Learn the Lingo of Fort Myers Sanibel

Barrier Island

A barrier island is a long, narrow island that runs parallel to the mainland. Built up by the action of waves and currents, it serves to protect the mainland coast from erosion by surf and tidal surges. Some examples of barrier islands: Sanibel, Captiva, Cayo Costa, North Captiva, Estero Island.

Bokeelia

This area on Pine Island refers to both the very northern tip of the island, and to everything north of the mid-island four-way stop, with the exception of the community of Pineland.

Caloosahatchee River

This means “River of the Calusa," an indigenous people who dominated the coastal landscape at – and before – the time of European exploration.

Cayo Costa

Comprised mainly of Cayo Costa State Park, Cayo Costa is a bridgeless barrier island. “Cayo” is derived from the Spanish word for “key."

Coquina

Coquinas are small, pink, cream, white or tan marine clams of the genus Donax found near shore. They burrow into the wet sand when approached.

Cracker

A Cracker was an early, self-sufficient Florida settler; the term is thought to come from the sound of their whips as they drove cattle through palmetto scrub.

Floribbean

Floribbean cuisine embraces Floridian and Caribbean ingredients and cooking styles, including fresh fish, tropical fruits and fresh vegetables.

Grouper

This delicious fluffy white fish is found in the Gulf of Mexico and on menus throughout Lee County.

Gulf Shrimp

Shrimp boats return with their catch when the full moon rises. Buy the sweet, pink crustaceans at the shrimp docks or find them on menus.

Hammock

1. A relaxing lounger enjoyed by visitors made of woven cord or strong material and strung between two trees.

2. An area of high ground with rich soil and hardwood trees including oaks, sweet gums, hickories and palms; an island of trees.

Junonia

Coveted by shell collectors, the junonia is a rare, speckled offshore mollusk.

Manatee

Gentle giants of the sea, these mammals can be seen cruising local waterways.

Mangroves

The single most important tree to the health and well-being of the coastal habitat in Lee County, mangroves filter pollutants from the water and provide safe harbor to juvenile fish and other aquatic creatures.

Matlacha

This tiny fishing and artsy community between the mainland and Pine Island is pronounced “Mat-luh-SHAY" by the locals.

Shell Mounds

These piles of shells now covered in vegetation are reminders of the Calusa Indian culture that once thrived on Lee County’s coastline.

Slough

Pronounced “slew," it’s a wetland environment that acts as a natural drain for a much larger watershed.