Grocery Delivery on Sanibel and Captiva: Convenience in Paradise

Ah, Sanibel and Captiva Islands – those dreamy slices of Florida paradise where seashells outnumber worries, and the Gulf breeze makes everything feel effortless. But let's be real: after a long drive or flight, the last thing you want is to battle crowds at a grocery store, lugging bags back to your vacation rental. That's where grocery delivery shines. Whether you're stocking up for a week of beachside barbecues or just need essentials like sunscreen and snacks, these islands have options that cater to tourists and locals alike. In this post, I'll break down the best services, how they work, and some pro tips to make your stay even more relaxing. (Note: As of August 2025, some services are rebounding post-Hurricane Ian disruptions, but always check for updates.)

The Allure of Grocery Delivery

Picture this: You wake up to the soothing sound of waves, sunlight spilling into your room, and the fresh scent of the ocean. The last thing you want to do is waste your vacation time wandering through busy grocery stores. Grocery delivery on Sanibel and Captiva offers an effortless way to receive your essentials without interrupting your downtime.

Sanibel and Captiva are connected by a short bridge, making them accessible from the mainland, but they're still somewhat remote. There's a toll to cross the Sanibel Causeway ($6 with Sunpass, $9 Toll-by-plate - that is  round-trip), and traffic can snag during peak seasons. Plus, with limited on-island stores—especially with Bailey's General Store currently closed for post-Hurricane Ian renovations—delivery saves time, reduces stress, and lets you support local businesses without the hassle. It's especially handy for vacation rentals, where you can arrive to a fully stocked fridge. Many services even coordinate with your vacation rental company, dropping off goodies right at your door.

Local Favorites: Island-Based Delivery Services

These homegrown options emphasize fresh, local vibes and often include unique island touches like seafood or tropical produce.

Jerry's Foods of Sanibel

Jerry's is a staple at 1700 Periwinkle Way on Sanibel, complete with a charming shopping complex and even talking parrots in the plaza (yes, really!). They offer online ordering for doorstep delivery to both Sanibel and Captiva, or in-store pickup if you're out exploring. Note that deliveries to Captiva are not available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so plan accordingly if you're staying there. Perfect for everything from deli meats and bakery goods to beer and wine, order ahead via their website, and they'll handle the rest – ideal for coordinating with your rental's check-in. While exact fees aren't always listed online, expect a small delivery charge; tips are appreciated for the personal touch. Pro tip: If you're staying at a spot like Sandalfoot Condos, they can drop off directly and even get a key from the front desk to unpack for you.

Bailey's General Store: Temporary Closed

Bailey's General Store, a Sanibel icon since 1899, is currently closed at its main location (Periwinkle Way and Tarpon Bay Road) due to extensive damage from Hurricane Ian on September 28, 2022, which brought wind, rain, and an unprecedented storm surge (https://www.baileys-sanibel.com/). The original store was demolished in July 2024, and the Bailey family, led by the Johnsons, is rebuilding a larger, more resilient 35,000-square-foot store, expected to open by late 2026. In the meantime,keep checking their website (https://www.baileys-sanibel.com/) or social media for the latest updates.

The Island Store

Meanwhile, Bailey’s operates The Island Store on Captiva, which remains open for business, offering groceries, lunch items, and snacks with delivery to Captiva locations. Order online or by phone, coordinating with your rental for seamless drop-offs. (https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1BEABfwYb4/)

Captiva Provision Company

If you're at South Seas Island Resort on Captiva, this is your go-to. Located in Chadwick Square, they deliver groceries straight to your rental after check-in confirmation. It's more limited but convenient for resort guests, with basics, alcohol, and essentials. For example, recent visitors have shared on social media about ordering snacks and drinks for delivery to their South Seas villa, praising the seamless service for late-night cravings (https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1BDqN9ogmC/). For liquor lovers, pair it with The Grog Shop, now located at 2435 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, since its reopening in 2023 post-Hurricane Ian (https://grogshopsanibel.com/). Established in 1972, The Grog Shop offers a wide selection of beer, wine, spirits, and cigars. While they don't sell online, you can call to order and coordinate delivery to Sanibel or Captiva, making it a great complement to your grocery haul.

Tips for Seamless Grocery Delivery

• Order Early: Aim for 24-48 hours in advance, especially during holidays or busy seasons. Coordinate with your rental for access.

• Check Fees and Minimums: Delivery costs $10-45, plus tips. Some require a minimum order (e.g., $50).

• Go Local When Possible: Supporting Jerry's or Bailey's temporary offerings keeps money on the islands and often means fresher items.

• Pack Smart: Include coolers for perishables if using national services, and remember island essentials like bug spray or reusable bags.

• Mid-Stay Restocks: Use on-island stores like The Island Store on Captiva for quick grabs, or apps for same-day top-ups.

National and App-Based Services: Familiar and Fast

For broader selections or same-day needs, these big names bridge the gap from mainland stores.

Instacart

This app connects you to Publix, Sam's Club, Costco, and more in the nearby Fort Myers/Cape Coral area. Same-day delivery to Sanibel and Captiva is available, with shoppers handling your list. Fees start around $3.99 plus tips, and memberships offer perks like free delivery. Great for bulk buys or specific brands – just enter your island zip code (33957 for Sanibel, 33924 for Captiva).

Walmart

Walmart offers grocery delivery to Sanibel and the southern end of Captiva through its website or app, often in partnership with services like Instacart for same-day delivery in as little as one hour. You can order fresh groceries, household items, and more from nearby Fort Myers stores, such as the Super Walmart at 14821 Six Mile Cypress Pkwy. Delivery fees typically range from $7.95 to $9.95, with a $35 minimum order, and express delivery (within two hours) is available for an additional $10. Check availability by entering your zip code (33957 for Sanibel, 33924 for Captiva) at checkout, as delivery to the northern parts of Captiva may be limited due to distance or access. Walmart+ members enjoy free delivery on orders over $35, making it a cost-effective option for frequent shoppers.