Reviews for Private Homes Vacation Rental - VRBO 919241ha - 2 BR Fort Myers House in FL, Kathy'S Tropical Beach Bungalow: Private Pool: Minutes to Sanibel and Beaches

Exceptional Vacation Rental, Can't Go Wrong With Either Property

Guest Ann & Grant
Date of stay 01/19/13
Review Submitted 02/08/13

My husband and I had the pleasure of staying in both Duncan's and Kathy's bungalows in January. I feel the same review applies to both properties. If you searched on pet friendly you may have been prepared to make sacrifices as far as your comfort but have no fear Duncan's and Kathy's bungalows are PEOPLE friendly as well. Both properties are private, comfortable, clean, equipped with amenities not usually found in vacation rentals. If you are hoping for a quiet retreat the private swimming pools, fenced yards, fully equipped kitchens provide the perfect environment to relax and unwind in safe, quiet neighborhoods. If you are looking for a more active vacation the bungalows are Ideally located for sightseeing, restaurants, shopping etc. The photos are an accurate portrayal of the homes but the thing that sets these apart from other rentals cannot be captured in photos. That "thing" is the owners. It is obvious from first contact that this is not just a business for them. They truly want their guests (notice I said guests not tenants) to have an enjoyable vacation. Their attention to detail is impeccable, they are never intrusive but quick to respond to any questions or issues that could arise. Perhaps, Duncan and Kathy should start a consulting business to teach other property owners to provide a unique, comfortable environment, or manage properties for other owners so that guests will return year after year. After returning home and thinking about their special touches and deep commitment, I feel that I should be sending them each a thank you note. We are definitely hoping to return to their perfect vacation rentals.

Recommended for: People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 3/4

Jon and Joan

Guest Jon and Joan
Date of stay 01/05/13
Review Submitted 01/20/13

We really enjoyed our stay at Kathy's home. We loved how close were were to FT Myers Beach and wonderful resturatants and shopping. Kathy thought of everything that we might need and the house was spotlessly clean. Most importantly, our dog was secure as the property was totally fenced in and secure.

Recommended for: People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 2/3

Awesome Relaxing Getaway

Guest Anita G.
Date of stay 12/15/12
Review Submitted 01/22/13

This beautiful cottage felt like home the minute we walked in the door except at my home I don't have all the nice extras. It was very neat and clean. It had all the comforts for a great relaxing vacation. This place is in a great location near shops and Sanibel Beach. I can't wait to go back.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 2/3

Relaxing Florida Holiday

Guest audrey g.
Date of stay 11/10/12
Review Submitted 11/25/12

Thank you kathy for allowing us to stay at your Tropical Retreat Bungalow in Fort Myers.A wonderful Home from from home equipped with everything you could need,clean spacious and comfortable rooms and lovelly pool area which added to our nice relaxing stay.This provided us with a relaxing retreat yet near enough to the amenities if required such as Fort Myers Beach/Sanibel Island& others. We would not hesitate to recommend it to others and hope to revisit in the not too distant future. Brian & Audrey Bridlington England

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 2/3

Quiet and secluded

Guest John M.
Date of stay 10/20/12
Review Submitted 11/06/12

Really wonderful home, clean and nicely decorated. Everything you're looking for in a romantic getaway. Loved the secluded back yard patio and pool area. Would go back in a heartbeat! Loved it.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 2/3

Everything you could want in a vacation rental !!

Guest Linda G.
Date of stay 09/28/12
Review Submitted 10/22/12

Kathy's Bungalow is as described and photos are exact as represented. The house was very clean in a quiet neighborhood, not far from local attractions.( Near Sanibel Island and a number of other beaches and islands). Thomas Edison and Hernry Ford summer houses are not far and very interesting places to visit. Kathy's is well furnished, including beach towels for the wonderful swimming pool. We highly recommend Kathy's Bungalow and would visit again. It was a very relaxing and fun stay. Thank you Kathy.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 3/4

A Most Relaxing and Enjoyable Vacation!

Guest Thomas L.
Date of stay 09/15/12
Review Submitted 09/20/12

What a fabulous vacation at a bargain price. The house and grounds were pristine. I loved all the special touches Kathy has in her house, from the antique living room stove to all the special lighting and touches by the pool. Talk about clean and inviting? It is all here and the home is so close to all the beaches and attractions. It was great to find an inviting home that permits pets. Bridgett and Devlin, my Chocolate Labs, had a fabulous time and loved the yard and pool area. Absolutely everything is provided, from shampoo to spices and all the cooking implements you could wish for. I loved having fresh beach towels, beach chairs and an umbrella for the beach. The solar heated pool provided spa quality water that was so inviting. We will hopefully be back.....

