Red Algae

Just wondering if the Captiva beaches have been experiencing the same Red Algae problems that Sanibel has had over the past year.

We have been visiting Sanibel/Captiva for the past 7 years and just love it. We usually stay at Casa Ybel and would love to return this year in May but all I have been hearing and reading is that the beaches are covered with Red Algae.

We have heard from about 5 differerent friends that visited Sanibel over the past year, May %26#39;06 - Dec %26#39;06, and each one experienced Red Algae. Some worse that others but a couple of them said it basically ruined their trip.

From what I have read, it appears to be more of a problem on Sanibel. Is that true or is it just as bad on Captiva?

Any info is appreciated. We really want to go back but do not want to plan a beach vacation to have it spoiled with stinky red algae.

Thanks

Red Algae

The area around Blind Pass is affected whenit hits north, but for some reason its mostly been at its worst along the Gulf Drives on Sanibel. It could be what works in favor of Sanibel for catching all those shells works against it with red drift algae. It goes away almost completely and then - BANG! - it%26#39;s all over the beaches again. Lighthouse beach and the pier area have had the most persistent problem. Then along East Gulf and Middle Gulf, around Sundial, its been off and on. Same up on West Gulf. Even Bowmans Beach has been hit. Mostly good reports from Captiva.

Hopefully the reduction in discharges from Lake O will allow the balance of nature to be restored and stop the overgrowth of the red drift algae. Its very frustrating for everyone.