Tucked between miles of pristine beaches and untamed stands of mangrove trees you'll find island paradises on Sanibel and Captiva. Separated only by a small inlet, you can visit both of these Gulf islands in a weekend and enjoy the shelling, fine dining, lodging, and shopping. Nature abounds here, with more than half the area designated as wildlife sanctuaries. This is the kind of place where the palm trees are the tallest things around and where you couldn't find mall food if you tried.

It's Finally Friday
Cross the causeway from Fort Myers, and leave stress behind. Begin by exchanging your car for a bicycle to join the slower pace. Billy's rents bikes for $3 per hour or $12 per day. Call (941) 472-5248). Pick up a trail brochure to plan your explorations on the more than 25 miles of paved trails.

When you're too pooped to pedal, check in to the Sanibel Inn (1-800-237-1491) on the east end of the island. Resort guests enjoy stunning sunrises and sunsets from comfy rooms. Beware, though--mid-January through the end of April is high season in South Florida, and bargains are more difficult to find than a junonia shell. Spring rates start at $319 per night at this inn (but they reduce almost by half June through December).

On your way to dinner, take your sweetie by the hand, and stroll down the strand at Bowman's Beach, recognized as Florida's most romantic shoreline. It's perfect for watching the sun dissolve into the Gulf of Mexico. Then add your name to the waiting list at Captiva's The Mucky Duck, and order a cocktail. (Expect at least a one-hour wait for a table--but it's worth it.) Join the patio crowd watching the sky turn purple then inky black over the sea. Once seated inside, don't pass up the dreamy barbecue shrimp wrapped in bacon.