Whether you’re looking for a small one-bedroom cottage for a romantic getaway or a three-bedroom home for the entire family, booking vacation rentals online is quickly becoming a popular trend.

Secure your spot in paradise by opening up a few tabs of vacation rentals websites. No need to pick up the phone or slip out of your comfortable sweatpants. You can book your trip to Florida from the comfort of your own living room.

But where should you stay? At an Airbnb, a hotel or with Royal Shell?

Royal Shell is the largest regional real estate company in Southwest Florida. We have been in business for more than 21 years and we have over 300,000 guests stay with us each year.

Book your trip online, over the phone or in-person at one of our offices

With Royal Shell, you can make your Florida vacation rental online. Unlike sites like Airbnb, HomeAway or VRBO, you can also chat with a vacation planner on the phone and lock down your vacation spot the old-fashioned way. If you love where you’re staying now, you can visit any of our 16 offices in Lee and Collier counties and reserve your vacation rental for next year.

Fully equipped kitchen, more space and more privacy

There are also more options available if you choose a vacation rental over a hotel room. For one, you’re staying in a home instead of a room, and that alone is a huge plus. There’s more space, privacy and you can come and go as you please. Besides, you can also take advantage of the fully-equipped kitchen that comes standard in most of our vacation rental properties. Host a family dinner or just save a few bucks and cook dinner at home.

Let a local vacation planner help plan your trip

Our vacation planning advisers live and work in Southwest Florida, so if you have any questions about where to go, what to do, or where to eat, they’ll be able to give you all the information you need to know. We don’t want to just get you down here. We want to make sure you have the vacation of a lifetime.

Forbes.com uses 3 things to determine if a vacation rental website is credible:

1. An established business that has longevity. How long a brand has been in business is significant because roughly half of new start-up companies flop within their first 18 months, and, according to Forbes, only about 4 percent of businesses make it to the 10-year mark and beyond. Additionally, if a business has been around for a while, it also means the company knows the area well and can give accurate recommendations on where to go and what to do.
2. A relevant rental footprint. When a vacation rental website has a substantial rental footprint in a significant area, like Southwest Florida, it means they have enough homes to serve their existing client base, and can likely accommodate even more guests.
3. Amenities and services. These two things and vacation rentals go hand-in-hand. When people spend thousands of dollars on a vacation, they typically expect some type of personalized services, and each vacation rental company offers their own set of exclusive perks.

What Royal Shell Can Do that Other Rental Companies Cannot

1. Royal Shell has demonstrated knowledge of the local area. We know the best places to stay and we’ll work to help find you the perfect vacation home.
2. Whether you’re looking for hidden gems or typical tourist hot spots, we can tell you where to go and what to see. If you’re visiting Sanibel Island and you want to know where all the best beaches are, you’re in luck because we’ve got the scoop.
3. Royal Shell has its own state-of-the-art laundry facility. We also have our own vacation planning center, maintenance, housekeeping, guest services, IT and photography departments.
4. Our vacation planning call center is open seven days a week and guests can book a vacation rental online 24 hours a day. Royal Shell also has 24-hour, seven days a week emergency guest services.
5. You don’t have to spend time comparing tons of other sites for the best deal. With Royal Shell, you’re already getting a great deal. If you want to call and confirm that everything is good to go with your vacation rental before you get here, our call center is always open.
6. If you do need to talk with someone, we’re not only a phone call away. We have offices throughout Southwest Florida in Sanibel, Captiva, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs and Naples. If you want to talk to a person, we’re a short drive away, or we could even arrange for someone to come out and meet you at your vacation rental property. Delivering legendary customer service is very important to us, and we take it seriously.

Vacation Rentals with Royal Shell vs. Airbnb

Looking for an Airbnb accommodation is a popular way to find a place to stay while you’re on vacation; however, some people still have reservations about it. If you choose to rent out a room, you may also end up staying with fellow travelers you don’t know who are also renting out the home’s other rooms. Or you may end up crashing with the home’s host while they’re staying in another room on the property. If you’re looking for privacy and amenities, this is probably not going to be your best option.
You may also end up paying additional fees to book your stay. According to VRMintel.com, Airbnb charges an additional 6 to 12 percent of the cost of the rental. The site also says that same fee can be even higher on VRBO.com. According to VRMintel, “The service fee is between 5 to 12 percent for most bookings, but can be above or below, based on the reservation.”

