The Sanibel Chamber of Commerce recently discussed the ongoing recovery efforts and challenges facing the island in a State of the Island address. They highlighted the gradual rebound of local businesses following the devastating impact of Hurricane Ian.
In the study involved 91 businesses on Sanibel and Captiva islands, including a significant proportion of hospitality establishments such as hotels, resorts, and Airbnbs. Nearly all respondents expected to reopen by 2025.
Bridgit Budd, owner of The Pecking Order Fried Chicken, shared her observations on the changing tourist patterns.
“We get a lot of daytrippers who couldn’t find accommodation locally, staying in places like Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Naples,” said Budd.
Similarly, tourists are still visiting the islands despite the lack of available accommodations. Colton Ries, a visitor from Minnesota, described his experience, “We’re staying in Cape Coral. It’s gnarly, seeing all the videos then actually coming down here and seeing it firsthand. It’s crazy, sad.”