Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa is a full-service hotel with beautiful Gulf views. Guest rooms offer a choice of a king or two double beds along with sleeper sofa, private balconies and free Internet access. Deluxe junior suites feature special bunk-bed areas with media centers for kids, and presidential suites have private balconies with scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico. Enjoy a round of golf at one of Sandestin’s four championship courses, rent bikes for a day-long family ride or get a massage in the Serenity by the Sea spa. Want a luxury dining experience? Make reservations at Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood, a AAA four-diamond restaurant.
References
Our Methodology For Choosing Hotels
In addition to the criteria previously outlined, we considered the following factors:
My experience: I’ve been living in Florida since 1992, covering the entire state as a food-and-travel writer for a large variety of international publications and guidebooks. I’ve stayed in many of these hotels over the years and can vouch for their overall experience.
Overall features: The best Destin-Fort Walton Beach hotels feature the kinds of amenities you’d want in a beach getaway, including pools, private beaches, delicious restaurants, water sport rentals, and more. All hotels are located close to the beach and within easy distance of other top area attractions like the town center. But be aware that some amenities, like pools and cabana bars, are only open seasonally .
COVID-19: Florida has lifted statewide restrictions on masking and does not allow private businesses to directly ask about vaccination status. However, many businesses still choose to follow CDC protocols that prioritize the health and safety of their guests with new cleaning policies and masking in public spaces.
Ratings: We consulted reviews and ratings on sites such as Trip Advisor, Hotels.com, Booking.com, and others to ensure others’ experiences were also overwhelmingly positive. We chose a range of hotels to appeal to different types of travelers from couples seeking romance to families looking for kid-friendly amenities.
Housekeeping: Tailored To Your Comfort
Stayover housekeeping service is complimentary and available upon request during your stay. Simply contact the front desk at any time to request extra towels and amenities or to schedule a room cleaning. For stays of four nights or more, we will provide full cleaning every fourth night/fifth day for all guests.
Read Also: Winthrop Wa Bed And Breakfast
Places To Stay In Fort Walton Beach
Whether youre a first-time visitor to Destin – Fort Walton Beach or a seasoned veteran who knows the area as well as the locals, youll find a perfect place to stay in Fort Walton Beach.
If a beachfront property isnt a must-have, the properties in Fort Walton Beach keep you close to the beach and a variety of other attractions without the beachfront price.
Inlet Beach’s Rare Natural Phenomena
Coastal dune lakes can only be found in a handful of locations around the world, but South Walton boasts 15 of them. Their proximity to the Gulf’s waters creates an extremely rare ecosystem where both freshwater and saltwater species can thrive. On the banks of Lake Powell, one of the largest of the dune lakes, you’ll find Camp Helen State Park. This vast expanse of natural spectacle encompasses fragrant forests and waterfront vistas, making it a prime spot for a hike or bike ride.
Recommended Reading: French Quail Winthrop
Inlet Beach’s Watery Wonders
While you may well be content to idle away your days here kicking back on the beach and lounging on the powder-soft white sand, you can just as easily make your trip thrillingly action-packed. Inlet’s crystal-clear waters are well suited to all manner of pursuits. Don a snorkel mask and keep your eyes peeled for colorful tropical fish and other friendly ocean dwellers, or join the locals in a spot of surf fishing. The waters are often tranquil and silky smooth, offering ideal conditions for kayaking or swimming. But often, particularly during the rainy season, crashing waves lure adrenalin-seeking surfers to Inlet from far and wide.
The Island Hotel In Fort Walton Beach
Beach Front Resort near Destin in Fort Walton Beach since 1966
Think of us as your friend with the beach house at our Resort in Fort Walton Beach. For generations Our family friendly resort on the Gulf of Mexico has been, and is, your Destin, Fl beach vacation destination. Whether you’re vacationing with your kids or marrying your sweetheart beside a beach sunset, book your trip now, let us take care of everything while you make memories at our Fort Walton Beach resort.
