As featured in WorldAtlas, written by Aunindita Bhatia

The Emerald Coast is a picturesque region on the Gulf of Mexico, famous for its pristine beaches with sugar-white sands and clear emerald-green waters. Amidst this relaxed scenery, several towns offer the ideal respite from the busy urban landscape. A long weekend retreat in 2024 is all you need to experience the diversity of this remarkable coastal escape through vibrant beach towns and cultural gems.

Destin

Destin puts the unrivaled beauty of the Emerald Coast into perspective with its beautiful beaches, breathtaking Gulf views, and sumptuous seafood scene. This charming northwest Florida community invites vacationers to revel in its relaxed outdoor spaces and sample its exciting attractions. The Destin Harbor Boardwalk offers front-seat sea views along a vibrant corridor with various shops while offering access to remarkable dolphin-watching cruises. Meanwhile, Henderson Beach State Park entices visitors to sunbathe on sandy shores and let loose amidst a tranquil beach atmosphere.

Vacationers curious about local heritage will find eye-opening exhibits inside the Destin History & Fishing Museum. The facility documents the town’s past from its 19th-century pioneer days while highlighting a longstanding nautical heritage through multiple antique maritime artifacts. Destin also draws tourists with its world-class beach resorts, including the luxurious Henderson Beach Resort, which guarantees a world-class accommodation experience

Navarre

Navarre’s claim to fame is the filming location of Jaws II, which was shot in the town more than four decades ago. This bedroom community provides the perfect sanctuary for civil servants, military personnel, and senior citizens but leaves enough room for tourists to experience its charm. Some of the best experiences await at the Navarre Beach Marine Park, which offers a blend of sandy shores, aquatic recreation, a Marine Science Station, and a Sea Turtle Conservation Center. Also, the Navarre Seafood Market provides an excellent opportunity to interact with the locals and sample the exquisite seafood cuisine the town is known for.

Visitors can also take advantage of exciting water-based adventures by hiring a vessel from Navarre Family Watersports and Pontoon Boats Adventures. At the end of a tedious and adventurous day, staying at the luxurious SpringHill Suites Navarre Beach is what you need to rest and rejuvenate.

Fort Walton Beach

Fort Walton Beach is known for its gentle atmosphere with white-sand beaches, perfect for an easygoing weekend retreat. It harbors a mix of kid-friendly pursuits that would suit the whole family, featuring indoor and outdoor attractions. Prominent among these is the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, which captivates audiences with thrilling displays of exotic underwater species like dolphins, rays, and sharks. Meanwhile, the Heritage Park and Cultural Center documents local history through rare archeological artifacts dating back to 14,000 BCE.

More family fun awaits at Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone. This thrilling amusement center delivers unadulterated fun for all ages, featuring roller coaster rides, arcade games, and mini-golfing. Accommodation options abound, from the price-friendly Hole in the Wall Hotel to the premium Wyndham Garden.

Seaside

Artistic vibes intertwine with coastal charm and culinary delights in this resort community on the Gulf of Mexico. Seaside stands out for its pastel-colored homes, white picket fences lining quiet streets perfect for exploring on foot, and a charming cluster of restaurants and art galleries in the town center. Art enthusiasts will fancy touring Fusion Art Glass and Fine Jewelry, which exhibits a rich blend of works by over 100 studio artists. The Seaside Farmers Market hints at lovely local culture through seasonal produce, seafood, and handicrafts that tourists can buy.

Those craving to escape the crowds and revel in the beach scenery will love the atmosphere of Seaside Beach, where powdery white sands, emerald-green waters, and pastel-colored structures define the scenes. Finally, tourists with no expenses to spare can enjoy sleeping like a royal at the WaterColor Inn.

Rosemary Beach

This tiny village in Walton County has all the hallmarks of an exciting vacation destination. Despite its small size, it packs a punch of fun, family-friendly activities. Visitors will get the ideal reception from the community during the 30A Farmers Market, where friendly faces welcome them to buy fresh fruits and vegetables and sample unique local crafts. Those with a sweet tooth can pop into Kilwins Rosemary Beach and savor the sumptuous selection of sweet treats, from ice cream and chocolates to fudge and other confectionery.

However, if you want a proper meal, Summer Kitchen Cafe serves wholesome American dishes in a laid-back setting to go with refreshing cocktails. Meanwhile, guests are spoilt for choice regarding accommodation. However, the Pearl Hotel is among the go-to spots if you want to remain along the coast.

Panama City

Panama City is among the ideal Florida’s Emerald Coast destinations for a jam-packed long weekend getaway. This town offers everything from beaches and amusement parks to shopping opportunities and rich arts. Outdoor lovers who enjoy open spaces will enjoy free rein across the 1,200-acre St.Andrews State Park. This beachside recreation hub delights visitors with opportunities like swimming, snorkeling, camping, hiking, and boating. The artistically inclined will feel at home perusing a stacked collection of pieces at the Panama City Center for the Arts, a hub for local artists.

