Island Inn or Tween Waters

Question

Hello, all-

I am scheduled to come down in August and have reservations at Island Inn, but just found out their pool and onsite restaurant has not reopened. While I'm more of a beach person, it is nice to have a pool to jump in occasionally (especially in August heat). I am considering cancelling and going to Tween Waters, but I have stayed there and there seems to be a different, less relaxed vibe.

Has anyone stayed in both locations and what are your thoughts? Is it worth giving up a pool to stay at Island Inn? I have visited Sanibel many times over the years and do prefer the Sanibel beaches over Captiva - it just seems like a toss up so looking for opinions.

Thank you in advance!

Answer

Choosing between Island Inn on Sanibel and Tween Waters on Captiva really comes down to what kind of vacation vibe you prefer, especially in August when the heat is intense and having a pool can be a nice respite.

Island Inn: The biggest draw is its location on Sanibel Island’s beautiful beach. It’s quiet, relaxing, and very much oriented toward beach lovers. Since the pool and onsite restaurant are currently closed, you’ll be limited to ocean access and any nearby dining options. If you’re primarily a beach person and enjoy a serene, less commercialized experience, Island Inn is still very appealing. The beach is wide, natural, and typically less crowded than Captiva areas.

Tween Waters: This resort offers more amenities, including a pool and onsite restaurant, which can be very convenient in hot August weather. However, some visitors note that Tween Waters has a slightly more active, family-oriented vibe, which may feel less relaxed than Island Inn. The property sits on Captiva, which is smaller and can feel a little more resort-y, and the beaches, while beautiful, can be more crowded.

If you prioritize swimming in a pool to escape the August heat, Tween Waters will be the better choice.
If your main goal is a tranquil, authentic Sanibel beach experience and you don’t mind skipping the pool, Island Inn is ideal.
Consider your dining preferences—without an onsite restaurant, Island Inn requires planning for meals nearby, while Tween Waters offers more convenient options onsite.

Some visitors who have stayed at both suggest that the difference in ambiance is notable: Island Inn is calm and low-key, perfect for reading, long beach walks, and minimal distractions, whereas Tween Waters is livelier, with more families and activity on site. If your main concern is heat and having a pool to dip in, Tween Waters may be worth it, but if your heart is set on Sanibel’s beach charm, Island Inn can still be enjoyable—you may just need to plan for meals and occasional trips to a pool elsewhere.

Island Inn or Tween Waters

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