Take your Sanibel vacation to the next level this fall by experiencing “Ding” Darling Days at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. This weekend eco-fest provides an excellent opportunity to have fun with the family while learning more about Florida’s beautiful Sanibel Island. Darling Days features a wide variety of outdoor events and kid-friendly activities and is a fantastic way to experience the National Wildlife Reserve. Book one of SBL Vacations’ incredible Sanibel rentals this fall and appreciate the natural beauty of the island.  

J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge

For decades the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge has been protecting Sanibel’s natural habitat and providing a haven for hundreds of species of migratory birds. In 1945 conservationist Jay Norwood Darling requested that President Truman stop the sale of this mangrove ecosystem, and the Sanibel National Wildlife Refuge was born. The Refuge was later named after the man who saved the land, and the area has continued its mission of conserving the habitat for future generations. With over 6,000 acres of protected marshes and forests, the Refuge is the largest of its kind in the entire country. With a free Visitor and Education Center and beautiful Wildlife Drive just minutes from our beautiful Sanibel rentals, guests can easily admire the impressive and unique nature of the subtropical barrier island.

Darling Days

“Ding” Darling Days is a fun-filled way to experience the beauty of the Refuge with the whole family. The free nature event takes place on the second weekend in October and consists of exciting eco-activities, live animal shows, a Cool Kids Zone, and more! Embark on a refuge bike tour, birding tram, or listen to captivating tales during ranger storytime. Learn all about the animals of the Refuge with various presentations, programs, and show-and-tell sessions! Watch the little one’s artistic side shine as they participate in the nature portrait, nature sketching, and chalk drawing activities.

Sanibel Rentals

Make sure to check out the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge while on your Florida fall getaway to appreciate the natural beauty of the island. For all of the best deals on the largest variety of gorgeous Sanibel rentals, visit SBL Vacations. Sanibel is waiting for you!