Preserving Paradise

On Wednesday, September 16, 2025, we set out on an unforgettable excursion through Southwest Florida’s stunning waters—cruising across San Carlos Bay and Pine Island Sound to Tarpon Bay Marina on Sanibel Island.

Awaiting us on the dock were enthusiastic participants of Preserving Paradise’s second class. Launched in 2024, this program was created to inspire young entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, educators, and local residents to understand the history and ecological importance of the waters, flora, and fauna of Sanibel and Captiva Islands.

This session of Preserving Paradise focused on legislative advocacy and environmental stewardship throughout the Caloosahatchee Estuary. Participants immersed themselves—literally—in the water to explore how protecting ecosystems supports fisheries, bird habitats, dolphins, and manatees.

On board, we were joined by representatives from some of the region’s most respected conservation organizations, each bringing their unique expertise:

• Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation
• Captains for Clean Water
• Sanibel-Captiva Chamber of Commerce
• The Everglades Foundation
• Lee County Schools

One of the highlights of the day was welcoming students from Cypress Lake School in Lee County, who are currently studying environmental science and marine biology. Once everyone was aboard, we cast off from the marina and began exploring the estuary. Our first stop was the oyster reefs, which are seeded and nurtured each year. These oysters are natural filter feeders—they help clean the water and sustain the health of the entire ecosystem.

Next, we visited the seagrass flats, where Adventures in Paradise marine biologists Matthew and Thomas guided students in netting and studying marine specimens before carefully returning them to their habitat. This hands-on learning experience brought the estuary to life.

Participants observed:

• Live oyster beds
• Seagrass flat habitats
• A variety of sea life including fish, mollusks, shells, and mangrove species

It was a powerful reminder that clean water equals a healthy estuary—and that a thriving estuary supports fish populations, dolphins, manatees, and countless other wildlife.

We are endlessly grateful for the natural wonders that surround us here in Sanibel and Captiva. Through programs like Preserving Paradise, we strive to protect these ecosystems while inspiring both locals and visitors to become stewards of the environment.

If you’re planning a trip to Sanibel, Captiva, Fort Myers, Naples, Bonita Springs, or Fort Myers Beach, we invite you to join Adventures in Paradise on the water. Visit the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation and learn how you, too, can be part of Preserving Paradise.