Looking for the Best Resorts in Destin Florida? You are in luck! As a local, I’d like to share some of the best options to stay when it comes to resorts in the Destin area. So, let’s get into it!
Destin, Florida is known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” thanks to its beautiful beaches along the Emerald Coast of the Gulf of Mexico.
With more than 24,000 hotel rooms and 4,500 rental units, Destin offers no shortage of amazing resort accommodations perfect for a seaside getaway.
In this extensive guide, we reveal the top 10 resorts in Destin, Florida and what makes each one special. We’ll coverDestin resorts on the beach, as well as options for families, couples, golfers, and more.
You’ll find everything from luxurious high-rises to quaint inn suites. Each resort recommendation is chosen based on amenities, location, reviews, and overall vacation vibe.
Best Resorts in Destin
By the end of this guide, you’ll be ready to book the perfect Destin, Florida resort for soaking up the sun, sinking your toes into sugar-white sand, and splashing in the turquoise waters of the Gulf. Let’s dive in to discovering the best of Destin!
For Beachfront Bliss: Henderson Beach Resort
Topics: Henderson Beach Resort Destin reviews, Destin Florida beachfront hotels, Destin Florida resorts on the beach.
Without a doubt, Henderson Beach Resort offers the ultimate beachfront location in Destin. This luxurious resort overlooks more than a quarter mile of pristine shoreline, with stunning views from every vantage.
Amenities:
- 171 guest rooms and suites with private balconies directly on the beach
- Full-service spa and fitness center
- Outdoor pool and kids pool overlooking the Gulf
- Beach boardwalk, volleyball, chair & umbrella service
- On-site restaurant and bar
- Free trolley service around Destin
Henderson Beach Resort puts you right in the heart of Destin’s natural coastal beauty. Miles of beaches with powdery soft sand and gentle surf surround the manicured grounds. Guest rooms are spacious and modern, each with a private ocean view balcony.
On-site dining options include the beachfront VUE Restaurant & Beach Bar for coastal cuisine and Handcrafted Wine & Cocktail Bar serving 50+ wines and craft cocktails. Guests praise the friendly service and luxurious amenities like the full-service spa. The location can’t be beat for beach access.
- Cost: Rooms from $300/night in low season; $500+ in high season.
- Reviews: 5 stars, 4.5 on TripAdvisor.
- Good for: Couples, special occasions, honeymooners. Beachfront elegance at its finest.
For Spectacular Views: The Palms of Destin Resort & Conference Center
Topics: Palms of Destin reviews, Destin Florida beach hotels, Destin vacation rentals with pool
Perched above the beach with unmatched views is The Palms of Destin Resort & Conference Center. The towering resort offers ample amenities for business and leisure travelers alike.
Amenities:
- Two outdoor lagoon pools
- Full spa and modern fitness center
- Kids Splash Zone and playground
- Lighted tennis courts
- On-site dining at Barefoot’s Beachside Bar & Grill
- Nearby championship golf courses
- Concierge services
The Palms checks all the boxes for location, amenities, and ambiance. Guest rooms are spacious and chic with private balconies. Select a Gulf-front suite for awe-inspiring vistas across the emerald waters. Six acres of lush grounds surround two swimming lagoons and hot tubs. The beach is just a quick shuttle ride away.
Beyond the extensive on-site offerings, The Palms position near Henderson Beach State Park and on the beach road means water sports, shopping, and restaurants are right at your fingertips. It’s ideal for both business conferences and family vacations.
- Cost: From $180 low season; $300+ high season
- Reviews: 4 stars; Certificate of Excellence on TripAdvisor
- Good for: Families, groups, business travelers
For Old Florida Charm: Crystal Beach Inn & Suites
Topics: Crystal Beach Inn Destin, Florida, Destin boutique hotels, romantic Destin hotels
For a distinctly Old Florida experience in Destin, look no further than the Crystal Beach Inn & Suites. This retro-styled inn has been welcoming guests since 1935 with its laidback charm and prime location.
