Looking for an easy drivable vacation that feels like a whole different world? Pack your bags and head for South Seas Island Resort on the south west coast of Florida. This timeless spot is sure to become a place your family will return to again and again!
We actually booked a different south west coast vacation for the New Years week and it was not the family fit we were hoping for. We called South Seas and they had 1 room left – SOLD! We quickly packed back up, checked out, and made the drive to Captiva Island. It was a leap of faith as our last internet booking didn’t work out so well!
As soon as we crossed the Sanibel Causeway Bridge we knew we were in the right spot. 100 years ago this area was a key lime farm, and little has changed. The main road through the island is tree lined with quaint little shops, businesses, and restaurants along the way.
Once you enter the gate to the resort it feels more like a small town with a club rather than a resort. You can spend your days at the beach looking for shells, playing tennis, sailing, at the pools, bike riding, shopping, at the arcade, enjoying tacos on the beach, bird watching, playing games, reading…. It feels like you have traveled back in time in the best way.
We were there over New Years week and they were completely booked – but we still had plenty of space, always had a choice of pool and beach chairs, and never waited at the ice cream shop!
South Seas is actually not a hotel, rather a collection of homes and condos with a front desk that manages the rental process. They offer 1-4+ bedrooms each with a full kitchen. They are individually owned so each property is a little different. We stayed in one of the beachfront condos, 2235, which is actually 4 bedrooms, 3 bath, and has a washer dryer. The units that do not have washer dryers do have laundry in each building for your use. Housekeeping services are available. Look at the resort map before you book to understand where you are. The location of the marina condos is nice as they are close to the kids club(in non covid times), the main pools, and the Mexican restaurant on the beach(a must).
Gold carts and bikes are available for rent and there is a shuttle for resort guests. You can also take your car around but during busy times parking near the main pools can be tricky.
The gulf, a 330 acre nature preserve, and over 2 miles of beaches make a natural playground that is ideal for family fun. There are several dining options. Pizza is delivered two nights a week if you desire, markets are stocked, and Starbucks is near the arcade. The main pools have food service.
In non covid times there is an on site day camp for children ages 3-13.
We hope you have a great trip. If you go leave a comment with your room number and what you liked (or didn’t like about it) so we can all take note.