About Us
Your Island Getaway, Reimagined
Welcome to Sanibel Anchor Inn & Cottages, a newly renovated retreat where comfort meets island charm. Nestled in a serene setting less than a mile from the beach, we offer a relaxed, down-to-earth atmosphere perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.
Our bright, cozy accommodations—including A-frame cottages, spacious suites, and inviting guest rooms—provide all the essentials for a carefree stay. Enjoy a heated outdoor pool, picnic areas, and complimentary bikes and beach gear to make the most of your time on Sanibel.
Whether you’re here for a quiet escape or an adventure-filled vacation, we’re dedicated to making your stay unforgettable. Discover the laid-back beauty of Sanibel Island with us!
Anchor Inn History
Nestled in the heart of Sanibel Island along Periwinkle Way, the Anchor Inn & Cottages has been a cherished part of the island's hospitality legacy since 1959. Built by Marshall Tabacchi as one of the earliest accommodations offering overnight stays on Sanibel, it began as a modest motel on 1.5 lush acres, providing a welcoming haven for visitors drawn to the island's world-famous shelling beaches and natural beauty. Over the years, it has carried names like The Anchorage and Villa Capri, evolving into the beloved boutique property known today for its iconic A-frame cottages and cozy, tropical charm.
For decades, guests have returned year after year to enjoy the relaxed island vibe, heated pool, picnic areas, and proximity to Sanibel's shops, dining, and wildlife.
Like much of the island, the Anchor Inn faced significant challenges from Hurricane Ian in 2022. In a testament to resilience, a new family—the Markhams—purchased the property in late 2024, relocating from Arizona with their five children to breathe fresh life into this historic gem. They have lovingly reimagined and rebuilt the inn, preserving its classic A-frame cottages and Old Florida character while updating amenities for modern comfort.
Today, the newly revitalized Anchor Inn & Cottages continues its tradition of offering inviting rooms, spacious cottages with kitchens, complimentary beach gear, and a peaceful retreat less than a mile from the Gulf shores. We invite you to experience the timeless allure of Sanibel with us—where history, family, and island magic come together.
The Owners of The Anchor Inn
We're the Markhams. We were fortunate enough to purchase The Anchor Inn & Cottages in late 2024. We immediately relocated our family to beautiful Sanibel Island, where we could live out our dream of island living, with the bonus of running this charming historic inn.
Our entire family has poured their heart and soul into rebuilding this property. We've spent countless hours finding the perfect touches to preserve the charm and historic feel of The Anchor Inn. We're excited to share this with all our guests who come to visit Sanibel.