Amenities:
- 36 guestrooms and suites, some with full kitchens
- Outdoor pool and sundeck
- Beachfront restaurant and bar
- Private balconies and patios
- BBQ grills and picnic area
- Free bicycle, paddleboard, and chair rentals
- Free beach bonfires at night
The palm tree dotted landscape immediately sets a relaxing and nostalgic tone. Guest rooms maintain historic Floridian details like pastel decor and exposed beams. Sit on the outdoor veranda or take a dip in the pool to feel transported back in time.
While quaint, the inn still delivers plenty of activities from beach yoga to stand up paddleboards. The complimentary beach amenities make lounging oceanside easy and affordable. At night, gather around the beach bonfires for s’mores under the stars. A stay at the charming Crystal Beach Inn is a quintessential Old Florida experience.
- Cost: From $150 low season; $250+ high season
- Reviews: 5 stars, Certificate of Excellence on TripAdvisor
- Good for: Couples, multi-generational families, vintage charm seekers
For Convenience: Residence Inn Sandestin at Grand Boulevard
Topics: Residence Inn Marriott Destin, Destin Florida beach hotels, Destin hotel deals
Nestled in the village of Grand Boulevard, the Residence Inn Sandestin seamlessly blends convenience, comfort, and style. Part of the Marriott family, this 96-suite property has all the amenities for an extended stay.
Amenities:
- Fully equipped kitchens in every suite
- Complimentary grocery delivery service
- Outdoor pool, spa, and fitness center
- The Grand Park with playground, bocce ball, and green space
- Bike rentals available
- Pet-friendly accommodations
- Free hot breakfast daily
Designed like an upscale apartment, each suite at the Residence Inn has a full kitchen and separate living space. The cozy bedrooms feature premium mattresses and linens. Families will love the amount of room to spread out compared to a standard hotel.
The location adjacent to the upscale shopping and dining of Grand Boulevard village means boutique cafes, trendy fusion restaurants, and 30+ stores are mere steps from your suite. For exploring farther, take advantage of the convenient bike rentals. And pets are happily accommodated, a rarity for resorts.
- Cost: From $150 low season; $300+ high season
- Reviews: 5 stars, Certificate of Excellence on TripAdvisor
- Good for: Families, groups, long vacations, pet owners
For Golf Getaways: Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
Topics: Sandestin Golf Resort Destin Florida, Destin beach hotels with golf, Destin golf vacations
For the ultimate golf getaway in Destin, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is a hole-in-one choice. Sprawling over 2,400 acres, it features four championship golf courses for players of all skill levels.
Amenities:
- Four on-site golf courses: Raven, Burnt Pine, Baytowne, The Links
- Golf coaching, club fitting, junior camps
- Luxury villas and condo rentals
- Seven miles of beachfront
- Four pools, hot tubs, beachside cabanas
- Full-service spa, fitness classes, sport courts
- Dining at multiple restaurants and lounges
There’s a reason Sandestin has hosted the PGA Web.com Tour and NCAA Golf Championships – the courses challenge beginners to pros. Play everything from the lush greens of Burnt Pine to the Scottish links-style of Raven.
Beyond world-class golf, guests also have access to the glorious Gulf beaches, swimming pools, restaurants, and Village of Baytowne Wharf. Accommodation options range from hotel rooms to multi-bedroom villas ideal for groups. Few other resorts offer this perfect package of golf, beaches, amenities, and lodging.
- Cost: From $200/night hotel rooms; $300+/night villas
- Reviews: 4.5 stars, Certificate of Excellence on TripAdvisor
- Good for: Golfers, guys/girls getaways, groups, family vacations
For Romance: Henderson Park Inn
Topics: Henderson Park Inn Destin, romantic hotels in Destin Florida, adults only Florida resorts
If you’re seeking a romantic escape in Destin, the intimate Henderson Park Inn is gorgeous inside and out. With just 37 rooms, this adults-only boutique hotel oozes natural beauty and Southern coastal charm.
Amenities:
- 37 spacious rooms and suites
- Fine dining at on-site restaurant Salamander’s Coastal Cuisine
- Outdoor pool with loungers and umbrellas
- Private beach access and service
- Free bike rentals
- Nightly wine and cheese reception
- Free shuttle service in Destin
- Spa treatments available
The sophisticated Henderson Park Inn caters to couples looking for a peaceful, intimate getaway. Guest rooms are more like suites with plush furnishings and soaking tubs. Many open directly onto the pool courtyard. The acclaimed on-site restaurant, lovely pool area, and beach serviced with chairs and umbrellas set a romantic tone.
