Shalimar Cottages and Motel

You don't need to spend $250+ per night for top notch beachfront lodging in pricey Sanibel. For $130 (off season), our efficiency hotel room came with a spectacular view of the gulf from our own private deck, in a resort setting that was attractive, modern and well-maintained. This has got to be one of the best bargains on the island.

Unique Quality: The Shalimar includes all the standard amenities - a nice pool, cable TV, bikes and grills available, etc. But the real attraction is that it's one of the few places that are literally right on the beach. No need to trek across the dunes because the sand comes right up to the end of the building.

While Shalimar also has several cottages available, I'd recommend an upstairs room in what they call the "motel" building. Rooms 11, 12, 13 and 14 all have great views of the gulf, the beach and the sunset - you'll never even turn the TV on!