By far the sexiest of the grand dames lining Fort Lauderdale Beach, the stunning design and painstaking attention to detail here are enough to wow even the most jaded travelers; unique design elements are around every corner, like a clear staircase that takes you up through the pool. In addition, there are two pool decks, a happening scene at three bars, a steak restaurant, sleek rooms, and a Bliss Spa. However, the hotel's size means you can't count on personalized service.

Although there's a pool deck overlooking the ocean, a lovely spa, and cutting-edge gym, the real stand-out here is the large rooms that start at 600 square feet (and each one has a full kitchenette and spacious marble bathroom). The ground floor restaurant and lounge includes a wrap-around porch for eating al fresco, and more casual dining can be had up on the pool deck. The hotel doesn't quite match its main competitor, the Ritz-Carlton Fort Lauderdale, but it's much more affordable and prices are very reasonable considering all you get for your money.