Sanibel/Captiva Hotel Recs?

Hoping someone can help - we are looking to take our two DC to Sanibel or Captiva for 5 days in April. Originally we were going to rent a house for convenience but on Sanibel the minimum rental is one month! Does anyone have recs for beachfront, laid back, kid friendly hotles in the area?

Re: Sanibel/Captiva Hotel Recs?

Casaybel Resort. We own a unit there. It's been in the family for almost 30 years!

Love it there. Right on the beach too. Pool, clubhouse, etc. just up the road from all the antique shops, 7-11, supermarket (Jerry's), etc.

Re: Sanibel/Captiva Hotel Recs?

That was actually one of the places I checked out (and it looks FABULOUS) but they didn't have availability for the dates we needed.

Re: Sanibel/Captiva Hotel Recs?

Bummer!! But I'm not surprised, it's not your regular timeshare spot. Most of the owners forfeited their right to join RCI years ago, because they don't want to stay at any other resort or give up their week(s).

Re: Sanibel/Captiva Hotel Recs?

Tweenwaters Inn. As for an upgraded room!!

Re: Sanibel/Captiva Hotel Recs?

I don't know if you're 100% set on staying on Sanibel or Captiva, but I've stayed at a nice, smaller hotel on Pine Island a few times and had a great experience. It's called the Tarpon Lodge - I'd say it's about 30 minutes from Captiva and Sanibel by car. It's a little more laid back than Sanibel I think. They have a swimming pool which might be fun for your kids. There's a boat launch there as well that will take you over to Cabbage Key for lunch. There's a restaurant at the hotel that's fantastic as well and lots of cute small restaurants and stores nearby. They have rooms in the main house that have nice balconies but I think they also have a few cottages for rent. Here is the site: Tarpon Lodge