As a Floridian, I'm pretty jaded about the time share/condos that line our coasts. We LOVED Sanibel Island, and the Sanibel Beach Club was a great fit for a family looking for a relaxing beach vacation.
Sanibel Island has done a great job of keeping their slice of Florida devoid of tall condos and the "Spring Break" type bars and shops. Even over Memorial Day weekend, we were never in a traffic jam, it was always quiet after dark, and there was always a spot on the beach for my girlfriend and my children without a drunken soccer or volleyball game breaking out.
The Sanibel Beach Club is an older community (1980s I think), so it's not that brand new stucco look, but it is very well kept. The decking that criss-crosses the property is all in great shape and the pool and jacuzzi are very clean. There are gas grills located convenient to every unit for use and the property feels alot more like homes than a resort. The staff was very laid back and lets you do your own thing (I'm sure they're attentive when need be, but frankly we were left without need for anything in the first place).
The units all feature somewhat new appliances (unless you're the Viking or Sub-zero crowd, you'll be pleased with the kitchen) and 2 large bedrooms and 2 baths. The bedrooms are located on the outside of the unit, so you're not listening to your neighbor while trying to sleep. The patio is large and screened in with lounge chairs and a patio table.
It's a little far to bike anywhere from here with small children, but it's still convenient to everything on the island (for a biking adult, or with a car) and the beach is right outside the door. The driveway and parking are gravel, so don't bother washing the car before you come. :)
A very good place to stay, and by the time you subtract the "additional person fees" for my 3 and 6 year old (a typical Florida gimmick) the other properties were asking for, Sanibel Beach Club was the best bargain on the beach!
- Sanibel Beach