Vacation Rentals with Royal Shell vs. Staying at a Hotel

When most people think about traveling, they consider staying at a hotel. There’s normally free breakfast or some sort of special if you book early or during a certain time of the year. But is a hotel room really the best choice if you want to feel more integrated into the city you’re visiting?
Tausha from The Globe Getter points out that you don’t get the same feeling when you have to walk down a hallway, use an elevator and take a bunch of extra steps to get to the city’s center. If you stay in a vacation rental property, it’ll already feel homier and less sterile right off the bat. And besides, you won’t feel so much like an outsider in your new temporary city when you can walk out the front door and be steps away from beaches, shops, restaurants and things to do.

The Takeaway on the Best Vacation Rentals Websites

The good news is that you’ve already decided when and where you want to go. The hardest part is over. Whether you’re coming to Southwest Florida for a week, a month, or longer, Royal Shell offers plenty of vacation rental options in a variety of different types of breathtaking locations.
We provide you with the type of luxury and customer service you’ll find at a hotel, but you get the space and privacy of a vacation home or resort rental. Vacation rentals with a company like Royal Shell also have other advantages over booking with a hotel or Airbnb.
These include:

1. More space. According to OwnerDirect.com, on average, a vacation home offers more than 1,300 square feet, while a hotel room has an average of just 325 square feet.
2. Fully-equipped kitchen. This means you not only save money on going out to eat because you can cook at home; you can also have family dinners while you’re away from your home base. How nice does it sound to sit around the dinner table together and talk about how much fun you’re having on your trip?
3. Home away from home. Vacation rentals have all of the comforts of a home. The top perk is privacy. You can use the pool and exercise equipment at your leisure. You can also have breakfast whenever you want, not during a hotel’s scheduled breakfast buffet times.

Check-In With Us

Let us know what you think of your stay with us in sunny Southwest Florida. Many people come here and never leave. We can help you find condos and cottages in Sanibel Island. If you’re thinking about buying or renting in the Sunshine State, any of our agents will be more than happy to show you around and give you the lay of the land.

Helping people find their dream home or vacation rental is what we do best. Come for a visit, maybe you’ll end up staying for a lifetime. Contact us at Royal Shell today to book a Sanibel vacation rental.

When most of the Northern states are still blanketed in winter snow, Southwest Florida offers a welcome change of scenery—and temperature. If you aren’t trying to escape the cold, the Sunshine State is also known for its emerald-green and blue water and white sand beaches.

Saying there is a lot to do if you’re considering Southwest Florida vacations for your family is an understatement. The Gulf Coast of Florida features a variety of different types of shops and restaurants. It’s also home to the Everglades, a somewhat prehistoric-looking tropical jungle. Explore the scenery or see if you can spot a wild alligator. There’s never a shortage of things to do in Southwest Florida.

Make Memorable Moments

Stay at a beach resort so you always have access to the shore. Take a stroll with the kiddos, go shelling with your grandparents or try a fun water activity like kayaking or paddleboarding with your loved ones. Southwest Florida also has some of the best sunsets in the country. In fact, people are known to gather at the end of the Naples Pier to watch the sunset. They even clap when it’s over.

Which Slice of Paradise is Right for your Family Vacation?

If you’re looking for Southwest Florida vacations for families, there are a variety of family-friendly rental properties available in Naples, Bonita Springs, Fort Myers, Captiva and Sanibel Islands. Most homes or condo units come equipped with full kitchens and swimming pools. Some units even have access to private beaches and the Gulf of Mexico. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the top vacation destinations for families in Southwest Florida to help you make your decision on which area is best for your upcoming family escape.

Southwest Florida Vacations for Families: Choosing your Location is the Hardest Part

You may not really know where Naples, Bonita Springs, Fort Myers, Captiva and Sanibel Islands are right now unless you’re looking at a map. But once you visit the Gulf Coast, we won’t blame you if you and the kids want to come back again every year. This part of the state is a gem and a Southwest Florida vacation for your family is an excellent choice if you want to unwind. It offers a laid back lifestyle and things to do for the entire family, from small children to senior grandparents.

Naples

Out of all of these cities, Naples is the furthest South and right across the state from Fort Lauderdale. If you like high-end dining and delicious and fresh seafood, downtown Naples is where you want to be. Third Street South offers some boutique shops, but it’s better known for its upscale restaurants. Fifth Avenue South also features a plethora of restaurants, but there are more casual and low-key options as well. If you’re here for the shopping, Fifth Avenue is definitely where you want to be. Beautiful beaches are only about a 10-minute drive from downtown and the Florida Everglades is about an hour South if you and the kiddos want to go on an airboat ride to try and spot an alligator.
The Naples Pier is about 10 minutes away from downtown Naples on 12th Avenue South. The pier has a place to get snacks and drinks in the middle of it and volleyball courts on either side. However, its best feature is the sunset. The timing of the sunset varies from month-to-month and especially during daylight savings time. Make sure you visit the pier to see it at least once. You may even see the rumored “Green Flash.” This happens when the sun dips just below the horizon and is reflected by the blue water of the Gulf of Mexico. A green flash of light appears and surrounds the sun for a brief moment. They’re very rare, and if you get a chance to see one, you’ll never forget it!

