Entire home

Shovel Sand, Not Snow! You've found your Sanibel Island retreat! Secluded near-beach Strangler Fig home has it all. Pet-friendly, too!

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A single-story house with a garage, a covered porch, and a gravel driveway. - Shovel Sand, Not Snow! You've found your Sanibel Island retreat! Secluded near-beach Strangler Fig home has it all.  Pet-friendly, too! (Sanibel)
A round outdoor table with six chairs, surrounded by lush greenery and a gravel path. - Shovel Sand, Not Snow! You've found your Sanibel Island retreat! Secluded near-beach Strangler Fig home has it all.  Pet-friendly, too! (Sanibel)
A living room with a sofa, armchairs, a coffee table, and a kitchen area with a refrigerator and cabinets. - Shovel Sand, Not Snow! You've found your Sanibel Island retreat! Secluded near-beach Strangler Fig home has it all.  Pet-friendly, too! (Sanibel)
A sunlit room with a glass table, wicker furniture, and a view of the outdoors. - Shovel Sand, Not Snow! You've found your Sanibel Island retreat! Secluded near-beach Strangler Fig home has it all.  Pet-friendly, too! (Sanibel)
A modern kitchen with a marble countertop, a refrigerator, and a decorative wall piece. - Shovel Sand, Not Snow! You've found your Sanibel Island retreat! Secluded near-beach Strangler Fig home has it all.  Pet-friendly, too! (Sanibel)
Shovel Sand, Not Snow! You've found your Sanibel Island retreat! Secluded near-beach Strangler Fig home has it all. Pet-friendly, too! provides amenities, such as a garden and laundry facilities. Stay connected with free in-room WiFi.

Entire home

2 bedrooms2 bathrooms

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi

Add dates for prices

About this property

Shovel Sand, Not Snow! You've found your Sanibel Island retreat! Secluded near-beach Strangler Fig home has it all. Pet-friendly, too!

  • Strangler Fig | Your Tropical Island Sanctuary

    Strangler Fig IS Back!

    Dreaming of a tropical island escape where native trees outnumber your worries? Welcome to Strangler Fig—a hidden gem tucked into Sanibel's lush west end, where nature, comfort, and Gulf beaches come together in perfect harmony.

    Why Strangler Fig?

    This isn't just a vacation rental—it's your private botanical retreat with beach access. Nestled in the tranquil Gulf Pines neighborhood, this 1,317-square-foot, ground-level home is surrounded by over 91 native trees and shrubs, blooming orchids, bromeliads, and shell-lined pathways that immediately slow your heart rate to island time.

    Perfect for:

    ~ Pet lovers (your pup gets a dog run And beach access!)

    ~ Beach seekers (3-minute stroll to uncrowded Gulf shores)

    ~ Nature enthusiasts (1 mile from Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge)

    ~ Rest & relaxation devotees (because you deserve it)

    Your Island Oasis Awaits

    Step Inside:

    ~ Open, airy living with terrazzo and tile floors throughout

    ~ Glass-enclosed lanai bringing the tropics indoors

    ~ Samsung Frame Smart TV

    ~ Thoughtfully curated décor featuring local artists, antique pieces by Steven Shell, and designer textiles from Palacek, Pottery Barn, Henry Link, Ficks Reed, Serena & Lily and Safavieh

    ~Complimentary high-speed WiFi to share those sunset photos (or pretend you're unreachable—we won't tell)

    Cook, Gather, Relax:

    ~ The updated, well-appointed eat-in kitchen features stainless steel appliances and everything you need to whip up island-inspired meals.

    ~Enjoy breakfast in the sunny nook overlooking lush tropical foliage, or dine al fresco surrounded by nature.

    Rest & Recharge:

    ~ Primary Suite: King bed, lanai access, en-suite bath with dressing area, vanity, and shower

    ~ Guest Bedroom: Two twin beds, en-suite bath with zero-threshold custom shower for easy accessibility

    ~ Both rooms designed for peaceful, restorative sleep

    Pet-Friendly Paradise

    Strangler Fig is part of a welcoming pet-friendly community where dogs are cherished members of the neighborhood. Bring your four-legged family member along! Prior owner approval and a non-refundable pet fee apply (based on length of stay and number of dogs). Weight limits and breed restrictions may apply—contact us for details.

