provided to The Santiva Chronicle
One of Sanibel Island’s beachfront condominium communities has completed its return following the devastation of Hurricane Ian, marking another milestone in the island’s ongoing recovery.
Sanddollar Condominiums, located at 1795 Middle Gulf Drive, has reopened its fully restored two- and three-bedroom vacation rental units after sustaining severe damage during the September 2022 storm. The complex now offers rebuilt interiors, direct Gulf access, and renewed community pride.
“Our complex was one of the first to be restored because of the generosity and dedication of our owners,” said unit owner Tom Potisk. “Hurricane Ian may have destroyed the buildings, but it did not destroy our community spirit.”
The low-density, mid-island property accommodates 6 to 8 guests per unit and offers a quieter alternative to larger resort developments. Its location allows easy access to Sanibel’s bike path system, nearby restaurants and shops, and walkable beach access to several neighboring waterfront establishments.
Each condominium features a new interior and a screened lanai overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, offering unobstructed views and a front-row seat to Sanibel’s sunsets and shoreline wildlife. The beachfront setting also places guests directly on one of the island’s most popular stretches for shelling and shoreline fishing.
Sanibel’s beaches are widely regarded among the best shelling destinations in North America, and early-morning shell walks remain a draw for visitors. Anglers also frequent the area, fishing from the sand for snook, redfish, and sea trout commonly found in the nearshore waters.
Amenities at the complex include a heated swimming pool, tennis and pickleball courts, beach chairs and umbrellas, and in-unit laundry facilities. The property appeals to couples, families, and seasonal residents seeking weekly or monthly stays during Southwest Florida’s winter months.
“This was much more than a construction project,” said Stephen Olmstead, president of the Sanddollar Condominiums homeowners association. “It was a carefully coordinated recovery made possible by a group of owners committed to bringing this community back.”
Sanibel Island continues its gradual rebuilding after Hurricane Ian, with restored vacation rentals playing a key role in supporting the local economy. As accommodations reopen, they provide both lodging for visitors and momentum for businesses that depend on tourism.
The reopening of Sanddollar Condominiums reflects the broader effort underway across the island — a steady return shaped by resilience, cooperation, and a shared commitment to preserving what makes Sanibel unique.
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