Elsewhere, those visiting with family can take the kids to Shipwreck Island Waterpark, which delivers day-long entertainment for adults and children alike. The tropical-style amusement park has a lazy river, water slides, a wave pool, and many more fun activities. At the end of it all, the Hilton Garden Inn promises the perfect family-tailored accommodation.

Santa Rosa Beach

Santa Rosa Beach is best known for its incredible beaches, which remain accessible throughout the years, given Florida’s tropical weather. At Grayton Beach State Park, tourists can immerse themselves fully in coastal recreation like swimming, kayaking, fishing, picnicking, camping, and hiking. Furthermore, those looking to venture into the open sea can make the most of local outfitters by booking thrilling boating excursions. Santa Rosa Charters organizes remarkable fishing trips, allowing visitors to discover the pretty town from the water.

Away from the shores, an adorable arts community welcomes guests to the Justin Gaffrey Gallery, which displays a lovely collection of paintings in a small studio. Furthermore, those who enjoy locally crafted brews can sample a pint at Grayton Beer Company. Lastly, consider booking a room at Home2 Suites by Hilton for a cozy night’s sleep.

The Takeaway

A weekend spent exploring any of these ideal Emerald Coast destinations promises a relaxing escape amid the natural splendors of Florida’s Panhandle region. With quaint fishing villages, lively beach towns, and charming hamlets framed by sugar-white sands and emerald waters, visitors can experience the laid back vibe and coastal heritage through various activities. Immerse in island life at a leisurely pace along this scenic byway to create lasting memories across unique corners of the Emerald Coast.

As featured in The Travel, written by Aunindita Bhatia

Destin, located in the northernmost part of Florida on the Gulf of Mexico, is well recognized as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” due to its abundance of beautiful beaches, crystal clear water, and verdant golf courses. Most tourists that visit the Emerald Coast find many things to do in Destin, Florida. Destin is the most popular vacation spot on the Emerald Coast, drawing in an estimated 80% of all visitors. This explains why Destin is one of the most popular cities in the United States.

Travelers will get their money’s worth in Destin as there are many cheap vacation spots in Florida. Destin, FL, has everything a tourist might desire for a perfect vacation: pristine beaches, clear blue water, excellent fishing, world-class golf, thrilling adventure tours, educational museums, and the finest in upscale shopping and good eating.

16. You’re In The Iconic Florida Panhandle

One main reason people adore Destin is because it’s one of the many jewels within the Florida Panhandle. When coming to the Sunshine State, it’s worth understanding where the Panhandle is and why it’s so important. Destin is tucked at the northwest tip of Florida, in the area known as the Panhandle. The weather is nicer here throughout the year, often being cooler than areas in Central and South Florida. On any given day, someone can expect to be more comfortable outdoors in Destin than, let’s say, Miami Beach. Destin’s northern location also allows for easy access to nearby states, like Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina.

15. Henderson Beach State Park

Henderson Beach State Park, with its refreshing environment and mile-long sugar-white sand beach, is unquestionably one of Destin, Florida’s main draws. The beach distinguishes itself from other Destin beaches due to its composition of pure Appalachian quartz. The sand provides a cool respite from the summer sun and lends an emerald hue to the clear waters, mesmerizing visitors. There are numerous campsites, grilling and picnicking areas, and nature trails in the park, so a visit there is jam-packed with enjoyable activities.

• Address: 17000 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL 32541
• Hours: Daily, 8:00 am to sunset
• Admission Fees: $2 to $6 per vehicle
• Things to do in Henderson Beach State Park: Hiking, camping, fishing, picnicking, wildlife viewing, swimming

14. Dolphin Cruise

A visit to Destin would be incomplete without a dolphin cruise, which allows visitors to see marine mammals in their natural habitat. Seeing these adorable sea creatures can add an exciting twist to any Destin vacation. The Gulf of Mexico Dolphin Cruise by Viator is one of the company’s best tours, taking visitors to a location where they can see dolphins swim, play, and jump along the Emerald Coast. During this 1.5-hour cruise from Destin Harbor, the crew will provide live commentary, helping passengers learn about the area’s history and marine life.

13. Golf Courses

Destin, with four championship golf courses and country clubs, is a mecca for those who enjoy practicing their swings. The town’s mild climate and breathtaking natural surroundings also provide an ideal setting for golfing all year. The challenging layouts, well-kept fairways, and breathtaking views on golf courses appeal to golfers of all skill levels, from amateurs to professionals. Furthermore, the town has a vibrant golfing community, excellent golf academics, and excellent facilities, all of which contribute to a memorable golfing experience.

