Weekend Getaway: Shelling and Relaxing at Casa Ybel Resort in Sanibel, FL #SavedbytheShell
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A couple of weeks ago, my husband and I set out for an amazing long weekend getaway to Sanibel, courtesy of The Beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel so we could be #SavedbytheShell. We hadn’t been away together since before we had kid over eight years ago. (I am still amazed it took this long!) Just a week before our 12th wedding anniversary, the timing was perfect. We had been to Florida already once this summer and stopped in Key West briefly during our honeymoon cruise. But we had never been close to this part of Florida.
It wasn’t long before we were in awe of the beauty in our surroundings. Joe didn’t waste anytime swimming in the Gulf of Mexico while I got my feet wet to experience the warm water.
We stayed at Casa Ybel Resort, which offers suites only, right along the beach. Our kind sized bed was so comfortable, I actually looked forward to go to bed at night.
The views of the Gulf of Mexico were breathtaking, even though our lodge was set back a bit. We loved having a screened in balcony which let in the sunshine and breeze, but kept most of the bugs (and other pests) out. We spent a lot of time lounging in this spot.
The suite itself had many amenities, ideal for a longer stay. With a complete living area, kitchen and dining room, it was like a home away from home. We enjoyed the many conveniences including the dishwasher, full refrigerator and separate vanities off the bathroom.
The resort boasts both a restaurant and bar area, right off the large pool and lounge area, complete with arbor ceiling fans.
The grounds themselves offered amazing views, where you looked.
The beach was quick and easy to access. which meant we were on the beach often.
The second day of our getaway, we met with local shelling expert and blogger, Pam from iloveshelling.
And since our resort offered so many great shells right along their beaches, we didn’t have to travel in order to shell. If you do go to this area, I recommend going on a shelling excursion with Pam! (See her blog for more details.)
Joe and I dug through the shells, keeping those that caught our eye. Pam was quick to share tips and information about the shells, which I really enjoyed! Joe took his task very seriously, and took to identifying them with the clip-on identification card we received from Pam.
After 2 hours in the mid-day sun, it was time to head back and cool off.
We spent the rest of the day exploring the island, and on Sunday we headed to Captiva for a day long cruise with Captiva Cruises and to watch the sunset. (More on that excursion to come.)
On the morning of our departure, Joe and I headed back out to the beach to soak up the sun for some last minute rest and relaxation. It was early on a Monday morning and the beach was almost deserted, except for the wildlife you could see everywhere you turned.
From the beautiful birds on the beach to the trees, watching the wildlife in their normal habit was certainly a sight to see.
My husband and I had such a fabulous time on this trip. It was everything we wanted with fun adventures, relaxation and great food. But I think it might be the waves I miss the most since coming back. The sound of them crashing and the colors as the sunlight hits is something to remember. We can’t wait to come back to the beaches of Sanibel. (And we definitely will someday!)
Thank you to The Beach of Fort Myers and Sanibel for choosing us to experience so much of what this area has to offer and for the local business who welcomed us with their hospitality. It was an unforgettable getaway. As always, all my opinions are my own.
Emilie, so glad you enjoyed your trip. I live on the next island over from Sanibel and those of us who live here truly believe we’re in paradise every single day of the year. Those balconies are actually year round, not just 3 seasons. We have great sunny, warm weather all year so hope you’ll come visit again.
Ha! Good point. Actually, up here they are called 3 season porches so I just call it that. Total habit. Here you are lucky if you can use them all three season. 🙂
What a fun little getaway, palm trees, cold drinks, and sand between your toes. I would be thrilled to travel here. Great way to relax.
My absolute favorite thing to do on the beach is collect shells, remember doing that when I was little with my grandpa. I love the gorgous pic of the tree with the pelicans on it.
Makes me want to pack up and leave to go, wish it was that easy. Sounds wonderful and relaxing
Looks like such a fun time! I will retire there someday! I’m so glad you got to expire the place I’m always talking about! I’m just jealous that you got to sleep on the islands! Someday we will spring for a hotel for after Mucky Ducks! This definitely looks like a fabulous one to start with!
What a beautiful place to visit! I would love to go to the beach!
this is such a beautiful place. Id love to go here the next time we’re in FL
This looks so amazing! I’ve heard great things about Sanibel and now I understand why!
I’ve been to Florida a few times, but never to Sanibel area. I had no idea how wonderful it is. We are going to Sanibel next time – wow!