Fort Myers

Fort Myers is about an hour North of Naples and is also home to one of the most popular beach destinations for families, Fort Myers Beach. It boasts more tropical-themed shops and it’s dotted with colorful bungalows that will make you feel like you’re in the Caribbean.
Downtown Fort Myers is also a popular destination. It features blocks of historic buildings and it’s right on the Caloosahatchee River. Check out one of the art walks, music walks, classic car shows or any of the themed festivals hosted in the city’s center every weekend. You can even visit the Thomas Edison and Henry Ford Winter Estates.

Bonita Springs

Bonita Springs, or Bonita as locals call it, is in between Naples and Fort Myers. If you can’t decide which area you like best, this is the perfect choice. One of the most appealing draws to Bonita Springs is its no fuss lifestyle.
Historic downtown Bonita Springs is small, but charming. It features one of the best breakfast and brunch spots in the area, the Survey Cafe. You can also find authentic Mexican tacos about a block away. In between the two sits Everglades Wonder Gardens, an 82-year-old attraction that features breathtaking gardens, alligators, flamingos and other exotic animals. This is something you won’t want to miss. It’s such a beloved landmark in the community; a few years ago, a group of local residents formed a non-profit organization to purchase the property and save it from commercial development.

Sanibel and Captiva Islands

Sanibel and Captiva Islands are about an hour and a half North of Naples. Once you get into Sanibel, Captiva is about a 20 or 30-minute drive away. Sanibel and Captiva are some of our most exclusive options, and there’s a reason for that. Both islands are dotted with true Florida-style homes. Their homes are tucked away and surrounded by Florida’s natural beauty. They come in all colors of the rainbow and they all have unique personalities. This is where you go if you really want to relax.
Sanibel and Captiva are also both known for their local restaurants. If you have a chance, don’t miss out on Captiva’s Bubble Room. It’s one of the quirkiest places in Southwest Florida. There’s also the Captiva Course, a nine-hole golf course that features a relaxing ocean view. Known as the shelling capital of the world, many people visit these islands for their one-of-a-kind Florida seashells. Since Sanibel has an atypical east-west orientation, the north-flowing Gulf Stream waters deposit a treasure trove of seashells onto the beach every day. You never know what you’ll be able to find.

Southwest Florida Vacations for Families: Each Area Has A Lot to Offer

You really can’t go wrong with any of these Southwest Florida family vacation locations. They all offer something for everyone; it just depends on what you want to do while you’re here. Will it be a bungalow on Fort Myers Beach or Sanibel or Captiva Island? Perhaps you want a laidback vacation in Bonita Springs, or you’re tempted by Naples’s high-end eateries and fancy boutiques. The possibilities are endless.

Come for a week, or a month and connect with Royal Shell today to book a Sanibel vacation rental. Who knows, maybe you’ll stay for a lifetime. If you love Southwest Florida so much, try our vacation home rental tips for families to learn more. If that’s something you’re considering, let us know! Whether you’re thinking about buying or renting, any of our agents will be more than happy to show you around and take you around to see our beautiful Southwest Florida homes. If you’re thinking about selling your home and perhaps looking to be closer to the beach or have more space, we know Southwest Florida like the backs of our hands. Helping people find their dream home or vacation rental is what we do best.

The desire to escape winter’s chill and enjoy warmer days and a budding new season prompts the anticipation of Spring Break vacations. For many, heading to a beautiful sandy beach with family-friendly amenities will be the perfect way to spend family spring break vacations in Florida.

This is not the college Spring Break destination of scenes depicted in “Animal House” or memories of your college days with scantily-clad co-eds, kegs and loud parties. The beauty of Southwest Florida family spring break vacations in Florida are the luxurious rental vacation homes, which create a relaxing atmosphere and memories.

The first step of planning the family vacation is to decide where you want to enjoy Spring Break.

