3033 W Gulf Dr, Sanibel Island, Florida, United States | (251) 219-4428
In a quiet neighborhood right on the beach
Heated outdoor pool with plenty of lounge chairs
Cabana with shower for guests arriving early or departing late
All rooms have fridges, and many have full kitchens
Free Wi-Fi throughout and computer available for guests' use
Free on-site parking
Bicycle rentals available
Pets welcome (for a fee)
Some of the rooms might look old-fashioned to some
No boats and trailers allowed on the property
The 27-room Waterside Inn on the Beach has a large variety of rooms and caters to those looking for mid-range digs with kitchens and easy beach access. Units here vary quite a bit, from rooms with microwaves and fridges to cottages and condos. There's a heated pool at the center of the grounds, and a quiet beach with lots of seashell-hunting opportunities is right next to the property. Pets are welcome for a fee, but boats and trailers are not.
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Scene
Colorful, laid-back beachside property
The Waterside comprises a cluster of multi-unit buildings and cottages right by the beach. The reception is located in a lavender house with light teal walls, big windows, a small seating area, and lots of souvenirs and sundries for sale. The buildings and cottages are laid out around a central swimming pool, and many are painted in bright colors. The grounds are full of tall palm trees and leafy shrubs, and are small enough that guests are always within a couple of minutes' walk from the beach. The property is popular with vacationers who seek a quiet beachside holiday.
Location
Beachfront location in a quiet residential neighborhood
The Waterside Inn is located in a quiet residential neighborhood near one or two other hotels. There's very little traffic, and beach crowds are few. It's a 15-minute drive via Sanibel's main drag, Periwinkle Way, to the Sanibel Lighthouse. Fort Myers Beach is a half-hour drive down the Sanibel Causeway, which connects the island to the mainland, and the South Florida International Airport is about a 45-minute drive away.
Rooms
A variety of rooms, cottages, and condos -- most with kitchens
Units vary from rooms to independent cottages but each is spotlessly clean and very well-maintained. Upper-floor units have great views of the property. All have rose-colored bedspreads, and most have blue-accented walls and a mixture of tile, carpeted, and hardwood floors. Some have decks with chairs. Rooms have free Wi-Fi, coffeemakers, microwaves, and refrigerators. Cottages and condos come with full kitchens. Bathrooms have shower/tub combos, single sinks, medicine cabinets, and basic toiletries. The Honeymoon Cottage includes a fireplace and whirlpool tub. Dried and artificial floral arrangements look fussy and dated.
Features
Heated outdoor pool, shuffleboard, barbecues, and bikes
At the center of the property is a small heated outdoor swimming pool, encircled by blue lounge chairs and towering palms. Guests arriving early or checking out late can use an air-conditioned changing cabana with a shower, located next to the pool. There are gas barbecues and a shuffleboard court, and bikes rentals are available. Detergent for the coin-operated laundry machines is sold at the front desk, along with sundry items like puzzles, souvenir apparel, beach towels, and coffee mugs. Parking and Wi-Fi are free, and pets are welcome for a fee.
