Pensacola

Music mogul Jimmy Buffett didn't let a little oil spill stop him from opening this 162-room homage to the Buffett-branded Margaritaville lifestyle. — Frommer's

This hotel, incorporating the old 1912 train station, oozes character... The stylish rooms include free wi-fi and large flat-screen TVs. — Rough Guide

Although it has a downtown location, this small inn retains a pleasant hideaway feel. — Gayot

A fun, family-oriented vibe. Overall, the hotel has more family-friendly amenities than most value properties, including a mini-golf course and an arcade room. — Oyster

Known for its 250-foot lazy river and cascading waterfall, this gulf-front hotel is one of the most family-friendly on the beach. As one of the area's newest hotels, it has stylish guest rooms. — Fodor's

With a total of five Mediterranean-inspired towers with two- and three-bedroom condo units, and great views over the beaches to the Gulf of Mexico or Santa Rosa Sound. — Oyster

Has been given a funky boutique makeover, with stylish rooms, free breakfast... a real bargain. — Rough Guide

Across from the beach, this sherbet-colored motel is a lively, cheery place thanks to its popular bar and grill (ask for a quiet room near the parking lot). — Lonely Planet

On the shores of Wakulla Springs, this dated but charming lodge is distinctive for its magnificent Spanish architecture and old-world furnishings, such as rare Spanish tiles. — Frommer's

In the downtown bay-front area, this immaculately kept all-suites hotel is perfect for extended stays, whether for business or pleasure. — Fodor's

Right on the water, you can elect to have either an island or harbor view from the 100 rooms here, all of which have microwaves and fridges. — Lonely Planet

Offers all-suite accommodations that come standard with fully equipped kitchens, flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi access. The property provides complimentary breakfast every morning. — U.S. News & World Report

Smart chain hotel with comfortable, if a bit sterile, rooms and a nice pool if you can’t be bothered to go to the beach. $129. — Rough Guide

MainStay Suites in Pensacola offers very spacious apartment-style suites with complete kitchens and working fireplaces. — Oyster

Run by really friendly, helpful staff and is well located if you're heading out to the NAS. Good-sized rooms have phones, full kitchens (including full-size fridges), and most have free wi-fi. — Lonely Planet