Destin, Florida, also is known as the Emerald Coast, with its white sandy beaches, scenic views of the Florida Gulf and miles of rolling green hills and woodlands giving way to some of the most nationally renowned professional golf courses. If you're planning a Destin family vacation, you'll find that the upscale resort community has plenty to offer everyone, from toddlers to teens, to mom, dad and Grandpa.
Vacation Rentals
Consider a vacation rental as an alternative to a hotel room. Most high-end resorts offer small villas and cottages overlooking the Florida Gulf, and you often can find beachfront vacation homes, townhouses and condominiums for rent through private owners. Relax with all the comforts of home in two- or three-bedroom beach houses or condos complete with full kitchens, cable TV, internet access, balconies and complete privacy. Many vacation rental properties are located near popular attractions, golf courses, local shopping, restaurants and nightlife.
Golf Vacations
The Emerald Isle is host to some of the world's most legendary golf courses with panoramic views of the Florida Gulf. Many of the luxury resorts of Destin are adjacent to pro golf courses, and others offer vacation packages that include access to nearby golf courses. Play 18 holes on greens played on or designed by PGA professionals. The Hombre Golf Club hosted the PGA Tour Qualifying School for 12 years in a row, Perdido Bay Golf Club has been host to the PGA Tour Pensacola Open, Scenic Hills Country Club was redesigned by U.S. Open Winner Jerry Pate and Sandestin Raven Golf Course was a stop on the PGA Champions Tour in 2006 and 2007. Children's golf lessons often are available, as well as mini-golf and numerous other family activities.
Children's Resort Activities
Many Destin-area resorts have a plethora of programs and activities designed to ensure that kids -- and adults -- get the most of out of your vacation experience. Club Destin and Sandestin Resort are just two of many that offer "Club Kids" activities, such as "Movie Time" with popcorn, treasure hunts, kid's golfing, swimming, game rooms and arts and crafts sessions. Many resorts also offer child care services so parents can enjoy spending time taking advantage of resort activities on their own.
Teen Resort Activities
Some Destin-area family vacation resorts provide a variety of activities and "hang-out areas" for teens that are safe and monitored by staff members. Teens can enjoy game rooms, video arcades, live music on the beach at teen-specific areas, get a makeover at an on-site spa or shop the local mall, just like at home. Or, your teens can sign up for wave running, canoeing or parasailing with other vacationing teens.
Local Attractions
Although you'll probably find plenty to do at any Destin beach rental or resort, you still can enjoy a great deal of family activities beyond the beaches and golf courses. Visit the Track Family Recreation Center; an amusement park with rides, games, go-carts, mini-golf and thrill sports like bungee jumping and skyflying. Try Pleasure Island Waterpark or Big Kahunas for wet family fun, or experience underwater dolphin and aquatic life viewing on the only glass-bottom excursion boat in town at Boogies Dock.
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