Fodor's Expert Review Hotel Effie

Not only does this boutique property, the newest hotel within the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort complex, have coastal chic written all over it, but its sleek rooms have Gulf or Choctawhatchee Bay views. The vistas are also spectacular from the Ara Rooftop Pool & Lounge, which serves creative cocktails, as well as salads and other quick bites. At Ovide, chef Hugh Acheson uses French techniques and seasonal local ingredients to prepare inspired dishes at breakfast, lunch, and dinner.