• Popular Golf Courses in Destin: Kelly Plantation Golf Club, Regatta Bay Golf and Yacht Club, Indian Bayou Golf and Country Club, and Emerald Bay Golf Course

12. Destin Harbor Boardwalk

The Destin Harbor Boardwalk, a lively waterfront promenade that offers a delightful mix of recreation, dining, and shopping opportunities, is another compelling reason to visit Destin, Florida. With its breathtaking harbor views, passing boats, and lively atmosphere, the boardwalk is undoubtedly a great place for leisurely strolls. Visitors can sample fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants or indulge their shopping urges at boutiques, gift shops, and art galleries. The boardwalk’s exciting events, live performances, and fireworks displays add to the excitement.

11. Sugar White Beaches

Destin, Florida, is home to a few of the world’s most beautiful beaches. These beaches have powdery white sand shorelines, and the waters on each side are a vibrant green. Sugar-white beaches that are genuinely unique may be found all the way to the area between Pensacola and Port St. Joe along this length of coastline. The sand is so pure and thin that visitors can almost hear its sound as they walk through it to reach their destination.

• Most beautiful beaches in Destin: Henderson Beach State Park, Crystal Sands Beach, Miramar Beach, Grayton Beach State Park, Destin Harbor Beach

10. Crab Island

On the globe, tourists won’t find a spot just like Crab Island. Crab Island used to be an island, but it has been eroded by particles of sand that have accumulated in the Gulf of Mexico, leaving just a sandy spot where hundreds of vessels anchor annually. The water level varies deep enough to submerge a person from the waist to the calf, depending on where one chooses to dock their boat. The popularity of Crab Island has led to the addition of several dining options, pizza delivery, water slides, and water sports equipment rentals.

9. Fantastic Restaurants

There are many unique things to do in Destin, Florida, and a huge selection of restaurants to choose from in Destin, and many of them are located on the sea, so patrons can see breathtaking sunsets as they eat. Many eateries provide customers with access to freshly caught local fish. In point of fact, individuals who wish to fish but not cook can take advantage of Harry T’s service, in which they’ll cook up any fresh fish the patron brings in. There are several great seafood restaurants, as well as stores, malls, pubs, and cafés, all within walking distance of one another along the Boardwalk.

• Most popular seaside restaurants in Destin: Joe’s Crab Shack, Pompano Joe’s, The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House, Boshamps Seafood and Oyster House, Harbor Docks

8. Recreational Fishing In The Deep

Destin, Florida, is known as “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village, and with good cause! Destin’s deep sea fishing has the best diversity in the Gulf, with over ten different types of catchable game fish. Several competitions are held here during the year, attracting many skilled anglers. Licensed crew, equipment, bait, permits, and ice are all standard on most fishing trips. In addition, once visitors return to port when the day of fishing is through, the crew will wash, fillet, and package the fish to take home and enjoy.

7. Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park

Big Kahuna’s, one of the hidden gems In Florida, provides a wide variety of outdoor activities suitable for all ages, with over 40 different water activities to choose from. Big Kahuna’s is going to be a hit with everyone, regardless matter whether one prefers the excitement of a waterslide or the peace and quiet of the lazy river. The half-pipe, with its 36,000 gallons per minute of water flow, is perfect for true surfers among everyone. Since its opening more than 25 years ago, Big Kahuna’s has served as Destin’s only water park.

• Address: 1007 Highway 98 E, Destin, FL 32541

6. Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

Who doesn’t adore marine mammals like dolphins and turtles? The Gulfarium features a wide variety of interactive displays, so visitors can get up and personal with the creatures that live there. Among the many one-of-a-kind exhibitions, visitors may go on a stingray snorkeling adventure or even give a harbor seal a kiss! A dolphin encounter, exploring the beach at sunset, fun in the sun and under the water, including scavenger hunts and supper with the seals are some of the highlights of the Gulfarium’s Sunset Camp, which is also offered. This camp gives parents the opportunity to enjoy a night out while their children participate in an experience that will stay with them forever.

• Address: 1010 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

5. Harborwalk Village

Destin is a great place to come if one is the type of person who enjoys staying out till the wee hours of the morning, drinking and dancing to live music when they take a trip to Florida. In Destin, Florida, people may party till the early hours of the morning at one of the many fantastic bars, pubs, nightclubs, or shopping centers. The magnificent Destin harbor and the lively ambiance of HarborWalk Village’s shops, restaurants, and bars with live music make for a memorable evening out with friends or family.

• Address: 10 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541

4. The Beautiful 30A Scenic Highway

The stretch of paradise known as 30A may be found tucked away on Florida’s stunning Emerald Coast. The uniqueness of 30A lies in the fact that it maintains that easygoing beach lifestyle. Families may be seen out and about together doing things like riding their beach cruiser bikes, hanging out at the world-famous Red Bar, or shopping at the trendiest of shops on any given day. It is impossible to find another neighborhood just like 30A, and it is undeniably a unique location.

