Summer shenanigans are officially here and that means we can start talking about my favorite part: summer travel! Is anyone else dying for a mini adventure? With so much home time, I’m beyond ready to venture out over the next few months and I can’t wait to share all my Savvy finds with you. But first up, one of my luxury favorites – Hotel Effie.
Today we’re going to dive into all the details you need to know about staying at this boutique hotel in Destin. Everything from who it’s for, why it’s the perfect girls weekend location, how central it is to beach life, etc. We’ve got so much to chat about so let’s get started!
Hotel Effie
The Vibe
Picture this: you’ve just arrived for your grand beach vacation. Upon entering the glass doors of the hotel, you’re greeted with a serene yet chic marble entryway featuring a table display that gives a cozy & grand vibe. To your right, you’ll find the vibrant staff waiting to check you in and to your left, all the fun starts.
You venture to Ovide (the onsite restaurant) for a snack and find the fabulously detailed ceiling along with the well-chosen utensils that also match the space. But then you decide you need a sunset moment so you take the elevator to the top floor where you can enjoy everything with a view, a cocktail/mocktail and calming yet elevated background. You’ve landed in a chic paradise where everything is within reach.
Where is it?
Tucked next to Baytown Wharf, Hotel Effie is perfectly located for easy, walkable access to tons of local restaurants and nighttime activities in Destin, FL. Time-wise, you’re about 5 minutes from Grand Boulevard (Black Bear, Anthropologie, Lululemon) and Sand Destin (the outlet mall)
What’s the pricing?
Off-season, you can snag a room for a little over $200 (if you’re using programs like hotels.com). During peak season, rooms start at $382 plus fees. There is a destination fee of $40 per night along with valet prices of $25 per night. Additionally, there is also the refundable deposit which we most often use for room service – the food is so good!
Does Hotel Effie Have Parking?
The hotel offers valet parking. Under the category of “I’m not telling you this but I’m telling you this” there is also a way to park on-site. But it’s a bit confusing to explain so just know there is one parking lot in front of the hotel and you have access to it with a bit of walking.
How convenient is Hotel Effie to the beach?
It’s a mini car drive away. If you’re looking to just pop down to the beach with minimal items required from your hotel room for some sun, this isn’t the place. While Hotel Effie and Baytown Wharf do offer water views, it’s more like being on the side of a lake than the traditional beach access. However, you don’t have to go far to get it. It’s just not going to be in walking distance.
Who would love to stay here?
Hotel Effie feels like the perfect property for a luxury stay while also being close to the beach. It’s central to tons of shopping along with all of the best restaurants. The hotel has gradually added amenities since it opened including a spa, on-site restaurant, gym, and room service. There’s also the rooftop bar, cabanas and pool.
For larger families looking for extended stays with small kids, it might be a lot to have everyone in one space. However, the walkable access to all the fun activities at Baytown Wharf makes for an easy night out.
What are the advantages of the property?
There’s truly very little like it in the area. With a lot of the hotels as long-standing chains, the luxury feel that comes from staying at Hotel Effie is hard to find elsewhere in Destin (Savvy note: they have a sister hotel in Atlanta as well). It’s perfect for a staycation, girl’s weekend, or an extended trip where you’re looking to minimize cooking & maximize a foodie/luxury experience.
Between the rooftop cabana, Ovide (the hotel’s restaurant), and the spa, you’re covered with a day of relaxation and a night of enjoying time with those you love without needing to drive. I’m a girl who loves to keep a bit of a routine even on vacation because I find it grounds me and a morning workout is essential. The gym features a peloton bike (for my riders who don’t to lose their streak) but it’s also in the most gorgeous location for a shadier morning run.
It’s also not too terribly far from all things 30a but isn’t quite in the chaos. You could easily pop over for dinner at Surfing Deer or Pescado and be back in time to cozy up in your chic suite.
What are the disadvantages?
As much as I love Ovide, the breakfast lacks – a lot. However, they do have a mini coffee shop that is lovely. I would say your best bet for breakfast is to venture out, especially if you are also gluten and dairy-free. Other than that, all of our stays have been wonderful and better every time!
IS IT WORTH VISITING IF YOU AREN’T STAYING AT HOTEL EFFIE?
100% – Ovide’s dinner is divine. You can book with them via Resy. And I have to say, they are often one of the more slept on and hidden places to eat in the area. If you like Vintj (my all-time fave), Emeril’s, or Cafe 30A, you’ll enjoy Ovide.
Is Hotel Effie pet friendly?
They do allow pets up to 65lbs with a $250 non-refundable deposit.
Anything else?
I have yet to try the spa as it primarily features Osea products which I, unfortunately, don’t react well to. However, I love that they are featuring clean brands as a part of the wellness space. There are some special events offered that vary depending on when you’re staying like morning yoga on the roof. So it’s always worth checking ahead to see what fun things are happening as well as the various holiday celebrations. If you’re looking for somewhere fun to celebrate Valentine’s Day or New Year’s Eve, Hotel Effie is a great choice!
I’d love to hear what your favorite part about Hotel Effie is or what you’re curious about before you book your stay. Let me know in the comments below. And if you want to see more luxury (and some solo) travel adventures, be sure to subscribe to the newsletter. Until next time. Xoxo, Savvy
