It’s one of the best beaches in southwest Florida. There are so many places to stay and things to do on Sanibel Island!But don’t get overwhelmed planning a trip to this tranquil vacation destination. I’ll give you a resident’s guide to the best places to stay in Sanibel Island, along with some of the most popular activities!
Best Place to Stay in the Florida Keys: My Pick
Our pick is The Inns of Sanibel Golf and Beach Resort because of its many resort options, stunning beach views, luxury rooms, and on-site restaurants!
⭐Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars
What Part of Sanibel Island Should I Stay On?
Sanibel Island can be broken into a three areas based on the the different beaches on the island. Each beach has its own personality!
Take a look at the chart below to decide which area suits your vacation vibe. This will help you determine where you want to stay on the island.
Also, keep in mind that Sanibel’s beaches are among the warmest in Florida. Even in December, the water temperature averages between 57°F to 77°F!
(Helpful Hint: The chart is organized by beaches moving east to west along the island!)
| Beach | Description | Places to Stay in the Area |
| Bowman’s Beach | -Most Popular Beach on the Island -Great Spot for Shelling -Family Friendly -Close proximity to the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife -Refuge | -Periwinkle Cottages |
| Tarpon Bay Beach | -Mid-Island Beach puts you in the middle of everything on the island -Many Amenities -Close to the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village and -Tahitian Gardens Shopping Mall | -Caribe Beach Resort -Sanibel Cottages -Casa Ybel Resort |
| Gulfside City Park Beach | -Pet Friendly -Known as a Recreational Beach -Close to Dunes -Golf & Tennis Club, -Sanibel City Pier -Sanibel Lighthouse | -Sundial Beach Resort & Spa -Sanibel Siesta on the Beach -Song of the Sea -Sanibel Moorings Resort -Tortuga Beach Club Resort |
Quick Table of Sanibel Island’s Best Places to Stay
Whether you’re looking for a luxury Sanibel Island hotel or vacation rentals with all the comforts of home, there’s something for everyone! Among the palm trees and ocean views, relax in your perfect setting.
| Resort Name | Best Features | Price Range | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sanibel Moorings Resort | Multi-Bedroom Suites, Tons of Amenities, Easy Beach Access | $$$ | 845 E Gulf Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957 |
| The Inns of Sanibel Golf and Beach Resorts | Different Resorts for Different Styles. Activities, Onsite Restaurants, Heated Pools, Boat and Water Sport Rentals, Golf Club Access | $$-$$$$ | 863 E Gulf Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957 |
| Caribe Beach Resort | Pet-Friendly, Easy Beach Access | $$ | 2669 W Gulf Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957 |
| Casa Ybel Beach Resort | Private Suites, Trolley Transportation, Luxury Amenities, Easy Beach Access | $$$ | 2255 W Gulf Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957 |
| Sanibel Siesta on the Beach | Private Beach, Large Suites | $$ | 1246 Fulgur St, Sanibel, FL 33957 |
| Tortuga Beach Club Resort | Golf Club Access, Easy Access to the Beach, Multiple Bedroom Townhomes | $$$ | 959 E Gulf Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957 |
| Periwinkle Cottages | Budget-Friendly, Private Beach, Complimentary Beach Gear | $ | 1431 Jamaica Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957 |
| Sanibel Cottages Resort | Multi-Bedroom Suites, Easy Beach Access, Heated Pool | $$$ | 2341 W Gulf Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957 |
| Island Inn | Most historic inn on the Island; Weekly beach walks; Great shelling; Close to wildlife refuge | $$ | 3111 W Gulf Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957 |
| Tarpon Tale Inn | Full kitchens in most suites and complimentary bikes | $$ | 367 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957 |
| Sundial Beach Resort & Spa | 5 on-site places to eat and 5 heated swimming pools | $$ | 1451 Middle Gulf Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957 |
| Seahorse Cottages | Quiet and tranquil vacation rental near Old Town Sanibel and Shops | $$ | 1223 Buttonwood Ln, Sanibel, FL 33957 |
More Info for You on the Top Places to Stay on Sanibel Island
Now that you have an idea of what part of the island fits your vacation style, let’s get into our list of the top places to stay on Sanibel Island.