• Things to do on Scenic Highway 30-A: Exploring beautiful beach towns and state parks, hiking, biking, fishing, surfing, diving

3. Watersports

The beautiful beaches in Destin are ideal for a wide variety of adrenaline-pumping pursuits. Activities like jet skiing, paddle boarding, pirate ships, kayaking, parasailing, dolphin cruises, skimboarding, kiteboarding, water skiing, boat rentals, and even tubing are just some of the many water-based activities that are available to visitors in Destin. Therefore, Destin should be able to satisfy visitors’ desires for a wide variety of watersports. Visitors may participate in and learn from all these exciting activities with the aid of teachers who are both knowledgeable and patient.

2. Everyone Loves Destin’s Year-Round Climate

One of the main reasons people live and travel to Destin, Florida, is the year-round weather. With the best times for traveling here being April and May, this gives tourists the chance to experience moderate sun and plenty of fun. Furthermore, during this time is when the water is warm, the sun is shining, and the temperatures are comfortable (expect highs in the mid-70s and 80s). Destin is a popular holiday vacation destination on the Florida coast, as hotels offer good deals, and it is a bit quieter. Christmas on the beach, anyone?

1. The Fascinating History Of The Town

The origins of Destin’s nickname as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” are just as interesting as the moniker itself. Originally a “little fishing community” on the Gulf of Mexico, the town of Destin was named after a fisherman named Leonard Destin. Captain Destin carried with him a sense of identity and place from his native New England. For this reason, a miniature town was built that resembled a New England colonial village. In fact, the Henderson State Park Inn, often regarded as Destin’s finest resort, is only one of several structures and hotels that has managed to preserve the city’s historic character and ambiance.

As featured in Men’s Journal, written by Nicholas Hegel McClelland and Ian Centrone.

Location is key when throwing the ultimate bachelor party. These top spots from coast to coast have savvy, fun-seeking ‘wolf pack’ written all over them.

There are plenty of traditions tied to wedding culture in America, but for gentlemen across the nation, none are as coveted as the bachelor party. The practice actually traces back as early as the 5th century B.C., when ancient Spartans would hold a dinner before a man’s upcoming nuptials to toast his honor. Back then, researching the best bachelor party destinations before the big event wasn’t much of an issue. Today, it’s the key decision in a time-honored rite of passage marking the revelrous end of a man’s single years.

Bachelor parties provide the perfect excuse for an unforgettable getaway with the guys. These days, they come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from laid-back tropical escapes to over-the-top exploits that never sleep. Luckily, there’s no shortage of ideas for the perfect spot tailored to a groom’s personal preferences. Here, we’ve gathered 23 of the best bachelor party destinations—from those obvious hotspots to under-the-radar picks—for the ultimate pre-wedding celebration.

Why go: While the Sunshine State is teeming with endless stretches of pristine oceanfront shores, none are as captivating as Florida’s Emerald Coast. Located in the Florida Panhandle, the relaxing region comprises Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and Okaloosa Island. Overflowing with aquatic adventures, guys can spend their days fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, kayaking in Choctawhatchee Bay, or scuba diving along artificial reefs, shipwrecks, and a limestone shelf that stretches 90 feet deep.

Where to stay: To be smack-dab in the middle of all the action, book a stay at Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village. The sprawling waterfront resort offers four different vacation rental categories and is located in the heart of HarborWalk Village, hosting an impressive lineup of shops, restaurants, and bars that make for a perfect night out on the town.

The new Legendary Marina & Yacht Club celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 30, hosted by the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber at the state-of-the-art facility in Gulf Shores. Located at 335 Waterway West Blvd., the marina offers comprehensive dry boat and marina storage solutions, repair and maintenance services, and features 421 dry slips for boats up to 50 feet, expandable to over 700 slips. Designed to withstand Category 5 hurricanes, the facility boasts advanced infrastructure, including a custom fire suppression system and robust bridges for boat launching. The 2,000-square-foot ship store provides a wide range of products, from upscale clothing to boating essentials. The marina also offers essential services like fuel options and pump-out connections on every dock. “We’re excited to open our doors and provide a premier experience for all boaters,” stated a representative from Legendary Marina.

As featured in Gulf Shores News, written by Ken Cooper

The new Legendary Marina & Yacht Club marked its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday evening. Hosted by the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber, the event began at 5 p.m. at the marina’s state-of-the-art facility in Gulf Shores.

Legendary Marina provides comprehensive dry boat and marina storage solutions, accommodating vessels of various sizes. In addition to storage, the marina offers repair and maintenance services to ensure boats remain in top condition.

“We’re excited to open our doors and show the community what Legendary Marina & Yacht Club has to offer,” stated a representative from Legendary Marina. “Our goal is to provide a premier experience for all boaters, whether they need storage, repairs, or maintenance.”

Located on the north shore of the Intracoastal Waterway, just west of Highway 59 in Gulf Shores, the marina’s address is 335 Waterway West Blvd., Gulf Shores, AL 36542.

