Don CeSar Hotel
St. Pete Beach, Florida
We'll forgive you for being a little skeptical of any place nicknamed the "Pink Palace", but in the case of the Don CeSar Hotel, there's really nothing to worry about. Built in 1928 and modeled after a Mediterranean-style castle, this Gulf Coast classic has been a place of respite for the well-off for decades. Completely renovated, it boasts 277 rooms — including 36 suites — many of which offer views of the Gulf or Boca Ciega Bay. Other features include the 11,000 square foot Spa Oceana, a rooftop garden, the award-winning Maritana Grille, casual dining at the Sea Porch, two lounges, an ice cream parlor, two beachfront pools, and, perhaps most importantly, seven miles of powdery white sand beaches.
