Sanibel Island is a beautiful tropical island west of Ft. Myers in the
Gulf of Mexico.  It is really several islands joined together by bridges that
go over big, beautiful, blueish-green patches of water.  These waters are
like "home of the fish!"  There are dolphins and gentle manatees, and of
course lots of other little fish.

     Sanibel is breathtaking; it feels like you are in the middle of nowhere
on an island with palm trees, white sandy beaches, and cool breezes blowing
on your back--no matter what the temperature is.  Along the beaches are
fantastic seashells (Sanibel used to be known as the seashell capital of the
world.)  From coquinas, one of the smallest shells, to conchs, one of the
largest.  Others are cat's eye, tiger paw, and the olive shell, which is a
slender, smooth shell.

     We love the beach because when the waves hit the the sand it makes a
thunderous roar!  You can also almost always see the dolphins jumping and
splashing and pelicans dipping into the waters.  One of the best times to be
on the beach is in the evening when the sun is setting.  If you are there at
the right time you will see a big, orange ball dip right into the ocean,
below the water .  It is a beautiful sight.

     There are many bike paths in Sanibel.  Lots of them! Most of which run
under enormous Banyan trees.  Bunches of trees.  Even the roads run under 
the trees.  This place might as well be called "Tree Island."  The shade of 
the trees makes Sanibel feel cozy, even in the summer.

     Sanibel has many gift shops.  There is one that has exotic smells and
glass figurines of dolphins and whales, and manatees and other sea life.
 Each shop is unique.  There are bakeries, bait shops, swimwear stores, and
clothing stores.  The restaurants are nice too.  Lots of really yummy
seafood.  Some places even have views of the magnificent sun setting over 
the sea.

     Another fun thing to do at Sanibel is to go out on the docks in the
afternoon with the hot sun beating down on you while you watch the slow and
silly sea cow or manatee.  One of Florida's endangered animals, the manatee
has a soft, smooth skin and a snout.  It is as big as a cow!  It is a very
gentle, kind and cuddly sort of creature.  They like warm water so Sanibel 
is a good place for them to be.

     Sanibel is a marvelous place to visit for lots of fun and
relaxation--especially if you enjoy nature, beautiful beaches, tasty 
seafood, and tropical breezes.  We hope you will come and see for 
yourself.  And if you do, don't forget to come visit us too!

Mrs. Sapp's 6th grade

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