Spring Break Destination

The warm weather and pristine beaches of Southwest Florida makes the area the perfect spring break destination. Sanibel and Captiva islands top the list of popular Spring Break destinations inquiries by guests. The region attracts visitors from across the U.S. and a number of international locales as well. Sanibel Island is becoming known as a spring break destination for families. U.S. News and World Report ranked Sanibel No. 4 of “Best Florida Beaches” and No. 8 of “10 Best Family Spring Break Destinations.”
The top request by those looking to book accommodations during Spring Break is to find a vacation home or condo space near the beach with the ability to go shelling. In fact, Sanibel Island is recognized as the Seashell Capital of the World.

Catching Fun in the Sun

The beach is not the only way to take in the rays of sunshine in Southwest Florida. The area is the spring training home for two major league baseball teams with several others in nearby cities. Baseball fans flock to Fort Myers to catch the Red Sox Fort Myers spring training games of the Boston Red Sox at JetBlue Park and the Minnesota Twins playing across town at CenturyLink Sports Complex-Hammond Stadium. Royal Shell is the official real estate company for the Boston Red Sox spring training.

Family-Friendly Attractions

Southwest Florida is home to a variety of family-friendly attractions for everyone to enjoy on vacation. Make it a family day exploring J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge or the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum.
The entire family will have fun at Sun Splash Family BatWaterpark, Mike Greenwell’s Bat-A-Ball & Family Fun Park or Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens.
It’s up to you to decide if it will be a lazy day on the beach or if everyone will head out to take in the local attractions.

Schedule the Time

Next, decide how long your family vacation will last. Spring Break can cover a week or two on the calendar, so plan to book your accommodations for an average of seven to 14 nights. When it comes to reservations for Royal Shell vacation rentals, most are secured a year in advance. Generally these are from returning guests and are considered a rollover reservation from in-house guests. Reservation calls from first time visitors typically begin in October seeking accommodations for the upcoming year.
If your family’s Spring Break plans do not come together until a few weeks out, Royal Shell may be able to assist if a last minute cancellation becomes available.

Accommodating Spring Break Vacations

The number of people included in family spring break vacations is important when making reservations to ensure there is enough space to accommodate everyone. Guests of Royal Shell generally seek a combination of vacation homes and condos for their stay.
Typically, guests inquire about space to fit a family size for two to four people or multiple family groups of six to 14 people.

Book with Royal Shell

The Spring Break season is a great time to escape, relax and refresh. Here at Royal Shell we have an expansive portfolio of vacation rentals that will allow you to enjoy an anticipated family-friendly vacation in a little piece of paradise. Whether you have your sights on Sanibel vacation rentals, Fort Myers or Naples, we have accommodations to fit your needs during Spring Break.

Let us know how we can assist in making your spring break vacations memorable here in Southwest Florida. Our staff is available via telephone or live chat to assist in planning your family vacation. Come for a visit. Stay for a lifetime.

It happens to everyone at one time or another in life. You forget to make a solid plan for a holiday getaway trip. Now, with just days or hours before the holiday, the pressure is on to find a great vacation location. Then the question is whether any accommodations will be available to fit your needs at this late date.

A last-minute holiday getaway doesn’t have to be expensive or stressful. A last-minute trip can be booked weeks or days in advance and be as much fun as a trip you spent months planning. A spontaneous trip right in time for a holiday can help you make memories to last a lifetime.

Learn more about planning a last-minute holiday getaway in Florida. We’ve got you covered with everything you need to know to plan the perfect vacation on the fly, from how to find a last-minute vacation rental to getting a great deal on a flight to expert tips.

What Are Some Last Minute Holiday Vacation Ideas?

Holidays are special days and a great time to travel. No matter whether you’re considering taking a long weekend for Labor Day, enjoying turkey on the beach for Thanksgiving, or even ringing in the New Year in a new locale, there are many reasons to consider a last-minute holiday vacation.

Here are a few ideas we’ve put together that might make your next holiday getaway special. Consider these travel destinations around the Sunshine State next time you want to escape for a special day of the year.

Celebrate the New Year in Naples

There’s no need to plan ahead if you’d like to ring in the new year in Naples. This Southwest Florida city has a bustling nightlife scene that’s sure to entertain with all kinds of options. Consider finding a last-minute vacation rental in Naples for the time between Christmas and New Year’s.

Naples is a happening place for New Year’s Eve. You’ll find all kinds of events on the calendar. The annual Naples Art New Year’s Fair attracts fine artists from around the county. Comedy shows let you laugh right into the next year. Concerts and live music will let you dance until the ball drops. All of these things can be enjoyed with last-minute planning.

Plan a Romantic Island Retreat for Valentine’s Day

Consider cozying up with your special someone on a romantic island retreat just in time for February 14. The vacation planning experts at Royal Shell can connect you with the perfect last-minute vacation rental on Sanibel Island.