Read Also: Cheap Hotels Bradenton
How Much Does It Cost To Visit Destin
Hotel prices typically begin in the $105 to $405 range to start but rise closer to $400 and $500 during peak weekends and events, and after hurricane season ends November 30. Florida also institutes a resort tax on top of hotel room fees. Spring break season sees a bump in rates as well.
Prices are also dependent on amenities and the type of property. For the uninitiated, it can be difficult to distinguish between a hotel and a rental or managed property, because, the latter often bear names with “resort” or “spa.” One good clue: If you can’t book for just a few nights, you’re looking at a managed property with minimum-stay requirements.
An Alternative Florida Getaway
Located at the edge of a long, languid stretch of blissfully coastline, Inlet Beach is among the most alluringly laid-back slivers of Florida’s South Walton region. This under-the-radar gem is a compelling choice if you’re hankering for a spot of Florida sunshine, but want to avoid the visitor hordes of classic vacation hotspots like Miami and the Keys. Inlet Beach vacation rentals range from cozy studios with direct beach access, to luxury oceanfront homes with private pools and enough space to host a large family celebration. And should you ever want to go beyond Inlet Beach’s gentle charms, South Walton boasts more than a dozen other coastal towns to explore.
Recommended Reading: Lodging Houghton Mi
The Best Beach Towns In South Walton
Although Walton County has been around since 1824, very few folks used to differentiate it from Destin. Fifteen years ago many the picture perfect preplanned coastal villages along Scenic 30A did not exist either and County Road 30A was not designated as a scenic route. Since that time developments in Santa Rosa Beach, Blue Mountain Beach, Watercolor, Watersound, Alys Beach, Seacrest Beach, Rosemary Beach and Inlet Beach popped up almost overnight.
On what used to be land owned by St. Joe Company, a timber and paper operation now sits South Waltons 16 unique beach community along with many excellent restaurants and shops. You will find endless family-friendly activities here.
There are no spring breakers or crazy parties like Destin or Panama City beach. Just quiet pastel-colored homes, green spaces for kids and pets to wander, whitewashed post offices, family friendly cafes and clear turquoise waters and powder-white beaches! But the time that you spend together as a family is what matters most.
Because What happens at the beach is laughed about all year!
Here are the best 30A beaches and beach towns for families, that you should visit if you are in South Walton:
When Is The Best Time To Visit Destin
As a popular beach destination, the Destin-Fort Walton Beach area is often crowded during peak summer weekends, in the winter as a warm-weather getaway, and in October when food and fishing events take place.
To snag the best deals and encounter fewer crowds, consider shoulder seasons like late April after spring breaks are over and when demand is typically lower but the weather is still nice. Though prices tend to climb over summer weekends, prices are still more affordable than many other summer beach destinations in the U.S., especially during the hottest months.
However, keep in mind that hurricane season runs from June to the end of November, with August and September usually seeing the most storms.
You May Like: Budget Motel Bradenton Fl
Locals Love This Creative Haven For Artists Musicians And Chefs
Funky and eclectic Grayton Beachs unofficial motto is Nice Dogs, Strange People. As one of South Waltons original beach neighborhoods, Grayton Beach is known as a creative haven for artists, musicians, chefs, or anyone who wants to escape convention and live the beach lifestyle.
Bustling with life, Grayton Beach is home to art galleries, a world-famous funky dive bar and endless natural beauty at Grayton Beach State Park, which surrounds the neighborhood on three sides. Breakfast at Crackings or Black Bear Bread Company dont miss out on the house-made pastries is a great way to kick-off your day. For Gulf views along with tasty eats be sure to stop by Chiringo where the open-air design channels the Gulf breeze, and cold drinks cool customers and complement the laid-back cuisine.
Grayton Seafood Company, the Grayton Beer Brew Pub, Nanbu Noodle Bar and Hurricane Oyster Bar are also must-stop restaurants while youre in Grayton. They each offer something special with a Grayton twist or a selection of local craft brews.