    The Cottages to Castles Difference

    Strangler Fig is professionally managed by Cottages to Castles, Sanibel's trusted boutique rental agency since 1997. From seamless check-in to personalized local recommendations and responsive support, we ensure every stay is memorable for all the right reasons.

    ~ Important Rental Information~

    November–May: Full calendar month rentals only (no mid-month arrivals)

    Year-round: City of Sanibel requires 28-night minimum rental—no exceptions

    Questions about availability? Our booking system may show dates as unavailable when they're actually open—contact us directly to confirm your preferred dates.

    Ready to Unwind in Your Tropical Retreat?

    Strangler Fig isn't just a vacation rental—it's your invitation to slow down, breathe deep, and reconnect with what matters. Shell-filled mornings, nature-soaked afternoons, and sunset strolls are waiting.

    Contact Cottages to Castles today and let's plan your perfect island escape.

    Book with confidence. Stay with joy. Return year after year.

    Faq

    Is Strangler Fig pet-friendly? Yes, a small dog is welcome with prior approval and payment of a non-refundable pet fee + taxes.

    What is the minimum stay? The City of Sanibel requires a minimum 28-night rental year-round, no exceptions.

    Where on the island is Strangler Fig located? Tucked into Sanibel’s lush west end, close to Gulf beaches.

    Are beach towels and beach chairs provided? Yes — a minimum of 2 beach chairs are provided, along with 1 beach towel per person. Beach umbrellas are not provided.

    Are bicycles provided? We don’t provide bicycles — that’s not our specialty. We leave bike rentals to the pros: Billy’s Bikes and Finnimore’s. Both deliver, provide helmets, and offer roadside assistance if needed.

    When should I book my airfare or finalize my travel arrangements? Please do not book airfare until your reservation has been approved, a deposit has been posted & paid to Cottages to Castles, & a reservation confirmation has been sent to you. -- has charged you a booking fee to process your reservation request.

    How do I keep mosquitoes and no-see-ums away during my beach vacation? The best defense is an insect repellent with Picaridin, paired with light, long-sleeve coverage when you're not in the water. Loose, breathable long sleeves and pants block bites well, but that's not always practical at the beach, pool, or swimming in the Gulf — so a good Picaridin-based repellent is your go-to.

    Guest favorites include Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus Picaridin Aerosol Spray and Bug Guard Wipes/Lotion (available on Avon. com), and Sawyer Picaridin Lotion (available on Amazon). Picaridin is effective against both mosquitoes and no-see-ums, doesn't feel greasy like Deet, and won't damage swimsuits or patio furniture. Apply before heading outside in the early morning or evening, when both pests are most active.

    City of Sanibel Dwelling Rental License #20-00020313

    -- ID #4288970

    -- 4288970

    Amenities Include:

    - Square Footage, Est.: 1317

    - Bed Size 1st Rm/Primary: King

    - Bed Size 2nd Rm: 2 Twins

    - Pool - Fresh/Salt Water: Community

    - Wi-Fi: Yes

    - Dog Friendly: Yes

    - Pet Instructions: 1 Dog Maximum 35#

    - Pet Instructions 2: Prefer Non-Shedding

    - Beach Chairs: Yes

    - Tennis: Yes - Community

    - Linens Provided: Yes

    - Microwave: Yes

    - washer dryer: Yes

    - Video / Audio Doorbell On Property: Yes

    - Near Beach: Yes

    - Beach Access: Yes

    - Rental License No.: Shom-005435

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach nearby
  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing nearby

Pool/Spa

  • Communal pool
  • Heated pool

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster
  • Water dispenser

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Music library
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Office

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • Up to 9 kg per pet

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • No lift
  • Single level property
  • Smooth flooring in public areas
  • Stair-free path to entrance
  • Tile flooring in public areas
  • Smoke-free property
  • Note from host: Smoking is not allowed.