Romance is in the air on Sanibel Island. Imagine walking hand-in-hand on a pristine and natural beach, scooping up seashells along the way. Or, enjoy dinner for two at the Thistle Lodge Restaurant at Casa Ybel Resort. Relax with a couple’s massage at Sanibel Day Spa. All of these things can likely be enjoyed with a last-minute reservation.

See Fireworks in Fort Myers

The 4th of July is a favorite summer holiday. Southwest Florida and Fort Myers are great places to celebrate independence with a last-minute Florida holiday getaway.

Additionally, the summer months are traditionally a slower season in Southwest Florida. This means there are great deals to be found. Vacation rentals with swimming pools and other great amenities are likely available at a fraction of the cost you’d pay during other times of the year.

A last-minute trip to Fort Myers can be easy to plan. Browse Fort Myers vacation rentals and make your quick Florida vacation happen!

Get Spooky in St. Augustine for Halloween

St. Augustine, Florida, might be one of the most haunted places in the U.S. That makes it a great place for a spooky last-minute Florida getaway. This historic city in the northeast part of the Sunshine State goes back nearly 400 years. From the Old Jail to the St. Augustine Lighthouse, you’ll find all kinds of ghost tales and tours in this special city.

Learn more about planning a fall vacation in Florida!

Open Christmas Presents in Captiva

In 2022, Christmas Day falls on a Sunday. This makes the festive holiday a perfect time for a quick weekend trip to Captiva Island. There is so much to do in Southwest Florida for Christmas, which means you’ll find holiday spirit across the region.

Consider swapping white snow for white sand by spending Christmas on Captiva Island. You’ll love waking up to open gifts to the sound of gentle Gulf waves rolling to the shore.  Learn more about vacation rentals on Captiva Island.

There are eleven federal holidays on the calendar every year. Each of these days is a great time to get away. No matter whether you’re planning a last-minute mini-vacation in Florida or want to spend the whole holiday season away, Royal Shell has the resources, vacation rentals, and connections to make your travel dreams a reality — even on short notice.

How Can I Save Money on a Last Minute Trip?

A spontaneous trip doesn’t have to take a bite out of your wallet. There are a handful of ways you can save money when you’re traveling last minute.

Consider these tips when looking for great last-minute deals:

• Cash in rewards: If you have a credit card that lets you accrue points you can use to save money on travel, now’s the time to take advantage. These perks can often be used to book flights and even get cash back on vacation expenses.
• Look for free amenities: Consider an all-inclusive vacation rental. Many vacation rentals give you access to a kitchen with all the equipment you’ll need to save money by staying in for dinner. Additionally, you might find a last-minute vacation rental with other free amenities like wifi, parking, and more.
• Book direct: Cut out the middle man and save money by booking your vacation rental direct from Royal Shell. Our commitment to customer service lets us unlock last-minute deals you might not find anywhere else.

How to Find a Last-Minute Vacation Rental

Finding a last-minute vacation rental doesn’t have to be a headache. One way to find a last-minute rental is to reach out to Royal Shell and book directly with a friendly agent. The vacation planning experts at Royal Shell have instant access to the most up-to-date information available about our inventory of vacation rental properties.

If you don’t want to book direct, you might consider browsing for last-miunute availability on travel apps like Hopper, Hotels.com, and Kayak. These apps scour the internet to find the best deals on hotels and resorts. Sometimes you might pay a premium for booking last minute, though.

How to Book a Last-Minute Flight

If you’re planning a last-might trip to Southwest Florida, you’ll likely need to book a flight to RSW (Southwest Florida International Airport) in Fort Myers.

Like booking a vacation rental, you might have the best luck finding a deal on a last-minute flight when you book directly from the airline of your choice. Airlines flying into Southwest Florida International Airport include:

• American Airlines/American Eagle
• Avelo Airlines
• Delta
• Frontier
• JetBlue
• Southwest
• Sun Country
• United Airlines/United Express

You can book a direct flight to RSW from nearly 60 cities around the country. That makes getting to Southwest Florida easy, even if you’re traveling at the last minute.

You might also consider booking a last-minute flight to Fort Myers by using a travel app or websites like Google Flights, Expedia, or CheapFlights.

No matter whether you’re looking for a last-minute beach getaway in Florida or just a quick trip to the Sunshine State, following these tips will help you make the most of your time and budget!

