Hotel Effie Sandestin

The overall summary: be AWARE OF EXTRA FEES.

I selected this hotel due to it seeming like a good location and it was reasonably priced for the area with
a luxury appeal.

The guard: Upon entering the golf resort area there is a gate guard that inquires about where you’re going - which is perfectly reasonable and it was the first time we had gone through the gate. The second time however, I was met with a series of additional questions such as “how long are you staying?” And “only one night”. This was very invasive and made it clear that we apparently did not look like the type of people that belonged on property.

The grounds: Arriving on property, it’s nicely up kept and will aggressively push that you valet your vehicle (which is a ~$26 fee per day plus you should tip the valet). If, like myself, you opt to self park, you get to enjoy a lovely gravel lot that is a short walk from the hotel, but be weary of the holes and there is no lighting at night. Essentially, you’re parked in a less safe lot if you decide to save $26 per day which could really add up on a longer stay.

Checking in: Check in was very smooth but we felt slighted as other guests were offered drinks and we were not. A strange fluke, but I’ll be polite.

The room: The room was clean and offered very nice amenities that all worked (espresso maker, fridge, AC) which is what I like to see. The bathrobes are decent. We had an issue where the products in the shower were incorrect and we had two shampoos and no conditioner. Calling the desk quickly fixed this so no major issue. There are tablet alarm clock/service devices in the room but neither the desk calling buttons or room service options work - you have to use the phone.

Check out: Check out was also very smooth. Be ready for some serious fees that you won’t see until they email you the bill. You’ll be charged $40 plus taxes per day as a “destination fee” and THEN they add a $1 donation to the Sandestin donation for kids WITHOUT YOUR PERMISSION. It’s only a $1 but still, it’s disingenuous to add charges without consent.

Overall a lovely stay. Grounds are in gated area. Staff is very accommodating. My only complaint is the initial cleanliness of the room. When we arrived in room 839, there was a dirty rag on the bathroom sink and tooth paste splatters. This isn’t a huge deal but attention to detail is nice especially for a 4⭐️ establishment. Makes me concerned about actual cleanliness. The check in process was easy. Nice view of golf course from room. In room coffee maker was nice. There was a clothes steamer instead of an iron which was helpful. Bed was very firm (not my preference). There is tablet next to bed for i❤️ radio and alarm but not able to use this for guest services. Shuttle to beach runs from 8:30-5:30. Valet parking is mandatory and added daily fee plus tipping gets $$$. Nice shops and activities within walking distance. Over all pleased with stay.

From the moment we arrived to Hotel Effie Sandestin we were greeted with a smile and incredible service. The bell boy (I can’t remember his name) took us on a tour of the hotel and explained the amenities. He unloaded all of our luggage and asked if we were pleased with the room, view and etc. We brought a service animal and a todder. I requested a crib for my son and it was in the room before we arrived. The breakfast at the hotel was delicious and fresh. The staff was super kind and always making sure we had everything we needed to make our stay enjoyable. I loved the rooftop pool although it was hard getting a chair/spot to sit. However, we were inside the heated pool so I didn’t mind it.

The private shuttle took us to the beach. The hotel was within walking distance of restaurants, shops, activities for the kids, live music, marina, pier, etc. We rented bikes from the Marina (included with the hotel stay) and had an enjoyable time with our little family and friends.

Overall, we had a great time staying at Hotel Effie. I am a picky person and I had zero complaints. We can’t wait to be back soon.

I cannot say enough good things about the incredible stay we had. We didn’t have to leave the property once.