Evening wine and cheese receptions held fireside in the gorgeous common rooms encourage mingling and meeting fellow guests. Borrow bikes to explore nearby parks or take the shuttle to Destin harbor. Everything about this boutique gem exudes cozy seclusion and natural tranquility – ideal for couples.
- Cost: From $300 low season; $400+ high season
- Reviews: 5 stars, Certificate of Excellence on TripAdvisor
- Good for: Couples, honeymooners, adult getaways
For Families: Pelican Beach Resort by Panhandle Getaways
Topics: Pelican Beach Resort Destin reviews, kid friendly hotels in Destin Florida, Destin resorts with waterparks
Fun in the sun for the whole family awaits at Pelican Beach Resort. From waterslides to game rooms, this resort offers unlimited activities and amenities to delight kids of every age.
Amenities:
- 162 one and two-bedroom condo units
- Outdoor lagoon pool, infinity pool, kiddie pool
- On-site waterpark and lazy river
- Game room with video games & pool table
- Beachside cafe, ice cream shop on-site
- Free beach chair & umbrella set up
- Seasonal kids camps and programs
- Free shuttle service in Destin area
Pelican Beach has everything for an unforgettable family vacation, all in one place. Adults can relax poolside while kids zoom down waterslides and make endless laps on the lazy river. Mini-golf, shuffleboard, and game rooms give teens their own space.
The condo-style units work well for larger families, with full kitchens, separate bedrooms, and homey comforts. Onsite dining, beach chair setups, and shuttles make it easy to come and go from the resort as you please. The location right on the beach and friendly service polish off this family-friendly gem.
- Cost: From $200 low season; $350+ high season
- Reviews: 5 stars, Certificate of Excellence on TripAdvisor
- Good for: Families with kids of all ages, family reunions
For Privacy & Seclusion: Regency Towers by Panhandle Getaways
Topics: Regency Towers Destin reviews, Destin Florida vacation rentals beachfront, Destin condo rentals with pools
Seeking privacy and seclusion for your perfect beach retreat? It doesn’t get more private than Regency Towers. These upscale condos directly on Miramar Beach offer intimate accommodations away from crowds.
Amenities:
- One and two-bedroom condo units
- Private Gulf-front balconies
- Outdoor pool overlooking the Gulf
- Tennis courts on property
- Fully equipped kitchens in condos
- Washer/dryer in units
- Free beach chairs and umbrellas
With just 58 condo units in two towers, Regency Towers maintains an exclusive ambiance. Sliding doors in each condo open to a private balcony directly facing the pristine shoreline. Walk right out to the sand and surf.
Quiet pools, secluded terraces, and elevators directly accessing units limit contact with others. Enjoy preparing meals in your fully-stocked kitchen instead of dining out. The spacious condos work well for extended stays and couples seeking intimacy. Miramar Beach sees less crowds than central Destin beaches for true seclusion.
- Cost: From $200 low season; $300+ high season
- Reviews: 5 stars, Certificate of Excellence on TripAdvisor
- Good for: Couples getaways, quiet vacations, extended stays
For Adventure: Embassy Suites by Hilton Destin
Topics: Embassy Suites Destin Miramar Beach reviews, Destin Florida resorts with waterparks, kid-friendly hotels in Destin FL
Nestled on the shore of Miramar Beach, Embassy Suites has easy access to adventures like paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing. The spacious suites provide flexibility for the whole family to spread out after days spent exploring.
Amenities:
- Two-room suites with separate living room
- Outdoor pool and lazy river
- On-site restaurant and Starbucks cafe
- Made-to-order breakfast included
- Evening reception with drinks and snacks
- Adventure activities desk
- Free beach umbrella & chair setup
The two-room suites make it easy for parents and kids to enjoy their own space after action-packed days. Fuel up with the complimentary made-to-order breakfast before heading out on adventures. The helpful Activities Desk can book dolphin cruises, pontoon rentals, or area tours.
