Destin, Florida is one of the most popular vacation rental locations in the United States. Continuously ranked as some of the best beaches in the world, it is easy to see why many families choose to return to Destin’s beautiful white sand beaches and crystal clear blue waters year after year. Destin has been rated as the number one drive to a vacation destination in the United States. Our city features world-class shopping, dining, water activities, and much, all with a Southern charm not found in most Florida cities.
Deciding where to stay in Destin can feel overwhelming. While the entire coast offers emerald waters and sugary white sands, the areas off the beach differ from one another. If you are visiting for the first time or a frequent visitor, we are here to assist you in your next getaway!
Holiday Isle
Holiday Isle is a 3-mile long peninsula nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and the Destin Harbor. Surrounded by water and lined with palm trees, this section of Destin is as popular of a destination as it is a residence.
It is the kind of place where time slows down; the kind of place where you can see the beach in a more natural way. Locals and tourists get around on foot, if and when they aren’t on the beach. Family-owned restaurants line the streets in addition to a number of eclectic homes on the beach and on the harbor. This is one of the most popular locations for boaters as it provides direct access to the harbor, the Gulf of Mexico and Crab Island.
Regardless of where you stay, Norriego Point is a must-see. Located at the end of the peninsula, Norriego Point is by far the most photographed spot in all of Destin. It is home to the Destin Jetties, which allow for Caribbean-like swimming, on either side. This is also one of the most popular spots to snorkel in all of Destin, Florida.
Crystal Beach
Crystal Beach is one of the most popular in Destin vacation beach rental neighborhoods. Crystal Beach is an approximately 300-ft. stretch of white sandy beach highlighted by the backdrop of cozy cottages and high-rise vacation homes. It is located directly on Scenic Hwy 98 or ‘Old 98’ as known by locals. It was settled in the 1940’s and is now an amazing mix of older true Florida beach cottages and luxury abodes.
Crystal Beach is quite often regarded as one of the best locations in the area due to its many accesses throughout the community so that all guests can easily access the beach as well as its relative proximity to other popular seaside towns such as Grayton Beach, Rosemary Beach and Seacrest.
Destiny by the Sea
Destiny by the Sea is to Destin as Beverly Hills is to Los Angeles. That’s just one of the many reasons why it has become the go-to for vacationing celebs and high net-worth individuals. Located off of Scenic Highway 98 or ‘Old 98’ as known to locals, Destiny by the Sea is as convenient as it is luxurious. Destiny by the Sea is the sister property to Destiny East and Destiny West and is the beachfront crown jewel. Destiny by the Sea is centrally located and only a short drive to the Destin Commons and Silver Sands Outlet. It is also only a 5-minute drive to over 50 restaurants for your dining pleasure.
Miramar Beach
Miramar Beach is situated in the increasingly popular South Walton area of the Emerald Coast. Located directly between the popular vacation destinations of Destin and 30A. Even though it sits between two small, coastal state parks, and it is more isolated than hotel rentals, it is by no means remote. Also, the area offers guests access to golfing, shopping, fishing, and one of the most beautiful views along the Gulf Coast.
Scenic Hwy 98 or as locals call it ‘Old 98’ is a 24-mile-long beach-front road connecting Miramar and Destin. There are many amazing rental communities making this one of the most popular stretches of beach on the Gulf Coast. The dining options are amazing and include a wide range of options. You can enjoy many fine dining options for a night out, or choose one of the dozens of laid-back seafood restaurants with amazing beach views. This area also includes many incredible rental neighborhoods such as Frangista Beach, Gulf Pines, Caribe, Alerio and many others!