Wondering what to pack for your summer vacation to ‘Tween Waters Inn & Resort? Here is a list of must-have beach essentials when visiting Captiva and Sanibel. You’ll also find ‘innsider’ advice as to what items you can buy/borrow/rent while you’re here, so you can lighten your load.

No matter if you’re packing for yourself or your entire family, here are the beach essentials:

  • Swimsuits
  • Sunscreen
  • Beach shoes
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat
  • Bug spray
  • Shelling bag

If you’re traveling by plane and can only carry 3 ounces of liquids, I’d suggest getting your sunscreen once you arrive, same for the bug spray. If they don’t sell shelling bags where you are, any plastic bag will do, or you can get a good mesh one while you’re here.

Things you don’t need to pack:

  • Beach towels. ‘Tween Waters Inn has super plush pool towels for guests’ use. Just present your room key.
  • Beach equipment. Things like umbrellas and chairs can be rented onsite, plus volleyballs can be checked out at the front desk. Tennis equipment, too.
  • Books. Purchase a $5 annual membership to the Captiva Memorial Library and you can check out the latest beach reads.

Things you can purchase onsite:

If you forget any of your beach essentials, no worries! You can purchase most anything at ‘Tween Waters Inn. The onsite boutique, The Pelican’s Roost, has a fantastic array of swimwear, beach shoes, resort wear, cover ups, hats and more…for men, women and children. (I purchased my all-time favorite beach shoes here, called Fit Kicks!)

Poolside at ‘Tween’s Beans, you can purchase useful items including googlesswim diaperskids toys and sunscreen – all just steps from your chaise lounger.

Need an all-terrain wheelchair? You can borrow one at no charge, for up to four hours, from the Sanibel Police Department by calling 239-472-3111.

Now, get packing, and I’ll see you on the beach!