Officials also said they had at least 200 households that remained on the island during the storm, with the possibility of multiple people at each home. Those who stayed self-reported after officials asked in the days prior to the storm.

Yes, many resilient residents and business owners stayed on Sanibel Island following the devastating impact of Hurricane Ian, and by 2026, the island has seen a remarkable, though careful, recovery. While the 2022 storm forced a total evacuation and destroyed the Sanibel Causeway, the community's commitment to "Sanibel Style" rebuilding has allowed for a controlled return. In 2026, iconic locations like the Old Captiva House and various small cottages have reopened with enhanced hurricane-resistant architecture. However, the island is not the same as it was; there is a stronger emphasis on environmental preservation, with "Living Shorelines" and mangroves being used as natural barriers. For 2026 visitors, the "pro-tip" is to recognize that while the island is open and "stayable," many areas remain dedicated to quiet residential life and wildlife conservation. The number of short-term rentals is more strictly regulated than before the storm to prevent over-densification, ensuring that those who visit can enjoy the world-famous shelling in a more tranquil, sustainable environment.