Off the Charts Inn opening soon in St. James City
Eric and Tracy Zeisloft have undertaken an exciting project, as they prepare to launch their new hotel, Off the Charts Inn. Formerly known as the Water’s Edge Motel, the partners felt the previous state of the site’s building wasn’t doing St. James City any favors.
“We’ve been on the island for a long time now,” Eric Zeisloft said. “We’d seen the building just sitting there going into disrepair, so when the opportunity was presented to us, fortunately we were able to make it happen.”
Zeisloft stressed that an empty 20-unit building is not doing any good for the locals or the island, and with new life breathed into it, hopes to make Off the Charts Inn a thriving island favorite. The expectation is to bring customers to the south end of the island by giving them a great place to stay while they eat, drink and go fishing.
Though the partners realize people may be familiar with the property in its former state, they believe it’s important to note the effort and energy they are putting forth to make the new hotel a family-oriented place both worth visiting, and remembering.
“We’re working hard toward revitalizing and refreshing all the rooms as well as improving the property as a whole,” said Zeisloft. “We’ve created a beach area along the water, where people can sit under a tiki hut observing the natural island wildlife, such as manatees and dolphins.”
Zeisloft is confident the property will be vastly different, with its many upgrades, emphasizing that their ultimate desire is to add to the island’s enchanting qualities with a destination that makes people feel at home. In addition to revamping the guest rooms, Zeisloft said they’re putting in all new docks for boaters, and a swimming pool will be added, likely by next season. Two rooms will be set up as family suites, to accommodate guests with small children.
“This end of the island is just a great way of life,” said Zeisloft. “We’re really excited to have the property opened up so everyone can come and enjoy what we know will make a great addition to St. James City.”
Off the Charts Inn is located at 2938 Sanibel Blvd.