our “new” causeway that opened in September 2007, we rarely have backed up traffic and the view is so fantastic with the high span bridge and so many nice areas to pull over.
I snapped these photos coming back from “town” (Ft Myers) a few days ago and was so happy to catch the sunset while on the causeway. Clark was paying attention to driving the car so I got to enjoy the view while I just held my camera out the window and snapped away. This causeway means so many things to different people and for many…. it feels like the gateway to paradise.
I love this causeway. My friend Lisa and I were so excited about the having the new high span bridge, we were the third car to go over it for the causeway grand opening. Ha Ha. I know, we are goofballs….but it sure was fun.
I suggest if you are coming on the causeway any time around sunset, you should pull over on one of the 2 causeway islands so your driver can enjoy the view too. It’s only fair.
“gateway to paradise” says it all. . .
Wonderful photos Pam.
WOW! Simply lovely…truly the gate to paradise. Thank you!
Ahhhh…so beautiful! Great pictures!
Your shots look like watercolors – so pretty.
The first time we drove over this causeway, I was so excited I could hardly stay in the car. My heart was pounding and I was grinning like a kid. I had wanted to come to Sanibel for so long and could hardly believe we were finally there. The causeway itself is so beautiful but it’s knowing where it is taking you that makes it especially wonderful. Great pictures that remind me of how happy I am when I am at Sanibel. Thanks Pam.
I felt the exact same way the first time we drove over the causeway. The view, the smell, the anticipation of reaching the island. My favorite place to be is Sanibel….so quiet and beautiful, right here within our reach. Shelling is my family’s favorite, most peaceful thing to do! Hope to return soon!
Every time I get to sneak away and go to Honeymoon Island the drive over the causeway is always exciting. I roll down the windows and breathe in the fresh salty air.Sometimes I stick my head out the window like a dog. LOL Bucket, Boots, Pass, ponytail holder, camera. Rain or shine Treasures from the sea just for me!
You need a kayak so you can paddle out to the goodies on the north end.
Gorgeous shots, Pam! That view is priceless.
Beautiful pictures Pam…Gateway to Paradise says it all!!!
One more thing we HAVE to add to our list of must things to do when we go to Sanibel…experience the sunset from the causeway. Can’t believe in all the times we have been on Sanibel, we’ve never done this. Thanks, Pam, for the beautiful pictures. They feed my soul.
Great photos, Pam!! They capture the sense of “coming home” my husband and I always experience driving over the causeway on our return to Sanibel..
Thank you so much for the photos!
It’s amazing that not only do we all appreciate the beauty of our shells , but we understand and love the simple pleasures of the beauty that surrounds us every day . Sue B. from Pa
awwwwww…palm trees…sunsets…a little bit of heaven…such a great place to live…thanks for the photos of the Island…keeps me connected while I am away!
God gives us sooo many gifts and you seem to capture and share new ones from Sanibel all the time, Pam! I love what you do — even if you are a “goofball”
— it’s a good thing!!!
Awww Pam, once again it never ceases to amaze me how you bring us right to where you are… a little piece of paradise! Haven’t caught up with your posts for last few days due to the ankle break and now bad cold ( sadly must have picked it up at drs office, since I haven’t been around anyone! Just praying it doesn’t turn into anything.) So hard dealing with this setback and not being able to get out to the seaside, or anywhere , for that matter. I am so happy that I have found your blog and can live vicariously through it!!…( bet many people are shaking their heads agreeing with me right now! Thanks to both you and Clark for all you gift us with in your postings, videos, and photos!) all the best, Cathy B
Beautiful! I don’t think there is anywhere on Earth as beautiful as Florida’s Gulf Coast, and Sanibel is divine. I may be a little biased, though…I love Florida!
YES, GATEWAY TO PARADISE IT IS!!!!! MY FRIEND AND I ALSO LOVE TO PUT ON THE BEACHBOYS “KOKOMO” – WHAT GREAT MEMORIES!!!! CAN’T WAIT TO CROSS THAT CAUSEWAY IN OCTOBER~~~
Very nice pictures Pam, I hope to be crossing that bridge again soon !!
Thanks, Pam. Can’t wait to get back with my camera. Beautiful shots!
Mmmmmm…….just beautiful, Pam! Looks like sherbet!!!! :) Miss my Sanibel soooooooooo much!!!
xoxo laurie
I love hitting the causeway and i think it’s funny how usually it’s always the locals there it truly is the best spot if your wanting to have a beach party no long walk from your car cause you can pull it right up and you can listen to your music and grill. I like the causeway better than the actual beach sometimes lol
is the causeway open around the clock for late arrivals?