There are many easy ways to enjoy the natural beauty of the islands. You can explore the diverse wildlife habitat that includes the interior wetlands ecosystem on 4 miles of walking trails around the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Nature Center. It's part of nearly 2,000 acres that the group preserves on the barrier islands.

At the nearby "Ding" Darling wildlife refuge, you don't even have to get out of your car to view wildlife. The 4-mile Wildlife Drive (closed on Friday) winds along the water's edge at the almost 7,000-acre sanctuary.

One afternoon, I paddled across Tarpon Bay with Betsy Clayton, coordinator of the new Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail, a nearly 100-mile-long route that weaves through the shallows and hidden inlets of these coastal islands. In the depths of the crystalline water, I could see blue crabs scurrying on the bottom. Overhead, a statuesque frigatebird rode a lofty current. These enchanted islands don't hide their treasures. They surround you.

above: The Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail makes it easy to explore watery hidden places.