Casa Ybel Resort & Thistle Lodge Restaurant Review

I recently had the opportunity to stay at Casa Ybel Resort, one of the only true beachfront properties on Sanibel Island.  The resort, which sits on 23 acres, is positively stunning as are the well-manicured grounds.  I instantly felt as though I was in my own tropical paradise.  When we checked in we received a very nicely presented packet of materials that included an assortment of brochures on recreational activities, bike rentals and suggested routes, umbrella and chair rentals for the beach, area maps and a brochure and coupon for their on-site restaurant, Thistle Lodge Beachfront Restaurant. They also have a program for children aptly named Casa Kid’s Club that would be terrific for families.

Our view from the balcony

All of Casa Ybel’s one or two bedroom suites face the Gulf of Mexico with views that are postcard perfect. The one bedroom king suite we stayed in was gorgeous; tastefully decorated, well-appointed and actually quite large.  The suites have fully equipped kitchens, large bathrooms with two entrances, a screened in lanai or balcony with a table and chairs, a sleeper sofa (which was extremely comfortable) and all of the other amenities you would expect.

I am one of those gals who love travel sized bathroom amenities and I was particularly impressed with the lovely basket of goodies that was presented.  Not just one basket, but two! They were filled to the brim with Gilchrist & Soames products and even included a small loofah body scrubber that is the perfect travel size.  It’s the little things, right?

After a very restful sleep, we ventured outside the next morning to walk around the property a bit.  The resort is very well maintained and secure as you have to pass through a security gate to get on the property.  The tennis courts and Olympic sized beachfront pool were gorgeous and we were both bummed we wouldn’t be able to just lounge around the pool all day soaking in the sun.

Photo credit Nita Ettinger

Sorry we didn’t have an opportunity to dine at Thistle Lodge – setting on the property is spectacular and it is easy to see why it is consistently voted Sanibel’s Most Romantic Restaurant.

Casa Ybel Resort would be an ideal location for a wedding or special event. It’s everything you need all rolled into one spectacular package. I will definitely be back and next time, I will be setting aside some time to soak in the sun by the pool.