The island offers plenty of accommodations options, including condominium rentals and luxury resorts.
1. Sanibel Moorings Resort
You won’t want to leave the luxurious resort condominiums at Sanibel Moorings Resort! The property offers one, two, and three-bedroom accommodations for any size party.
The best part about the resort is that each suite features lots of space! This includes a:
- living room
- dining area
- full kitchen
- and a large, private screened lanai.
The Sanibel Moorings Resort also offers plenty of great amenities. First, check out the wide stretch of private shell-covered beach! After that, explore:
- a beautiful botanical garden
- private boat docks
- pickleball and tennis courts
- BBQ grills
- heated pools
- a specialty kid pool
- complimentary kayaks and canoes
- and a fitness center.
Price: $$$
Best Features: Multi-Bedroom Suites, Tons of Amenities, Easy Beach Access
Location: 845 E Gulf Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957
Official Website for Sanibel Moorings Resort
2. The Inns of Sanibel Golf and Beach Resorts
The Inns of Sanibel Golf and Beach Resorts include a multitude of properties! This includes:
- Sanibel Inn
- Song of the Sea
- Seaside Inn
- Sunset Beach Inn
Each of these options give you a different atmosphere to fit your perfect vacation!
For example, Song of the Sea is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for a romantic getaway. Whereas the Sanibel Inn is a great spot for families with daily bocce ball and bean-bag toss games in the yard.
These beachside resorts all offer amazing accommodations and plenty of activities and amenities. You’ll get:
- heated pools
- tennis and pickleball courts
- boat rentals
- an exclusive resort membership to The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club
Price: $$-$$$$
Best Features: Different Resorts for Different Styles. Activities, Onsite Restaurants, Heated Pools, Boat and Water Sport Rentals, Golf Club Access
Location: 863 E Gulf Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957
Official Website for The Inns of Sanibel Golf and Beach Resorts
3. Caribe Beach Resort
My favorite part about Caribe Beach Resort is that it is pet-friendly. So feel free to bring your furry friend along with you!
Caribe Beach Resort gives you stunning views of the blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The resort offers studio and 1-bedroom options as well as 2 private cottages.
All rooms have a full kitchen, and come stocked with linens, beach towels, and beach chairs.
Some of the Caribe Beach Resort amenities include:
- a heated pool and hot tub
- shuffleboard courts
- a children’s playground
- a fish/shell washing station
- and free bikes to get around the island
Price: $$
Best Features: Pet-Friendly, Easy Beach Access
Location: 2669 W Gulf Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957
Official Website for Caribe Beach Resort
4. Casa Ybel Beach Resort
Casa Ybel Beach Resort is one of Sanibel’s iconic gems!
Each gulf-facing suite features a balcony, a private entrance, and a private sandy path that leads to the pristine beaches.
The Casa Ybel Beach Resort has one and two-bedroom suite options. There are various packages including family fun, Florida resident discounts, and more.
Casa Ybel resort also has fun offerings, such as:
- bike rentals
- six tennis courts
- complimentary trolley rides to the shopping districts
- boat and watersport rentals
- and beachside yoga classes
Price: $$$
Best Features: Private Suites, Trolley Transportation, Luxury Amenities, Easy Beach Access
Location: 2255 W Gulf Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957
Official Website for Casa Ybel Beach Resort
5. Sanibel Siesta on the Beach
Sanibel Siesta on the Beach are luxury beachfront condominiums! These suites give you the best access to the soft sands of the private Sanibel Island Beach.
Each suite comes equipped with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and an upgraded kitchen.
