Month: January 2022

There’s nothing like being able to cross something amazing off your bucket list!

My family and I have wanted to go “swimming with the manatees” for years, and this past holiday season, we had a unforgettable experience doing just that.

There’s only one place in North America where you can legally swim with manatees, and that’s in the Crystal River area,  » Read more

For Valentine’s Day this year, surprise that “special someone” with a unique, eco-friendly sea turtle adoption from the Sea Turtle Conservancy.

A sea turtle adoption, featuring your personalized with your loved one’s name, is a fun and meaningful way to show how much you care.  Plus, adoptions help support vital sea turtle research and conservation programs.

For a tax-deductible donation of $30 or more,  » Read more

The Popovich Comedy Pet Theater is headed back to BIG ARTS!

Labeled “Genius” by People magazine, this cacophony of lovable furry creatures and their incredible feats will touch your heart and surpass any dog or cat show you have ever seen.  It’s why Mr. Popovich and his pals have been on almost every major U.S. talk show and have a permanent home playing Las Vegas.  » Read more

“In every walk with nature,

one receives far more than he seeks.”

– John Muir

Should you have any photos you’d like to share, please email them to [email protected].

Today’s Guest Photographer:  Mary Jane Evans  » Read more

To All at Ocean’s Reach,

We have always delighted in the Ocean’s Reach Blog … but we were especially thrilled to see Cindy & Scott’s wedding highlights last week!  Thank you:)

We love that we could “make it happen” on Sanibel.  Utilizing the facilities at both Casa Ybel and Ocean’s Reach provided us with many special venues for the MOST wonderful of family gatherings.  » Read more

Our guests continue to amaze us with their various talents!

Longtime guest Sofia H. from Westlake, OH gave us this beautiful shadow box she made during her most recent visit here.  Collecting driftwood found on our Ocean’s Reach beach, she put a “heartfelt” spin on it alongside a nautical map of the islands.

Thank you so very much, Sofia, for the thoughtful gift —  » Read more

It’s always pickleball season at Ocean’s Reach, and you can tell our guests (and visiting owners) love it!

Our tennis court is additionally lined for pickleball, to allow two groups of players to swing — and dink — their way to fun simultaneously.

It’s become quite the popular activity.  As they say, “Everything in moderation, except pickleball and wine!”

   » Read more

Your town?

Our town!  » Read more

Researchers from the Harte Research Institute of Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi have been conducting research on little blue herons at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, supported by the refuge, which is providing housing.

Little blue herons and other wading birds have been used as indicator species for a variety of wetland ecosystems because they provide clear and rapid responses to changes in environmental conditions.  » Read more

Wishing Michael a very happy birthday and many blessings for the upcoming year!  He’s been a wonderful addition to our team and we’re lucky to have him.

(Note Lisa’s homemade birthday cake — Needless to say, it was quite yummy and quickly demolished!)  » Read more