The first hotel to open under the Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville brand, the Margaritaville Beach Hotel offers a relaxed, tropical atmosphere right on a beautiful stretch of sandy coastline. The hotel's white and blue color palette, wicker furnishings, and palm trees add to the beachy atmosphere, as do the seasonal live entertainment, and a poolside Tiki bar. Rooms are sophisticated, clean, and airy with huge balconies, flat-screen TVs, and free Internet. The sweeping views of the white sand beach and Gulf of Mexico, viewable throughout the property and from the sleek outdoor pool, are a highlight. This hotel is definitely unique for an area full of chain options, but some guests complain about jellyfish on the beach.

The WaterColor Inn & Resort is reminiscent of its name, with beach-y whites, blues, and light greens dominating the color scheme throughout the lobby and rooms. The inn offers an airy and relaxing atmosphere, and sits right on a beautiful private beach. It's part of a larger resort community that's packed with amenities, including four restaurants, water sports, bike rentals, and a long wooden pathway leading to the beach. While there are several pools for sunbathing, some guests complain about the wristband and strict towel policies.

A family-owned property in Santa Rosa Beach, 30-A Suites offers 15 individually decorated suites that are big on space. With flat-screen TVs in the living room and bedroom, upscale kitchens with granite countertops, and a convenient washer and dryer, these modern suites have many comforts of home. Perks include free Internet and nice finishes such as hardwood floors and balconies, but the hotel is about one mile from the nearest beach, and will not accommodate children under 12.