About Destin

Destin, Florida, nicknamed "The World's Luckiest Fishing Village," has evolved from a small fishing town into one of the Gulf Coast's favourite holiday destinations. With its signature emerald-green waters and sugar-white sand beaches consistently voted among the States’ finest, Destin delights visitors year-round. Henderson Beach State Park, where pristine shores meet protected dunes, is undoubtedly the city’s main attraction, while nearby Crab Island — an underwater sandbar reached only by boat — has become a famous social hub. Families and fishing enthusiasts particularly appreciate this place, as the best places to stay in Destin offer easy access to both activities and the city's deep-sea fishing fleet, which brings in more billfish than any other port in the Gulf.

Begin your explorations at the vibrant HarborWalk Village, where you’ll find lively waterfront restaurants, independent boutiques, water excursions, and nightly events during peak season. Nature lovers can discover the Destin Harbor Boardwalk or venture to Crystal Beach for dolphin watching, parasailing, jet skiing, and paddle boarding. Keen golfers can play a round on two championship courses, while shoppers will adore Silver Sands Premium Outlets or Destin Commons, an open-air lifestyle centre featuring over 90 shops and eateries.

Seafood naturally takes centre stage on Destin’s foodie scene. Fresh-caught gulf fish, shrimp, and oysters feature prominently, and many restaurants offer ‘hook and cook’ services — preparing your own catch to suit your particular taste. Delve further into the city’s culinary focus at the Destin Seafood Festival, held every October, or the month-long Destin Fishing Rodeo, which celebrates the city's fishing heritage in classic Florida style. The best places to stay in Destin range from luxury beachfront resorts with a family focus, to swish, sea-facing hotels for romantics and groups of friends — all with fabulous restaurants.

The Best Places to Stay in Destin

For families

  • The Henderson is an expansive family-friendly resort with spacious guest rooms decorated in seaside-inspired blue and cream tones. The two swimming pools, kids club, ice-cream and sweet parlour plus ample opportunities for water sports make it a great choice for guests of all ages. Dogs are also welcome and the atmosphere is friendly and lively. 

For grown-ups

  • Hotel Effie sits just minutes from the water on Choctawhatchee Bay. Set within the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, this glamorous hotel has stylish contemporary interiors, a swish rooftop pool famed for its sunset parties, and fabulous fine dining. The spa is superb, and groups of friends, couples or solo travellers will adore the luxury experience. 
  • Henderson Park Inn is an adults-only seaside hotel with elegant interiors done in soothing cream and white tones. The focus is very much on the beach and sea, with dazzling views from guest rooms, private beach access, yoga overlooking the sand, and delectable gourmet dining. A romantic, understated escape. 

For an apartment or holiday house

  • For a self-catering spot, we recommend visiting our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

  • Fly into Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport and continue just 30 minutes to Destin by car or bus. Most hotels will also be happy to arrange an airport transfer in advance. 
  • Florida is great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel between December and mid-April for the best weather — though this is also peak season! To avoid the crowds and make the most of hotel offers, time your trip for May or June, before the really hot weather sets in. Florida's hurricane season typically runs from late June until November.

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The best hotels in Destin

The Henderson

Destin (Florida)

A family-friendly resort set near Dustin State Park. Spacious and elegant rooms feature coastally-inspired hues, large balconies and deep soaking tubs. Indulge at the full-service spa, sip on a handcrafted cocktail, taste the freshest seafood and lounge by the pool or on the beach. Paradise!

  • Beach Life - Food and beverage beach service plus activity rentals are organised by the property on Destin's stunning beaches
  • Families - Private beach access, a fantastic kids club, ice-cream and sweet parlour, spacious suites and kid-friendly menus
  • Spa - Spa offers treatments, a whirlpool tub, Himalayan Salt Suite, sun-lit relaxation spaces, and a full-service salon
  • Kids Club - Poppy's kids club offers day and nighttime services and includes a meal, craft, and themed activities
from AU$346 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Hotel Effie

Destin (Florida)

Elegant luxury hotel with cool rooftop pool minutes from the water. Located within Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort on Choctawhatchee Bay, expect endless outdoor activities from sailing to sunset pool parties. Fine-dining, sea-view rooms and a contemporary spa seal the deal. A glam glossy gem.

  • Tennis - Guests have access to 12 world-class HydroGrid clay and 3 hard tennis courts. There's also tutition & round-robin tournaments
  • Local exploring - Location means shops, restaurants and activities are walking distance from the property. There's also Sand Dollar Tram
  • Roof terrace - With a resolutely Miami party feel, rooftop pool boasts stunning views over Choctawhatchee Bay and the Gulf of Mexico
  • Beach nearby - Hit the beach! The nearest stretch of white sand and Gulf of Mexico shore is 5 mins away by complimentary shuttle
from AU$499 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Henderson Park Inn

Destin (Florida)

Escape to an adults-only paradise atop Destin, Florida's pristine shores. An intimate inn exuding rustic charm with soft tones and floor-to-ceiling windows capitalising on the Gulf views. Luxury meets laid-back beach life, with private beach access, gourmet dining, kayaking and beachside yoga.

  • Active Holiday - Active travellers will revel in kayaking, biking, and fitness classes against the backdrop of Destin's pristine Emerald Coast
  • Yoga - Revel in tranquil yoga by the emerald sea, blending fitness with the serenity of the private beach
  • Romantic Break - Adults-only plus sunsets and stargazing from a private beach make it a dreamy haven for romance
  • Cycling - Cycle Scenic 98, explore coastal wonders with the hotel's complimentary bicycles
from AU$1229 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms