Traveling around the state of Florida, we visited the islands of Sanibel and Captiva, which were not very promising for tourists but had excellent natural conditions for a relaxing holiday.
They have over 16 miles of pristine white sand beaches with beautiful shells, as well as good fish restaurants.
Sanibel Island has a mild climate, which will allow you to explore its nature almost throughout the year.
The peak season for Sanibel is from January to April, when the climate is at its most temperate.
When summer arrives, Sanibel Island’s many beaches fill up with tourists who love the warmth of the scorching sun.
My family and I have visited Sanibel Island many times, so I know a lot about the hotels here.
I will share my experience with you today.
How Do I Get to Sanibel Island?
There is no airport on the island, but it is connected to the mainland by a causeway.
The nearest airport to Sanibel Island is Southwest Florida International Airport.
Due to the growing number of visitors arriving on holiday, a variety of hotels have grown rapidly on the island.
There are beach hotels, resort-type hotels, and apartments.
You just have to choose the most suitable option for you, and I will help you with this.
Sanibel Island’s Top Hotels
West Wind Island Resort
Well, I would not say that West Wind Island is a top luxury hotel.
The bathrooms are so small that the toilet handles had to be shaken to keep them from working, and the TV is very small for its size and distance from the bed.
But the hotel has good access to the beach and pool.
The pool was not 100% clean, and there were small surprises like floating toys and noodles.
Before you move in, ask for an updated number.
What I liked was the hall.
It is very quiet and calm here.
There were no fees for kayaks, bikes, or any other ridiculous fees.
By the way, bring your gels and shampoos because the body gel smell was not pleasant.
Sanibel Inn
It is a good choice when soaking up the atmosphere in a hotel is just as important as taking a walk.
This hotel is within walking distance of the city center.
In a hotel, you can pass the evening or have a good time before going to bed in a cozy atmosphere in the bar.
There is a huge restaurant for guests.
What I like about this hotel is that there is a barbecue area on site.
At the hotel, we pamper ourselves with water procedures; there is a swimming pool and an outdoor pool.
I really enjoyed my stay at the Sanibel Inn.
The rooms were a bit old but very clean.
I had a room with a nice sea view, and it was a 5-minute walk to the beach.
Also, we stayed there off-peak hours, so the room rate was decent and the restaurants weren’t crowded.
I would definitely stay here again.
Casa Ybel Resort
It is definitely the best hotel, with the most beautiful outdoor area and friendly staff.
It is one of the few beach resorts with a sand volleyball court that doesn’t have a ton of shells.
Very good location on a nice stretch of beach that is not very busy.
Within walking distance is a small nature reserve where you can walk, and along the beach you can walk to the lighthouse on the cape.
Within walking and cycling distance to shops and grocery stores.
But there is no elevator at the hotel, so be sure to ask for accommodations before checking in.
Especially if you have small children or find it difficult to climb stairs and carry heavy luggage,
Walking up and down the stairs to the 3rd floor is extremely difficult for the elderly and families with children.
Marriott Sanibel Harbor Resort & Spa
They were the cutest, cleanest rooms.
I remember the bed.
The bed was comfortable with soft linen and comfortable pillows.
The room was small, but we were at the beach most of the time, so that was fine.
Depending on how fast you walk, the beach can be reached in just 1–2 minutes.
We would love to stay here again.
Sundial Beach Resort & Spa
In general, we really liked this place.
Check-in was fast, and the main lobby was very nice and well maintained.
The staff were very friendly.
The only downside was that they don’t have luggage carts.
Our room was beautiful and very clean.
We didn’t realize it was a fully equipped room with a fully equipped kitchen, including pots and pans and all.
The view from our large veranda was amazing, and we could see the ocean and everything we wanted to.
The hibachi restaurant in the hotel was such a nice experience!
The food was top-notch, and their sauces are just great.
Song of the Sea Island Inn
The hotel was wonderful.
The staff were very helpful and friendly.
They provided all the extra equipment you might need: bikes, sun loungers, beach towels, umbrellas, shelling equipment, coolers, filtered water, etc.
They also had lovely outdoor seating areas, including two hammocks, several sun loungers, two outdoor grills, and an outdoor shower.
The location is perfect.
Sanibel Moorings Resort Apartments
We really enjoyed our week-long stay here.
It was quiet and peaceful, and the gardens are beautiful.
The staff were very nice.
They have sun loungers and umbrellas, but you need to get to the beach early as they go fast.
Access to the beach is very close, and the beach and water are clean and clear.
This Apart hotel has always been very well updated, and this year was no exception, with several new updates in furniture and window coverings.
We usually dine most evenings at the amazing restaurants on the island, but this year we decided that we would eat most of the food at our apartments.
The grills were very convenient and only a few steps away from the apartment.
The kitchen in the apartment was well equipped with everything we needed to make us feel at home.
We are already looking forward to our next vacation in paradise!
Choosing Sanibel Island for your vacation is the best thing a traveler can do.
Plenty of natural attractions, a calm atmosphere, and a variety of options for spending time—isn’t this what those who want to completely disconnect from the bustle of city life are looking for?
