Use of the Beach
All beaches in the state of Florida are open to the public.  Anyone can walk as far as they want to in either direction in front of the house.  The beach is also available to you and any one else to play, fly a kite, build sand castles, etc.  As a practical matter, since there is no public beach access within over a mile in either direction of the house, and very little at that, the beach is virtually abandoned most of the time.  The private beachfront property belonging to Bali Hi extends approximately to the vegetation line, which is also approximately where the path to the beach in front of the house ends.  This gives you lots of privacy.

Please remember that under no circumstances are fires, fireworks or camping permitted on the beach.  There are no nude beaches on Captiva.

Dogs
Dogs are allowed on the beach as long as they are on a leash.  You must pick-up after your pet.

Sea Turtles
The issue of the sea turtle is taken very seriously on Captiva and Sanibel Island from May 1 through October 31.  During this time period the loggerhead sea turtles are nesting.  Since you are staying in beachfront property in a house that is very close to the water, and that has lots of windows, you have a special responsibility not to disturb the habitat of these creatures with unnecessary lights.

Live Shells
Live Shells are home to creatures of the sea. While they are interesting to study, it is important to preserve them by placing them back into the water and looking for other shells. There's no shortage! The taking of any live shells on Sanibel or Captiva is prohibited by law. Violations are subject to a fine of $400 per shell.

Speed Limits
Speed Limits are low here. Enjoy our leisurely pace and ensure the safety of thousands of creatures with whom we share our islands. These include raccoons, herons and armadillos that trust we won't hurt them with our vehicles. If you do find an injured animal or bird, call C.R.O.W. (Care & Rehabilitation of Wildlife) at 472-3644. Thanks for caring.

Sunburns
Sunburns are a common sight here. Most people find it hard to believe that the skin can burn on cloudy or cool days.  Be sure to use protective lotion while outside - a burn the first day can keep you inside for several!  If your lotion irritates your skin, switch lotions or consult a doctor. Also be aware that certain medications may cause a photo allergic reaction to the skin.

Sting Rays
Sting Rays are beautiful creatures gliding effortlessly through the water.  Sting Ray stings are very rare and you only need to use the "Sanibel Shuffle" to give them a warning you are near (shuffling your feet).  These gentle fish sometimes lie on the bottom in shallow water to sleep or feed. Often times they are slightly buried in the sand and are therefore invisible.  If frightened, their natural defense is to swing their barbed tail toward the threat. This painful injury is entirely avoidable by shuffling your feet when you wade in the water. If you sustain a puncture wound, immediate medical attention is needed to clean and care for the wound.

Fishing Line, Plastic Bags and Six-Pack Rings
Fishing Line, Plastic Bags and Six-Pack Rings are the greatest threat to our wildlife here. Birds become entangled and loggerhead turtles swallow bags. Properly disposing of your litter here saves lives. We also suggest taking something to the beach in which you can dispose of cigarette butts.

THANK YOU for helping to keep our home a safe and beautiful place for people AND wildlife.