Situated on the beach, this is arguably the best spot in Sanibel and Captiva for escapists whose interests lie in reading and relaxing. (Larger, faster-paced Casa Ybel is also an option.) Rates continue to climb, but standards are higher these days. Sibling to the Sanibel Inn next door, this stylish boutique-hotel attracts fewer children, hence its appeal for couples and individuals.
An archway and striped awning front a stylish, pleasant European reception area with Spanish tile and sit-down registration. Complimentary Continental breakfast is served in the lobby, then taken back to rooms or the sunny courtyard. Guests also have signing privileges next door, at Sanibel Inn's popular restaurant
and nightclub, Ellington's Jazz Bar and Restaurant.
On-site facilities are limited to a small library filled with books and videos. The fountained courtyard shelters the free-form pool, cozy whirlpool and gas barbecues. Guests pay to play at a nearby golf course, but the tennis courts, bicycles and beach umbrellas are free. Parking is also free.
The 23 efficiencies and eight one-bedroom beachfront apartments show elegant decor in an updated tropical bent, with oversize jalousies, terra-cotta tile floors, framed art photography, and custom hardwood furniture, armoires 
and carved headboards. Some of the units are conspicuously small, but the grounds provide plenty of room to move about. Warm sandy color schemes let the garden and distant sea views slip into the limelight. Appurtenances run to air conditioners, coffeemakers, TVs, phones and safes. Efficiencies provide compact kitchens, two queen beds, laminate vanities and tiled and papered baths, while apartments furnish queen sofa beds in spacious sitting rooms and king beds in small bedrooms.
Fewer trees shade the screened porches these days, but landscaping is beginning to fill back out following storm damage. Units in the beachfront building afford water views, and all guests receive a complimentary bottle of wine and fresh flowers on arrival.
Room service is not available. Pets are not permitted.
Arriving after dark is not advised, as it is difficult to see, and guests must often traipse next door to register. This well-managed, well-maintained inn requires high-season bookings to be made far in advance. This is the next best thing to renting one of the island's multimillion-dollar homes, but this is much less expensive.
