Sanibel

Avalon Hill, Hasbro · Board game · 2026
Ludopedia 7.2 BGG 2–4 · best 4 45 min Weight 1.8/5
Buy · from US$ 29.99
rating Ludopedia
7.2 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

A relaxing tile-fitting puzzle with a dash of spatial strategy.

Highlights
  • Engaging Tetris-style mechanic
  • Very relaxing beach theme
  • Smooth turn dynamics
  • Quick and easy to learn
Keep in mind
  • Requires careful spatial planning
  • Can be tricky for beginners
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Grab your sunscreen, because Sanibel is taking you on a relaxing (but not too!) stroll along the Florida beaches. In this game, you take on the role of a marine treasure collector on a mission to find the island's rarest seashells. But don't think it's just walking around and picking up whatever you see! The real game-changer is your individual player board, which acts as your personal bag. As you collect shells and shark teeth, you must strategically fit them into this board, much like a game of Tetris. Placement is key: where a piece lands and how it fits with others will determine your final score.

The movement mechanic is quite engaging: you use tokens to navigate through different beach zones, and the turn order is driven by a time track. The player at the back of the line has the advantage of choosing the next move, advancing as far as they wish to secure the best pieces. The game follows an out-and-back flow, where you explore the beach to the midpoint and then head back to the start. In the end, the winner isn't just the person who collected the most items, but the one who was smartest about organizing their 'bag' to maximize end-game bonuses. It's the kind of game that feels light and contemplative but requires precise spatial planning so you don't run out of room when storing your precious finds!

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

5 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–4 players
2 REC
3 BEST
4 BEST

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Constructions: Lighthouses States: Florida Theme: Beaches Theme: Nature Theme: Seashells
Publisher Avalon Hill, Hasbro
Designer Elizabeth Hargrave
Artist Dahl Taylor

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

1,250owners
703wishlist
75want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

5 questions
How complex is the game?
It's a light-weight game, perfect for those who enjoy straightforward tile-fitting puzzles.
How long does a game last?
Games are quick, usually taking around 45 minutes.
How many players is it for?
It works great for 2 to 4 players.
Is it luck-based or strategic?
It's a balance! You have choice via drafting, but the core focus is spatial organization strategy.
What should I know before playing?
Watch your board space; if you don't plan your piece placement, you'll lose points!

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