Calini on Siesta Key

[Vodo]

I ran across an August '08 exchange into a 2BR at Calini this evening. I skimmed the reviews (mostly older) and came away confused about how the resort is situated in conjunction to the beach. I understand it's not right on the beach, but one description made it sound like it's just stacked behind another resort that is beachfront. Does that mean it's not actually across Midnight Pass (or whatever that road is called) from the beach? In what direction and past what do you have to walk in the "half block" it takes to access the beach?

Also, how does it compare amenities-wise and unit quality-wise to the Sandpiper, and how far away is it located from the Sandpiper? Is there a private beach area? Are there chairs/umbrellas (free or rental) right on the beach?

Thanks for any guidance anyone can offer. I have it on hold until tomorrow.

Cindy

 

[sandcastles]

We stayed there in January of 06. You don't have to cross Midnight Pass road to get to the beach. If I remember right I think there is a "local" type road that just lead to another resort that you cross. Then you just walk in sand that you sink down in to get to the beach.

Sandpiper is north of Calini but I can't remember how far. I have been in Sandpiper but never stayed there and I can't recall what the units were like.

They told us we had the best unit of the resort when we checked in. We were on the end and the whole living room and the balcony overlooked the gulf. Beautiful view. As far as activities they had a cookout and carry in lunch one day. I think there were a few more activities but we didn't take part. Not sure about umbrellas, chairs, etc.

 

[sandcastles]

Cindy, I was just rereading my post and realized I didn't really answer many of your questions. Basically you just walk straight out from the resort to get to the beach.

I was having major foot and ankle problems and almost cancelled our trip, so I really didn't do too much and most of the week was kind of a blur.

I wouldn't hesitate to make another trade there.

 

[Vodo]

Thanks, June!

I called RCI hoping to get the unit number, but the VC said the exchange indicates only 2BR in the unit number field. It's my understanding, based on reviews, that this resort assigns the confirmed unit. Does anyone know if there's a way to find out in advance?

Thanks again!
Cindy

 

[sandcastles]

Cindy, if you called the resort they would probably work with you. They were the most accomodating people at check in I have ever dealt with.

We stayed at Little Gull on Longboat the week before Calini, and we drove down to Calini the week before check-in. They said the owners had not checked in yet, told us the room we were going to be in and gave us the key to go look at it. That's when they also told us it had the best view of any unit. Unfortunately I don't remember the number.

 

[gretel]

Comparison

I've stayed in both Calini and Sandpiper. I prefer Calini.

Calini- the units are really large. I loved how open and bright the living room was. You can open the sliding doors the entire length of the living room and have access to the large patio balcony. The higher the floor the better the view. The end units on the first floor have a spiral staircase to the outside and a larger balcony. The showers and tubs are very large (my kids felt like they were in a kiddie pool!). The resort is within easy walking distance to a small shopping plaza. Many peope enjoyed the pool and hot tub although I have heard that it can be crowded.

The downside to Calini is the beach. You walk from the resort, across a tiny street with almost no traffic, through a gate and between several low-rise resorts that front the beach. The beach itself has a water drain-off pipe right there and is in somewhat of a cove. There aren't chairs/umbrellas for rent. It isn't terrible but I prefer a wide expansive beach. I drove to different beaches and used my own gear.

Sandpiper- the units are also spacious and clean. The beach is right there with umbrellas and chairs for rent. I have seen the beach clean and wonderful in past years but last year it was nasty and fishy. I'm unsure what the status is normally. My guess is that we were there in the middle of red tide. A call to the resort might help clarify. The pool is convenient with plenty of tables and chairs. The resort is well-run.

Downside: The units have a screened-in blacony. If you are fortunate to get a gulf-front, I would grab it. Otherwise, your view is of the people in the condos next door. Maybe the top floor units have a nice view? We were uncomfortable keeping the drapes open as we saw people looking in from across the way one day.

So that is my assessment. Your choice depends on what is important to you. Enjoy your trip!

 

[gretel]

Unit Number

Thanks, June!

I called RCI hoping to get the unit number, but the VC said the exchange indicates only 2BR in the unit number field. It's my understanding, based on reviews, that this resort assigns the confirmed unit. Does anyone know if there's a way to find out in advance?

Thanks again!
Cindy

Call RCI back. They weren't telling you the truth. Sometimes VCs will say that because they don't want to be bothered (or perhaps don't know where to look). Call again and another will tell you the unit. They have a specific unit number and that is the one you get.

 

[SherryS]

Do call RCI back, as each exchange DOES have an assigned unit number!!
If the unit number is on the 3rd or 4th floor, you will have a view of the gulf over the top of the 2 story condo in front of Calini.

The Calini units are on the gulf side of Midnight Pass Rd., but a local access Rd. IS inbetween Calini and the gulf. You do walk straight across that local street, which seldom has any traffic as it only accesses a couple of 2 story condos, and maybe 100 yards to the beach.

I think the units at Sandpiper and the units at Calini are similar in age and amenities. Both are very well-kept and quite clean. I have stayed in both within the last 3 years, and have visited friends in both complexes within the last 6 months.

Any other questions? I'd be happy to answer!