About Sara Becnel

Sara Becnel: President, Sandestin Investments, LLC and Managing Partner, The Agency NW Florida Beaches, The Agency Madrid.

 

Sara Becnel brings a wealth of experience in hospitality, real estate, and development as President of Sandestin Investments, LLC, and Managing Partner of The Agency Northwest Florida Beaches.

Starting her career at 14 in food and beverage, Sara graduated with a bachelor's degree in Economics from Rollins College. Her diverse roles have ranged from housekeeping and engineering to front desk operations, alongside notable stints in luxury retail and owning a Verizon Wireless store.

 

In 2012, Sara transitioned to Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort as Director of Retail, where she led significant remodels and enhanced customer experiences. Her rapid advancement to Executive Director and later Vice President of Development saw her spearheading major projects like the renovations of the Linkside and Baytowne Conference Centers, and the development of Osprey Pointe and Hotel Effie.

 

During the 2020 COVID crisis, Sara's dual role as General Manager and VP of Development was pivotal in navigating the resort through challenging times, securing profitability, and assembling a strong leadership team. In 2023, she was promoted to President of Sandestin Investments, LLC, and by 2024, became the majority owner of Northwest Florida Beaches, guiding the brokerage through a strategic rebrand in partnership with The Agency. In 2025, she opened The Agency Madrid. This initiative aligned with her vision for upscale market expansion, underscored by the transition of Hotel Effie to a Marriott Autograph Collection Hotel and securing Marriott operator status for Sandestin Investments.

 

Additionally, Sara initiated the development of spec homes in Alys Beach, applying her expertise to create properties designed with current market trends and high-quality standards. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Sara is actively involved in her community. She serves on the Sacred Heart Foundation board and is a Co-Trustee of the Sandestin Foundation for Kids. She has previously sat on various HOA boards, including the Sandestin Owners Association, Fairmont Heritage Place Inspiration, The Grand Sandestin, Windsong Social Committee, and Baytowne Wharf Neighborhood Association boards.

 

Sara is passionately dedicated to causes such as animal welfare, arts and culture, children's welfare, economic empowerment, education, environmental conservation, health, female and LGBTQ+ rights, and science and technology. Today, Sara oversees the strategic development and management of a vast portfolio, continuing to drive innovation and quality that propels the success of Sandestin and its affiliated entities in the dynamic hospitality and real estate industries.