With its dreamy white sand beaches, stunning nature, 22 miles of bike paths, and slower pace of life, Sanibel Island, facing the Gulf of Mexico, is one of the most loved holiday destinations in Florida, especially by families!
The best way to spend your holiday here is to rent one of the amazing Sanibel Island cottages. But the island hosts so many cottages that it is hard to choose the right one for your travel needs and budget… Well, good news, I’ve already done the job for you!
From beachfront cottages to family-friendly options and romantic getaways for couples, here you have all the possible accommodations in Sanibel Island, Florida, ordered by price range from luxury to budget, so there’s really something for any taste!
P.S: When you find the best cottage for your vacation on Sanibel Island, make sure you book it as soon as possible, or you could lose the spot! Places sell out super fast in this paradise!
Which one will you choose? There’s only one way to find it out: let’s start!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
If you don’t have time to read the whole post, and you need to book now, check out the best Sanibel Island cottages for each budget range below:
- Best luxury cottage – Beachview Cottages
- Best value for money – Shalimar Cottages And Motel
- Best affordable accommodation in the center – Seahorse Cottages
Check out this map of Sanibel Island, Florida, to know where all the cottages I’ll be talking about in this post are located:
Luxury (US$400 and up)
- South Seas Gulf Cottage 1106 – Located in Captiva, the northern part of Sanibel Island, this large beachfront cottage is perfect for a big family vacation or a group of friends, hosting up to 8 people! Here you’ll gaze at breathtaking gulf-front views directly from your room, prepare delicious meals in a fully equipped kitchen, or just chill at the large screened balcony. And just a short drive away you will find many shops and restaurants!
- Captiva Cottage – Escape to this secluded cottage on Captiva’s exclusive Gold Coast, just 300 steps from the uncrowded Gulf Coast beach! Surrounded by lush tropical plants, it features a private heated pool, tanning ledge, and a gazebo. Enjoy shelling, kayaking, fishing, or relaxing in this peaceful retreat. Pet-friendly with prior approval, it’s the perfect island escape!
- Jensen’s On the Gulf – This stunning cottage is located right on the beach – all you need to do is walk out and you’ll be dipping your toes in the water. While still keeping the old historic character, the cottage has been fully remodeled and equipped with modern amenities. Enjoy a spacious private bedroom with cozy seating, a bright living room, and a fully equipped kitchen for preparing your favorite meals.
Mid Range (US$250 – US$400)
- Coastal Cottage Ibis – Nestled in the heart of Sanibel, Ibis Cottage offers a serene retreat just minutes from the beach. Perfect for couples or small families, this 1-bedroom cottage features a king-size bed, a sleeper sofa, and a private lanai. Enjoy complimentary bicycles, a charcoal grill, and tranquil surroundings with local wildlife. Nearby attractions like J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge and shelling beaches make it an ideal getaway.
- Chic Cottage Sandpiper – This 1-bedroom haven features a queen bed with coral bedding, an open-concept kitchen and living area, and a private gazebo overlooking a serene wildlife pond. Enjoy complimentary bicycles, beach chairs, an umbrella, and a beach parking permit for your convenience. After a day of shelling, unwind in the thoughtfully decorated space that blends modern comfort with island charm. Ideal for couples seeking a tranquil getaway.
- Island Inn – Check out these incredible Sanibel Island cottages, offering everything you need for a vacation with a family or friends! Located on 10 acres of land on Sanibel Island, these cottages offer access to a private beach, tennis courts, an outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant. The Island Inn’s private beach is perfect for swimming and guests can enjoy shuffle boarding, sailing, or kayaking… What else can you ask for?
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Budget (up to US$250)
- Macaw Cottage – The Parrot Nest is one of the Old-Sanibel cottages located on the quiet East End of the island. This newly remodeled retreat is within walking distance of Sanibel’s pristine beaches, shops, and restaurants. This cozy haven offers modern amenities and a prime location, making it perfect for those seeking a convenient and comfortable island getaway.
- 2 Bedroom Cottage – Nestled in a cozy 8-unit complex, this 2-bedroom Sanibel Island cottage is newly restored and just steps from the beach. Enjoy a screened lanai, queen-sized beds, a fully equipped kitchen with all-new appliances, and a refreshing pool. Please note: not suitable for young children, no pets, and no smoking.
- Seahorse Cottages – Adults Only – Seahorse Cottages are located in a quiet part of Sanibel, Florida, toward the famous Lighthouse. Here you’ll have access to everything you need like complimentary bicycles, sand chairs & beach towels, hammocks where you can relax, a small heated pool, and gas grills to cook the best dinners… all this at very affordable prices!
👑 Luxury price: | $400 |
💵 Mid Range: | $300 |
🛏️ Budget: | $200 |
💰Accommodation prices: | High |
🌊Cottages with a view | Captiva Cottage |
🏖️ With a private beach | Island Inn |
☀️Best time to go: | December – April |
🛎️ Best luxury cottages: | South Seas Gulf Cottage |
🧳 Best mid-range cottages: | Coastal Cottage Ibis |
👛 Best budget cottages: | Seahorse Cottages |
FAQs about Sanibel Island Cottages
🏡 Which are the best cottages in Sanibel Island, Florida?
The best cottages in Sanibel Island are Captiva Cottage for a luxury beach cottage getaway or Seahorse Cottages if you are on a budget.
👪 Which are the best cottages on Sanibel Island for a family vacation?
The best cottages in Sanibel Island for a family vacation are the luxury Jensen’s On the Gulf which is right on the beach, or South Seas Gulf Cottage 1106, in Captiva, hosting up to 8 people!
🏝️Is it better to stay in Captiva Island or Sanibel, Florida?
The two islands, Sanibel and Captiva, are both quiet spots with great shorelines, but Sanibel has better shelly beaches, and Captiva’s dining options are more eclectic! So it depends on your taste.
🏖️ What are the best things to do in Sanibel Island, Florida?
The best things to do in Sanibel Island, Florida, include relaxing on its beautiful beaches, riding the 22 miles of bike paths, fishing, kayaking, or exploring the surrounding islands
Conclusion
Here we are at the end of this travel guide with the best Sanibel Island cottages for different tastes and budgets… I hope it helped you find what you were looking for!
If you are still undecided on which is the best option for your holiday, here are my 2 favorite cottages on the island offering great value:
- Captiva Cottage – This is the ultimate beach cottage getaway, situated right on the white beach, in the middle of Sanibel Island
- Seahorse Cottages – Adults Only – Located just steps away from the beach, these Florida-style cottages offer amazing views on the Gulf of Mexico!
If you like them as much as I do, make sure you book something immediately, so you can secure yourself a spot!
I hope you enjoyed reading this post and if you have any questions about Sanibel Island, please leave them in the comments below, I look forward to answering you!
Have an amazing holiday!
Elena
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