Best small coastal towns in the US? We have one right here in Southwest Florida
It's been more than six months since Hurricane Ian walloped places like Sanibel Island in Southwest Florida, leaving what has always been a national and international "hot spot" destination for rest and relaxation in shambles.
It will take more than another six months for Sanibel to return to what it once was.
Some are prediciting it will take years for the island on the Gulf of Mexico, located west of Fort Myers, to return to its pre-Hurricane Ian beauty. The recovery includes the return of popular restaurants and resorts that received significant damage. Some are starting to reopen.
The good news? Despite the scars left behind by Ian, Sanibel is still a highly recommended vacation option, or at least will be a good option again when more businesses open, the causeway is permanently fixed and the famous lighthouse has its missing leg replaced.
ON THE MEND: When will the Sanibel Lighthouse get its new leg?
More good news: Despite the woes caused by Hurricane Ian, Sanibel was named a Top-10 small coastal town in the United States in USA Today's 10Best Reader's Choice Awards. It was one of three locations in Florida to make the list, joining Stuart (No. 2) and St. Augustine (No. 6).
What they are saying about Sanibel Island
Here is what was written about Sanibel in the Reader's Choice Awards:
Not far from Fort Myers and Cape Coral is Sanibel Island, a Gulf Coast getaway known for top-notch resorts, white sand beaches and a laid-back vibe. In between beach days, locals and tourists alike enjoy golfing, perusing the local farmer’s market, dining and plenty of time at one of the nearby spas.
Top-10: Best small coastal towns in the US
No. 1: Sandusky, Ohio
No. 2: Stuart
No. 3: Marblehead, Massachusetts
No. 4: Bayfield, Wisconsin
No. 5: Provincetown, Massachusetts
No. 6: St. Augustine
No. 7: Sanibel Island
No. 8: Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
No. 9: Nags Head, North Carolina
No. 10: Cannon Beach, Oregon
More good 'destination news' for SWFL
Recently, Cape Coral and Naples were recognized as two of the most popular cities in Florida for overseas visitors. Here are those stories:
Overseas visitors in Florida: Naples ranks as Top 10 ‘most popular’ destination
This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Sanibel Island, Florida on list of best small coastal towns in US
