Previously blocked sandbar on Blind Pass clears, opens waterway

SANIBEL, Fla. (WINK) — A large sandbar located off Blind Pass, which effectively blocked water flow between Sanibel and Captiva islands, has cleared. 

On Friday, WINK News captured drone footage of Blind Pass and the cleared sandbar. The blocked passage was initially reported on in mid-March, where officials said the situation reflects the natural dynamics of a coastline that has undergone major changes in recent years.

The area near Blind Pass was recently part of a major beach renourishment project undertaken by the City of Sanibel to strengthen and protect vulnerable sections of shoreline.

The project placed roughly 300,000 cubic yards of new sand along the northern stretch of the island, covering the area from near the former Mad Hatter Restaurant to the western edge of Bowman’s Beach Park.

Because of recent beach projects and shifting sand patterns, coastal managers believe it is prudent to allow the shoreline to reach a more stable equilibrium before undertaking additional dredging.

As of Friday, the county says the opportunity is expected in 2027. They say permits and regulatory approvals are in place.

In addition to the engineering data, the county says the timing of dredging will also consider:

• Contractor availability
• Shorebird and sea turtle nesting
• Changes in beach erosion
• Any future weather impacts

In addition to the dredging, the county will launch a new study later this year to update long-term management strategies for the pass. That study is expected to take about two years to complete.

Watch the drone footage above.