Candlewood Suites Destin-Sandestin

In a standard chain hotel fashion, the Candlewood Suites Destin - Miramar Beach is a bland building surrounded by parking lot. While there are clues to a renovation (at least in decor), the majority of the hotel carries an outdated vibe (especially the elevator). The lobby has the most modern decor with large tiled floors and a contemporary accent rug, but the 70s-style lamps and end tables coupled with the motel-style brochures rack and front desk are tell a different story. Likewise, the (clean) basic carpeting, unflattering yellow stucco walls, and occasional wall scuffs are to be expected in hotels of this type. The grounds are well-landscaped with manicured bushes, and small planted trees with benches (mostly for waiting) near the entrance. The parking lot is massive, as most guests drive themselves, and there are ADA spaces available.

Candlewood Suites Destin - Miramar Beach may not be on the beach, but the sand is less than a mile away. An easy 15-minute drive from the Destin Airport off of Highway 98, the hotel rests on a small peninsular portion of Florida's panhandle, between Topsail Hill Preserve State Park and Henderson Beach State Park. The hotel is also close to the Big Kahuna Water and Adventure Park (ask about hotel discounts!); the nation's largest outlet mall, Silver Sands Premium Outlets (a 15-minute walk away, although serious shoppers may want to drive); golfing; tons of dining options for all budgets; and a UPS and Office Depot. Because of the traffic on the main road, it is not ideal for anyone specifically wanting to visit the beaches.

The rooms seem to reflect the style of the hotel lobby and have a more updated feel, although they're still quite chain-like. Beds have simple, stylish bedding and throw pillows; furniture is standard wood-patterned pieces with coordinating chairs; and the wall fixtures and art are typical for this type of property. Living and sleeping areas (separated in One-Bedroom Suites only) are carpeted while the kitchen areas have laminate wood flooring. All kitchens come with full-sized refrigerators, two-burner electric stoves, microwaves, and dishwashers (and are completely stocked with pans, dishes and utensils). For business travelers, there are speaker phones, cork boards, in-room Wi-Fi access, and desks (though they double as dining room tables). For being flanked by retail stores on two sides and having the highway to another, the rooms are generally quiet (although guests have commented on noisy rooms near the elevator). Northside rooms on the higher floors have views over the bay while other views will just be of the parking lot. Four rooms cater to those needing ADA accessibility.

Paralleling the features of some apartment complexes, the Candlewood Suites Destin has a moderate-sized, white-gated outdoor pool. There are a few attractive boxy wicker loungers and a covered gas BBQ area with two grills and several tables. The modest fitness center has some slightly old cardio machines.

Inside, a single elevator transports guests up and down the hotel's four floors, and there's a business center with computer/copy/fax/print services available. There is also an on-site, free laundry area with about four washers and four dryers. Although there is no restaurant (the rooms have full kitchens), the hotel has a small provisions store that sells the type of food and toiletry items one would find at a gas station. While the hotel is non-smoking, there are a few designated areas with ashtrays in the pool and barbecue area. The hotel accepts pets for a fee, and there is a bushy walking trail outback to give your animal fresh air.