Wind down evenings poolside at the nightly manager’s reception with free drinks and light bites before retreating to your suite. The resort’s location right on Miramar Beach means you’re close to all the fun while enjoying quieter sands than central Destin.
- Cost: From $200 low season; $350+ high season
- Reviews: 4.5 stars, Certificate of Excellence on TripAdvisor
- Good for: Families, groups, adventure seekers
For Budget Travel: Inn on Destin Harbor
Topics: Inn on Destin Harbor reviews, affordable hotels in Destin Florida, Destin vacation rentals
The Inn on Destin Harbor offers comfortable lodging with cheerful vacation vibes at budget-friendly prices. It’s ideal for travelers who plan to be out exploring more than lounging at the resort.
Amenities:
- 98 guest rooms and suites
- Outdoor pool
- Free continental breakfast
- Fridge and microwave in rooms
- Harbor views available
- Nearby public beaches & paid parking
- Walking distance to shops & dining
What the Inn on Destin Harbor lacks in lavish frills, it makes up for in savings and location. Cheery rooms have mini-fridges and microwaves for quick meals and snacks. Free parking and breakfast help trim costs.
While not directly beachfront, the inn overlooks the Destin Harbor, famous for charter fishing, boat tours, and waterfront dining. Nearby Henderson Beach State Park offers pristine shoreline a short drive away. When pricing is a priority, you can’t beat the value here.
- Cost: From $120 low season; $200+ high season
- Reviews: 4 stars on TripAdvisor
- Good for: Budget travelers, fishing charters, short stays
For Condo Comforts: Sterling Sands By Panhandle Getaways
Topics: Sterling Sands Destin reviews, Destin FL vacation rentals on the beach, Destin condos for rent
Stretch out with all the comforts of home at the condo-style Sterling Sands Resort. These one and two-bedroom units on Henderson Beach State Park offer full amenities and plenty of room to relax.
Amenities:
- 154 condo units from studios to 3-bedroom
- Gulf-front outdoor pool
- Gas grills and picnic area
- Tennis courts on property
- Fully equipped kitchens
- Washer/dryer in units
- Free beach chair & umbrella setup
Sterling Sands has a relaxed residential vibe perfect for settling in on vacation. All the condos feature fully stocked kitchens so you can cook your own meals and save money. Separate bedrooms, multiple baths, and laundry in-unit give families and groups ample space.
The location right on the quieter stretch of Henderson Beach means easier access to sand and surf. Feel at home lounging on your private balcony overlooking the water before heading down to the shared Gulf-front pool.
- Cost: From $200 low season; $300+ high season
- Reviews: 5 stars, Certificate of Excellence on TripAdvisor
- Good for: Families, groups, longer vacations
What Makes Destin, Florida So Popular?
Destin offers the quintessential sun-soaked Florida beach vacation, with its spectacular sandy shores, abundant family attractions, and lively hospitality.
Here are some of the top reasons Destin emerged as *the* go-to getaway spot on the Emerald Coast.
Miles of Pristine White Sand Beaches
Destin is famous for its dazzling snow-white sand beaches overlooking emerald green waters that look almost tropical. The sand is 99% pure quartz crystal leftover from the Appalachian Mountains. It was brought south by the Apalachicola River and washed ashore over thousands of years.
Today, Destin has over 24 miles of this powder-soft sand hugging the coastline. Popular spots like Henderson Beach State Park and Miramar Beach have huge expanses perfect for swimming, sunbathing, sandcastle building, and seaside strolls.
The sand shelves gradually into the calm Gulf waters, creating a shallow shoreline perfect for kids to splash and play safely. Destin’s beaches are consistently ranked among the best in the country.
Abundant Family Attractions
In addition to the gorgeous beaches, Destin offers seemingly endless family-friendly attractions to entertain kids of any age:
- The Track Family Recreation Center has go-karts, mini golf, bumper boats, laser tag, and arcade games.
- Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park features water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and a kids splash area.
- Beachside amusement parks like Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park and Pirates & Princesses Cruises.
- Kid-pleasing sea life encounters from dolphin cruises to snorkeling trips.
- Plenty of kid-approved dining options like funky donut shops and pizza arcades.
With kids running around burning off energy, parents can actually relax a bit on vacation. Destin makes it easy to blend beach time and adventure to keep the whole family happy.
