BigTree Stays Siesta Key · Gulf Gate · SouthgateSarasota · Cape Coral Book now

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Before you book

Guest FAQ

What are check-in and check-out times?

Check-in is at 4 PM and check-out is at 11 AM. Arriving on an early flight, or hoping for one more swim before you head home? Just share your travel plans with us. Early check-in and late checkout are available whenever the calendar allows, and a small fee may apply. We will confirm the details with you as soon as we know.

Which airports can I fly into?

For our Siesta Key, Gulf Gate, Southgate and Sarasota homes, you have two good choices. Sarasota-Bradenton International (SRQ) is the closest, about 15 to 25 minutes away, and Tampa International (TPA) is about an hour and 15 to 30 minutes north, often with more nonstop flights, so it is worth comparing fares. For Cape House in Cape Coral, fly into Southwest Florida International (RSW) in Fort Myers, about 35 minutes away, or Punta Gorda (PGD), about 45 minutes away.

Do you offer short, mid and long-term stays?

Yes, at every one of our homes. Whether you are planning a long weekend, a few weeks away or a whole season on the Gulf Coast, we would love to host you. Short, mid and long-term stays are available across all our homes, and we are open to every inquiry, so just tell us what you have in mind and we will help make it work.

Are the pools heated?

Yes. Every home has its own private heated pool, so a warm swim is waiting in any season, even on cooler winter evenings. Tell us before you arrive how warm you like it, and we will do our best to have it just right when you walk in.

Can I bring a pet?

Yes, bring the whole family! Every one of our homes welcomes well-behaved dogs, because vacation is better when no one is left behind. Tell us a little about your pup before you book so we can confirm. A pet cleaning fee is simply added to your stay, so we can give the home an extra-deep clean afterward and have it fresh for the next family. No deposit, no fuss. Ask us for nearby dog-friendly spots, too.

Where do we park?

Every home has free parking right on the property, so there is no circling for a spot after a long beach day. Your arrival guide covers everything for your home, from where to park to how to settle in.

Do you provide beach gear?

We do. Every home is stocked with beach chairs, umbrellas and beach toys, so you can head straight for the sand without packing a thing. Many homes add bikes, wagons and pool floats, and if there is something special you need for your trip, just ask and we will do our best to help.

What is the cancellation policy?

For stays booked directly with us, cancel 30 or more days before arrival for a full refund, or 14 to 29 days before for a 50% refund. With fewer than 14 days to go, the stay is non-refundable. The policy is also shown clearly on the booking page before you pay, so you always know where you stand. Life happens, and if your plans change, reach out to us directly. A real person on our team will walk through your options with you.

Do you offer travel insurance?

We do not sell insurance ourselves, but we are always happy to point you to the travel insurance partners we work with. It is completely optional, and many of our guests love the peace of mind. Travel insurance protects the money you have spent on your trip if life gets in the way: an illness, a family emergency, a cancelled flight or a storm. Plans differ, so compare what each one covers, and check whether your credit card already includes some trip protection. One tip from us: buy soon after you book. Florida's hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30, and many plans will not cover a storm once it has been named.

Do I need insurance to stay with you?

No. Travel insurance is your choice, and we never require it. It covers your trip, not the home, so think of it as protection for your vacation budget. If you are unsure whether it is right for you, a licensed insurance provider can walk you through the options.

What happens if a storm threatens my trip?

We watch the weather closely so you can relax. Your booking confirmation spells out the terms for your stay. If a storm is in the forecast, contact us right away and we will personally walk you through your options.

Why book direct instead of on Airbnb or VRBO?

Simply put, you save. Booking sites like Airbnb and VRBO add their own service fees and commissions to every reservation. When you book directly with us, there is no middleman, so none of those third-party fees are added and the savings stay in your pocket. Same beautiful home, same care, a better price.

How are direct bookings protected?

We keep it simple and fair. Every direct booking includes a small damage protection fee at checkout, which covers accidental mishaps like a chipped dish or a stained towel, so no one has to worry about the little things. There is no security deposit. Stays with pets simply include a pet cleaning fee for the extra care the home needs afterward. We do all of this for one reason: to protect our relationship with you. We love long-term relationships with our guests, and many of them come back to stay with us time and time again because they appreciate the level of care we put into every home. Keeping each home in beautiful condition means it feels just as special on your next visit.

Are cleaning and taxes included in the price?

Yes. The total you see at checkout includes cleaning and taxes, so the price you see is the price you pay.

Still have a question? Contact us.