Hi marianab, welcome to the forum.
I have a Sundance Cameo. We selected the platinum color with the sierra cabinet. Yes the lights do look great on the lighter colored spas. However, I have found that I don't have the lights on very much except for getting in and out of the tub. Years ago, I had a dark colored tub and I thought the lights looked pretty good in it too.
Can't answer your question about the difference in the feel of the pebble-look vs. the satin finish since I've only owned the satin finish.
Good luck in your search.