About a two-hour drive south of Sarasota, Sanibel Island is a beautiful destination on the southwest coast of Florida. Sanibel (along with its sister island, Captiva) is beloved for its serene setting; spectacular sunsets; and sandy, secluded-feeling Gulf of Mexico beaches -- which happen to be some of the best shelling beaches in the world. For travelers on a budget, these Sanibel Island hotels and rental properties can be great deals.