Great island getaways: Families share four fun and affordable off-the-mainland escapes
By ALISSON CLARK
McClatchy-Tribune
It's known as island time, the laid-back pace of certain places surrounded by sand and surf. In these charmed spots, the clock stops ticking the minute you cross the bridge or walk off the ferry and realize where you are: miles and miles away from the hectic hustle of things back home.
We asked a handful of families to tell us about islands they love - the ones they return to time and again to relax and reconnect, or gems they recently discovered and can't wait to revisit.
From the Great Lakes to the Gulf, here are four especially easygoing isles sure to delight your entire castaway crew:
Captiva Island, Fla.
Recommended by Aliisa and Chris Holland of Hanover, Pa., and their kids, Kyle, 13, and Sydney, 5
Gentle waters and superb shell-seeking make this small Gulf Coast island, just over the bridge from neighboring Sanibel, a sure bet for families in search of a low-key beach scene. The area is more than postcard-pretty, though.
"We saw an octopus and a stingray on our visit to the Sanibel lighthouse and bald eagles at the nearby nature refuge," Aliisa Holland said. "We were amazed by all the cool wildlife around us."
Where to stay: The Hollands found their vacation rental with a pool, just steps from the beach. Call Reservation Central at 1-800-290-6920 or visit http://www.ResCen.com for Sanibel Island and Captiva Island Vacation Rentals.
For local flavor: Grab an outdoor table at the Island Cow on Sanibel for ice cream treats or heartier fare.
"It's super kid-friendly, and the food is great," Aliisa Holland said. 239-472-0606; www.sanibelislandcow.com
Worth doing: Sanibel's J. N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge is a must-see, Aliisa Holland reports. 239-472-1100; www.fws.gov/dingdarling
If you love sea shells, be sure to make time for the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum, also located on Sanibel. 888-679-6450; http://shellmuseum.org
For other island getaways and great little beach towns all around the country, go to FamilyFun.com.
Alisson Clark lives with her family in Gainesville, Florida.
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