Fodor's Expert Review The Don CeSar
3400 Gulf Blvd., Florida, 33706, USA Fodor's Choice
The Pink Palace, as it's called thanks to its paint job, is a storied resort and Gulf Coast architectural landmark, with exterior and public areas exuding turn-of-the-20th-century elegance. Ditto for the rooms. The staff is known for friendly old-world service. The Don once was a favorite of F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald, Babe Ruth, and Clarence Darrow. Maritana Grille is the hotel's deservedly popular restaurant, which specializes in Florida seafood and is lined with huge fish tanks. Ghost hunters may be interested in knowing that Thomas Rowe, who built this Roaring '20s–era hotel, is said to have come back after death to meet his beloved; some guests and staff swear they see the couple occasionally having a rendezvous in the garden (more romantic than spooky); others say Rowe appears in corridors and rooms.
PROS
- romantic destination
- great beach with cabanas and paddleboards available
- tasty dining options, namely popular Maritana
CONS
- small rooms
- can be quite pricey
- $38 daily resort fee adds to already-hefty tab
HOTEL INFO
HOTEL DETAILS
Rate Includes: No Meals