The beaches of South Walton and Destin, Florida, have become popular vacation spots for many New Orleans families. The challenge is knowing which white sand beach is best for your crew. These considerations can help pinpoint the perfect South Walton or Destin beach vacation.
Off the Beaten Path on 30A: Blue Mountain Beach
Looking for an escape? Blue Mountain Beach along Scenic Highway 30A is a hidden oasis. Located minutes from Grayton Beach and Seaside, Blue Mountain Beach is home to highly popular local hangouts such as Redd’s Fueling Station, Local Catch and Basmati’s. Consider renting a luxury condominium at Sanctuary at Redfish, a 14-acre resort overlooking the rare coastal dune lake known as Big Redfish Lake. Each condo’s balcony offers breathtaking water views. Three pools, two Jacuzzis, a large fire pit, two outdoor grills, and a fitness room add to the luxury experience. From March through October, Captain Bob ferries guests to the beach on a five-minute pontoon boat ride across the lake. At the beach, two chairs and an umbrella await every full day of your stay. www.SanctuaryRedfish.com
Secluded Oasis near the Action: Miramar Beach
For travelers who want serenity and the convenience of nearby restaurants, shopping and attractions, consider Miramar Beach. With Silver Sands Premium Outlets, Village of Baytowne Wharf, Grand Boulevard at Sandestin and Market Shops all within a few miles, Miramar Beach is a shopping and dining paradise. A stay at Hidden Dunes Beach & Tennis Resort keeps you both near the action and tucked away. With winding foot paths, lush gardens and relaxing fountains, the secluded resort features three types of accommodation options: Gulf-front condominiums, lake-front villas and cozy Carolina-style cottages. The resort overlooks miles of beaches and features three pools, hot tubs, grilling stations, horseshoe pits, a basketball court and tennis center with six championship Rubico tennis courts, expert instruction and like-level game matching. www.HiddenDunesDestin.com
Beach Like A Local: Crystal Beach
For beach-goers who want to feel like locals, the cozy neighborhoods and tree-lined streets of Crystal Beach are the perfect home away from home. Spacious vacation rental homes and cottages are nestled alongside local residences. Many homes feature private pools and well appointed outdoor living spaces ideal for a barbecue. The vacation homes can sleep families from six to 24, providing the perfect backdrop for an intimate celebration. www.DestinVacation.com/homes
Inside the Action: Destin
For families who want the action of Destin Harbor, attractions and activities, downtown Destin is the place to be. Destin offers countless Gulf-front condominiums to choose from. Silver Shells Resort features on-site spa services and tennis, and Jade East Towers features a Gulf-front pool and tennis. Spacious two- and three-bedroom condominiums all feature large balconies overlooking the beach. Nearby attractions such as Big Kahuna’s Waterpark (open seasonally) and The Track make these properties worthwhile for families. Additionally, each Newman-Dailey stay includes a daily adult pass to Big Kahuna’s as well as other activities such as parasailing, snorkeling, dolphin cruises and more. www.JadeEastCondos.com
