Destin, Florida is a charming beach town located in the Florida Panhandle. With sugary white sand beaches (they squeak when you walk on them!), crystal clear waters and amazing views of the Gulf of Mexico, it’s no surprise that Destin has blossomed into a popular tourist destination.
In addition to its beautiful beaches, this Florida gem boasts tasty seafood, stunning golf courses, vibrant culture and warm temperatures year-round. Popular Destin attractions include Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park, Henderson Beach State Park and the HarborWalk Village.
To visit, you’ll need a place to stay. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious girlfriend getaway, a spot for a romantic weekend or a family-friendly beach vacation, there’s a Destin resort that’s right for you. Here are our 10 favorites.
1. The Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa
While the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa is definitely a family-friendly option — rooms in the tower have bunk beds and a pull-out sofa to sleep up to 6! — it’s also a great spot for an adults-only trip. You can book a bonfire on the beach to watch the sunset with your sweetie or spend a luxurious day at the Serenity Spa with its variety of treatment options, sauna, steam room and zero gravity relaxation chairs.
It’s the only area resort located right on the beach. Plus, there are two outdoor pools, one indoor pool and a relaxing sunbathing deck. For rainy days, there is a 24-hour fitness center. Beach chairs, umbrellas, towels and poolside cabanas are available. Water sports enthusiasts can take advantage of the resort’s paddleboards and kayaks.
There are a variety of onsite dining options, including grab-and-go options and Barfoot’s by the pool. But don’t miss a chance to eat at Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood. It’s the area’s only AAA Four Diamond steakhouse and Chef Fleetwood Covington is ramping up the dining experience in his quest for a Michelin Star and/or a James Beard Award. It’s a meal you’ll be talking about for months.
Want to know more? You can find all the details in our complete review of the Hilton Sandestin.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Book your dinner at Seagar’s for the last night of your trip. Every other dining experience will pale in comparison.
2. Henderson Beach Resort
Looking for an ultra-luxurious stay with stunning ocean views? Look no further than the Henderson Beach Resort. The resort gets its name from the neighboring Henderson Beach State Park. Stretching along more than 6,000 feet of shoreline, this state park is the ideal destination for guests looking to hike, swim, bike or go fishing.
Guests can expect spacious bathrooms, timeless decor and unparalleled views in each of the resort’s 170 guest rooms. The resort also boasts a full-service spa, a lazy river, yoga classes and a 24-hour fitness center. There is a private beach and complimentary bike, kayak or paddleboard rentals. Kids can play the day away at Poppy’s Kids Club.
Those who worked up an appetite can grab a bite to eat at one of five different on-site dining options, including a rooftop bar, a café and a five-star restaurant.
3. Silver Shells Beach Resort & Spa
If proximity to the Henderson Beach State Park is a must but the Henderson Beach Resort is out of your price range, consider the slightly more affordable Silver Shells Beach Resort & Spa. This 30-acre resort also borders the state park, where guests can enjoy sprawling sand dunes and unspoiled beaches.
The resort is made up of five towers, each named after a different one of the Caribbean Virgin Islands. The resort’s 435 condominium units are equipped with whirlpool tubs, washer and dryer units, movie rentals and large bathrooms.
Luxury amenities include a lagoon pool, a poolside bar, an on-site gourmet steakhouse and a spa, offering an array of services including massages and facials. Guests can rent beach chairs, umbrellas, jet skis and book a ride on a banana boat.
4. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort spans a whopping 2,400-acres and is one of the most popular destinations in the area. Guests at this luxury resort won’t find a reason to leave, unless, of course, they want to.
Choose from a list of different housing options, including studio apartments, villas, traditional hotel rooms, penthouses, condos and cabins. Those traveling with furry friends will find pet-friendly options.
The Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort offers endless attractions, including an arcade and Lazer Maze, a zip line, an 18-hole golf course, a carousel, tennis courts, a spa, a fitness center and swimming pools. Guests can even get out on the water on a dinner cruise or go on a snorkeling trip.
5. Holiday Inn Resort Fort Walton Beach
If you’re looking for a slightly more budget-friendly option, the Holiday Inn Resort Fort Walton Beach is the perfect choice. The 152-room resort is located on the beach, close to popular shopping, dining and entertainment destinations.
In addition to its ideal location, the resort offers all the amenities of a luxury resort, included a heated pool, a lazy river, a fitness center, a games room for kids and dive-in movies. Guests can dine at the on-site seafood restaurant or enjoy a drink at the beachfront tiki bar.
6. Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village
The Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village is the ultimate destination for luxury and relaxation. Located directly on the beautiful Destin Harbor, the Emerald Grande offers breathtaking views, which guests can enjoy from private balconies.
The resort’s location is a huge draw for those interested in dining and shopping at the lively HarborWalk Village. This center is also packed with entertainment, from zip lines to magic shows to jet ski rentals.
Accommodations at the Emerald Grande are condo-style, complete with a fully equipped kitchen and laundry facilities. Amenities include a private beach, heated pools, hot tubs, world-class dining and a spa.
7. Pelican Beach Resort
Located right on the beach, Pelican Beach Resort is close to all the best attractions in the area. With condominium style rentals that come in a variety of sizes, families of all sizes are accommodated at this resort.
Dining options include an oceanfront restaurant, a lounge and an ice cream parlor. Other amenities include a 500-foot private beach, several pool and hot tubs, a sauna and a restaurant. Kids will love the onsite arcade and game room.
Be sure to check out the resort’s daily calendar to learn about upcoming concerts, yoga classes, drink specials and family friendly activities like games, scavenger hunts or bingo.
8. The Islander Resort
If you’re on a family vacation and looking for beachfront condo-style vacation rentals, The Islander Resort is the place for you. These condominiums are equipped with a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi and full kitchens. To accommodate everyone’s budget, condos are sorted into four categories, Platinum, Gold, Silver or Bronze, from most expensive to least expensive.
Located near Destin Harbor, guests can take advantage of nearby water sports rentals and enjoy snorkeling, parasailing or paddleboarding. Enjoy a list of free beach services, including two beach chairs and an umbrella for each guest.
9. The Palms of Destin Resort & Conference Center
Blooming with palm trees and lush vegetation, The Palms of Destin is a tropical paradise. The resort is located near Henderson State Park, a seven-minute walk from the beach. The resort’s complimentary beach shuttle will take guests to the water in even less time.
Accommodations include poolside villas, or condo-style apartments with stunning views. The resort’s three-bed condos can accommodate up to eight guests.
The resort has two on-site dining options, The Good Vibes Bar and The Palms Coffeehouse. There are four different pools, a hot tub, a fitness center, a playground, community grills, a basketball court and a tennis court.
10. SunDestin Beach Resort
This 18-story condominium is located in central Destin right on the beach, where guests can easily walk to nearby restaurants, shops and attractions including Big Kahuna’s Waterpark. Guests can enjoy a cocktail or a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant and a tiki bar, or relax at one of the resort’s heated pools.
Accommodations include one, two or three-bedroom condos, all boasting a private balcony and washing machines. The apartments are luminous with bright decor.
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