Boat Rentals for Sanibel, FL
Sanibel days start at our Cape Coral marina, where Paradise Boat Rentals has been renting boats since 2006.
Sanibel
Shells, Beaches and Open Water Off Sanibel
Our boat rentals for Sanibel leave from our private marina in Cape Coral, not from a counter on the island. Sanibel is a barrier island across San Carlos Bay, so the trip over is part of the fun: down the canal, out the Caloosahatchee and into the bay. Pick up at our dock, or ask about delivery to your rental if you're staying on the water.
Getting a Boat to Sanibel
Sanibel Island boat rentals start with a pickup at the marina. You park for free, meet a licensed captain, watch a short safety video and get a full orientation at the boat. Pickups begin at 9am and boats come back by 5pm.
Renting for a week or longer? The boat can stay at our marina between days, which is the better choice when high wind is in the forecast.
Shelling, Beaches and Dolphins
Sanibel is known for its shells, and a boat gets you to quieter stretches of sand than the beach parking lots. Read up on shelling by boat first, including the rules on live shells, and bring a bucket. Our Ships Store at the marina carries shelling tools, sunblock and ice.
On the way across San Carlos Bay, watch the wake: dolphins are often seen in these waters. Tides matter around the flats, so your captain marks the shallow spots and the places not to go on your map.
A Relaxing Boat for Island Days
Pick the boat that matches your crew and your plans:
- Pontoons for a slow, relaxing cruise on the inside waters. A pontoon boat rental for Sanibel Island days keeps to the bay side.
- Tritoons for a steadier ride on a choppy day.
- Deck boats for families who want room and a little more speed.
- Center consoles for fishing and longer runs.
Before you leave, our captains go over the boat, the Coast Guard required safety gear and the GPS, and you get a paper map with spots to stop and relax. Fishing on the way? Rent the Fishing Package, which comes with two adult poles, a loaded tackle box, a net and bait, and grab frozen shrimp at the Ships Store. Life jackets are free with every rental, infant and toddler sizes are available on request, and every boat is cleaned between rentals.
- Since 2006Paradise Boat Rentals has been renting boats from Cape Coral since 2006.
- Our Own Private MarinaPick up at our Cape Coral marina, where parking is free and you can leave your car while you're out on the water.Learn More
- Licensed CaptainsA licensed captain walks you through your boat, the safety gear and the map before you leave the dock.
- We Own Our FleetWe own and maintain the boats we rent, and we keep backup boats ready in case one has a problem.
- Delivery to Your RentalStaying on the water? A captain can deliver your boat to your vacation rental for a fee.
- A Day, a Week or a MonthRent for one day, a long weekend or your whole stay in Southwest Florida.
- Veteran-Owned & OperatedA veteran-owned business run with Midwest values: do the job right and treat people well.
Our Marina & Fleet
At Our Cape Coral Marina
Do you have a rental dock on Sanibel?
No. All rentals start from our private marina in Cape Coral, and you cross San Carlos Bay to reach Sanibel. Ask us about delivery if you're staying on the water.
How do we get from your marina to Sanibel by boat?
You run down the Caloosahatchee into San Carlos Bay. Your captain walks through the route on the GPS and the paper map before you leave.
Is a boat good for shelling around Sanibel?
Yes. A boat lets you reach quieter beaches. Check the live-shell rules before you collect, and pack a cooler and a bucket.
Book Now
Book Your Sanibel Boat Day
Paradise Boat Rentals also helps guests heading to Captiva, Fort Myers Beach and Fort Myers, and boaters exploring around St. James City. Call (239) 758-9512 with questions, or Book Now to reserve your boat.
Open daily 9am–5pm