The photos of this home do not do it justice. The house is clean and colorful. There was plenty of space for our family of 5 (including 3 teenagers), and everyone was comfortable. Some things that set this house apart from others we've stayed at on the island was:

1. The ammenities: We had everything we needed and wanted right at the house! Pool, pool table, darts, hammocks, plenty of bikes, even kayaks and a trailer to haul them. I'm sure I'm leaving many things out- we just didn't even have enough time to play with everything!

2. The drinking water: Many homes on the island have a sulfer-like smell to the drinking water. Not this one! The water is clear and smell-free! Pat and Tom provide a Britta filter to further filter drinking water, and we really appreciated not having to lug gallons of water over to the island.

3.The location: While not beachfront, this is a great location, midway between the nature preserve on the south end, and the airstrip near the north end (take the kayaks to the sound side of the airstrip to kayak with the dolphins every day)! It was a quick stroll to the beach, or we could load all of our beach "gear" on the golf cart to set up our spot for the day.

4. Golf Carts: The cart that was provided (plus the extra cart) were in great condition and lifted to handle the bumpy roads.

5. The owners: Pat and Tom were great! I cannot tell you enough the value of being able to communicate with the owners and not with a managing entity. They answered all our questions quickly both before and during our stay.

This was our 3rd trip to North Captiva, and the 3rd house we've rented. The first two were beachfront, but were lacking in more important areas (water quality, amenities, fun). Third try's a charm! Our teenage children (19,18, and 16) were asking to come back and rent this house again to bring their friends. I think they enjoyed the downstairs rec area as much or more than they enjoyed the beach.