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 3/4

Wonderful!

Guest Love to travel
Date of stay 09/08/12
Review Submitted 09/23/12

This house is absolutely wonderful! My husband and I were in Florida to celebrate my mother-in-law's 90th birthday. I wanted to find someplace special to stay, and Kathy's Bungalow was perfect! The house is immaculate, well appointed and equipped with everything you could possibly ask for. It's less than 5 minutes from grocery stores, restaurants and shopping. The privacy of the backyard, pool and lanai area is great, so we spent lots of time lounging around outside. We had a terrific time and can't wait to visit again. Thanks for sharing your house with us, I've already recommended it to several of my friends.

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 3/4

Nice!

Guest Monika P.
Date of stay 08/11/12
Review Submitted 08/31/12

This is a very cozy and comfortable property. I stayed there with my 8 year old daughter and husband for a week. It was just right for us! We got a chance to relax in the pool, go to Sanibel Island and Fort Myers Beach, both a few minutes drive away. All of the major stores are within few minutes drive. Kathy's kitchen is well equiped. I appreciate that she left so many spices and condiments in the refrigerator, this saved us money. The bungalow is a perfect size for a small family, everyone got a good night sleep, there is an aboundance of seating in this place! Thank you!

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 2/4

Everthing and More

Guest Dawn B.
Date of stay 07/14/12
Review Submitted 07/23/12

This house is everthing and more. It was so relaxing and you did not have to think about anything as it was all there provided for you. Kathy truly has thought of everything from the beach/pool down to not having to run out and buy trash bags or laundry detergent. We had a wonderful stay at the house and would definately recommend it. We took our 11 year old daughters and our family dog, and it was ample space for us all. The kids loved that they had their own TV in their room so they could watch their shows at night and there is a great TV in the family room as well as a TV in the master. It is extremely close to Sanibel and Fort Myers Beach so we did not miss anything. You can spend half your day at the pool and half your day at the beach since the location is so close to everything. The house is extremely clean and well looked after and in wonderful condition. We did not miss anything! There is wireless connection and the dish so you can record TV shows if needed. We spent most nights sitting outside and enjoying the pool. I would absolutely come back and recommend to anyone.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 2/5

Perfect - Tropical Bungalow

Guest roulla D.
Date of stay 06/23/12
Review Submitted 06/29/12

Thanks for a wonderful stay at your gorgeous bungalow. The amenities and the bungalow were perfect, you thought of everything. Very close to good restaurants and shopping, totally recommend Crave for brunch or lunch. This is the perfect vacation home, with your own private beach.. where you are surrounded by the flora and fauna of tropical Fort Myers. The sun room is ideal for chilling out and enjoying a good book. The family room and kitchen are a great layout, lots of space to relax and unwind with very comfty leather settees. Spent some time at Miramar Outlets, which offers fabulous designer shopping. You must visit the Bloomingdale's Outlet store, especially if you like designer handbags at very reasonable prices. We will back again soon and thanks for mailing my phone charger to me.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 1/5

Perfect home, for a perfect getaway!

Guest Jennifer G.
Date of stay 06/02/12
Review Submitted 06/23/12

We cannot say enough wonderful things about the house, and about Kathy. My husband and I, plus our four legged baby, stayed for a week. The house was clean and well-maintained. The layout was perfect for us, and the backyard and the lanai was to die for. We spent 80% of our time out there lounging, eating and listening to music. The house was more than well equipped with board games, DVD's, beach items, bikes, pool floats, beach towels, a grill, even a crock pot! Close to so many things. We rented Kayaks from Estero Outfitters, which was awesome because we wanted to go fishing, they set us up with rod holders and the right kayaks. Gooney Golf galore in this area, not to mention a so-so outlet less than 5 minutes away, and the Miromar Outlets about 25 minutes away (that is the one you can spend time and money at!) and there is even a HUGE Bass Pro for the husband, so you can convince him to come along. Plus Coconut Point mall, which has a TON of shops, Target, DSW, West Elm, Loft, Banana, the list goes on...There is a Target and Publix within biking distance, and the Target has a Starbucks in it, wohoo!! We will be back again, perfect vacation. Thank you Kathy!

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 1/5

Paradise!

Guest Kaitlyn S.
Date of stay 04/21/12
Review Submitted 05/01/12

Thanks Kathy so much for having such a great place to stay. We have always rented houses with screened in pools and I was a little worried that yours didn't have one but let me tell you it was wonderful! The sun was so much more enjoyable and the pool was the warmest pool we have ever had! Of course Lucas (our dog) loved being able to run around the backyard chasing lizards. HIs favorite place was to lay in the sand before it got sunny. We couldn't have asked for anything more! Thank you again! Dawn - Phoenix NY

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 5/11

Best first family vacation EVER!

Guest Jenna D.
Date of stay 04/14/12
Review Submitted 04/23/12

Before seeing a commercial on tv for homeaway.com, my husband and I were looking desperately for a vacation spot for our first family vacation. We are a small, young family of 4 and were looking anywhere from Daytona Beach to the Florida Keys. We really wanted to go to Fort Myers as this is where my husband was born, but all of the resorts we found on sites like expedia were sooooo expensive. We had set a budget for ourselves and if we had stayed at one of the resorts, we were only going to be able to stay for a maximum of 4 days!! Then I found homeaway.com and stumbled upon Kathys Bungalow!! We immediately knew that it was the right place for us. The pictures appeared to be impeccable and almost too good to be true. After a few email exchanges between myself and Kathy, who was so accommodating, we happily booked our stay for April 14-21. When we arrived, everything was true to the pictures and SO clean!! We immediately felt right at home, almost too comfortable because when it came time to leave, we did NOT want to leave in the least. The house was absolutely perfect and exactly what we wanted it to be. The pool was incredible. Our 3yr old and 1 1/2 yr old absolutely loved every second we spent in it. The location is absolutely perfect!! We were just minutes to Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel, and Cape Coral. I can not stress enough how clean, put together and welcoming this home was to us. We wanted to be the perfect guests and not have to bother Kathy at all, but I just had to call her a few times to ask small questions, and she immediately did what she could to help us resolve any problems we had, which were incredibly minimal (needed a lightbulb for the dining room light). I would absolutely recommend this property to anyone who was thinking of vacationing on the Gulf Coast. We loved it so much, it has cemented any ideas of us wanting to relocate to where my husband was born. We are starting out search for a home and jobs so that we can permanently get out of upstate NY. I can only hope that one day we can have such a beautiful home as Kathys Tropical Bungalow. Thank you SO much Kathy for your amazing customer service and allowing us to spend our first family vacation in your incredible home. It was the greatest week we could ever have hoped for!! If ever there was a perfect vacation home, this is IT!!

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 4/10

Awesome Vacation!!

Guest Sadie C.
Date of stay 04/07/12
Review Submitted 04/17/12

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Kathy's Beach Bungalow! Kathy was very gracious when we arrived and her home was very clean and homey. It sure was a great week and went by entirely too fast. We enjoyed our times at the beaches - Sanibel, Lover's Key and Fort Myers Beach. Biking around the community was great - bikes and everything you needed for the beach was all provided. There is lots to do around the area - we enjoyed a sunset dolphin cruise, parasailing, trying out local restaurants and of course the beaches. At the house we enjoyed the pool, the nice lanai for dining - it really was a "home away from home". We would definitely recommend this home. Only downer is that you need to drive everywhere - not far, but still need to get in a car. We were told about a closeby beach we could bike to, but did not make it there. All in all we had a great vacation which was too short, of course!!!

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 6/12

One of the best rentals I have ever been to.

Guest Pat B.
Date of stay 03/24/12
Review Submitted 04/02/12

My husband and I have rented many houses through out the years and this lovely home rates way above the rest. The decor is impeccable...the heated pool abundantly warmed by the solar panels...the kitchen is stocked in fact the entire house is filled to the brim with everything you might need.You are close to shopping and the magnificent beaches on the Gulf. The photos on the web do not do this home justice - it is even lovelier in person Your hosts are beyond hospitable they are instant friends. Welcoming you with goodies before your vacation even starts. We had a problem with our car and Kathy went out of her way to help us solve the matter. I can't wait to rent this home again and tell all my friends. My biggest fear is everyone will find out how wonderful this home is and there won't be any open slots for me. Go and enjoy!

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 6/11

A Little Piece of Paradise!

Guest Peter I.
Date of stay 03/10/12
Review Submitted 04/02/12

Kathy's Tropical Beach Bungalow and why we loved it! My wife and I spent two weeks here in March 2012. We had been looking to stay for three weeks but someone had beat us to the punch so we settled for just the two. You can see from the pictures what is available to you but they does not tell the whole story. Kathy lived here for 21 years and only recently started renting to lucky vacationers. When you walk in the front door you feel like you are walking into a home that someone has been kind enough to share with you. It is extremely homey and comfortable but also lots of area to allow for privacy if you want to get away from those with you. The kitchen had absolutely everything and more with tons of counter and cupboard space. We ate in every night and enjoyed every minute of it! I like to BBQ (grill for you Americans) and there is a good little BBQ in the backyard tucked away in the corner. I also hate doing dishes so having a dishwasher is a nice touch. Both bedrooms are large and roomy with lots of cupboard space and they also have their own bathrooms. My wife and I slept in the master bedroom and it was perfect. My sister-in-law joined us for a week and slept in the second bedroom which she said was perfect as well. The living room has a couch, a love-seat and a large chair which are very comfy if you spend time inside watching the big screen TV with satellite included. Being Canadian I was thrilled to get NHL tonight to catch up on the hockey that I was missing while in Florida, Go Bruins! What really makes this home a great spot is the lanai and the back yard. The lanai has a dining table for 4-6 and it is just outside the sliding door from the living room. This comes complete with a CD player and several of Kathy's favorite CD's with an excellent range of music. The other half of the lanai is a sitting area which is also very comfy and quiet if you so desire. Outside is the pool area which has a couple of seating areas, one of which is a little beach. My dog and I spent some time here late afternoons as it is out of the sun and very relaxing. The backyard is totally private making sunbathing and swimming pretty much a come as you are event! Also important to know is that you can get to the beaches, depending on traffic in just about 10-15 minutes plus there is fantastic outlet shopping only minutes away. Bicycles are also available for transportation. To top all of this off Kathy and her Dad Duncan are perfect hosts!

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 7/12

YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED

Guest comment entered by owner

YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED

Guest Barry and Connie Duxbury, MA.
Date of stay 02/25/12
Review Submitted 03/20/12

"Whenever I base an opinion on words, pictures,and value,it usually does not meet what I expected. HOWEVER, when my wife and I approached "Kathy's Tropical Beach Bungalow",it appeared similar to others on the street, but when we entered and saw the decorative and well appointed interior, we were just stunned. It exceeded our expectations. AND THEN THE SCREENED IN AREA AND POOL AREA!!!! We spent a lot of time here and admired the thought and creativity of designing such a pleasant surrounding!!!

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 5/10

Great Vacation Home

Guest Kelly C.
Date of stay 02/18/12
Review Submitted 02/28/12

The house was so cozy and quiet and very comfortable. We all love that it was a great location to shopping , beaches restaurants etc. The sun porch was a quiet place to relax . The pool was so private and very enjoyable. It was a wonderful vacation spot and priced very reasonable. Thanks Kelly Conlon Feb, 2012

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 3/8

Wonderful vacation home

Guest Faye C.
Date of stay 02/11/12
Review Submitted 02/20/12

The Cutlips and The Gambills This was the perfect house for our vacation. The house is in a very quiet location away from the traffic, but close enough to great shopping and all the attractions to make a vacation fun. The house was very clean with lots of space. The beach around the pool is great for morning coffee and afternoon sun bathing. The kitchen was well furnished, so we cooked in several nights. We could not have asked for a better location or a more spacious house with the best accomodations.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 3/8

Warm and Inviting Bungalow

Guest Diana L.
Date of stay 01/14/12
Review Submitted 02/10/12

Kathy, We throughly enjoyed our stay in your wonderful home, so warm and inviting and really appreciated the muffins, orange juice and pet treats on our arrival. We were amazed at how centrally located everything was to your home, Beaches, Sanibel-Captiva Island and, I think we ate in every possible restaurant in Fort Myers and I must not forget all the places to shop, we even found a Bass Pro Store, one of our favorites. On our lazy days we used the great pool, lounging around getting tan or reading a book in a very private tropical setting, and I don't want to forget the well stocked kitchen when not eating out. We cannot believe how fast our vacation went, seems like we just arrived and now its time to go, We would love to come back and will tell all our friends what a great time we had at your Tropical Bungalow. Thanks Kathy, The Leonhardts (from Ohio) 1/14/12 - 2/11/12

