Hotel Effie

"Named after owner Tom Becnel’s grandmother, Hotel Effie in South Walton, Florida exemplifies the grandiose personality of its namesake. Featuring the warm hospitality you’d expect from a real Southern grandma, each guest is welcomed with chocolate chip cookies and a big glass of sweet tea. Even though many of the rooms feature views of the area’s famous Emerald Coast waters and sugar-sand beaches, the best 360-degree vistas come from the expansive rooftop pool or private beach. Celebrity chef Hugh Acheson was consulted on the food offerings, offering a haute take on many southern classics—like the lobster risotto or blue ribbon gumbo."