Restaurants open on Thanksgiving?

Question

We will be on Sanibel for a week starting on thanksgiving. Any ideas on what restaurants might be open?

Answer

Great question. Yes — there *are* a number of restaurants on Sanibel (and nearby Captiva) that are typically open on Thanksgiving Day, though options may be more limited than a regular day. Based on recent and historical information, here are some good places to consider, plus tips for making your plans.

Bleu Rendezvous — This restaurant is listed as open on Thanksgiving per the Sanibel-Captiva holiday guide.
The Timbers Restaurant & Fish Market — A classic on Sanibel, known for fresh seafood. According to the Island Inn’s Thanksgiving guide, Timbers is open and offering a “Turkey Dinner Special.”
Sanibel Grill — A laid-back sports-bar style spot with seafood, burgers, and a local island feel. The Sanibel-Captiva Guide indicates it's open on Thanksgiving.
Boops by the Bubble Room (Captiva) — Retro, fun, family-friendly. Their Thanksgiving hours are listed in the holiday dining guide.
The Shipyard (Captiva) — A more casual spot on Captiva offering a Thanksgiving dinner special according to Island Inn’s dining list.
Bimini Bait Shack — According to the Sanibel-Captiva Chamber holiday PDF, this more casual, local spot is also open on Thanksgiving.
Coconuts Bar & Grill at Casa Ybel Resort — If you want something more relaxed or resort-style, this beachfront bar/restaurant is open daily, and would likely be a nice, laid-back Thanksgiving choice.

Tips & Things to Know:

Make reservations if possible — Several of the places above recommend or require prior booking on Thanksgiving, as it’s a busy holiday.
Check current menus — Holiday menus may differ; some places offer traditional Thanksgiving fare (turkey, sides), others may stick mainly to their regular island-themed or seafood menu.
Grocery options — Sanibel has a couple of supermarkets (like Bailey’s and Jerry’s) that historically have limited hours on Thanksgiving but may offer pre-made holiday meals or “heat-and-serve” trays.
Community dinner — There’s also a free community Thanksgiving dinner hosted by FISH of Sanibel-Captiva at The Community House from 4–6 PM.

Bottom Line: You’ll have several very good dining options on Sanibel (and Captiva) for Thanksgiving — from seafood classics to more festive fare — but you should plan ahead, especially if you want a sit-down holiday meal. Making a reservation and double-checking hours a week or so in advance will give you the most flexibility.

Restaurants open on Thanksgiving?

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