Addison Mizner built this Mediterranean-style hotel in 1926, and additions over time have created this sparkling, sprawling resort. There are many lodging options: traditional rooms are small but warmly decorated; beachfront rooms are light, airy, and contemporary; yacht-club rooms are the most luxurious, with custom-designed Venetian-style canopy beds and carved gold-leaf lamps. The beach is accessible by shuttle. In addition to a redesigned golf course with a two-story clubhouse, there's an expansive tennis and fitness center and the largest spa in Florida. It has 44 treatment rooms reserved for guests and offers treatments that take advantage of local flora. Chef Angela Hartnett opened a restaurant here, immediately drawing locals. Pros: historical property; loaded with luxury; plenty of activities. Cons: all this luxury is costly; conventions crowd common areas.
Reviewed by LuxWorldTravel from Atlanta, GA on 2/26/08
We travel around the world, and have been lucky enough to stay in some posh resorts. This is by far the finest hotel we have stayed at in the entire southeastern portion of the US. Staff is very pleasant. Room was amazing, paid over $1,000 per night to stay in the Yacht Club Commodore Level Room: amazing views, bathtub, luxurious bedding, complimentary access to the amazing spa, and best of all, access to the complimentary VIP lounge, serving breakfast, lunch, and outstanding small presentations for dinner. These rooms are touted as the best at the hotel, and with all the unbelieveable amenities, I see why. Restaurants, beach, and pools are very nice too. All in all, this place is one of the more expensive properties we have visited, but we feel like everything was well worth it. Enjoy
Visit the Travel Talk forums for help on planning your trip