Sunfinder Vacations

What to expect: The Sanibel Inn overlooks the Gulf of Mexico. Tropical gardens attract butterflies and hummingbirds—and the occasional turtle or rabbit. Guests can relax by the heated outdoor pool, search for shells along the shore, or borrow a bicycle to explore picturesque Sanibel Island.

Amenity highlights: Ellington's Jazz Bar and Restaurant, popular with the locals as well as guests, offers American cuisine and live jazz nightly.

In addition to the beach and pool, guests also receive discounted access to the semi-private Dunes Golf & Tennis Club, 1.5 miles away.

The Sanibel Harbour Resort is nestled on a peninsula in a lush landscape with tropical palms.

What to expect: The Sundial Beach & Golf Resort caters to families, who appreciate the resort’s many activities and child-friendly amenities. Sanibel Island, the northern portion of which is a National Wildlife Refuge, teems with birds and sea life. Guests can rent kayaks or arrange dolphin-watching tours, and kids love the on-site educational center, with an aquarium and petting pool.

Amenity highlights: Tennis players can alternate between the resort’s six hard-surface courts and six clay-surface courts, two of which are lit for night play. Five heated outdoor pools offer freshwater recreation, while a mile of private beach and water-sports equipment rentals provide myriad opportunities for saltwater fun. Guests also receive discounts at the nearby semi-private Dunes Golf and Tennis Club.

Insider tip: The J. N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, named for Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist and environmentalist Jay Norwood Darling, teems with native wildlife, including birds, reptiles, mammals, and plants. A four-mile scenic drive, walking and biking paths, and canoe trails all provide access. The refuge education center includes an observation tower with excellent views of surrounding flora and fauna. Fees are $5 per car, $1 per cyclist or pedestrian. Children ages 15 and younger bike and walk free.

Nestled among palm trees and lush gardens, and bordered by scenic Estero Bay, this secluded, 18-story, 450-room resort is an oasis in Southwest Florida. A richly appointed lobby, with dark woods, soft lights, and tropical plants and flowers, welcomes arriving business and leisure guests. The lobby offers a spectacular view of the Grand Fountain overlooking the reflective pool in the outside courtyard.