Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa

We just returned home from two nights at the lovely Sanibel Harbor Marriott resort where the outstanding customer service made us never want to leave. Being summer season, the resort wasn't super crowded and because we checked out on a Monday, we actually felt like we had the resort to ourselves for at least 24 hours. There are 2 towers, the Captiva and the Sanibel. Though we had booked a standard suite in the Captiva, we were graciously upgraded to what I recognize as the best suite in the Sanibel (top floor, center), due to availability. I took absolutely breathtaking pictures from our balcony and noticed that every balcony in the hotel has an ocean (gulf?) view that is so, so beautiful. Most importantly, though there was a conference and a wedding taking place, our family felt completely catered to. Each member of staff - from the valets, to wait staff, concierge, to employees simply walking by - was friendly, helpful, and went out of their way to meet our needs and more. Side note, this has nothing to do with the resort itself, but is worth mentioning: I got eaten alive by the noseeums here. They are all over Florida, but particularly out in swarms on the west coast in the summertime. Bring bug spray or baby oil, and slather one or both on anytime you are outdoors!

Very nice hotel but certainly some downfalls that probably wont have me staying here again. The first is the charge for parking. With a resort fee added on to the bill, the parking fee seems excessive especially as they have plenty of parking spaces and this is an area where you absolutely need to rent a car. The hotel itself was nice and the rooms clean but they billed themselves as luxurious for which i disagree. Again nothing wrong and a step up from many Marriotts but just didnt feel luxurious. The other item is the balconies. From the pictures it looks as you would be able to sit out and watch the sunset with some privacy. Far from the truth as the balconies are tiny and offer little privacy as you can see you neighbors if they stand at tgeir rail, hear every conversation they are having and look across the resort at others looking at you. While very clean and a decent pool, the parking fee and unuseable balcony will next time have us look at a hotel on Sanibel or Captiva rather than off island as is the case with this Marriott..

My husband and I always enjoy our annual trip to the Marriott Resort & Spa. This year was extra special; room wonderful view (#474); food (always good) was extra yummy; and drinks very delicious. Another fabulous time!