Honeymoons are like the prize at the end of a race. A couple spends months, maybe years, planning a beautiful, big white wedding, which culminates with a trip to whichever magical place they can dream up. It’s at once a reward for the work that went into planning the wedding and a gift they get to appreciate as newlyweds. But why should a couple wait till the end of the wedding to relax and reconnect? Instead of delaying the fun and romance, take a second to spend time together in the midst of the craziness of planning and pick a pre-wedding getaway. A four- and- a- half- hour drive or three- hour- and- 20- minute flight, The Henderson Hotel and Resort in Destin, Florida is an easy escape for a pre-wedding couple’s retreat.
The Hotel
The Henderson is a quintessential beach resort, just minutes from the airport. Located mere steps from the sandy white beaches of Destin, where guests get access to the hotel’s private beach, The Henderson has all of the feeling of being waterfront, with modern amenities, plush interiors and an in-suite bathtub that may convince some to never leave the room. The hotel has eight suites and 170 rooms, each with a patio or balcony, and if you’re situated just right, your room could be the perfect spot to watch the sun rise or set over the beach or the Henderson Beach Reserve located next to the hotel.
Sixteen of the rooms are spa rooms, with access to a private elevator that delivers guests directly to the spa.
Relaxation
The Salamander Spa houses 11 private treatment rooms, men’s and women’s locker rooms, a whirlpool tub to relax in after a treatment, a full service salon and a couple’s suite. Relax and recoup from the stress of planning with a copious treatment options — from facials and deep tissue massages to hair, skin and nail treatments. In addition to the couple’s massage, the Henderson Dream offers a complete experience with salt scrub, hot stones, aromatherapy oils and a foot massage while snug in a warm cocoon wrap.
Get Active
Before you hit the spa, soak up some rays and try one, or more, of the many activities The Henderson offers. Pick up a Henderson bike and coast around the city, one complimentary bike rental per room per day, or rent a few chairs and an umbrella and bask in the sun while sipping on a cocktail. Are you looking for something more strenuous? The Henderson offers paddleboard and kayak rentals for guests, included in a daily resort fee. Guests can learn how to paddleboard, while potentially taking a few, fun-filled falls into the Gulf, or show their skills paddling out into the ocean with gorgeous views up and down the Emerald Coast. Any avid hikers can take a walk through the Henderson Beach State Park or picnic in one of their pavilions. In addition to these outdoor activities, the hotel offers access to an adult-only pool that has cabana rentals and a fitness center. The Henderson also offers guests transportation to nearby events and happenings in and around the Destin area.
Nourishment
Guests can paddle back to shore, or float away from the spa and enjoy one of five dining options The Henderson offers. Primrose is the hotel’s signature restaurant and offers a tasty variety of fare from savory steaks or fresh, local seafood. The highlight of the Primrose is the delicious sushi, which offers mouthwatering flavors and seafood so fresh you’ll have to make sure you aren’t dreaming. Horizons has more of a nightlife feel, with expertly-made cocktails and light bites. You can end the night with a blast from the past at Sprinkles. This retro, 1950s-inspired malt shop is sure to fill your sweet tooth with malts, root beer floats, ice cream and candy.
From the cozy rooms, luxurious spa treatments, countless activities and multiple dining options, you’ll never have to leave the hotel. Take the time to reconnect before the Big Day by soaking up the sun or sinking into a massage at The Henderson. You’ll be so relaxed you’re sure to glow as you say “I Do.”