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 4/9

Perfect winter getaway

Guest pauline d.
Date of stay 01/03/12
Review Submitted 01/15/12

Cathy's bungalow was in a very peaceful residential area, with everything on the doorstep! Including shops, restaurants, Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel Island and Captiva Island, which had the most amazing beaches, and a great place to collect shells! The bungalow was clean, very homely and nicely done out. There was plenty of room for our family of four and two dogs to spread out in comfort. It has a well equipped kitchen and beach towels etc are also provided. The garden with the pool was very secluded and nicely laid out. We enjoyed sitting outside around the pool when we felt like a lazy day. We arrived late and Cathy had left coffee, cream, muffins and even cookies for the dogs which was a nice touch. We travelled as far as South Beach, Miami which took around 2 1/2 hours but was worth the journey. Cathy and Duncan were very happy for us to call them any time and ask for any advice of information in the area and further afield. I would recommend this bungalow to families of all ages. Thanks Cathy and Duncan for making our stay so pleasant. We hope to see you again in the future. The Deans

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 7/12

Excellent welcoming bungelow

Guest Sarah D.
Date of stay 12/24/11
Review Submitted 01/01/12

This is a charming, older bungelow in a quiet neighborhood well suited to one or two couples. The owner is in the area, and greeted me with fresh baked cookies to start the vacation. The home is spotless, and the upgraded linens and amenities make it easy to settle right in to. It is close to everything, and the well equiped kitchen makes it more like home than a rental. You can't go wrong with this home!

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 5/10

Tranquility a Stone's Throw From Everything

Guest Mary Kay S.
Date of stay 10/08/11
Review Submitted 10/29/11

We had a fantastic time at Kathy's Tropical Bungalow. The location was perfect. We were close to great shopping (Tanger Outlet!), dynamite food in Ft. Myers and Sanibel, and close to Ft. Myers Beach and the gorgeous beaches of Sanibel and Captiva. And yet it was so peaceful and private we almost never wanted to go anywhere. The pool area feels like a secluded island getaway. The house is so comfortable, beautifully decorated and appointed. We didn't want for anything, except more vacation time. We will definitely be back.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 7/12

Beautiful & Cozy

Guest Jessica B.
Date of stay 09/10/11
Review Submitted 10/11/11

This is a beautiful, cozy, comfy place to stay. We couldn't have been happier with our stay. The location is perfect - close to everything you could need yet away from the busy, busy. The kitchen was perfect for cooking meals when we wanted to stay in and we enjoyed dining inside, on the patio and outside "beach side". It's just a short drive to Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel and Captiva. We didn't want to leave! It felt like home!

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 7/12

Vacation Rentals by Owner

Kathy'S Tropical Beach Bungalow: Private Pool: Minutes to Sanibel and Beaches [#414611] | View Property

Traveler Reviews (25)

Exceptional Vacation Rental, Can't Go Wrong With Either Property

Exceptional Vacation Rental, Can't Go Wrong With Either Property

Jon and Joan

Jon and Joan

Awesome Relaxing Getaway

Awesome Relaxing Getaway

Relaxing Florida Holiday

Relaxing Florida Holiday

Quiet and secluded

Quiet and secluded

Everything you could want in a vacation rental !!

Everything you could want in a vacation rental !!

A Most Relaxing and Enjoyable Vacation!

A Most Relaxing and Enjoyable Vacation!

Wonderful!

Wonderful!

Nice!

Nice!

Everthing and More

Everthing and More

Perfect - Tropical Bungalow

Perfect - Tropical Bungalow

Perfect home, for a perfect getaway!

Perfect home, for a perfect getaway!

Paradise!

Paradise!

Best first family vacation EVER!

Best first family vacation EVER!

Awesome Vacation!!

Awesome Vacation!!

One of the best rentals I have ever been to.

One of the best rentals I have ever been to.

A Little Piece of Paradise!

A Little Piece of Paradise!

YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED

YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED

Great Vacation Home

Great Vacation Home

Wonderful vacation home

Wonderful vacation home

Warm and Inviting Bungalow

Warm and Inviting Bungalow

Perfect winter getaway

Perfect winter getaway

Excellent welcoming bungelow

Excellent welcoming bungelow

Tranquility a Stone's Throw From Everything

Tranquility a Stone's Throw From Everything

Beautiful & Cozy

Beautiful & Cozy