Fort Myers Beach Vacation Rentals vs. Hotels: Which Is Better for Families?
Discover why Fort Myers Beach vacation rentals outshine hotels for family trips with more space, homey comfort, resort perks, and pet-friendly benefits.
Theme parks are a blast and mountains have their charm — but Fort Myers Beach is calling.
This friendly Gulf Coast destination invites you to trade long lines and crowded attractions for tidepool exploring, seashell collecting, and slow sunset walks along the shore. The pace here is unhurried, the beach wide and welcoming, and there’s always room to roll out a blanket for a picnic or watch the kids build their biggest sandcastle yet.
For parents planning a spring break escape or a week-long summer holiday, the first question is usually: where should we stay?
A hotel offers the basics — a bed, a bathroom, a place to sleep. But a vacation rental offers something better: space to live, not just stay.
With full kitchens for pancake breakfasts, bedrooms for naptime and early bedtimes, and cozy living rooms where everyone can relax after a sun-soaked day, vacation rentals have quickly become the choice for families who want their trip to feel effortless.
In a hurry? Here’s a gist of what we’ll cover:
Why Vacation Rentals Are Winning
How Hotels Compare with Vacation Rentals in Fort Myers Beach
Five Reasons Vacation Rentals Win for Families
Bottom Line: The Clear Winner
At Sun Palace Vacations, we offer stunning vacation homes in Fort Myers Beach, and we consider ourselves local experts.
From the best shopping spots and top-notch restaurants to a comprehensive guide on fishing and hunting in the area, we’ve got you covered in our blog.
In this guide, we’ll take you through every detail to help you decide whether a Fort Myers Beach vacation rental or a hotel is the right fit for your crew.
Well-equipped kitchens that are integrated into the living space are a staple in the best vacation rentals in Fort Myers Beach, FL.
By the Numbers: Why Vacation Rentals Are on Top
Vacation rentals are having a moment across Florida, and for good reason. Families are looking for a little more breathing room, a chance to keep to their own routines, and the freedom to enjoy a destination at their own pace. A rental makes that possible.
Bookings Beating Hotels
Bookings for vacation rentals have been rising steadily, overtaking hotels in many leisure destinations. Parents are finding that a single hotel room just isn’t practical for a week at the beach. Instead of tiptoeing around a sleeping toddler or trying to coordinate everyone’s bedtime in one space, families can spread out, relax, and actually enjoy their time away.
Longer Stays, Happier Guests
The rise of remote work and flexible school schedules has opened up a new way to travel. Many families now turn a long weekend into a full “schoolcation” or “workcation.” Vacation rentals make this possible with kitchens for quick lunches, Wi-Fi for Zoom calls, and space to unwind when the work or homework is done.
Florida’s Supply Boom
With nearly 245,000 vacation rentals across Florida, families now have more choices than ever. Whether you want a quiet stretch of sand at the south end of the island or a spot close to ice cream shops and restaurants, there’s a perfect home for you — and likely one that fits your budget and wishlist too.
How Hotels Compare with Vacation Rentals in Fort Myers Beach
Hotels are convenient if you’re staying just one or two nights, or if you like the simplicity of daily housekeeping and room service. But for most families, especially those staying longer than a weekend, the trade-offs are hard to ignore.
Hotels are typically compact and standardized, with just enough space for a bed or two, a bathroom, and maybe a desk. It works for a quick trip, but there’s not much room for downtime, especially if the weather sends everyone indoors.
Vacation rentals are designed for living. You’ll find kitchens where you can whip up breakfast while the kids are still in pajamas, separate bedrooms so parents can stay up after bedtime, and cozy living rooms for family movie nights. Many come with resort-style perks — pools, hot tubs, beach access — but without the noise or lobby lines.
You will find large and finely designed living rooms in the best vacation rentals in Fort Myers Beach and around.
