An Essex Wedding - Nov/Dec 2019 (Issue 89)

116 BEACH L I FE The unspoilt charm of Florida’s south west coast casts its spell on editor Sarah Reeve I ’d been to Florida before on a family holiday to Disney World when my children were little, so I was excited to be returning; this time for a totally different type of getaway! From the whirlwind adrenaline-high of the theme parks to the laid-back natural beauty of The Beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel, the two were like chalk and cheese. Although I’ll always cherish my memories of Orlando, I left a little piece of my heart among the shells of Florida’s south west coast. It was love at first sight, from the moment we arrived at the barrier island of Sanibel I knew I’d found my happy place. As we drove from the airport, my first glimpse of the Gulf of Mexico, the unspoilt white-sand beaches and uncluttered blue-sky horizons immediately started to work their magic. We’d left London on a grey day in May and arrived to be greeted by brilliant sunshine and a warm welcome at the island’s Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, the first stop on our two-centre stay. Perfect for couples looking to chill out and enjoy some post-wedding R&R, there’s something for everyone here. The light and airy suites, are spacious and well-equipped complete with their own kitchen, living area, garden or waterfront views. Perfect for newlyweds, you can dine in and enjoy some alone time or venture out and you won’t have far to go to enjoy great food. The resort boasts a variety of eateries offering a range of culinary delights, from award-winning sushi to delicious local seafood at the waterfront Sea Breeze Café. And if you just want to lounge by the pool, cocktail in hand, poolside snacks and drinks are available too. For active types, there’s everything from paddle boarding to beach volley ball, as well as a fitness room and a relaxing spa if you fancy a bit of pampering. I enjoyed a rejuvenating massage that left me feeling totally chilled and revived. There’s plenty for the little ones to do too if you’re planning a family-moon. The beach and warm inviting Gulf waters are never more than a stone’s throw away. I fell for the simple pleasures, like taking a dip in the warm sea, collecting shells and enjoying the natural beauty of the place. Famous for its shelling, the shoreline is strewn with a carpet of wonderful finds. Beware though, it can be highly addictive! I could have spent all day wandering up and down the water’s edge, head down (known locally as the Sanibel stoop) hunting for ocean treasures. For newlyweds, an evening stroll along the beach to take in the heart-melting sunsets is a romantic toes-in-the-sand experience that’s hard to beat; a must for the honeymoon album.