Charter Fishing & Boat Tours
Nicknamed “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” Destin has a rich history as a charter fishing harbor. Its location in the Gulf offers prime access to snag major sportfish like blue marlins, tuna, snapper and more.
Visitors can choose from dozens of charter boat companies to take them fishing in the open waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Half day, full day, and overnight trips are available if you want to reel in a big one.
For non-anglers, dolphin and sunset cruises provide laidback entertainment and amazing views. Luxury yacht and pontoon boat options offer everything from booze cruises to family fireworks tours. The harbor stays busy with maritime action.
Championship Golf Courses
Destin is a golfer’s paradise with 16 challenging courses within 20 minutes of town. Top names include Sandestin, Regatta Bay, Kelly Plantation, and Emerald Bay.
The Gulf breezes and lush tropical terrain make Destin courses pleasing while still packing challenges like undulating greens, long carries, and significant breaks.
After a day on the links, relaxing 19th holes await at clubhouses and patios overlooking the water.
Packages like Golf Trail Getaways even allow you to play multiple Destin courses on one trip at a discount. Year-round play means golfers won’t miss a beat.
Luxury Shopping & Dining
Destin offers no shortage of upscale dining and shopping for visitors seeking fine cuisine and retail therapy.
For an elevated seaside meal, restaurants like Brotula’s Seafood House, Peninsula Grill, and Marina Cafe serve seasonal fare in stunning settings.
Shopaholics flock to Destin Commons and Grand Boulevard for a mix of designer boutiques and high-end chain stores.
Bridal salons, day spas, artisan food shops, and jewelry stores offer plenty of opportunities to drop some cash.
When the sun goes down, visitors have their pick of live music venues, open-air bars, and beachfront nightclubs to enjoy Destin’s lively nightlife.
Proximity to Major Airports & Attractions
Despite being on the Florida Panhandle, Destin offers easy access for travelers across the Southeast and beyond:
- Read our Guide to the 30A Airport
- Just 40 miles east of Pensacola Airport
- Under 2 hour drive from Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport
- Direct routes from Atlanta, Houston, Nashville, Dallas, New York, Chicago, and more
Once in town, visitors can take day trips to major regional attractions like Pensacola, Panama City Beach, Apalachicola National Forest, and Alabama Gulf Shores. The central location makes a Destin vacation the perfect home base.
When to Visit Destin
With sunny weather year round, any time is prime time to visit Destin! The peak tourist season runs from late spring through summer. Expect higher prices, bigger crowds, and lively energy.
For lower rates and milder weather, plan a trip in the late fall, winter, or early spring. The shoulder seasons of April-May and September-November also split the difference with moderate prices and temperatures.
Here’s a monthly breakdown of Destin’s climate and events:
March-May (Spring)
As temperatures climb into the 70s, Destin shakes off winter and enters springtime. Blooming flowers, budding palm trees, and sunny skies greet visitors. The ocean remains a bit chilly for swimming, but pleasant for beach walks.
Peak crowds hit for spring break in late March/early April when college students swarm the beaches. Costs and occupancy rise. By May, low 70s beach days become ideal for golf, fishing, and lounging poolside before summer sets in.
June-August (Summer)
Summer brings the most intense heat and humidity, with highs in the 80s-90s. However, coastal breezes off the Gulf help keep things bearable. The ocean warms to perfect bath-like temperature in the summer.
This is the busiest tourist season with families taking summer vacation. Major holidays like July 4th and Memorial Day see huge spikes in crowds. Prices reach annual peaks, so reserve well in advance.
September-November (Fall)
As Gulf temperatures mellow out, the crowds thin and prices drop. Daily highs in the 70s-80s make for pleasant beach weather into October. The ocean stays warm enough for swimming through November.
Fall events like Destin Seafood Festival and Destin Fishing Rodeo keep the party going. Traveling in shoulder season means fewer people but still sunny skies to enjoy the beaches.
December-February (Winter)
December starts off relatively quiet, getting busier around the winter holidays. January and February see the lowest hotel rates and crowds. Temperatures dip to the 50s-60s, so bundling up is needed on the beach.
