Ding Darling NWR
Take the causeway over to Sanibel Island ($3.00 toll). Turn right on Periwinkle Way and go about 3 miles. In season, travel along this route is painfully slow!
There is a new visitor's center. The 5 mile loop is best during the first 2 miles. It is closed on Fridays. The refuge itself consists of a 5 mile road, easily traveled by car, bicycle or foot, that wends through the mangrove forest while passing large open water areas. The estuarine environment of Pine Island Sound provides the ideal habitat for mangrove growth and water bird nesting and feeding. Roseate Spoonbills should be seen at low tide. Watch for Reddish Egrets in the first lake on the left.
