My wife and I are trying to compromise on a 4-5 day Winter/Spring getaway. I'm hoping to find a hotel on or near a beach that is also convenient to "Wilbur Billy Smith Field" where the Red Sox conduct Spring Training. On a map Sanibel and Fort Myers Beach look close but I've read about excessive traffic in these areas in March. Any advice out there about where to stay, Fodorites?

Have no idea where you could stay but have to say GO SOX!!!!

Fort Myers beach is very nice with many choices of hotels and condos; however, the traffic can really crawl during spring break time. It's not far from the airport or the baseball stadium. Sanibel is wonderful, and not far from the airport or stadium either. Traffic can get somewhat backed up on the island during spring break, but it's not that bad.

Fort Myers beach is very nice with many choices of hotels and condos; however, the traffic can really crawl during spring break time. It's not far from the airport or the baseball stadium. Sanibel is wonderful, and not far from the airport or stadium either. Traffic can get somewhat backed up on the island during spring break, but it's not that bad. Sanibel is a family-oriented place; I think you'll find a mix of college students and families in Ft. Myers Beach.

Thanks ABC. Traffic that is "not that bad" is good enough for me. I think I'm leaning towards Sanibel Island.

Also, are there any times to avoid due to college Spring Breakers over-taking the area?

I don't think spring breakers "take over" in Sanibel. It really is a family oriented place. I always go the week before Easter and haven't seen spring breakers, but lots of families with children. Maybe you should try posting again with a title that asks about spring breakers in Ft. Myers or Sanibel in March. Hopefully, some locals will be able to give you better info. Good luck.