As a light breeze swept across the bay, a bride in a white satin gown slipped off her heels and strolled down a private beach to her fiancé. The couple held hands and exchanged vows before a small group of friends and family.

Yes, romance was in the air, much as it is every day at Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa, a world-class retreat in Fort Myers on Florida's Gulf Coast. The sophisticated waterfront resort is just minutes from Sanibel and Captiva islands and is an idyllic spot to tie the knot.

Before the big day, indulge at the spa or kick back poolside with a tropical libation. Host an elegant rehearsal dinner at The Banyan Room. For the ceremony, choose an intimate spot on the beach or a sunset cruise on the resort's 100-foot luxury yacht. Along the way, the sun-streaked sky and Gulf waters create the postcard-perfect backdrop.

Whether you're saying "I do" or just enjoying Florida with your sweetheart, the Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa marries romance and luxury in a way that's sure to make your experience unforgettable.

For the ceremony, choose an intimate spot on the beach or a sunset cruise on the resort's 100-foot luxury yacht. Along the way, the sun-streaked sky and Gulf waters create the postcard-perfect backdrop.

Waterfront Bliss

The 85-acre resort sits on Punta Rassa, a small peninsula once inhabited by Calusa Indians. The sanctuary retains a laidback ambiance, but it teems with modern luxuries, including signature robes, valet parking, concierge services and high-speed Internet. In the resort lobby, floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning views of Sanibel and Captiva islands. Marble floors, fountains and chandeliers add to its elegance.

Wedding parties will find everything they need at the resort, which recently underwent a $55 million renovation and includes more than 400 guest rooms, suites and condos. Feast on made-to-order omelets and fresh fruit at The Tarpon House. Eat inside the plantation-style dining room or outdoors on the wrap-around veranda.

During the day, explore the barrier islands by kayak, take a dolphin cruise or cast a line off the pier to snag snook. Cool off in one of the resort's six pools, then nosh on nachos from Pelican Pool Bar & Grille.

 At night, dine on lobster and filet mignon topped with truffle butter at the Courtside Steakhouse, which features a 1,200-bottle wine cellar and certified Angus beef entrees.

For a regal excursion, take a twilight dinner cruise aboard the Sanibel Harbour Princess, a $3.2 million yacht that cruises the bay and the Gulf of Mexico.


Weddings, Receptions and Celebrations

Each year, the resort hosts more than 100 weddings and rehearsal dinners. Couples marry poolside or on secluded beaches overlooking the bay. They throw daytime parties on spacious verandas or exchange vows aboard the Sanibel Harbour Princess. Just the other night, a couple got engaged on the yacht, which comes equipped with a private dressing room, several bars and plasma TVs.

For receptions and rehearsal dinners, the resort has 45,000 square feet of scenic waterfront space, including four ballrooms.

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but the resort staff seems happy to help alleviate those headaches. They can take care of everything from music to flowers to catering. The resort even has an on-site production company.

Already married? Couples commemorating a honeymoon or anniversary may enjoy the "Celebration Package," which includes a two-night stay, daily breakfast and champagne and strawberries.


Luxury at the Spa

 Calm pre-wedding jitters with a trip to the resort's spa, named one of the "Top Ten Spa Resorts in the U.S." by Condé Nast Traveler.

Relax with a massage or get polished with a body wrap, salt glow and facial at the 40,000-square-foot spa and fitness center, which utilizes natural and sea-based elements in its treatments.

Inside the spa's salon, the bride and her court can get up-dos and manicures. Lovebirds can opt for the "Day of Indulgence," which includes a couples' massage, manicures and more.


Off-site Excursions

 Don't miss the neighboring Sanibel and Captiva islands, famous for pristine beaches and island charm. Collect seashells and explore the Sanibel Lighthouse. At a local favorite, Lighthouse Café on Sanibel Island, homemade strawberry preserves and seafood omelets are well worth the wait.

For dinner and dancing, don't miss Dolce Vita, a Sanibel Island restaurant specializing in fresh seafood and Mediterranean cuisine. A live band gets patrons on their feet, dancing cheek-to-cheek.

Finish off the evening back at the resort with a nightcap at Charley's Cabana Bar, where patrons lounge on comfy couches in the open-air, waterfront bar. Open until 1 a.m., it's the perfect place to share a goodnight kiss under the stars.

For more information on planning your wedding, honeymoon or romantic getaway to the Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa, call 866-283-3273 or visit www.sanibel-resort.com.