Sanibel Stoop and Other Local Lingo

If you’ve never assumed the Sanibel Stoop or the Captiva Crouch, you’re probably a first-timer to our shores. Learn the lingo and you’ll sound like a local from the moment you arrive.

Shelling

Shorthand for shell-collecting, this is one of our must-experience pastimes. Thanks to the flat shelf that lies beneath Gulf waters, pristine shells wash up on our shores every day. Shells are so abundant, in fact, that Sanibel Island has been named the “seashell capital of the world” and we were even the founders of National Seashell Day on June 21 (just in time to mark the beginning of summer!). Locals arrive early in the morning to begin collecting, so click here to learn how you can join them in gathering these gifts from the sea.

Sanibel Stoop / Captiva Crouch

From the moment you start hunting for seaside souvenirs, you’ll understand why locals coined these affectionate terms for bending over at the waist to hunt and gather shells. There are more than 400 different types of shells scattered among the beaches, with some of the most common ones including the spiraled lightning whelk and beautifully patterned alphabet cones, so it only makes sense to keep a close eye on the treasures underfoot.

Stringray Shuffle

Stingrays are generally harmless, docile creatures, but accidentally stepping on one is no fun for either party. Instead of taking big steps in the water, simply shuffle your feet in the sand. The sliding movements along the sand allow the stingrays to feel vibrations, giving them time to swim away to safety.

No-See-Ums

Along with tropical climates come all the elements of nature, including tiny insects. This miniscule fly is nearly impossible to see, hence the name, and are especially buggy in the summer months. Just remember to pack your bug spray or pick up some no-see-um spray when you get to town. (Hint: many of the local shops carry it.)

Silver King

The big catch off of our shores is the mighty tarpon, nicknamed “silver king” for its immense size and gleaming scales. Considered one of the best game fish, tarpon is a catch-and-release species that will get your adrenaline flowing. While there are plenty of areas to fish in Southwest Florida, Boca Grande Pass is known as the Tarpon Capital of the World for a reason.

Pink Gold

A must-try signature dish of Southwest Florida, beach bread is typically found on the appetizer list at local restaurants. This garlic bread is smothered in a variety of cheeses (locals say blue cheese is the secret ingredient) and loaded with toppings like diced tomatoes, herbs and spices.

Wet Walk

A guided wetland tour is one of the most immersive ways to understand the local ecosystem. Get off the boardwalk on a ranger-led walk to wade through freshwater wetlands in places like Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve to observe wading birds and vegetation in their natural habitat.

Green Flash

Sunset already provides picture-perfect moments on our shores, but add in a natural phenomenon and it’s an unforgettable experience. This burst of emerald light only appears in the briefest flash as the last of the sun slips down over the water, but keep your eyes open and you’ll likely spot it in a cloudless sky.