The Lazy Ray is new to rental and is accepting reservations!
This fabulous home was featured on HGTV's House Hunters on May 23, 2026 (Season 261 Episode 10). Titled "Spreadsheets In Paradise," the episode sums up what makes this property so fantastic. Close to the beach, spacious, private, pet and kid friendly, as well as an easy bike ride to the wildlife refuge, grocery, restaurants and shops.
Welcome to the Lazy Ray Retreat
Discover a rare sanctuary of tranquility along the most coveted stretch of West Gulf Drive. With no neighbors behind or across from you, this hidden gem offers the ultimate in peace and privacy.
Your Private Oasis:
Lazy Ray Retreat boasts a generous heated pool and spa, with the neighborhood's exclusive private deeded beach access just steps away—everything you need for an unforgettable extended stay is provided.
Thoughtfully Designed for Island Living:
This single-level, 3-bedroom, 2-bath home embraces a relaxed island aesthetic with a layout perfect for both unwinding and entertaining. The living room comfortably seats six and features an oversized Smart TV, while the dining area accommodates up to eight, with seamless access to the expansive pool deck and lanai.
Together, these spaces invite the outdoors in—ideal for morning coffee, afternoon breezes, or peaceful evenings overlooking the tranquil backyard bayou. Fire up the poolside BBQ grill and showcase your culinary talents under the Florida sun.
A Chef's Dream Kitchen:
The heart of the home combines style and functionality with white shaker cabinetry, quartz countertops, a breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, and a convenient pass-through window to the poolside counter.
Bring your vinyl records or enjoy the island vibe selection that is provided along with an LP record player. Listen to your favorite tunes while as you relax in the loveseat or recliner, or enjoy a pool view from the breakfast table. It seats four, and is perfect for casual meals, playing board games, or doing puzzles away from the main entertaining area.
Restful Accommodations:
The primary suite features a king bed, pool deck access via sliding doors, Smart TV, walk-in closet, and en-suite bath with dual vanities and walk-in shower.
Two additional guest bedrooms offer a king bed and a full-plus-twin configuration respectively, each with its own Smart TV, while a Queen sleeper sofa is available in the living room.
The spacious guest bath includes an oversized dual vanity, walk-in shower, and direct pool deck access.
Premium Amenities:
The outdoor heated pool and spa deck is elevated and requires no steps to access it. Simply open the sliding doors from the house and you're ready to enjoy the pool or spa.
Enjoy an afternoon siesta or sunbathe in the chaise lounges, read a book, or host a great gathering in the seating area.
The pool features an electric heater and solar panels. The pool is heated seasonally, as needed.
Unbeatable Location:
The exclusive Brightwater community features fewer than 30 homes and private deeded beach access directly across the street. Positioned along West Gulf Drive's revitalized Gold Coast—near the new Beach View Villas, Shalimar Resort, White Caps Cottages, and the upcoming Island Inn and West Wind Inn—Lazy Ray Retreat offers exceptional proximity to pristine beaches, dining, the wildlife refuge, recreation center, and more.
Just 350 yards from the Gulf's sugar-sand shores, you'll enjoy world-class shelling, miles of beachfront walks, and excellent fishing opportunities. The year-round sunrises and sunsets from Brightwater's beach access are truly spectacular.
What's Included:
Two-car garage parking
Outdoor propane bbq grill (propane provided)
Beach chairs for guest use
Complimentary laundry detergent and cleaning supplies
High-speed WiFi to keep you connected
Weekly pool service
Weekly landscaping service
Secure keyless entry credentials
Laundry:
The laundry room is equipped with commercial-grade Speed Queen washers and dryers—renowned for their durability and perfect for handling pool and beach towels throughout your stay.
Pet-Friendly:
Your furry family member is welcome with prior owner approval and payment of a non-refundable pet fee (based on length of stay and number of pets). Weight limits and breed restrictions may apply.
Professional Management:
Lazy Ray Retreat is professionally managed by Cottages to Castles of Sanibel & Captiva, ensuring exceptional service and memorable stays since 1997.
Important Rental Information:
City of Sanibel zoning requires a minimum 28-night rental period—no exceptions.
Due to online booking system limitations, this property may appear unavailable when dates are actually open. Please contact us directly to confirm availability for your desired dates.
FAQ
Was Lazy Ray really on HGTV? Yes — it was featured on HGTV’s House Hunters, Season 261, Episode 10, “Spreadsheets In Paradise,” which aired May 23, 2026.
Is Lazy Ray pet-friendly? Yes, up to 2 non-shedding dogs, 70 lbs combined weight max, additional pet fee applies.
What is the minimum stay at Lazy Ray? The City of Sanibel zoning requires a minimum 28-night rental, no exceptions.
Does Lazy Ray have a pool? Yes, a heated pool plus a spa.
Are beach towels and beach chairs provided? Yes — a minimum of 2 beach chairs are provided, along with 1 beach towel per person. Beach umbrellas are not provided.
Are bicycles provided? We don’t provide bicycles — that’s not our specialty. We leave bike rentals to the pros: Billy’s Bikes and Finnimore’s. Both deliver, provide helmets, and offer roadside assistance if needed.
When should I book my airfare or finalize my travel arrangements? Please do not book airfare until your reservation has been approved, a deposit has been posted & paid to Cottages to Castles, & a reservation confirmation has been sent to you.
Are beach towels and beach chairs provided? Yes — a minimum of 2 beach chairs are provided, along with 1 beach towel per person. Beach umbrellas are not provided.
Are bicycles provided? We don’t provide bicycles — that’s not our specialty. We leave bike rentals to the pros: Billy’s Bikes and Finnimore’s. Both deliver, provide helmets, and offer roadside assistance if needed.
When should I book my airfare or finalize my travel arrangements? Please do not book airfare until your reservation has been approved, a deposit has been posted & paid to Cottages to Castles, & a reservation confirmation has been sent to you.
How do I keep mosquitoes and no-see-ums away during my beach vacation? The best defense is an insect repellent with Picaridin, paired with light, long-sleeve coverage when you're not in the water. Loose, breathable long sleeves and pants block bites well, but that's not always practical at the beach, pool, or swimming in the Gulf — so a good Picaridin-based repellent is your go-to.
Guest favorites include Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus Picaridin Aerosol Spray and Bug Guard Wipes/Lotion (available on Avon.com), and Sawyer Picaridin Lotion (available on Amazon). Picaridin is effective against both mosquitoes and no-see-ums, doesn't feel greasy like DEET, and won't damage swimsuits or patio furniture. Apply before heading outside in the early morning or evening, when both pests are most active.
City of Sanibel Rental License #RDWL-011906
VRBO ID#20211063
VRBO #20211063
