3 Best Hotels in Vero Beach, Palm Beach and the Treasure Coast

With a sophisticated, relaxed West Indies feel, this luxurious five-story beachfront hotel at the north end of Ocean Drive is an inviting getaway and, arguably, the best on the Treasure Coast. All rooms are tastefully decorated and have an upscale island look with dark-wood accents; many have patios opening onto the pool or balconies with ocean views. Spacious one- and two-bedroom suites have sitting areas and sleeper sofas and dining rooms with wet bars. The fantastic Cobalt restaurant has stunning views of the water and a sleek setting; Heaton's Reef is a more casual bar and grill with outdoor seating. Like other Kimpton hotels, this one is pet-friendly, so much so that there are treats in the lobby and you can request plush beds for your furry friends. The hotel also boasts a top-notch full-service medi-spa and salon with a devoted local following.

An oceanfront, family-oriented retreat tucked away in a residential stretch of Orchid Island, this Disney property has a retro Old Florida design with understated Mickey Mouse flair; plus, it's an easy drive to Walt Disney World in Orlando (just about 90 minutes). It's part of Disney's time-share program but also rents available rooms just like any other hotel.

The artfully conceived four-story main building, separate villas, and six beach cottages are reminiscent of 19th-century Florida, and you will find hidden treasurers related to sea turtles and Florida's rich history. All rooms come equipped with wet bars, mini-refrigerators, toasters, and microwaves; upgraded rooms offer full kitchens and laundry facilities. Although there are not too many dining options in the immediate area, the resort has some great eateries of its own: Shutters serves American food and has character breakfasts on Saturday morning, and Sonya's has wood-fired steaks and creative seafood. The highest rates here are in the summer, so spring, fall, and winter (except for two weeks in March) are perfect times to find deals.

On the National Register of Historic Places, the two original buildings of this 1935 inn were built entirely from ocean-washed timbers with no blueprints; over time more buildings were added, and all are now decorated with such artifacts as ship's bells, Spanish tiles, a cannon from a 16th-century Spanish galleon, and plenty of wrought iron, which create a quirky, utterly charming landscape. The resort operates as both a time-share and a regular hotel (the website is just for informational purposes, so you must call to book rooms), and the complex has nine buildings on the beach with both modern and historic rooms and two swimming pools. It attracts guests from around the world, who sit in wooden rockers facing the beach, and extended-length stays are available. Waldo's restaurant and bar are on property, with several other choices across the street as well. Live music on weekends draws crowds to the pool.