Sanibel Island Beach Resort

Tucked away off the main road in an area surrounded by beach, palm trees, and a few condominium developments, the Sanibel Island Beach Resort maintains a cheery, casual vibe that makes it popular with families. The exteriors are a rusty red color with blue and white accents and are surrounded by large landscaped gardens interwoven with paths, tropical plants, benches, and a pond with resident turtles. The bright lobby has an intense color scheme dominated by hues of turquoise and brushed gold and the front desk is painted to resemble a large tropical aquarium. The lobby also has a computer for guest use, free coffee and newspapers, and a small seating area.

The Sanibel Island Beach Resort is located on the beach, just south of Periwinkle Way, the island's main drag. There are condominiums on both sides of the property and a vacant green lot across the street. It's a 25-minute drive across the Sanibel Causeway to Fort Myers Beach and a 40-minute drive to the South Florida International Airport. Lighthouse Beach, at the western tip of the island, is a seven-minute drive or 45-minute walk. Parking at the hotel is free.

98 suites and rooms are painted in a pale shade of yellow with white ceilings and trim. Brick-colored tile floors and air-conditioning help keep them cool. The bed linens and window drapes feature a tropical leaf motif with alternating yellow and blue panels and rust-hued accents that match the flooring. All come with microwaves, coffeemakers, mini-fridges, and flat-screen TVs. Suites have kitchenettes and separate living rooms with pull-out sofa beds. All units are air-conditioned, but guests have complained that the units are disturbingly loud. Beds are reported to be on the hard side. Bathrooms have hairdryers and shower/tub combos plus a separate double-sink vanity area. Pool-facing units are the noisiest, at least when children are around.

Compared to many of the smaller inns and hotels on Sanibel, the Sanibel Island Beach Resort has a large number of amenities. The casual on-site restaurant, Starfish Grille, serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and cocktails. Breakfast is included with some packages. There's also an outdoor bar that serves pizza and an outdoor swimming pool facing the beach that's surrounded by lounge chairs and tables with parasols and seating. There's a double outdoor tennis court and bicycles available to rent on-site. The beach in front of the hotel has lounge chairs and a volleyball net, and there's a ping-pong table and a few hammocks between the beach and the hotel. Wi-Fi is free in both rooms and common areas. An on-site gift shop sells cold bottled water, beach gear, and toiletries.