On-site amenities at the Sanibel Siesta on the Beach include:
- complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas
- bike rentals
- an outdoor heated pool
- tennis courts
- BBQ grills
Price: $$
Best Features: Private Beach, Large Suites
Location: 1246 Fulgur St, Sanibel, FL 33957
Official Website for Sanibel Siesta on the Beach
6. Tortuga Beach Club Resort
Tortuga Beach Club Resort gives you the luxury and convenience of a resort stay with the space and privacy of a private vacation rental.
The resort is managed by the Hilton Grand Vacation Club and located on the beach! You’ll have easy access to the warm waters and sugar sand beach. This beachfront resort also has several accommodation options.
The two-bedroom townhomes at Tortuga Beach Club are perfect for families. They come with fully-equipped kitchens and private patios.
Resort amenities include poolside gazebos, a private clubhouse, and a volleyball court.
Guests of the Tortuga Beach Club Resort can also enjoy complimentary greens fees and access to The Dunes Golf Course and Tennis Club.
Price: $$$
Best Features: Golf Club Access, Easy Access to the Beach, Multiple Bedroom Townhomes
Location: 959 E Gulf Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957
Official Website for Tortuga Beach Club
7. Periwinkle Cottages
The Periwinkle Cottages are the only resort on the list close to Bowman’s Beach.
Cottages range from accommodating two to six people, so you can enjoy a couples getaway or a vacation for the whole family.
These quiet cottages offer awesome amenities such as a private beach, grills, and beach gear.
Price: $
Best Features: Budget-Friendly, Private Beach, Complimentary Beach Gear
Location: 1431 Jamaica Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957
Official Website for Periwinkle Cottages
8. Sanibel Cottages Resort
The Sanibel Cottages Resort is another Hilton Grand Vacations managed property.
The private, Victorian-style two-bedroom condos provide gulf views and immediate access to the stunning beaches.
My favorite part about the suites is the screened-in patios. They keep pests away when you’re relaxing in the morning with a cup of coffee, or eating a freshly prepared meal in the evening.
Guests of the Sanibel Cottages can take advantage of amenities such as:
- tennis courts
- shuffleboard
- a heated swimming pool (outdoor)
- grills
- and a picnic area
Price: $$$
Best Features: Multi-Bedroom Suites, Easy Beach Access, Heated Pool
Location: 2341 W Gulf Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957
Official Website for Sanibel Cottages Resort
9. Island Inn
Island Inn is a great place if you want a historic, luxury hotel! This 3-star hotel was built in 1895 and is the oldest hotel on Sanibel Island.
The inn has 10 acres of beachfront property. And there is a 550 ft. strip of private beach for guests to enjoy all the best recreational activities.
- Some of the island’s best shelling
- Weekly beach walks
- Onsite bike rentals to experience the island’s 21 miles of bike paths
- Kayak and paddleboard rentals
- Complimentary beach umbrellas
- Free parking and no resort fees
- Free wi-fi and flat-screen TVs for each hotel room
If you love exploring nature, Island Inn is a great pick! The resort is also a quick, 2-mile drive from J.N.“Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge!
Price: $$
Best Features: Most historic inn on the Island; Weekly beach walks; Great shelling; Close to wildlife refuge
Location: 3111 W Gulf Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957
Official Website for Island Inn
10. Tarpon Tale Inn
Tarpon Tale Inn is a perfect choice – whether you want a cozy spot or spacious suite! Trip Advisor has awarded this inn a Certificate of Excellence for 5+ years!
You can choose from cottages that can host 2 or 4 guests. Each cottage comes equipped with:
- Complimentary beach chairs, umbrellas, and bikes
- Flat screen TV
- Seating area
The cottage style and studio rooms both have full kitchens. The efficiency room comes with a mini-fridge, coffee maker, and microwave.
Bedroom Cottage-style
Price: $$
Best Features: Full kitchens in most suites and complimentary bikes
Location: 367 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957
Tarpon Tale Inn’s Official Website
11. Sundial Beach Resort & Spa
Sundial Beach Resort & Spa is the perfect tropical island destination for big family vacations or romantic getaways! You can choose from condominiums that are studio size through 3-bedrooms.
