Fodor's Expert Review Tarpon Lodge

A no-frills escape named for a local game fish, this lodge was built in 1926 on a sweep of green lawn with magnificent views out to sea. Rooms in the original building are small and simple; those in the newer 1980 building and the two efficiency cottages, however, offer a bit more modern ambience. Each room has its own personality; the best have balconies overlooking the grounds and bay. The sunny restaurant dishes up creative surprises. It's in the fishing village of Pineland, on the edge of Pine Island Sound, settled in the 16th century by the Calusa and near an archaeological site and trail.