5 Expert Tips for a Last Minute Holiday Getaway

Tip 1: Stay Calm and Book Your Last Minute Holiday Getaway

You are not the first or the only person to leave holiday vacation planning until the last minute. So take a deep breath and stay calm. The hospitality industry is accustomed to dealing with customers seeking accommodations on a tight schedule before a major holiday like  Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Year’s. These are all times when families look to spend time together in beachfront holiday rentals, while others may want to plan a romantic trip. Whatever the vacation setting, the key is to stay calm.

Tip 2: Decide When to Take Your Holiday Getaway

The holiday season starts with Thanksgiving weekend and lasts a few days past New Year’s Day. Depending on when holidays fall on the calendar, adding the days of the nearest weekend can create an ideal stretch of time to take a break and relax. Considering Thanksgiving beach rentals for the typical four-day holiday? There may be some great deals on accommodations during that period. Or if you decide Christmas or New Year’s would be a better time, there is a good chance you can still secure beach vacation deals at the last minute.

Tip 3: Look for Last Minute Vacation Deals

While you are still beating yourself up about procrastinating, someone else had to cancel a reservation for a beach vacation rental at the last minute. Who knows, this may end up being your lucky break. Cancelations and lack of reservations for vacation rentals are often discounted to attract last minute guests. It’s really a win-win for all.
Be sure to check date ranges when scoping out available accommodations and specials online. You may find that having flexibility with your arrival or departure dates could translate into last minute getaway deals, like an extra night or two thrown in as a bonus. Or you may discover a rental that was previously outside of your budget is discounted for a certain period and now fits your preferred price point and time frame.

Tip4: Don’t Give Up On a Beachfront Rental

As you start the search for the perfect holiday vacation getaway, remember the clock is ticking and others are in the same boat. So if you pass on a rental and go back later, it may be too late. Someone else may have submitted their reservation and the property is no longer available. But remember it’s about staying calm. There will still be space available to book. The property may be further from the beach or you could find a luxury beachfront rental at a discounted rate. It will be time to book quickly. Don’t delay because your holiday getaway depends on it.

Tip 5: Celebrate your Vacation Deal

Now that you have successfully booked a great last minute holiday rental, it’s time to celebrate. We knew you could do it! Get ready to sit back and enjoy all that makes the area special for visitors. Of course, the beach is the main attraction. And the beaches of Southwest Florida make great backgrounds for the holiday selfie you’ll post on social media so those back home can see how much fun you’re having. Oh, and you might want to let them in on the secret that Royal Shell is able to accommodate last minute holiday vacation rentals. Let us know if we can answer any questions for you. Our staff is ready via telephone or live chat to assist you with planning your getaway for the holiday.

Make Last Minute Travel Easy with Royal Shell

Book your last-minute holiday getaway easy with Royal Shell. No matter whether you’re planning a Florida staycation on short notice or visiting from another part of the country, Royal Shell is here to help.

By booking your last-minute travel direct through Royal Shell, you’ll ensure you’re getting the best possible service. Our expert agents are willing to go above and beyond to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.  Your Royal Shell agent can also help you unlock last-minute holiday getaway specials you won’t find anywhere else.

Contact us online now or reach out by phone at 866-202-0723.

Southwest Florida experiences, combined with excellent customer service, is paramount to Royal Shell and its customers.

Whether you are seeking property management services, looking to sell a home or a vacation guest renting a vacation home, a real estate company that works to create Southwest Florida experiences for everyone is important. Royal Shell’s professional staff is dedicated to providing personal service. Guests will find that Royal Shell focuses on customer service to assist vacation guests.

“For Royal Shell, ‘legendary customer service’ is not just a buzz phrase. For us it is a calling, a way of life and a belief,” said Michael Polly, president and managing broker for Royal Shell.

He adds, “Customers benefit from professional guidance during the purchase or sale of a home, when considering listing rental property and even planning their next vacation.  We like to tell clients that with Royal Shell you can buy, sell, rent and vacation all under one shell.”

The Foundation of Customer Service

The company began over 25 years ago with four employees. Today, Royal Shell’s staff has grown to 160 employees in 15 offices. It takes a team to pay attention to every detail of property management, sales and vacation guests. Polly fully took the helm of Royal Shell vacation rentals in March 2017. He has focused on upgrades to better enhance customer service, which leads to wonderful Southwest Florida experiences for customers. He has led the real estate expansion since November 2010. 

Royal Shell’s success over the years is evident by the number of long-term clients who contract for both rental property management and real estate sales. Others are repeat vacation rental customers. Both owners and rental customers over the years share their extreme pleasure with their treatment from Royal Shell, with several even referring to it as “The Royal Treatment!”

