Note that Sanibel Island sustained significant damage in September 2022 as a result of Hurricane Ian. Though the island is open to the public as of January 2023, local officials are warning visitors that much of the island's attractions and businesses remain closed.

Yes, you can absolutely travel to Sanibel Island in 2026, as the island has made a remarkable recovery following the devastation of Hurricane Ian in late 2022. The iconic Sanibel Causeway is fully operational, allowing cars and cyclists to cross over from the mainland. While the island's landscape has changed—with fewer mature Australian Pines and a more "open" feel—the world-famous shelling beaches remain pristine and are open to the public. Many of the major resorts, such as the Sundial Beach Resort, and popular local restaurants like The Island Cow and Doc Ford’s have reopened their doors. However, some smaller guesthouses and certain sections of the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge may still be undergoing phased restoration. Visitors are encouraged to check the specific status of their chosen accommodation before arrival. The "Sanibel Spirit" remains strong, and the island continues to be a premier destination for nature lovers, though the architecture is transitioning toward more storm-resilient, elevated designs to meet modern safety standards.