Four years after Hurricane Ian, Southwest Florida’s barrier islands remain works in progress. New homes and resorts are rising stronger and higher, but soaring construction costs, financing hurdles and development battles are testing how — and what — gets rebuilt.
Nearly four years after Hurricane Ian devastated Gulf Beach Condominium on Sanibel, construction is beginning on a $6.5 million replacement. The 14-unit complex will rise about 5 feet higher as most owners return to the Gulf-front property.
Beachview Villas reopened on Sanibel's West Gulf Drive, replacing cottages destroyed by Hurricane Ian. The $16 million redevelopment highlights the island's slow but steady resort recovery and a new generation of more resilient beachfront lodging.
F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva Inc. and Community Housing & Resources on Sanibel Island are requesting donations to support their operations and community needs. Both organizations have specified supplies that would be helpful, including food items and household goods.
Southwest Florida’s tourism industry continued its recovery during the 2025-26 season, fueled by returning visitors, restored hotel inventory and strong spring training attendance. Officials across Lee, Collier and Charlotte counties say the focus is shifting from hurricane recovery to long-term growth.
By the Sea condos on Sanibel Island broke ground on its final building, marking one of the first new condo developments on the island in decades following Hurricane Ian.
Edgar’s steakhouse debuted at The Dunes Island Club on Sanibel Island, offering upscale dining, premium steaks and a rotating menu. The restaurant honors the legacy of architect Edgar Wilson II while reimagining the club’s dining experience.
nspired by childhood trips to Sanibel Island, game designer Elizabeth Hargrave’s new board game Sanibel captures the joy of beachcombing for seashells. The Avalon Hill release has already drawn praise from tabletop gaming circles.
Sanibel and Captiva Island officials are moving past post-Hurricane Ian messaging and returning to traditional tourism marketing, signaling optimism as more than 70% of island businesses have reopened since the 2022 storm.
Sanibel’s Shalimar Beach Resort is back. Three years after Hurricane Ian wiped it out, the 33-room beachfront property reopens Sept. 28, rebuilt stronger and marking the island’s first new hotel in decades.