Attendees at the ribbon-cutting ceremony toured the premises, met the staff, and learned more about the services provided. Davis Joyner, a representative of the marina, shared details about the facility. Currently, the marina offers 421 dry slips for boats up to 50 feet. The facility will expand to over 700 slips once the current capacity reaches 75 percent.

The building, designed to withstand winds of up to 165 mph (Category 5 hurricane), boasts 18-inch thick concrete capable of supporting over 250,000 pounds. Joyner highlighted the marina’s advanced infrastructure, including a custom fire suppression system and robust bridges for boat launching.

The ship store at Legendary Marina spans over 2,000 square feet, offering a wide range of products. “We’ll have everything you need for a day on the water,” Joyner noted. The store will feature upscale clothing, sunglasses, AFCO products, Toadfish gear, and potentially Maui Jim items. Additionally, Beach Grill Coffee and frozen bait will be available, along with Legendary-branded merchandise.

The marina also provides essential services for boaters, including fuel options (87 and 89 ethanol-free gasoline and diesel) and pump-out connections on every dock. The average beam width of the docks is 18 feet, ensuring ample space for various vessels.

As featured in Mullet Wrapper

Legendary Marina & Yacht Club of Gulf Shores will hold a grand opening event on May 30 at 5-7 p.m. at 335 Waterway West Boulevard. It will offer an exclusive first look at the facility with festivities including guided marina tours. There will also be presentations by company executives and interviews and photo opportunities with key project stakeholders, including representatives from Legendary Marina and Yacht Club and local government officials. The facility was designed to cater to both casual boaters and maritime aficionados. It features advanced docking facilities, security, full-service boat maintenance and luxury amenities.

Witness the ongoing progress of Legendary Marina at Blue Water Cay, unfolding from its initial dredging in November 2023 to its current state in April 2024. Experience the remarkable evolution of this Legendary vision for Nassau, The Bahamas, as it comes to life, one milestone at a time.

As featured in WOW Travel, written by Peter S.
All Photos Credit to: Booking.com

When we think about Florida, we’re betting that the first destination that comes to your mind is Miami, followed by the Keys Islands. However, there’s another place where you can go – and we did – for a real Caribbean-style retreat, and that’s Destin! Home to clear waters and pristine white sand beaches, this seaside city happens to be one of the most picturesque places along the Emerald Coast. In fact, Destin is a very popular location for families like ours looking to spend spring break here. Given the plethora of options we found for Destin, Florida, hotels for spring break, we’d say it’s as popular with others as it was with us. While they ranged across locations and budgets, they had one core vibe – being friendly to the entire family. So, whether you have younger kids or even older ones, there’s a Destin stay that’s perfect for everybody.

Besides eating M&M pancakes and drinking strawberry daiquiris, the city and the coast had boatloads of activities to keep us occupied for our vacation – literally. Whether it’s boat tours, jet skiing, parasailing, or even exploring the land on terra adventures, there are many things to do in Destin, Florida, for spring break too, and for everyone. To that end, here’s a detailed guide on where to stay in Destin for an amazing spring break vacation.

11. Hilton Garden Inn Destin Miramar Beach

Best chain hotel. We were looking for a chain hotel in Destin, and what better hotel than the Hilton Garden Inn Destin Miramar Beach? The comfort and convenience of every aspect of this hotel were unparalleled, and it sat within walking distance of Miramar Beach. We really don’t have to think when it comes to Hilton accommodations, do we? Our staying choices here ranged from rooms and studios to suites, all of which were stocked with a bevy of comfortable mod-cons. These included not just flat-screen TVs but also plush beds, luxe bathrooms, and even minifridges. Heck, our suite, which we got upgraded to, even had a sofa in the living space where we could unwind after coming to the room. But the best bit? Ours had a sea-facing balcony!

But that’s not all. The hotel features an onsite restaurant, the Garden Grille and Bar, which is open for breakfasts and dinners. It suited us well because we’d head off to explore Destin after the à la carte breakfast, returning only in the evening. Of course, our first stop would be the beach, which had loungers, daybeds, and umbrellas to relax. In fact, we didn’t even have to walk down; there would be a golf cart all ready to cart us up and down from the beach. Back at the hotel, there was a lovely swimming pool, which also had daybeds, umbrellas, and beachside service. A fitness center and a pool bar rounded up the amenities here.

10. Aunt Martha’s House Bed & Breakfast

Aunt Martha’s House Bed & Breakfast is living history and one of the most historic B&Bs on the Emerald Coast. Built 24 years ago, the romantic, Old Florida-style inn is all about the ambiance of an era gone by. The waterfront property sits overlooking The Narrows, right across from the Gulf of Mexico. And let us tell you – it’s a real quiet and serene piece of heaven.

We were welcomed into a cozy library warmed by a fireplace, next to which is a living/sunroom with massive floor-to-ceiling windows. Beyond the French doors lies a huge veranda that boasts magnificent views of the Santa Rosa Sound. There’s a rule at Aunt Martha’s – when you come here, come hungry. That’s because she set out a full breakfast that included traditional Southern egg, cheese, and ham grits, some fresh fruit cobbler, and stuffed French toast with walnuts and bananas. Sigh. That was some way to start the day!

