Candlewood Suites Fort Myers Sanibel Gateway by IHG

This hotel stands out for its full kitchenettes and complimentary laundry facilities, making it an excellent choice for extended stay guests, families seeking home-like conveniences, and business travelers on longer assignments. Its quiet setting also appeals to medical visitors needing a peaceful retreat near local hospitals, and pet owners looking for accommodating lodging. While the property is undergoing significant renovations post-hurricane, guests consistently highlight the friendly staff and overall room comfort. To make the most of your stay, be prepared for ongoing construction in common areas and take full advantage of the in-room kitchen amenities.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of practical amenities designed for longer stays, most notably the full kitchenettes in each room, equipped with refrigerators, microwaves, and stovetops, allowing guests to prepare their own meals. The free laundry facilities are a significant convenience, though some machines have been reported as out of order. A heated outdoor pool is available, often described as clean and enjoyable, but some guests noted it was closed or had issues with smoking in the adjacent cabana. A small fitness center is on-site, generally viewed as adequate. Guests can also find a snack bar offering various items for purchase, and ice machines are available, though sometimes limited to one floor. Wi-Fi connectivity is generally reliable.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Most guests find the rooms to be very clean and the beds comfortable, often praising the quality of sleep. The shower pressure is frequently highlighted as excellent. However, some guests have reported issues with musty smells or odors, particularly in older sections or due to ongoing renovations. While many rooms are noted for being quiet, some reviews mention occasional noise from other guests or loud air conditioning units. The kitchenette is a valued amenity, though some minor issues like refrigerator door orientation or lack of certain supplies have been noted. Bathrooms are generally spacious, but a few guests experienced problems with drainage, rusty fixtures, or a lack of counter space.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel does not offer a complimentary breakfast, which is a point of disappointment for some guests, especially given the nightly rate. However, the presence of full kitchenettes in the rooms allows guests to prepare their own meals, offsetting the lack of on-site dining. A snack bar is available in the lobby, offering a variety of frozen meal choices, beverages, and other convenience items, though some find the prices to be on the higher side. Complimentary coffee and tea are typically available in the lobby, providing a convenient option for guests in the mornings.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a good location for various activities, being conveniently close to beaches, shopping, and dining options. It is also particularly well-situated for medical visitors due to its proximity to local hospitals and medical facilities. Guests frequently describe the area as quiet and peaceful, tucked away from main roads, which contributes to a relaxing stay. While the location is generally praised, some guests noted that the hotel can be difficult to find initially, being set back behind other businesses and requiring GPS for navigation. Parking is generally ample for guests.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Guests frequently highlight their willingness to go above and beyond to assist with requests and resolve issues, contributing significantly to a positive experience. The check-in process is generally described as smooth. While the staff is responsive to maintenance concerns, some guests noted that issues might take longer to resolve on weekends due to limited availability. Housekeeping services are provided on a less frequent schedule, typically every five to seven days, which some guests found inconvenient for longer stays, though the staff is accommodating in providing extra supplies upon request.

Additional Information
The hotel is currently undergoing extensive renovations following hurricane damage, which means some common areas, including the lobby, may appear unfinished or have visible construction. While the property maintains a pet-friendly policy, guests should be aware that finding suitable outdoor areas for pets can be challenging. Housekeeping services are provided on a less frequent schedule, typically every five to seven days, which some guests found inconvenient for longer stays. There have been isolated reports of key card malfunctions and a persistent pothole in the driveway, which guests hope will be addressed. The hotel's overall value is frequently praised, particularly for its amenities and location.