I'm having a "destinating wedding" in Sanibel in April 2003. Due to cost, I will probably get a block of rooms for my guests in a hotel in Ft. Myers instead of Sanibel. My question is...can anyone recommend restaurants in Sanibel, Captiva, or Ft. Myers that would be good for a rehearsal dinner (a private room for approx. 30-35 people)? Does the Mucky Duck accommodate private parties? Looking for some place "fun" with good food and atmosphere.

I don't know if they can accomodate but you might try Anthonys on Ft. Myers Beach. The Dining Room overlooks the Gulf and provides a wonderful view.

I think that is a great idea, the Ft. Myers thing instead of Sanibel. Will reduce your costs. I like the Mucky Duck, I think it is a great place, good food. You may have to inquire if they can accomodate your party.

Sorry to disagree with Pam, but I would NOT consider the Mucky Duck for your rehearsal dinner, Amy. We were there in April. I will never understand why that place gets so much "hype"--my husband and I were very disappointed. The food was so-so and the service was atrocious. Also, it's not really all that big of a place for so large a group.

I agree with Anthonys on Fort Myers Beach. They have a banquet room that can hold up to 105.

http://www.junkanoo-anthonys.com/

Thank you all for your suggestions and comments! Anthony's sounds like a good possibility, but I'm still curious about the Lighthouse Restaurant. Sharon, do they have a private dining area? Did you have dance floor and music? (I think I'm starting to consider this for a reception location!) Would you recommend the Sanibel Harbour Resort for my wedding? I hadn't seriously considered it, thinking it was too pricely to have the wedding and reception there. But, if I go elsewhere for the reception perhaps it's something I should consider! Previous to your replys, I was looking into the Sundial for the wedding and reception. Does anyone have any comments on this place?

Hi Amy
The lighthouse doesnt have a private area, but there are several sections which I think would be quite easy to cordon off- also they have a outside patio which they can block off for separate use by 1 party. Theres no dancefloor but there is music played- there is also a bar area with a piano.After my reception we all sat around the piano and sang !!! Sanibel Harbour is wonderful for a wedding. Mine was arranged from the UK but the package for wedding only was less than $400. Accomodation was on top of that. They hve a lovely separate beach area, which is a stunning place to get married. They also have a boat which we hired to take the guests from the wedding to the Lighthouse-this was only $200 per hour. Ive put my email address on my 1st reply (by mistake) so if you want to email me,please do.

Amy... before you give up on Sanibel or Captiva, you should try South Seas Resort for your wedding and reception. April I believe is probably a slow/down time for them and you may be able to get a decent deal depending upon their occupancy level. My sister in-law (Jacqueline Lynch) is a sales manager at the South Seas Resort handles these type of events for both Sundial and South Seas. Might be worth the effort to consider this property too.

I agree that you should try South Seas Resort. Your guests would thank you forever. Prices could be good there. The most beautiful resort on Sanibel or Captiva!They also have banquet rooms.

I second South Seas. The weddings are onthe point facing the water and the surroundings are spectacular. You can have a rehearsal dinner at Chadwicks or one of the other restaurants on the island - don't know about private rooms though.

Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa also rates as a lovely wedding site.

The Lighthouse has a pretty open air room that overlooks the water, and on the right night, could probably be closed off for a private dinner.