Royal Shell Focuses On Customer Service 

As for customer service, Royal Shell is continuously improving to maintain the market advantage. Representatives receive in-depth training to reinforce our dedication to providing legendary service to guests and property owners. Recently, Royal Shell added staff and made other changes to enhance customer service for owners and guests.

“There is no other vacation rental company in our market that has the tools and professional advanced training provided by Royal Shell,” Polly said.

He adds, “Royal Shell just doesn’t rent properties, but creates a vacation experience that an online portal simply can’t even come close to matching.”

Southwest Florida Experiences are Perfect With Royal Shell

Royal Shell has streamlined the entire vacation rental process from searching for available property to additional online features. The company is also in the process of upgrading guest amenity packets provided during check-in and offers flexcation option reservation opportunities that allow you to be flexible with your vacation plans. 

Royal Shell’s goal is to have happy guests who in turn return for future visits and share their wonderful Southwest Florida vacation experience with others. As guests share their Florida experience memories, property owners benefit from increased bookings and generate revenue for their properties. 

Additional improvements also help owners enjoy a carefree experience when leasing a property as a vacation rental. The company takes care of the details from booking to cleaning. Owners looking to sell their property can highlight the rental revenue and the benefits of selecting Royal Shell for property management services to potential buyers.

Customer Service Is In The Details

The company also provides 24/7 cleaning, maintenance and linen services. Providing a full-service hospitality experience to guests is our top priority. From appliance failures to a loose hinge, Royal Shell’s professional team is there for our guests. After business hours guests can call our 24-hour hotline for remote or in person assistance. 

Royal Shell has a network of real estate professionals who know the local market. This translates to the agents’ ability to list a property for owners to obtain the best price in the shortest amount of time. Our market experts make the transaction as smooth as possible.

The staff of Royal Shell enjoys interacting with clients. Customers, in most cases, want to talk to someone who is local with in-depth knowledge of the area. Therefore, guests are encouraged to get tips on area restaurants, activities to try like golf and what the local weather is like. In fact, this local connection is our signature in customer service since our staff lives and works in the area.  Southwest Florida offers a diverse list of activities for guests to enjoy while visiting the area from the allure of Sanibel Island to the opulence of Naples.

Come enjoy Florida beaches, sea turtles, state parks, guiding tours and more here in the Sunshine State. Southwest Florida offers real Florida experiences that the theme parks like Disney World can’t compete with. Check out our Naples vacation rentals today and see why the benefits of vacation rentals by the beach instead of the theme parks are the better option.

Let Royal Shell take care of the details of buying, selling and vacation planning all in one place. We can plan your perfect Southwest Florida experiences. It will be easy for you because this is what we do. Contact Royal Shell today.

Perhaps the time has come to make scheduling a getaway vacation a priority. Is it time for a few days of rest and relaxation? Then we have the perfect place for you.

Sometimes it’s a confusing task to figure out where the most peaceful vacation spot is and where to go. The islands of Southwest Florida are the perfect location to unwind on vacation.  Plan a vacation trip to visit Sanibel Island to enjoy the white sand, sun and waves.

Sanibel Island Facts

Sanibel is one of Southwest Florida’s barrier islands in the Gulf of Mexico near Fort Myers. Likewise, the island is a popular destination for tourists who want to enjoy a number of activities. The region is known for activities such as fishing, boating and shelling.
Sanibel Island, along with its northern neighbor Captiva Island, has a rich history to discover dating back to the days of explorer Ponce de Leon and earlier. Legend has it that the islands were a refuge for pirates. The area was known as the “Buccaneer Coast” with fascinating tales of buried treasure escapades on the high seas.
The historic Sanibel Lighthouse, built in 1884, sits on the island’s eastern tip and beacons everyone ashore. Visit the Lighthouse Beach Park to explore the area and get great photos with the lighthouse in the background.
Did you know: Sanibel Island is about 12 miles long, but only about 3 miles wide?

Sanibel Island Offers Visitors

Once visitors arrive on the island they can enjoy 15 miles of pristine beaches. Many visitors find it easier to get around the island’s 22-mile  bike path. There are no traffic lights on Sanibel. However, Periwinkle Way is the main thoroughfare on the island with access to the commercial districts. Running parallel to Periwinkle Way is Gulf Drive which allows access to many of the islands resorts and private homes.
Sanibel Island is home to the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge with approximately 250 bird species, along with a host of other wildlife native to the area including manatees and alligators.
Sanibel is known for the spectacular 250 species of seashells found on local beaches. The area is referred to as the Shelling Capital of the country. Shelling attracts visitors to the island year round. In fact most visitors learn the “Sanibel stoop,” the popular bent over position to search for shells on the beach. Learn more about the island’s icon at the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum located on Sanibel Island.
Did you know: There is a National Seashell Day? Yes, National Seashell Day is usually the first day of summer. Come join in the “shellabration” for vacation here on the island.

