Best Sanibel Island Hotels: Sanibel Island is known for its pick of luxurious hotels but with so many choices which one do you even choose?! The balmy tropical climate, a centuries-old lighthouse and no shortage of seashells is what lures tourists to the tranquil resort town but the waterfront dwellings and plentiful outdoor activities are what convince all who visit to linger longer. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve narrowed down our top 9 picks of the best Sanibel Island hotels.
1. Island Inn Beach Resort
A seaside paradise, Island Inn is right on the beach offering guests one of 49 rooms each decorated with a Florida-esque coastal feel. Rooms are equipped with luxury pillowtop beds, kitchenettes and full en-suite bathrooms. Relax on the private beach or dine on fresh fish at the Traditions on the Beach restaurant. Facilities include an inviting swimming pool, tennis courts and gift shop.
2. Sanibel Siesta On The Beach
Sanibel Siesta On The Beach is ranked as one of the best Sanibel Island hotels with condo-style suites right on a private beach. Enjoy sun, sand and sea in your luxury 2-bedroom condo with direct access to the beach, a sparkling pool and sun lounging area. The light and airy suites include fully equipped kitchens and private balconies to enjoy the sea breeze over your morning cuppa. Hotel amenities include BBQ areas, tennis courts and a 24-mile bike path.
3. Sundial Beach Resort & Spa
Sundial Beach Resort & Spa also offers condo-style accommodation with living areas, kitchens and en-suite bathrooms in the various-sized suites. Resort amenities include multiple swimming pools, tennis courts, a gym, fresh food shop, kids club and on-site spa. There are a number of restaurants within the resort, catering to different tastes offering everything from casual poolside dining to a steakhouse and sushi bar.
4. Sanibel Inn
Did golf draw you to Sanibel Island? Then Sanibel Inn is one of the best Sanibel Island hotels for you. Guests receive a complimentary membership to the Dunes Golf & Tennis Club to make use of during their stay so get ready to tee off for a great round of golf! Each suite is classically decorated with a spacious open-plan living, dining and kitchen area. The hotel offers a pool, sun loungers, private beach access and tennis courts.
5. Song of the Sea Resort
A favorite among couples, Song of the Sea is a tranquil beachfront hotel with some of the best views of the Gulf you’ll find at any of the island’s resorts. Suites are decorated with a tropical flair and include screened balconies, equipped kitchens and complimentary wine on arrival for the ultimate private romantic getaway. From the pool to the cosy hammocks and activities designed with lovebirds in mind, this is one of the best Sanibel Island hotels for couples.
6. Shalimar Cottages
Step off your porch right onto the soft white sand of a private beach when you stay at Shalimar Cottages. With an old-school Florida feel and traditional coastal decor, the spacious cottages are perfect for romantic retreats or family getaways with cobblestone paths weaving through the property, creating a picture-perfect village-like hotel. Nearby amenities include tennis courts, a private pool, direct beach access, golf course, recreation centre and water sports activities.
7. Gulf Breeze Cottages
Drive to the end of an unassuming private lane and you’ll discover the peace and solitude that is Gulf Breeze Cottages. These luxury vacation rentals are equipped with everything you need for the perfect stay in Sanibel. With a charming yesteryear Floridian feel, the cottages lead onto a shell-strewn beach and are a short bike ride away from major attractions like Sanibel Lighthouse.
8. Sanibel Island Beach Resort
If you’re looking for a luxury hotel right on the beach then look no further than Sanibel Island Beach Resort, what many refer to as Sanibel’s sanctuary. Rooms are spacious and contemporary, decorated in a calming neutral palette with suites for bigger groups, making this the best Sanibel Island hotel for families by far. The resort offers a wide range of amenities including a swimming pool, private beach access, tennis courts, bike rentals, hammocks and a choice of bars and restaurants. As an added bonus for those travelling with four-legged friends, the hotel is pet-friendly.
9. Casa Ybel
Casa Ybel is a luxury all suite resort and perfect for guests looking for the ultimate luxury vacation experience in Sanibel Island. You will love the elegantly appointed suites, each boasting uninterrupted views of the Gulf. The onsite Thistle Lodge restaurant offers award-winning brunch, lunch and dinners. For a delicious cocktail, afternoons are well-spent at Coconut’s Poolside Bar & Grill. Amenities include an olympic sized swimming pool, 6 tennis courts, boat rentals, watersports, yoga classes, massage treatments and trolley rides to nearby shops and attractions.
Best Sanibel Island Hotels at a glance
Best Sanibel Island Hotel for Couples: Song of the Sea Resort is the most romantic and intimate hotel on the island, very much geared towards adults and couples in their offering.
Best Sanibel Island Hotel for Kids: Sanibel Island Beach Resort offers spacious family suites and great amenities for kids.
Best Luxury Sanibel Island Hotel: Casa Ybel wins this one hands down. The restaurant is one you’ll want to visit even if you’re not staying there but it’s the views of the turquoise Gulf from the suites that wins us over.
Best Sanibel Island Vacation Rental: We’d have to pick Gulf Breeze Cottages for its proximity to the beach and other attractions and the general serenity the cottages invoke. Perfect for a weekend retreat.
Choosing from the best Sanibel Island hotels will ensure your stay in stunning Sanibel meets your every expectation and will have you coming back year after year to experience the magic of the island.
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