Whether it’s sitting on the balcony watching dolphins swim along the shoreline or splashing in the warm water with a boogie board, a beach vacation provides a rejuvenating retreat, especially when you stay at a hotel with views of sugar-white sand and emerald-green water. The full-service Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa in northwest Florida recently celebrated its 30th anniversary and the completion of a multimillion-dollar renovation that enhanced the property’s appearance, space and functionality.

Our guestroom in the newly remodeled Spa Tower measured nearly 500 square feet. The playful orange sherbet-colored walls were the backdrop for contemporary furnishings. An oversized striped headboard above the king-sized bed anchored the room, which included a small desk, large dresser with flat-screen television and a refreshment bar featuring a mini fridge, microwave and coffeemaker. The sitting area had a sofa sleeper, coffee table and floor lamp. Two bathrobes, an ironing board and safe completed the in-room amenities.

The Hilton Sandestin is a large property with 602 guestrooms, making it an attractive choice for meetings. the hotel offers six on-site dining options, as well as room service. The workhorse is the Sandcastle Restaurant, which has nearly doubled in size and added a private dining space for groups. Our favorite meal at the restaurant, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, was the massive breakfast bar with a made-to-order omelet station. Located on the opposite side of the restaurant is the Sandcastle Lounge and the Hadashi Sushi Bar. The new 11-foot television in the lounge is probably most appreciated when the hotel is hosting the SEC coaches conference. For an upscale dining experience, make a reservation at Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood, featuring 600 wine labels. For an appetizer, try the lobster beignets. The AAA Four Diamond restaurant’s steaks are superb. Side dishes are large enough to serve the whole table. Plan to spend a leisurely evening in this cozy eatery with outstanding service and live piano music.

The No. 1 reason to visit the Hilton Sandestin is the beach. For a fee, guests can sunbath on the sand under an umbrella or rent one of the many poolside cabanas. When it’s time for a cocktail or lunch, Barefoot’s Beachside Bar & Grill is a casual choice with great views of rolling ocean waves.

Another way to relax is at the fitness center, open 24 hours a day, or at the indoor heated pool. After a workout, unwind at the Serenity by the Sea Spa. The facility had a bit of a facelift during the hotel’s transformation — expanding the ladies’ lounge and adding soothing touches like a waterfall art wall, zero gravity pedicure chairs and hammered copper bowls. The extensive list of services is offered to both men and women. The spa has a large local following, so be sure to book an appointment before your arrival.

For three decades, the Hilton Sandestin has welcomed guests, and more than 60 percent of the hotel’s clientele are loyal repeat visitors. It’s easy to see why a vacation here becomes a treasured family tradition.

Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa

4000 Sandestin Blvd. S.
Miramar Beach, FL 32550
tel 850 267 9500