By: Gillian Birch
Sanibel Island is a heavenly subtropical island of white sandy beaches strewn with shells, eco-reserves, pastel-painted shops, and beach houses all connected by shady bicycle paths. If you want to sample this beautiful paradise, the ultimate place to stay is the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa. It has been awarded “Best Full Service Resort on the Islands” for five years in a row, so it’s more than just bluster and sales talk–it’s official!
Sundial Beach Resort & Spa is tucked away on Middle Gulf Drive on the eastern end of Sanibel, within reach of the landmark Sanibel Lighthouse and fishing pier. Set on the island’s south shore, it is right on the Gulf of Mexico making it prime for shelling, swimming, and watching the spectacular sunsets that Southwest Florida is known for.
Condo-style Accommodations on Sanibel Island
More a haven than a hotel, Sundial Beach Resort & Spa offers condo-style luxury accommodation complete with living and dining area and a fully equipped kitchen. It can be useful to have a full-size refrigerator for chilled drinks and snacks, especially for families. However, you’ll probably want to sample some of the delectable cuisine at the resort’s onsite restaurants too.
The Sea Breeze Café combines beautiful Gulf front views with al fresco or air-conditioned dining. It lives up to the highest expectations after being voted “Best Waterfront Dining in Southwest Florida”. Another award-winner is the Shima Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar at Sundial Beach Resort. Named “Best New Restaurant” 2016 and “Best Sushi”, the restaurant offers an authentic Japanese dining experience both in the restaurant and with their Shima Grab N Go take-away service.
For a sandy-toed Tiki Bar experience, try Turtle’s Pool & Beach Bar or head over to Slice of Paradise for family favorites including pizza, hot dogs, and hand-scooped ice cream. After all, you are on vacation!
Sundial Beach Resort Events and Amenities
Beyond the extensive restaurant choices, Sundial Beach Resort has plenty more amenities and spaces for hosting corporate and social events. From outdoor terraces to fully-equipped board rooms for meetings and conferences, Sundial Beach Resort & Spa caters for all sizes and types of events. Their professional and experienced team ensure that everything goes without a hitch, whether you are hosting a family reunion, or a special celebration such as a wedding or Bar/Bat Mitzvah.
Guests staying overnight can make the most of the amenities available at the resort, including five heated swimming pools, complimentary kayaking, standup paddleboarding, tennis, pickleball, shuffleboard, waterslides, and bicycle rentals. The fitness center allows guests to stay in shape with exercise machines and weights. The neighboring Dunes Golf and Tennis Club also welcomes guests who want to play a round of golf on a championship course within a stunning wildlife preserve.
Those who feel exhausted just reading about all this exertion may find their nirvana in the Sundial Beach Resort’s Kay Casperson Lifestyle Spa & Boutique where gently massaging hands and soothing elixirs provide a relaxing treat.
Beachfront Weddings at Sundial Beach Resort
Many guests who have experienced the tropical paradise at Sundial Beach Resort & Spa choose to return for their dream destination wedding. The resort offers casual wedding ceremonies on the beach or more formal weddings with a reception or buffet in the stunning ballroom. The wedding coordinator will work with you to make your dream wedding become a reality. From legal logistics to flowers and photographs, Sundial Beach Resort & Spa offer wedding packages that take all the stress out of the happiest day of your life!