USA, MIRAMAR BEACH, Florida. October 26, 2020

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort plans to start 2021 in style with the opening of the new luxury hotel, Hotel Effie Sandestin. Facing setbacks due to COVID-19 that delayed the 2020 opening, Hotel Effie is now confirmed to open February 1, 2021.

Located between the emerald green waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Choctawhatchee Bay, Hotel Effie was designed to welcome all guests of Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort to an experience that exemplifies genuine southern hospitality and exceptional service wrapped in comfortable luxury. The 250-room hotel features multiple room configurations with thoughtful design and exquisite detail. Taking inspiration from the locale, the fully appointed rooms and suites will welcome guests with a complement of amenities, including an upscale spa, state-of-the-art fitness center, and the only rooftop pool on Florida's Emerald Coast. Add 20,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, to include a 13,000 sq. ft. ballroom, plus all of the unique offerings of the hotel and resort, and Hotel Effie is the perfect setting for a dream wedding, corporate meetings, memorable events and unforgettable vacations.

"Beach to bay accommodations, shopping, dining and championship golf has attracted visitors from all around the globe," said Sara Becnel, VP of Development and General Manager of the resort. "We are thrilled to pair these resort amenities with the luxurious, yet approachable offerings at Hotel Effie."

Hotel Effie announced earlier this year an exclusive partnership with Georgia native and award-winning chef, Hugh Acheson, a highly acclaimed James Beard award winner. Acheson has conceptualized the following four exciting culinary outlets for the hotel:

• Ovide, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, will embrace the fresh, forward flavors and local seafood of the Gulf Coast. The menu showcases Acheson's creativity and passion for distinctive ingredients and cooking techniques by fusing coastal cuisine with a sophisticated French influence.

• Ara Rooftop Pool & Lounge is both a luxurious pool experience and a stylish rooftop lounge with fine wine, hand-crafted cocktails and original menu by Chef Acheson, where guests can experience the hotel's vibrant atmosphere and energy. Ara showcases panoramic views, private cabanas, and is the only rooftop pool on Florida's Emerald Coast-truly a unique space for guests and locals alike.

• The Lobby Bar (TLB) is an ideal gathering place and social hub where guests can unwind over creative libations and signature small plates.

• Sweetbay Coffee, a coffee marketplace curated by Acheson, offering a menu of gourmet, grab-and-go selections.

"We could not be more excited to welcome Chef Acheson as part of the family. His expertise elevates the dining offerings at Hotel Effie to that unlike any other in northwest Florida and is groundbreaking for this area," said Becnel.

Hotel Effie Sandestin is managed by Highgate, a premier hospitality investment and management company whose growing portfolio includes more than 100 properties in gateway cities worldwide.

Hotel Effie is a member of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts Lifestyle Collection. All guests of Hotel Effie are eligible to enroll in the I Prefer hotel rewards program, which extends points redeemable for cash-value reward certificates, elite status, and special benefits such as complimentary internet to members upon every stay at more than 700 participating Preferred Hotels & Resorts locations worldwide.

Visit HotelEffie.com to learn more about how to book a vacation, wedding or group event and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.