Things to Do on the Island

Vacation time means relaxing and enjoying a little fun. While planning your vacation trip to Sanibel Island be sure to make time to make time to go fishing and boating. There are a number of available charter firms that can accommodate your plans to spend a day fishing the Gulf of Mexico or kayaking areas like Tarpon Bay.
Port Sanibel Marina is one of the preferred local vendors we send guests to for boat rentals and other vacation excursions while visiting. This part of Southwest Florida is popular for catching Snook and Tarpon fish in season.
The USS Mohawk CGC Veterans Memorial Reef is also an excursion to consider while enjoying a Sanibel vacation. The World War II Coast Guard cutter patrolled the Atlantic. In 2012 the Coast Guard sunk the ship 30 miles off the coast of Sanibel Island to become reef .

As you may have gathered by now, while Sanibel Island may be small, complete with a quaint and casual feel, there is plenty to do to keep everyone busy during a vacation trip. And don’t forget about shopping for island souvenirs, great places to dine and  take in the stunning sights.

Where to Stay On Sanibel Island

Where will you call home during your Sanibel Island vacation trip? If it’s an adult-only trip or one for the entire family, Royal Shell Vacation Rentals can assist in reserving accommodations to fit your needs. Choose from a large selection of private, single family homes or condo units available for a week or two or up to a month. Many of the Sanibel Island vacation rentals managed by Royal Shell enjoy beachfront access.

Contact Royal Shell today to book your perfect vacation in Southwest Florida.

You have selected the vacation destination. Now everyone is ready to arrive and relax. The next detail on the list is to reserve great accommodations for your stay. Here are a few tips of how to find condos and cottages for your Sanibel vacation.

Before booking the reservation determine how many people will need to included. Is it a couple, a group of four, several families or a large group of friends? Where everyone will sleep comfortably is a decision that will impact vacation budgets. Depending on how many people  are included on the trip, renting condos and cottages for Sanibel vacation may be the answer.

The Benefits of A Sanibel Condo or Cottage

The benefit of finding a condo or cottage to enjoy your Sanibel vacation allows for flexibility in areas like meals which can make the trip more budget friendly. A private cottage may have direct access to the beach with an intimate setting and offer other amenities similar to a condo rental.

How long will your vacation last? When searching for vacation rental properties on Sanibel Island and the surrounding area, it’s important to know guidelines for minimum and maximum stays for private cottages and condos on the islands of Sanibel and Captiva. The rental periods can range from a few days, a week or a month or more.

Look for homes that clearly define the rental period for minimum and maximum stays. Ask questions about the house like how many people the space sleeps and other important issues prior to executing the rental contract.
Yes, Sanibel Island is a popular vacation destination for time in the sun, toes in the sand and all other cares forgotten about for a while. However, everyone has different needs to enjoy a relaxing getaway.

Sanibel Island: Close to It All Or Secluded

If you want to be close to the beach and near other island favorites like shopping, dining, and fun activities such as golf or tennis; search for vacation rentals within a short distance to where you want to go. It’s easy getting around Sanibel via an automobile or bicycle, but the right rental can have you just a quick walk away.
A more secluded atmosphere is also possible on the island with charming cottages available for vacation rental. Decide if you want a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Mexico or access to one of the lakes on the island. There are likely a variety of available vacation rentals to enjoy water views.
As we all know, maintenance emergencies will happen to a home of any size or location. Do you have a plan of how to handle things if the air conditioner stops working or the toilet stops working? If you booked your vacation rental with an online agency, there may be lag time before the problem is addressed. Most often, local firms have protocols in place to promptly address maintenance issues as they arise so guests are not inconvenienced during their stay. Make sure when making reservations to inquire about how to handle maintenance emergencies.
Have you rented a home on Sanibel before and would love a return visit? Make your plans early to ensure the dates you desire are available. Remember the peak season in Southwest Florida is January through April so book your condo or cottage early.

Talk to the Sanibel Locals

Consider working with a local agency like Royal Shell to find the perfect vacation rental property on Sanibel. We can help you choose the best vacation rentals. We’re a local company that takes the guess work out of vacation planning. Royal Shell has hundreds of condos and cottages in its rental portfolio available on Sanibel, Captiva and other areas in Southwest Florida.

Many of the vacation rentals managed by Royal Shell enjoy beachfront access. Contact Royal Shell today to find your perfect Sanibel vacation rentals.