One of the major draws to Florida’s Emerald Coast is the city of Destin. With white sand and verdant waters, this once-tiny fishing village is estimated to attract about 80 percent of the Emerald Coast’s tourists yearly.
Should you be one of those voyagers, we’ve chosen three swell resorts (one midrange, and one luxury) near Destin’s glittering grains of sand. We’ve selected them based on past guests’ ratings, location, and amenities, ranging from about $100 to $200 a night.
SunDestin Beach Resort
From $103/ night
Feel like lounging beachside among Florida’s greenest, most crystalline waters? With its private beach, SunDestin is a great opportunity to experience the Emerald Coast. For less saline waters, there are two pools on-site (one indoor, one outdoor) and a hot tub available. Activities, a play area, and game room for kids make this property especially child-friendly, while parents might enjoy the hotel’s stress-busting spa and massages. Cabana Cafe is open for lunch and dinner, or you can grab some supplies at the provided convenience store and cook in your room’s full kitchen. For devout carnivores, there are also barbecue grills.
Hilton Sandestin Beach
From $154/ night
Located on Miramar Beach, this full-service, beachfront property is a real treat for golfers. Guests can access four courses (Raven Golf Club, Burnt Pine Golf Club, Baytowne Golf Club and The Links Golf Club) as well as 15 tennis courts and three pools. This resort is likewise well-equipped with dining options, from a sushi bar and coffee shop to the highly-rated Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood. And they didn’t forget about the kids: a games rooms, paddleboards and organized activities ensure the youngins will have a good time. As for the beach, the hotel promises that it’s “almost blindingly white.” For seaside amenities, the resort is happy to provide chairs, umbrellas, towels, sunscreen, kayaks, volleyball and even bonfires.
Henderson Beach Resort
From $193/ night
This relatively new property is one of the most luxurious in the area, offering packages that cater to families, couples and spa-lovers. By foot, the beach is six minutes away, or guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, open all year. On-site restaurants like Primrose serve up fresh seafood caught in local waters. Parents will be happy to know babysitting service is available, as are organized activities via Poppy’s Kids Club. Also accommodating: the always-open front desk and an on-site hairdresser. For pet lovers: dogs are allowed for an additional fee that includes a souvenir toy, bed, bowl and treats for a furry friend.