“Staying at Aunt Martha’s during our Destin trip was like going back to granny’s house – lots of good food, tales of an era gone by, and a gorgeous, gorgeous house!” -WOW Travel

A winding staircase took us to the five unique rooms on the second floor, so staying here was a very intimate and exclusive experience. What’s more, they all had Southern-inspired names like Blue Bonnet, Rose, and Ivy and were all decorated with a touch of Aunt Martha’s Southern charm.

9. Hotel Effie Sandestin

We were looking for beachfront luxury outside the bustle of Destin, which is why we loved the Hotel Effie Sandestin. Tucked on the shores of the fabulous Miramar Beach just outside of Destin, this four-star hotel offered magnificent views of Choctawhatchee Bay. What’s more, we loved the upscale staying options at this resort, which ranged from standard suites to upgraded suite accommodations that came with not just apartment-style amenities but also majestic bay views. Mod-cons like flatscreen TVs, seating areas, and luxe bathrooms with bespoke bath products are standard across the property, which is another thing we appreciated. Moreover, the rooms were very spacious, which was delightfully surprising for a beachfront Miramar Beach property.

That said, the amenities here were equally as amazing as the rooms and suites. Our days began with breakfasts at one of the onsite restaurants, which is also where we’d enjoy cocktails during our evening revelries. What’s more, the other restaurant would be open for lunches and dinners. So, we never had to really leave the property, even when it came to food. Don’t miss heading up to the rooftop lounge, where we enjoyed a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool with million-dollar ocean views. Aside from the spacious sun deck, we loved that we had direct and quick access to the private beach area out front.

8. Silver Shells Beach Resort & Spa

We wanted our trip to the beach to be in the very lap of luxury, which is why we chose the luxurious Silver Shells Beach Resort & Spa. Tucked into 6 Gulf-front buildings along with 1,000 feet of pristine white sand beachfront, this beach resort was the answer to all our prayers. Whether you’re looking for a couple’s getaway, a family holiday, or fun with your friends, the Silver Bells is where you should be. Since the property had an enviable location near Henderson Beach State Park and Destin Harbor, we didn’t have to travel far when it came to checking out Destin’s sights too. The gorgeous beach out front not only had loungers and umbrellas, but even beach service. So, there would be days when we’d simply spend time by the beach to unwind. However, the pièce de résistance was the 7,500-square-foot lagoon pool back at the property. It came with whirlpools, a waterfall, and even a kids’ pool nearby, making it a very inviting place to spend the entire day with the family. Rounding out the amenities are the relaxing spa for adults, a gym, and even onsite restaurants in the form of a steakhouse and a wonderful cafe bar.

7. The Palms Of Destin

Best for families with kids. If you’re looking for a central Destin hotel rather than a beachside one, then look no further than The Palms of Destin. This all-condo hotel sits right in the heart of Destin, next to Henderson Beach State Park. Even though it wasn’t located directly on the beach, the hotel offered us a free five-minute shuttle to Calhoun Beach. So, we didn’t lose out on beach days too! That said, we loved the amenities back at the hotel, too, especially the gorgeous lagoon pool, which featured bridges and waterfalls and whatnot. What’s more, the pool was a zero-entry one and even had a kids’ water splash pad, which meant that kids enjoyed their fill as well. Of course, there was even a children’s playground right next to the pool, which meant that they were in absolute bliss.

Besides the water features, the hotel even had a fitness room with a spa where we could relax and unwind. There was even a small seasonal shop on site, which offered travel essentials. So, it was useful in case anyone had forgotten to pack anything. For the energetic kind, there were two tennis courts and a basketball court right on the property. Finally, we had the choice of three onsite eateries, namely a bar, a coffeehouse, and a Palms Bistro.

When it came to the accommodations, the choices ranged from one- to three-bedroom condos to as lavish as two-bedroom villas. Nevertheless, they all had all the usual hotel room amenities like plush beds and flatscreen TVs, along with full kitchens, washers/dryers, and private balconies – and ours even came with stunning Gulf views.

6. The Islander Resort Destin

The Islander Resort is one of the best condo-style Destin, Florida, hotels for spring break. This seven-storied Holiday Isle property was built way back in the 1980s, but it underwent a fabulous multi-million renovation in 2010. It completely transformed the face of this beachside resort, which offers mind-blowing views of the Destin Pass and the Gulf of Mexico. We had the choice of multiple two-bedroom, two-bathroom condos, all of which had flatscreen TVs with cable channels for entertainment. What’s more, they had a well-equipped kitchen, so we could cook light meals and spreads on the fly. Even the private bathrooms were modern and spick and span and came with bespoke bath amenities, towels, and bed linen. Oh, and the best units offered frontal sweeping views of the beach and the ocean beyond.