Five Reasons Why Fort Myers Beach Vacation Rentals Win Over a Hotel Stay
1. Cook, Dine, and Save with a Full Kitchen
A full kitchen is a game-changer for families. Instead of expensive restaurant breakfasts, you can start the day with cereal or pancakes at your own pace. Pack lunches for the beach or throw together a simple dinner when everyone’s tired from a day in the sun.
Why it works for families:
Saves money (and tantrums)
Keeps picky eaters happy
Makes beach picnics and sunset dinners easy
2. Resort Amenities Without the Hotel Crowds
Many rentals are part of communities with pools, hot tubs, fitness rooms, and beach access — all without the bustle of a busy hotel lobby.
Why it works for families:
No waiting for elevators or sharing crowded hallways
Pools and hot tubs often feel more private
Easier to pop back to your rental for snacks or naps
3. Room to Spread Out
Multiple bedrooms and living areas mean everyone can have their own space. Parents can enjoy a quiet glass of wine on the balcony while the kids wind down with a movie or board game in the living room.
Why it works for families:
Preserves routines (and sanity)
Perfect for multi-generational trips
Everyone gets a bit of privacy
4. A Real Home Away from Home
Settling into a rental feels different from staying in a hotel. You can unpack, let the kids scatter their beach toys, and make the space your own for the week.
Why it works for families:
Creates a sense of belonging
Makes transitions (like bedtime) smoother
Encourages slower, more relaxed mornings
5. Perfect for Pet Owners
Many Fort Myers Beach vacation rentals are pet-friendly, meaning you can bring the family dog along for the adventure.
Why it works for families:
No boarding fees or separation anxiety
Great for morning walks and family outings
Truly includes every member of the family
Bottom Line: Fort Myers Beach Rentals Are the Clear Winner
When it comes to family travel, vacation rentals check all the boxes: space, comfort, convenience, and value. With Sun Palace Vacations, you’re not just booking a place to sleep — you’re choosing a home designed for memory-making. Whether it’s spring break, a summer escape, or just a long weekend away, a Fort Myers Beach vacation rental gives you more freedom to relax and enjoy time together.
Key Takeaways
More Space: Everyone gets room to breathe and recharge
Kitchens: Easy meals save money and keep things stress-free
Resort Perks: Pools, beach access, and amenities without the crowds
Family-Ready: Perfect for kids, pets, and longer stays
Vacation Rentals in Fort Myers Beach are more secluded and charming than hotels.
Fort Myers Beach Vacation Rentals vs. Hotels: Pros & Cons for Families
| Vacation Rentals (Sun Palace Vacations) | Hotels |
|---|---|
| ✅ Space to Spread Out – Multiple bedrooms, living rooms, and balconies let everyone relax on their own schedule. | ❌ Limited Space – One room means everyone shares the same space (and bedtime). |
| ✅ Full Kitchens – Cook easy breakfasts, pack lunches, and save money on family dinners. | ✅ Daily Housekeeping – No cleaning required, just leave the room each morning. |
| ✅ Family-Friendly Amenities – Pools, hot tubs, beach access, and laundry facilities make longer stays simple. | ❌ Few Kid Perks – Limited space for play and no kitchens for snacks or meals. |
| ✅ Home-Like Comfort – Settle in, unpack, and keep kids’ routines intact. | ✅ On-Site Dining – Convenient if you want restaurant service downstairs. |
| ✅ Pet-Friendly Options – Bring the family dog along for morning beach walks. | ❌ No Pets Allowed – Most hotels restrict animals, or charge hefty fees. |
| ✅ Cost Savings for Groups – Split the price across family or friends and save on meals. | ❌ Can Add Up Fast – Extra rooms, restaurant meals, and resort fees increase costs. |
| ✅ Privacy & Quiet – No noisy hallways or late-night elevator dings. | ✅ 24/7 Staff – Someone’s always at the front desk if you need help. |
Wondering where to stay in Fort Myers Beach?
To experience the highest quality in amenities, decor, and cleanliness, book your stay with Sun Palace Vacations. We guarantee you’ll have the most enjoyable and relaxing vacation ever!