We refer to the Sanibel Inn now as our "home away from home" for so many reasons. This is probably the best hotel experience we have ever had, and although we had not previously written a review, this was our second stay because of our enthusiasm last year.
This lovely inn is situated next to its own section of beach and includes all the amenities common to most other hotels in the area, including a nice pool, which we didn't use because we were there for the ocean. The grounds are charming with lush vegetation, palms, and even a butterfly garden. The room set-up is efficient and attractive, and the beds are absolutely the most comfortable beds of any place we have ever stayed, possibly better than my bed at home.
The staff was always friendly and helpful, and when we experienced one night of a "noisy neighbor" issue, security was there promptly to address the situation. It was resolved right away. At one point, the air conditioner, which cooled perfectly and quietly, began dripping on the carpet inside, and when we reported it, maintenance got it fixed immediately--conveniently while we were out enjoying the beach.
If you're somewhat overly-paranoid about your valuables when you're out all day, like I am, the in-room safe is an awesome feature.
The room was always kept clean, and housekeeping was quick to provide any extras we needed: towels, cups, coffee, etc. I also appreciate the attention to "green" practices; for example, the "option" to limit bedding changes which saves unnecessary and excess laundering.
Overall, we can't imagine staying anywhere else when we go to Sanibel. Not only is the island a favorite place, but this inn is, too. I can't imagine anyone being disappointed with Sanibel Inn. Enjoy!

This was our family's third stay at Sanibel Inn and we never been disappointed. The staff is always pleasant, the grounds are well maintianed, and the rooms are clean and beautiful. It is conveniently located to all the hot spots on the ISland, and even has complimentary bikes to get around on the island. I would highly recommend Sanibel Inn if you are looking for a clean, convenient place to vacation!!!!

The Merritt Family

After spending quite a bit of time online reading reviews of hotels, I decided to book the Sanibel Inn because of the location and price. I was pleasantly surprised! I was so very nervous because of the few "poor" reviews I read, but I took into consideration that not everyone is easy to please and that everyone has different experiences. We (my boyfriend and I)personally had a great experience at this hotel. I had booked a beachfront guestroom with a king bed request (apparently not all guestrooms have a king bed) and it was granted. The room (Jasmine building-room 3625) had hardwood floors, granite countertops and it was beautifully decorated. The view from our balcony was amazing which overlooked the surf and sand. The bed was actually very comfortable and the room was clean. The only downside I could report was that there was a bleach smell upon our entry, but hey! that means it's clean,right? The A/C was amazing (we were very cold at night) and the room also had a ceiling fan. The grounds were kept beautifully and there were free beach chairs(put out on the beach daily), towels and bicycles for the guests. They rent the umbrellas but we chose not to use one. We did not use the restaurant on the grounds nor the pool but both looked nice. We decided to go down to the Bubble Room on Captiva one evening and the Island Cow the next, what great food!!! I highly suggest the coconut shrimp at the Island Cow! It's not cheap to eat on the island, beware! But we didn't mind being on vacation. The sunset can only really be viewed at the end of Captiva Island so make sure you are in the right place at the right time! Check in and out was a breeze at Sanibel Inn and Tom was wonderful! What a nice guy and he had such great suggestions for us. Parking was free and no problem. Room service did a fantastic job and made sure we were stocked with what we needed. There is a small fridge,microwave and coffee pot (1 cup) in the kitchen, a DVD and tv in the room and a hairdryer in the bathroom. There are also bbq's and free ice located on the premises. We found beautiful shells on the shore and in the water. We went to a few of the beaches on the island looking for shells but keep in mind that the majority charge for parking! It's $2.00 an hour (which I find very expensive) and we actually got a $35 ticket for going over our alotted time by 1/2 hour, they do enforce it! Overall we would definately go back, we had a great time!!! Very romantic.

Our stay at the Sanibel Inn on Sanibel Island exceeded our expectations by all measurements! Linda, one of the managers at the the Sanibel Inn, and Martha, a front desk supervisor at Song of the Sea, were extremely accomadating in our room needs. We experienced very difficult sleeping arrangements on our first night at the Song of the Sea. Because of this, Linda and Martha worked out a an amazing accomodation upgrade for another condo living situation. This upgrade was extremely beneficial, restful and intimate for us. We sincerely appreciate Linda's and Martha's work and responsiveness to our needs. And we feel very well cared for and want to express our sincere gratitude to the two of them for going WAY above and beyond our expectation.

On a separate note, while staying at the beautiful Sanibel Inn, DO NOT miss the chance to visit the Island's crown jewel or best well kept secret!
Ellington's, a jazz-bar resteraunt is understated in elegance, sophistication and pur delight. The likes of which you'd be likely to stumble upon in big city venues of Chicago or New York.

The resteraunt is a treat in itself, well-kept and top notch. The food is worth the price, and served at the right temperature and flavoring. Resteraunt owner, Sharon Wise, is earning top notch ratings from her personal touches to overt classiness -- even the spectacular artwork featured in the halls.

The jazz group ---- Danny Sinoff quartet -- is the cherry on top!! Incredibly talented muscicians and young Danny, better-than or good as "old Blue Eyes" himself set the mood of this must see destination place.

Don't miss out. It is well worth it!!!