You’ll see the name Bailey all over Sanibel, because the family were pioneers ?who have been involved in feeding islanders since the days when a ferry brought in supplies to the original store on the bay. Today’s Bailey’s is a general store in the true sense of carrying everything from Allen wrenches to zucchini, but it has grown thoroughly, including a...

This Sanibel fishing supplies fixture is the place to find everything from fresh shrimp bait to Crocs footwear and boating charts. Owned by Ralph Woodring, one of the few remaining members of a historic Sanibel fishing dynasty, its cracker-box structure dates back to 1955. Go here for advice on where to find fish (you can even check out the weekly...

Fresh Produce & Prepared Products Started during the 2009-2010 winter season, the Sanibel Farmer’s Market is back for its Nov. 1 to Apr. 30 run every Sunday morning from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. It convenes in the City Hall parking lot. Outdoor vendors sell everything from fresh beets and organic strawberries to Florida honey, fresh pasta, and homemade barbecue...

Colorful and beckoning, the Hirdie Girdie is as artistic on its beach-cottage outside as it is on its art-filled inside. Sixteen artists display their photography, pottery, paintings, jewelry, and shell art, plus Haitian art is for sale. The local artists take turns running the store, so visitors have an opportunity to meet and talk to them and occasionally watch them...

This non-profit shop at J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge stocks much more than books, but birding, nature, and children’s books are its specialty, and it probably carries every birding book in print. It also carries high-quality birding binoculars — the only place you can find such on the islands. There’s also a wide variety of kids toys and games;...

The islands attract and inspire artists with their tropical vibe and beautiful seascapes. Many live in the area and display their work here. Set in a charming Caribbean-style beach house, this artists’ cooperative specializes in fine tropical art by more than 20 area artists. Some favorites are the masterful black-and-white photography by the late Charles McCullough and Sheila Hoen’s expressionistic...