Though an approximately 10-hour drive from Chattanooga, it’s easy to see the draw of Sanibel and Captiva islands on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Originally one island, the sister islands are now separated by a bridge, and both are connected to the mainland by a causeway built in 1963.
Where to stay
Sanibel
Casa Ybel Beach Resort is a three-star resort on the beach featuring 114 family-friendly condos with kitchenettes and screened porches. Resort amenities include a pool, open-air bar and hammocks, as well as good tennis and children’s programs. Not quite a luxury resort, it has everything you’ll need for a relaxing week at the beach, including the option of spa treatments typically only available at larger properties. The resort’s convenient location puts you within easy reach of the island’s shops, restaurants and grocery stores. If you want to really relax, there’s a poolside bar that serves food during the day as well as a fine-dining restaurant on-site. Casa Ybel also has a ping pong table, which I consider an essential amenity.
Captiva