If winter's shorter days and icy temperatures have you yearning to plot your next much-needed warm-weather beach break ... basing yourself on nearby Captiva Island, which houses the upscale ...

captivacruises.com; 11401 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva Island, FL 33924 ... Further north, Alison Hagerup Beach Park is a bit more secluded and absolutely stunning at sunset. Kathleen and Jim Mazzotta ...

Here's a cheat sheet: Sanibel has better shelling on its beaches; quirkier Captiva is known for its water sports and destination resorts. Souvenir shopping on both islands is fairly evenly matched ...