What to expect: Built and opened in 2004, this contemporary hotel rises nine stories between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, offering city and waterway views from one side, and ocean views from the other. Tropical-style furnishings and pale walls and floors establish a relaxed, welcoming ambience, while wireless Internet access and meeting rooms make it nice for working travelers as well.

Amenity highlights: The hotel has an attractive seaside location about ten miles from the International Speedway. On site features include a pool with a spa tub on the beach, and a lobby finished in shades of cream, with tropical-style furnishings and plantings for accents. Wireless Internet access is complimentary in guestrooms and public areas. Ocean-view rooms offer floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies. Spacious bathrooms feature granite countertops.

Insider tip: Just four miles from the hotel, the 175-foot high Ponce De Leon Inlet Lighthouse is Florida's tallest. A National Historic Landmark, the lighthouse also contains a museum, and now offers "Climb with the Keepers" tours, allowing guests to hike to the top of the lighthouse with volunteers who discuss the tower's history.