Sanibel Island Events – May 2026
May on Sanibel is when the island starts to exhale—warmer days, quieter beaches, and a slower pace that makes it easy to settle into vacation mode. It’s also a great time for nature walks, low-key wellness classes, and a handful of can’t-miss local happenings before the season winds down.
Nature & Wellness Around the Island
Sanibel’s nature and wellness scene is woven into daily island life — peaceful beaches, wildlife encounters, and local programs that help you reconnect with what matters. From sunrise shell walks to shaded nature trails, the island offers simple, grounding experiences that restore your energy and clear your mind.
William & Ruth Brooks Trails — Tuesdays, 10–11:30 a.m. (Weekly in May)
An easy, educational stroll through shady uplands and wetlands behind SCCF headquarters, with naturalists sharing the island’s conservation story and what’s active in the habitat.
SCCF Guided Trail Walk: Shipley Trail — Thursdays, 10–11:30 a.m. (Weekly in May)
A relaxed walk near the Bailey preserve with native plants, pollinators, and (on guided-walk days) a rare peek at the historic Bailey house.
SCCF Guided Beach Walk @ Sanibel Siesta (Island Inn) — Thursday, May 21, 9–10:30 a.m.
A casual beachcombing walk with SCCF marine educators—expect shells, small sea life, and plenty of “what is this?” discoveries as the shoreline changes from week to week.
Sanibel Sunday Sound Bath — Sundays in May
A soothing reset to end the weekend—ideal if your guests are looking for something relaxing and indoor-friendly after a sunny day outside.
Arts, Music & Community
Markets & Community (May)
Sanibel Island Farmers Market — Sundays (through the end of May), 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
A classic Sunday morning stop at City Hall for fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, and easy island browsing before a beach afternoon.
Music & Film Events (BIG ARTS – May 2026)
BIG ARTS has a full Monday Night Film lineup in May:
- May 4, 2026 – 20 Feet from Stardom (7:00 PM)
- May 11, 2026 – Muscle Shoals (7:00 PM)
- May 18, 2026 – Little Richard: I Am Everything (7:00 PM)
Ongoing Community Arts Events (BIG ARTS – May 2026)
BIG ARTS also has multiple daily community arts events running throughout May:
- Annual Artists Collective — runs all month long (daily)
- “I Am My Home” – Mariapia Malerba Exhibit — also running throughout May
From the broader Sanibel & Captiva events calendar:
- Live Mollusk Count – May 14, 2026 (Shell Museum)
- BIG ARTS Film Series (May 4, 11, 18) — matches the film list above
Wildlife & Education at CROW (March 16–18)
Wildlife & Education at CROW (May)
CROW Volunteer Orientation — Wednesday, May 6, 3–5 p.m.
For guests who love giving back (or locals looking to plug in), this orientation includes an overview of volunteer roles plus a Wildlife Hospital tour.
CROW “Program of the Week” presentations (Visitor Education Center)
Wednesday, May 6 — 11 a.m. Climate Change
Thursday, May 7 — 11 a.m. Presenter’s choice; 2 p.m. Climate Change
Friday, May 8 — 11 a.m. Climate Change
Monday, May 11 — 11 a.m. Climate Change
Tuesday, May 12 — 11 a.m. Wildlife and Roads
Wednesday, May 13 — 11 a.m. All About CROW
May is one of my favorite months to visit Sanibel. The weather is lovely, and there are lots of events and things to do, but the beaches are still quiet before the summer visitors arrive. When you are ready to plan your next stay on Sanibel Island, call us at Select Vacation Properties – Vacation is our middle name😊
