Can anyone let me know what they thought of Sanibel/Captiva Islands. My boyfriend and I would like to take a couple of days this summer and stay on one of these islands, any suggestions on where to stay. I would like to spend no more than $125 per night. Any ideas would be appreciated. Thanks!

We loved Sanibel. It's low key, laid back. Was quiet when we were there. Nice beach to walk on, shells to collect...good restaurants. We stayed at the Sundial I think it was called...very nice condo, and the rates weren't bad at all.

I personally did not like Sanibel. We stayed at the Sanibel Harbor Resort and Spa, and really liked it there (it is off island, but just across the bay). When we moved to Sanibel for the rest of the week, we found all the places to stay were like timeshares from the 80s. It is a very family oriented island, and we had trouble finding anything to do after 10pm. I think Captiva is very pretty, and I loved watching the sunsets from the public beaches - but the condo/hotel we stayed at (Sundial) was old and outdated. We had been excited about there being 5 pools, but they were all filled with peeing kids and were tiny rectangle, ugly cement looking pools. The Sanibel Harbor Resort is the nicest hotel in the vicinity - the rest of the hotels actually on Sanibel island aren't very large or very full service (both of which are things I look for in a vacation place..) I would recommend choosing another place to vacation in Florida if nightlife and being in a pee-free pool are priorities for you on your vacation....

I agree with CF - I love Sanibel. It's a great place to kick back and relax. I've been there in August and October - both off-season, so it was not crowded. Your best deal if you are staying for a week is to rent a condo. But if you are only going for a few days, I recommend Song of the Sea. It's a pretty little B&B Inn right on the ocean. We got rooms for $100 in Oct 3 years ago. All the rooms have kitchenettes. Very nice.

If night life is what you are looking for its not here. But if romance is it bingo. My boyfriend and I went about a year ago and stayed at the Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa all rooms are gulf front so the view is spectacular. They had a dinner or brunch cruise right at the hotel which was very nice you could also rent Jet skis at the hotel as well. The spa is a must we both had our first massage there and we have been hooked ever since. Have Fun!

I agree with the above poster about the sanibel harbor resort and spa..we did the cruise thing too and loved it. I just think the actual accomodations on the island are run down and very timeshare-y. I hate that. Do yourself a favor and don't be disappointed - stay at the Sanibel harbor resort or don't bother with the island - go to Fort Lauderdale instead.

Definitely Sanibel Harbor Resort & Spa!
Who couldn't take that resort for a couple days! It's just a short drive to the island...all depends on what you're looking to do. We were there in August and we enjoyed it! Great shelling on the island, lucky enough to see a dolphin from the balcony, sunsets...etc

To Stellaky: You mentione Ft. Lauderdale. Any rec's for beachfront accomodation?

Karen, I stay in one of the condo's at Sanibel Harbour Resort and Spa every year and they are wonderful. There are three pools to choose from, and the spa and grounds are great. However, if you like to walk out of your room onto a long, beautiful beach...you won't be able to do it there. You will have to get in your car and drive over to Sanibel. If walking out of your room onto a long beach is not necessary for you, then Sanibel Harbour will be a great choice. They do have a small, very lovely beach area. But it's no good for long walks and the water is dark (I think because the Calasahootchie river empties out around there). Another suggestion is South Seas Plantation. A large, beautiful, resort with a great beach. It's located on the tip of Captiva. The water is beautiful and clear. Lots of activities, also.

Both islands are really laid back. If you are looking for a party atmosphere you won't find it there. Otherwise, the islands are wonderful. Have fun.

susan: We like the Marriott Harbor Beach - I hear the Bahia Mar is very nice too - and I had some friends that stayed at the Westin Diplomat and loved it. I have been to the Radisson Bahia Mar and thought it was OK, but nothing special...and the Sheratons there (yankee trader and yankee clipper) are the most run down, over priced places in ft lauderdale. Many of the hotels across the street from the main part of Ft Lauderdale beach are pretty run down, even for name brand places....I would stick to the three I mentioned if you can afford it (they aren't cheap this time of year!)