Edged by miles of white sand, sparkling water, and lush forest, Alys Beach is an idyllic coastal community with the feel of reserved and high-minded design. At first glance, it's easy to mistake the sculpted, white-washed architecture—which cuts a striking silhouette against the cerulean sea and sky, the enchanting courtyards, and fountain-studded squares—for a Greek island village. But this slice of paradise sits closer to home, on Florida’s Northwest coast along the Gulf of Mexico. ...| Alys Beach