Sanibel, and Everything Shells!

I just got back from a beautiful week in Sanibel, Florida, home to some of the East Coast’s best shell treasures.  Picture miles of beach, strewn with shells of all colors, shapes, and sizes!  The “Sanibel stoop” is a position most seen beachside from all of the beachcombers collecting treasures!

 

So many shells…but what to do with them??  Here are some beautiful shell creations that just may inspire you to do something with those collections stored in your closets!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I loved the “whimsy” seen all over the island.  Bicycles are the mode of transportation and allow for endless rides down beautiful beach roads and into some Victorian-style neighborhoods.  One thing that caught my eye was the “one-of-a-kind” mailboxes I saw.  Every street was lined with an assortment of fun, unique, and truly extraordinary finds.

When we weren’t biking, we were out kayaking.  The search through the mangroves for alligators came up dry, but the view above was amazing – a bird watchers delight!!

All that exercise meant a reward at the end of the day- a fabulous dinner.  Of all the great restaurants we visited, none could compare to the Blue Coyote Supper Club, located at the Sanibel Golf Course.  Owner Mitch Schwenke has done an amazing job of creating a visual and delectable treat in his newest restaurant.

Before I start on the food, I have to tell you about the beautiful decor.  The unique hand-blown glass chandelier, pendants, and bar lights are just beautiful!  The bar features a blue glass tile back that just glows throughout the entire restaurant.  The Blue Coyote theme is based upon the Coyote Series, inspired by the Joni Mitchell song, “Coyote”, and was created by Michigan native Markus Pierson in 1986.

Normally philosophical, entrepreneurial, or romantic in nature, the “Coyotes” are a metaphor for people. They are a symbol of pursuing your dreams, wearing your heart on your sleeve, and celebrating all of life’s ups and downs.

The “Gallery” within the Blue Coyote offers both Originals and Limited Print Editions for sale, many of them celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the series. It’s a must see whether a quick introductory look after your meal, or a personal tour in the afternoon.

And now for the food.  Everything that came out of the kitchen was a feast for the eyes as well as the tummy!!  We left full and happy with the addition of a new restaurant to add to our list of favorites.

So if you need a place to escape from the cold, consider Sanibel.  You’ll be happy you did!