However, there’s more to the Islander than just the fabulous units. The access to the private stretch of white sand beach out front was the prime ticket. When we were done lounging on the daybeds on the beach, we’d retire to one of the two amazing heated outdoor pools, which also came with two hot tubs for some serious soaking later on. The extensive outdoor sports facilities, including pickleball courts, shuffleboard, a basketball court, and tennis courts, will be thrilling for those who love indulging in sporting activities. So, while The Islander is a fantastic vacation spot, it also made for a pretty cozy home base for our extended Destin stay.

5. Pelican Beach Resort Condos

Yet another seafront condo property in Destin is the Pelican Beach Resort, which sits on a picture-perfect beach in the city. The 19-storied condo-style resort boasts a family-friendly atmosphere and killer views. Since the beach is right out front, it was the highlight of our stay here. After a swim in the sea, we’d choose daybeds under umbrellas to lie down and order snacks and drinks from the beach cafe and tiki bar. Back at the hotel, we had the choice of four pools – well, three, since the fourth is a shallow kiddie pool, which the children loved frolicking in. Additionally, the property also had two spas (yes, two!), a game room, a fitness center, and even tennis courts. A cafe, seasonal deli, and convenience store wrap up the offerings here.

If you were impressed by the amenities, wait till you saw the digs, which were one/two-bedroom apartments with amazing views of the ocean. What’s more, they came with two bathrooms, a formal dining area, and a full kitchen, allowing us to keep whipping up meals whenever the kids wanted. Thanks to flatscreen HD cable TVs with Amazon Prime and Netflix streaming services, they were kept entertained throughout the day. The best bit? Every floor had a coin-operated washing machine and dryer, so we didn’t have to worry about laundry either. You can play tennis at the property, and the area is popular for golfing.

4. Emerald Grande At Harborwalk Village

Since we were looking for condo-style stays, we were glad to have found the Emerald Grande at Harborwalk Village, which was a fabulous Gulf Coast getaway. While it was slightly away from the sandy shores of Destin’s beaches, the spectacular views of the turquoise Destin Harbor make up for it. What’s more, every condo here comes with a spacious balcony and panoramic views. But the best bit of all was that the resort had a complimentary boat shuttle that ferried us to the property’s private beach!

While we had four different condo-style room categories to choose from, they all came with full kitchens. So we could whip up meals when we didn’t want to step out. The three-bedroom apartment was the ideal luxurious stay for our entire family. Not only did it have three bedrooms, but it also had TVs in all rooms, a living area, and even a washer and dryer.

The rest of the hotel is equally amazing, like the spa where we could relax while the children were kept busy with the kids. Not only was there an indoor pool for when the weather was cold, but there was also an outdoor pool and two hot tubs with a poolside bar. So, while the children had their share of fun, we’d be lying on the loungers, drinks in our hands. Moreover, the Gulfview Fitness Center is ideal for those who want to work out, especially since they have fabulous views.

3. Henderson Park Inn

Best beachfront inn. It’s hard to find an intimate beachfront inn, but here we are! Welcome to the Henderson Park Inn, which lies right on the quiet sands of Crystal Sands Beach. It was perfect for our quiet getaway, especially since the stretch of sand out front was a private beach – daybeds, parasols, et al. Plus, to top it all, it was adults-only and all-inclusive. Sigh. With just 37 rooms and suites, staying here was a very intimate and exclusive experience. Most of the private balconies, which were in every room, had partial or complete views of the sea. Our oceanfront room was gorgeous, complete with a fireplace and French doors leading to a sea-facing patio with alfresco seating. It was the perfect setting for a much-needed romantic getaway, where we enjoyed sipping a glass of wine while soaking in the lovely Destin sunset.

Our mornings at Henderson Park Inn began with gourmet buffet breakfasts in the dining room, after which we’d spend the day out on the beach with a romantic picnic-style lunch. Evenings were best spent drinking cocktails and complimentary drinks at the tiki bar, a service that extended to the beach, by the way! We also had free access to a fitness center, spa, and a gorgeous upper deck pool with luxe cabanas, complimentary tandem bikes, and community snacks. Rounding up the amenities was the award-winning restaurant, Beach Walk Cafe, whose “Toes in the Sand” package saw our meal being served to us right on the beach!

2. Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa

While technically it’s located in Miramar Beach, the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa is a mere 20-minute drive from Destin. Since we didn’t mind staying away from the bustle and had our own car, it was perfect for us. Plus, the added attraction was that the 2,400-acre huge resort was practically a destination in itself. Imagine this – watersports, dining, shopping, and even golf! If that wasn’t enough, it even had boutiques, a marina, and an entertainment hub at the Village of Baytowne Wharf. So, this was a truly well-rounded Destin beach vacation stay when it came to it.

