An Ultimate Escape at Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa

We kicked off our shoes and put up our feet, letting the soothing sound of the waves and smell of fresh ocean air wash over us. The sun was setting in a spectacular fashion over Sanibel Harbour, and, with chocolate martini in hand, we had unlocked the perfect combination for an ultimate escape.

The sky was awash with brilliant shades of purple, pink and blue as the final rays of Florida sun beat down upon the resort below. Dolphins danced around the 100-foot private yacht tied to the harbour as guests boarded for a sunset cruise.

We had finally reached a place where we could truly unwind and relax. We had reached Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa.

Sunset view from our room balcony.

A Florida vacation should be on the bucket list of every traveler, and if you haven’t heard of Sanibel Island, you should check it up stat. One of Florida’s premiere tourist destinations, Sanibel is a tropical island made up of soft white sand, endless beaches world renowned for shelling, lush tropical foliage, and gorgeous crystal clear water.

The true definition of a tropical paradise, we walked barefoot along the world’s most spectacular beaches, cycled the island’s expansive nature reserve, snorkeled & canoed alongside sensational marine life, and collected beautiful shells along the beach while enjoying awe-inspiring sun sets.

Onsite at the resort we sipped martinis in the hot-tub below towering coconut palms, took a pair of jetskis for a spin around neighboring islands, and made a splash in the hotel’s magnificent pool. We would then return to luxurious accommodation each evening to enjoy the warmth of the Florida sun from our private balcony overlooking the resort’s breathtaking waterfront.

The view of the hotel’s magnificent pool from our private balcony in the main tower.

Our accommodation was equally as elegant as the resort itself.

A spacious bedroom with an overly large bathroom and vanity; vibrant beach themed murals lining the walls. Plush beds and fluffy pillows which we sank straight into; a private balcony with amazing waterfront views and large windows which let in ample light.

Every amenity was provided, from complimentary high speed wifi, a mahogany computer desk, plugin technology with premium cable and a 42-inch flat-screen TV. We enjoyed onsite self parking (though valet also available), and the choice of a diverse range of unique restaurants on site, including Courtside Steakhouse which is annually rated #1 on TripAdvisor as one of the top steakhouses in the country.

A succulent steak cooked to perfection washed down with a rich Cabernet was a wonderful way to spend a romantic evening.  Watching dolphins play from the balcony of Charley’s Cabana Bar with cocktails in hand was a perfect way to unwind and relax (request Emily or Jenna when dining at Charley’s Cabana Bar).

Retire each evening to luxurious accommodation. Our room at the Sanibel Harbour Marriott.

But even more impressive than the spectacular sunset pictured above were the hotel staff, who genuinely seemed happy to be at work each day. Every staff member from the concierge to the housekeepers would say good morning, good night and hello, always with a welcoming smile on their face, letting us know they were available should we need absolutely anything at all.

Members of the executive management team were frequently based in the hotel lobby, greeting and speaking to guests ensuring their hotel experience was a fabulous one. Never before have we experienced a hotel where members of the top level executive management team were so accessible and willing to interact with guests.

When booking a room at the Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa keep in mind that the resort has two towers. Request a room in the main tower to be based near all of the main amenities, and for views over the resort pool as pictured above. Request a room in the Captiva Towers to be located a little further from the main hub of activity and maximize your privacy. Though both towers offer guests incredible luxury with awe inspiring views; the only way to experience Florida.

 About Megan Claire

Megan is an Australian Journalist who has been travelling and blogging around the world for the last 7 years to inspire others to embark on their own worldwide adventure!  Her husband Mike is an American travel photographer, and together they have made the world their home.

Follow their journey on Facebook, Google+ and Twitter.

We were guests of Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa. In no way did the out of this world views, fantastic location, luxurious rooms and smiling staff influence our opinion.