Travel
Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort and Spa-Savor, Relax and Unwind
Nicely refurbished after being hit by the hurricanes
Finally, our long-anticipated trip to the Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort and Spa came to fruition. We had planned to go earlier in the year, but a few things thwarted our efforts, so we had to postpone our trip.
Now that the seasonal crowds had thinned, our anticipation escalated as we prepared for the adventure. I'm not enthusiastic about dealing with the hassle of airports, so taking a short trip was perfect.
From our home in Naples, the resort is about an hour and a half away and about half an hour from Fort Myers. Our last visit to the Florida Keys put us in the throat of so much traffic, so I looked forward to avoiding those clogged two-lane highways.
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Thanks to the property being renovated after the recent hurricanes, we were pleasantly surprised to see how much progress they had made. Our spacious suite in the main building overlooked the Sanibel Harbour, with pristine views of the waters below. I loved watching the boats zig-zag back and forth as the tangerine sunset said goodbye to another beautiful day.
The main pool below our balcony looked to be the hive of activity, especially for those with families. Who could argue with a pool and jacuzzi hugged by the tranquility of the sea? Adjacent to the main tower is the Captiva Tower, catering to those needing more solitude.
Find out what's happening in Fort Myersfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Marriott’s sprawling 85-acre property lends itself to outdoor activity. Tennis and Pickleball courts are cradled by a walking trail, putting you in the heart of nature. Many golfers sauntered through the lobby on their way to try and flex their talents on a nearby course.
But the highlight of my visit was the newly renovated 40,000-square-foot spa. As soon as I entered the foyer, I left my troubles behind. I hadn't had a facial in years, so I opted for the custom facial with a mask add-on treatment. Anything done to me would be an improvement after my decades in the sun.
Brandy assessed my skin and began her pampering. I’m Irish, and aging is not one of my strong suits. I’ve got spots and stripes that make my face look like a Thomas Guide. After an hour, I couldn’t believe how much better my skin looked. My friend said I was glowing.
The salon and fitness complex features 28 spa treatment rooms. Couples should check out their co-ed spa offerings, and for bridal events, there's a private suite. Upstairs, there is a full fitness facility with various wellness and fitness classes.
Since I'm new to facials, I plan to pamper myself more frequently now that I know what they can do. My pal indulged in the steam, sauna, pool, and Jacuzzi. She felt like jello afterward.
If you're a tennis or Pickleball enthusiast, several courts are adjacent to the spa, with open play, instructed lessons, and clinics. The courts are just a short jaunt from the main tower over a beautiful walkway through the mangroves.
And now, for the food! I’m a foodie, so premium dining is always a plus when I travel. Overlooking the courts is Marriott’s signature restaurant, The Courtside Steakhouse.
Most restaurants serve anemic scallops, but their Jumbo Scallops were easily the size of small hockey pucks. No wonder the restaurant won the Open Table 2023 Diner’s Choice Award. It’s a special place. Sit by the window and enjoy the view.
But there are more casual dining options as well. We had a delightful late lunch at Charley’s Cabana Bar with our attentive waiter, Michael, charming us throughout our meal. The tuna tartare was a home run, and their onion soup possessed a snappy, distinctive flavor.
Breakfast is one of my favorite meals of the day. The Tarpon Club boasts a massive buffet, or if you aren’t in a hurry, just order off the menu. I devoured my omelet but barely made a dent in my large cylinder of hash browns.
Destination weddings are always fun for me. Who wouldn't want to get married on a Florida beach? Taking your vows surrounded by the natural romance of the sea sounds so divine.
While prowling around one evening, I remembered my career in sales. Imagine a seaside location for a corporate event. Down the hall, I was tempted to crash a couple’s 50th anniversary celebration! Boy, did they party on!
As a Floridian, I value the importance of supporting the local community, and I am really glad that I had the opportunity to enjoy the amenities at this lovely property. Assuming nature gives it a reprieve, my next visit to the Marriott will be even more memorable, especially if we utilize our Marriott points!
Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa
Address: 17260 Harbour Pointe Dr, Fort Myers, FL 33908
Phone: (239) 466-4000
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SanibelHarbourMarriott
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sanibelharbourmarriott/
#Sanibelisland #marriottsanibel #spaatsanibelharbour