When it came to the resort’s amenities, that was a different trip altogether. Firstly, it boasted a private beach area, complete with loungers under parasols where we’d practically pig out on beach days. Back at the resort, there are not one but three massive swimming pools, an indoor and two outdoor ones, of which one was dedicated to kids and the other one was for adults. Besides all the water fun, the resort also has a golf course, as mentioned earlier, and as many as seven different bars and restaurants. It’s no wonder that it’s Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast’s largest full-service beachfront resort. The best bit? They even had free shuttles to cart us around the property, as well as bonus freebies like kayaking trips and bike rentals.

From bayside villas to lakeside cottages, there was no type of accommodation we didn’t find here. Nevertheless, they all came with flatscreen cable TVs, luxe bathrooms with bespoke bath products, and amazing views. P.S.: Pick an oceanfront room – you won’t regret it.

1. Henderson Beach Resort & Spa

Our list ends with a Destin city favorite, the Henderson Beach Resort & Spa. Not only does it boast private beach access, but this 170-room resort sits next to the 208-acre-huge Henderson Beach State Park, which has a long and natural coastline. In fact, this stretch of the beach is the most peaceful across the shoreline. While it doesn’t sit directly on the beach, it sits right across the road, with a wooden boardwalk directly connecting the property to the beach.

The hotel has a bunch of amenities that we loved, especially the two luxurious outdoor pools, complete with a lazy river. Not only was the pool heated, but also it had a shallow end where the kids could easily wade in without any hassles. Plus, they loved playing with the swimming pool toys while we lounged on the daybeds and enjoyed drinks from the pool bar. When the hunger pangs came calling, the onsite Primrose restaurant, which served everything from seafood to classic American fare, was perfect. If that wasn’t enough, there were many free activities at the property, including kayaking, biking, and paddleboarding. A spa and fitness classes round up the amenities here.

What we loved about the rooms here is that every last one of them has a private balcony with views of the courtyard, the pool, or the ocean, which is what we had. The cozy sitting areas were great for enjoying our morning coffee, considering there was a coffeemaker too. Free Wi-Fi, minibars, sunken bathtubs, and plush beds completed the digs.

Nassau, The Bahamas – March 20, 2024. Legendary Marinas announced their continued partnership with Forklift Exchange and Wiggins Lift Co. in constructing marina forklifts known for their durability and strength. The latest collaboration involves Legendary Marina Resort at Blue Water Cay and Wiggins Lift Co.’s factory in California to create the biggest marina forklift to date.

This massive forklift will become a trailblazer in the marina industry by holding the record for the biggest lift and establishing an entirely new standard for marina forklifts. This high-performance forklift will elevate the Legendary Marina Resort at Blue Water Cay to a league of its own by providing the only forklift capable of safely managing today’s center consoles in The Bahamas and securing them within the Legendary hurricane-rated dry storage facility.

Wiggins Lift Co.’s extensive expertise in the marina industry has made it a leader in forklift technology, constantly pushing the limits on quality, capacity, and endurance. Given the significant amount of time spent on engineering and constructing these forklifts, the design process must be finalized at the earliest stages to guarantee timely delivery. The Legendary Team will visit on-site to inspect the build’s progress at each significant milestone.

By establishing the dry storage market in the Bahamas, Legendary Marina Resort at Blue Water Cay is poised to become the dominant player in this market for years to come. The facility will feature state-of-the-art technology to provide unparalleled protection and will be rated to meet Category 5 hurricane conditions. The Legendary Marina Resort will be the most coveted in The Bahamas, with a dedicated marina staff, maintenance personnel, and concierge service.

If you are interested in a Membership at the Legendary Marina Resort in Blue Water Cay, please contact
Ryan Patrick Knowles ryan@bahamaspropertygroup.com.
(Memberships are offered on a first-come basis. Waitlists for select Memberships will be contacted when a space is available)

About

The Legendary Family of Companies
Building value beyond the sum of our parts. Working together as one integrated team, the Legendary Companies span the spectrum of real estate value creation.

Nassau, The Bahamas – March 14, 2024. As we celebrate the stunning progress of Legendary Marina Resort in Blue Water Cay, The Bahamas, it’s important to note that there’s more going on behind the scenes. Our state-of-the-art marina is coming together, and we’re proud to announce that Marina Technologies (MTI) has been chosen for the Phase 1 wet slip docks with moorings for vessels up to 130ft. With heavy-duty aluminum frame construction, premium composite decking, multiple fuel docks, power pedestals, potable water, and the ability to withstand heavy wave loads, the MTI floating dock system is poised to revolutionize boat storage in The Bahamas.

For many boat owners, The Bahamas is a dream destination. But not everyone is comfortable crossing the Gulf Stream to get there. That’s where Legendary Marina Resort at Blue Water Cay comes in. With our new facility, boaters can store their boats on the island and enjoy endless hours of exploration without worrying about crossing the ocean.
One of the critical features of our marina is the Dry Storage Facility, a game-changer for many boaters. But we’re equally excited about the dock accommodations at our marinas.