Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort and Spa

Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort and Spa sits on a peninsula at the mainland end of the Sanibel Causeway, where the resort enjoys wide views of San Carlos Bay and the water traffic around it. It is a large, full-service property, with a spa, several pools, tennis, a fitness center, restaurants, a marina and a bayside beach area. The resort is a good option for travelers who want resort comforts and a campus-like layout, as well as access to both Fort Myers and Sanibel. It is located before the toll bridge, which means that you can reach the mainland, the airport and the Edison and Ford estates quickly, while the island itself is a short drive away.

The size of the resort is both a strength and a consideration. On the positive side, there is a wide choice of rooms, from standard rooms to suites with balconies and waterfront views, and plenty of on-site activities, including pools, a spa, tennis and walking trails. Families, couples and groups can all find a niche, and the resort handles events and conferences without feeling cramped.

On the other hand, the beach here is on the bay rather than the open Gulf, so the water is calm but you will not find the surf and shelling that Sanibel's Gulf beaches provide. Many guests combine a few days at the resort with beach outings on the island.

The location offers flexibility. Because the resort is on the mainland side of the causeway, you can avoid some of the traffic and toll costs that guests staying on the island face, and the drive to the airport is relatively short. At the same time, you are only minutes from the Sanibel Lighthouse and the island's beaches, from where you can continue to Ding Darling and the shell museum. Boat tours depart from the on-site marina or from nearby, offering dolphin and sunset cruises without a long drive.

To get the best value, check the resort's room types and any resort fees, and compare bay-view and waterfront options. Winter and spring are the busiest, and rates are highest at holidays, while summer offers lower prices and a chance to enjoy the pools and spa. Ask about shuttle service, parking and any facilities that may be seasonal, and consider a spa treatment on a day when the weather does not cooperate.

For a polished, well-equipped base that links Fort Myers and Sanibel, this resort is a strong candidate. A large resort rewards some planning, so look at the property map, pick a building close to the pools or the marina if you prefer short walks, and ask about shuttle times for the grounds.