Services and conveniences

  • Housekeeping on request
  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a river
  • Near an outlet shopping centre
  • Near the marina
  • Near the sea

Things to do

  • Bicycle parking
  • Bicycle storage
  • Bicycles
  • Heated pool
  • Outdoor pickleball court
  • Tennis
  • Basketball nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Parasailing nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Snorkelling nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Bicycle parking
  • Bicycle storage
  • Bicycles
  • Comprehensive food waste policy
  • Garden
  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Local artist showcase
  • Local culture and ecosystem education
  • Locally-owned and organised tours and activities
  • Recycling
  • Reusable coffee/tea filters
  • Some LED lighting used
  • Water dispenser
  • Water-efficient showers
  • Water-efficient toilets

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 25

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
If you are departing on Sunday or Monday, please place trash and recycling at the street for pickup. Otherwise, leave the bins in the garage.
Please leave garage opener on kitchen counter.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Rules

Do not book your airfare before you have received a confirmation from Cottages to Castles and a payment has been posted to your account by CtoC.
Your dog may be permitted with prior owner approval and paymeng of a non-refundable pet fee. The fee is based on the length of stay and type of breed.

Pets

Pets are allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
1 total (up to 9 kg per pet)

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
Note from host: Children Allowed

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoking is not allowed.

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts

About the area

Located near the beach, this holiday home is in West End, a neighbourhood in Sanibel. While the natural beauty of Sanibel Island Southern Beach and Bowman's Beach can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can explore Key West Express. Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation and Bailey - Matthews Shell Museum are also worth visiting. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails and ecotours nearby. Visit our Sanibel travel guide
View more Holiday homes in Sanibel
Map
Sanibel, FL

What's nearby

  • A wooden boardwalk through a mangrove forest with a clear sky above.
    J. N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge
    16 min walk - 0.9 miles
  • A variety of seashells on a beach.
    Sanibel Island Southern Beach
    18 min walk - 1.0 mile
  • A wooden boardwalk leading to J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge Visitor & Education Center, surrounded by lush greenery.
    Sanibel Bayous
    3 min drive - 1.5 miles
  • A sandy beach with a clear sky and ocean in the background.
    Bowman's Beach
    9 min drive - 3.2 miles
  • A beach with a lighthouse, palm trees, and a sunset sky.
    Sanibel Island Lighthouse
    20 min drive - 10.8 miles

Getting around

  • Fort Myers, FL (RSW-Southwest Florida Intl.)
    58 min drive

Restaurants

  • Jerry's Foods
    12 min drive
  • Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille
    10 min drive
  • Phuzzy’s Boat Shack
    76 min drive
  • Turtles Tiki Bar
    16 min drive
  • MudBugs Cajun Kitchen
    12 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Shovel Sand, Not Snow! You've found your Sanibel Island retreat! Secluded near-beach Strangler Fig home has it all. Pet-friendly, too! have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool. Pool types include heated pools.

Is Shovel Sand, Not Snow! You've found your Sanibel Island retreat! Secluded near-beach Strangler Fig home has it all. Pet-friendly, too! pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 9 kg per pet.

How much is parking at Shovel Sand, Not Snow! You've found your Sanibel Island retreat! Secluded near-beach Strangler Fig home has it all. Pet-friendly, too!?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Shovel Sand, Not Snow! You've found your Sanibel Island retreat! Secluded near-beach Strangler Fig home has it all. Pet-friendly, too!?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Shovel Sand, Not Snow! You've found your Sanibel Island retreat! Secluded near-beach Strangler Fig home has it all. Pet-friendly, too!?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Shovel Sand, Not Snow! You've found your Sanibel Island retreat! Secluded near-beach Strangler Fig home has it all. Pet-friendly, too! located?

Located in West End, this holiday home is 0.8 mi (1.4 km) from Sanibel Island Southern Beach and 1.9 mi (3.1 km) from Bowman's Beach. J. N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge and Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation are also within 6 miles (10 km).

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Shovel Sand, Not Snow! You've found your Sanibel Island retreat! Secluded near-beach Strangler Fig home has it all. Pet-friendly, too! Reviews