In addition to 1-mile of white, sandy beach along the Gulf, you’ll find these amenities on-site at the resort:
- Full service spa and salon
- Bicycles, kayaks, and paddleboards
- 5 heated swimming pools
- Jacuzzi
- Tennis, Pickleball, and Volleyball courts
Sundial also has 5 on-site restaurants and dining options!
- Shima Grab N Go
- Sea Breeze Cafe
- Shima Japanese Steakhouse
- Slice of Paradice
- Turtle’s Tiki Bar
Each condo choice comes with:
- Fully Equipped Kitchen (refrigerator, microwave, range/oven, toaster, coffee maker, dish washer)
- Free Wifi
- Cable TV
Price: $$
Best Features: 5 on-site places to eat and 5 heated swimming pools
Location: 1451 Middle Gulf Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957
Official Website for Sundial Beach Resort & Spa
12. Seahorse Cottages
Seahorse Cottages is a quiet and cozy resort that sits 200 feet from the beach of San Carlos Bay! This is a perfect spot for those who want a tranquil stay around Old Town Sanibel.
You can choose from a studio, 1 bedroom, or 2 bedroom condo! Most sleep 2 people, but the 2 bedroom can sleep up to 4 adults.
They also come standard with full kitchens and queen or king sized beds.
Price: $$
Best Features: Quiet and tranquil vacation rental near Old Town Sanibel and Shops
Location: 1223 Buttonwood Ln, Sanibel, FL 33957
Seahorse Cottages Official Website
Some Unique Things about Sanibel Island, FL are…
Now that we’ve covered the best places to stay on the island, let’s plan your vacation itinerary. Sanibel Island is a beautiful place with a historic background.
Attractions Around Sanibel Island
Here are a few of the can’t-miss things to do while you’re there!
- Sanibel Historical Museum and Village
- Sanibel Lighthouse
- J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
- Sanibel Island Farmers Market
- Sanibel Public Library
Sanibel & Captiva: Sister Islands
Sanibel and Captiva Islands are sister islands along the Gulf Coast of Florida. Both of these islands are known for the warm, turquoise waters that wash up on the quartz-sand beaches.
More About the Geography, Conservation, and History
Sanibel Island is a unique barrier island off Florida’s west coast. Located near Fort Myers, it connects to the Florida mainland by the Sanibel Causeway. Sanibel is a sister island to nearby Captiva Island.
Sanibel is one of the most unique barrier islands in Florida! Why? Because of both its conservation efforts, geography, and pirate history!
Conservation Efforts. Sanibel Island has long stretches of white sand beaches and warm waters. Sanibel Island’s community dedicates itself to preservation.
Over 50% of the island set aside as conservation land. This allows the natural beauty of the pristine beaches and unique wildlife to flourish.
This makes it the perfect spot to enjoy natural beauty with activities such as:
- birding
- shelling
- and watersports like kayaking, canoeing, and parasailing
Geography. Sanibel Island’s orientation is east to west, rather than north to south. This uniqueness makes it the perfect place for shelling, which is a very popular activity.
Pirate History. Much of the lore of Sanibel Island (and Captiva) Island centers on pirate explorations! One such as pirate was Juan Ponce DeLeon.
Captiva Island Spots to Consider:
- Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa
- South Seas Island Resort
- Tarpon Tale Inn
Summary to Best Resorts & Hotels on Sanibel Island
Some of the best beaches on Sanibel Island are Bowman’s Beach, Tarpon Bay Beach, and Gulfside City Park Beach. Each beach has close-by accommodations that put you in the center of the action.
Some of my favorite spots to stay at Sanibel Island, FL are:
- The Inns of Sanibel Golf and Beach Resort
- Casa Ybel Beach Resort,
- Sanibel Cottages Resort
Want more Florida beaches info? Check out the below:
