What part of Destin?

Question

Hi- we are hoping to go to Destin in April with our kids age 16, 17, 21, 22. What part would be a good fit for our family? Miramar or Seaside or perhaps another area. We are looking into a VRBO or Airbnb for accommodations with a pool and beach. Thank you!

Answer

Destin is a fantastic destination for families, with plenty of beautiful beaches, activities, and accommodations to choose from. Based on your kids' ages and the kind of accommodations you're looking for (VRBO or Airbnb with a pool and beach access), here are a few areas that would be a good fit for your family:

Miramar Beach - Miramar Beach is one of the more popular areas in Destin for families, especially if you're looking for a mix of quiet beach time with easy access to shops and restaurants. It’s known for its beautiful, wide beaches and is just a short drive from the heart of Destin. This area has many rental properties with both pools and beach access. It’s also home to the Silver Sands Premium Outlets, which could be a hit with your older kids. There are lots of family-friendly vacation homes here with pools, and the beach is less crowded compared to the main Destin area.
Seaside - Seaside is a charming, picturesque community that’s well-known for its vibrant, walkable downtown area and stunning beach. It's perfect if you want a more laid-back, aesthetically pleasing atmosphere with a more relaxed pace. However, it’s a bit further from Destin, and while it has pools and beach access, the rental homes here can be pricier. Seaside is great for families who enjoy quaint neighborhoods, shopping, and dining out, and the location offers easy access to the beach. It’s a wonderful spot for a relaxed family vacation, though it might be more low-key compared to some of the other areas in Destin.
Destin (The Heart of the City) - If you're looking to be right in the action, staying in the heart of Destin could be a good choice. This area offers easy access to popular attractions like Big Kahuna's Water and Adventure Park, and you'll find plenty of rental properties with pools and beach access. It's also close to numerous restaurants, shops, and entertainment options, so there’s always something to do. The beaches in Destin can be busier, but the convenience of being near everything might make it appealing for your family.
Crystal Beach - Crystal Beach is a residential area in Destin that offers a quieter, more relaxed vibe. It’s known for its family-friendly atmosphere and beautiful beaches. There are plenty of beach houses and vacation rentals here, many of which come with pools and easy beach access. If you want a peaceful getaway but still want to be close to Destin’s main attractions, Crystal Beach is a great option.
Fort Walton Beach (Just west of Destin) - If you’re open to staying slightly outside Destin, Fort Walton Beach offers more affordable rental options while still providing excellent beach access. The area has a lot of parks, museums, and water activities, making it great for families with older kids. The area is quieter than Destin but still close enough to enjoy all that Destin has to offer.

All of these areas are within a short drive from one another, so if you’re set on a specific area but want to explore other beaches or attractions, it's easy to get around. Miramar Beach and Crystal Beach are both excellent choices if you want a good balance of beach access, rental options with pools, and convenience, while Seaside offers a more charming and slower-paced environment if you're looking for something more unique.

Enjoy your trip to Destin! There’s something for everyone in the family, and no matter where you choose to stay, you’ll have a fantastic time exploring the area’s beautiful beaches and activities!