While cool for swimming, winter is fantastic for hiking, biking, fishing, and golf. The holiday season brings festive cheer with illuminated boat parades, seasonal shows, and New Year’s events.
How to Get Around Destin
Destin’s main attractions are all accessible right off Highway 98 running parallel the coastline. The convenient Beach Byway Trolley provides free shuttle service between hotels, shopping centers, and beach access points.
Here are some of the best ways to get around town:
Drive
Highway 98 and Mid-Bay Bridge provide easy access to beaches, Harbor, shopping. Highway 331 runs north of 98.
Taxi/Rideshare
Rideshares also work in Destin! Grab an Uber or Lyft anytime on the emerald coast! Companies like Yellow Cab and Destin Taxi can shuttle you door-to-door 24/7.
Trolley
Free Beach Byway Trolley hits all major coastal hotels, shops, and attractions.
Bike Rentals
Many hotels offer complimentary bikes, or rent beach cruisers from local shops.
Walk
Destin is very walkable, thanks to pedestrian paths along 98 and the Harbor.
Boat
To really arrive in style, take a chartered boat or water taxi across the bay.
Driving, biking, and trolleys provide flexibility to cruise the coast on your own schedule. Avoid the parking hassle by having resort shuttles take you straight to the beach.
Top Destin Annual Events & Festivals
In addition to gorgeous beaches and weather, one of Destin’s claims to fame is a packed annual calendar of beloved events and festivals.
Visitors planning their vacation around these lively festivities will experience the city’s coastal culture at its best. Mark your calendars for these beloved events:
Destin Fishing Rodeo (October)
Dubbed “The World’s Richest Fishing Rodeo,” anglers take to the waters to reel in prize-winning catches over a month.
Destin Seafood Festival (October)
Two days of live music, seafood feasts, competitions, and family fun right on the harbor.
Destin Food & Wine Festival (November)
A 4-day extravaganza of wine tastings, celebrity chef dinners, cooking demos, and open-air concerts.
Sandestin Wine Festival (April)
The original and still the best! Over 30 years celebrating vino al fresco through tastings, dinners, seminars and more.
Destin 4th of July Celebration
Enjoy fireworks, a vibrant parade, and live music for a star-spangled Independence Day.
Destin Commons’ Movies on the Lawn (Spring/Summer/Fall)
Cozy up on blankets for free movie nights under the stars in the heart of town.
Concerts in the Village (Summer)
Popular local bands liven up the Village of Baytowne Wharf with free live music.
Christmas Tree Lighting (November)
Ring in the holidays with carols, cookies, snow flurries and Santa lighting the village Christmas tree.
Insider Tips for Visiting Destin
After revealing the best resorts, attractions, and events that make Destin amazing, here are a few final insider tips to make the most of your visit:
- Florida has intense sun, so generously apply sunscreen and reapply often when outdoors. The ocean breeze can deceive you.
- Beach wheelchairs with fat tires let disabled visitors enjoy the sand. Many are free through county programs.
- Go early to snag beach chairs and umbrellas. Resort guests have priority at their properties.
- Love seafood? Come during one of the food festivals or restaurant weeks to indulge in mouth-watering local catches.
- Charter boats offer deep sea fishing along the entire Emerald Coast. Shop around for the best fit crew and price.
- Drink plenty of water and wear lightweight, breathable clothing to stay cool in the subtropical climate.
- Don’t just stick to Destin beaches – take a day or two to explore adjacent towns like Shalimar, Okaloosa Island, and Niceville.
- Avoid spring break and summer if you prefer fewer crowds. Fall and winter bring cheaper rates and more elbow room.
Start Planning Your Destin Beach Vacation Now!
In Destin, powder-white sands, emerald Gulf waters, fresh seafood, and Southern hospitality come together to create a quintessential Florida retreat. Whether you crave family fun, romantic escapes, outdoor adventures, or just soaking up the sun, Destin delivers an amazing beach vacation.
Now that you know the lay of the land, start planning your own coastal getaway. With endless options for accommodations, activities, dining and entertainment, you’re sure to find the perfect match to craft a dream Destin vacation.
So check those dates, book your flights, and reserve your perfect resort with help from this guide. The beach awaits in Destin… all that’s missing is you!