A walk through The Shops at Grayton is a showcase of art in South Walton, where youll find galleries from former South Walton Artists of the Year Andy Saczynski and Mary Hong. Hongs Shard Shop offers interactive classes where instructors help you create your own masterpiece to take home.
From hiking and biking to fishing and funky finds, Grayton Beach is awaiting.
Visiting Grayton Beach for the first time? to check out our First Timer’s Guide.
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is named for the tallest dune in the preserve, which, when viewed from the Gulf of Mexico, resembles a ship’s topsail. The park boasts 1,640 acres of coastal ecosystem, making it a nature lover’s paradise. Discover rare coastal dune lakes, quiet beaches, old-growth longleaf pines, sand pine scrub and a variety of wetlands within the preserve.
You May Like: Vrbo Houghton Lake
Four Points By Sheraton Destin
Typical starting/peak prices: $132/$379
Best for: Families, groups, business travelers
On-site amenities: Restaurant, convenience store, fitness center, business center, meeting/event space, 2 pools, splash pad, whirlpool, beach access, free Wi-Fi
Pros: The beachfront-facing rooms, all with balconies, serve up sunsets with typical Gulf Coast magnificence.
Cons: While the Upper Deck Beachside Bar & Grill offers a terrific view, that’s about it for dining on the premises. Unless you’re staying in a suite with a kitchenette, expect to dine out in restaurants for most meals.
great for family vacations and destination events, this Okaloosa Island hotel is ideally located to make the most of the ocean as well as local attractions. The hotel is also adjacent to the Emerald Coast Convention Center, making it a prime spot for conference attendees who prefer to stroll over to morning meetings. You can also host your own corporate retreat or team-building event.
While a bit bare bones on amenities, the hotel offers a fitness room and you can also run on the beach for a little extra cardio. Walk out of the lobby and onto the beach, or, if you prefer, to the two pools and splash pad, surrounded by tropical landscaping.
COVID-19 procedures are available here.
Home2suites By Hilton Destin
Typical starting/peak prices: $107/$399
Best for: Families, groups, Hilton loyalists
On-site amenities: Outdoor pool, free breakfast, outdoor tables, fitness/laundry facility, free Wi-Fi, business center, pet-friendly, free parking
Pros: The pool is saline, not chlorine, and boasts a fountain and fire pit. Outdoor tables and lounge chairs with umbrellas are properly socially distanced.
Cons: The fitness center doubles as the laundry facility. It’s literally called Spin2Cycle. You might be serious about your training when someone else is concerned about fluffing and folding.
A hotel experience that feels closer to condo living, Home2Suites makes it easy to keep your distance, especially since the bedroom suites function like little apartments.
Indeed, aside from the bedroom which boasts a pretty comfortable Serta Suite Dreams bed a completely separate kitchen includes small and large appliances ranging from a coffeemaker and toaster oven to a refrigerator and dishwasher. Make your own meals or order dinner with contactless delivery.
Family-friendly, Home2Suites is also close to attractions including The Track and Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park.
COVID-19 procedures are available here.
Recommended Reading: Places To Stay In Bradenton Fl
Can I Rent Houses In Inlet Beach
Yes, of course. Vrbo has 1,915 Houses in Inlet Beach. Our other popular types of vacation rentals in Inlet Beach include:
- Cottages: 109 rentals available
- Condos/Apartments: 909 rentals available
- Townhouses: 173 rentals available
But you can also enjoy a great stay in one of our other vacation rentals including Villas and more.
Hyatt Place Sandestin At Grand Boulevard
Best for: Families, groups, Hyatt loyalists
On-site amenities: Swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, breakfast bar, bar, market, fitness center
Pros: The artsy lobby, commodious even during regular times, is airy, open, and a good place to relax with a glass of something.
Cons: Because this is a high rise, you’ll have to deal with hallways and elevators. Elevator limits could make your wait longer.
Modern and funky, Hyatt Place Sandestin is situated in Grand Boulevard Town Center, which is on the Miramar Beach end of town. It’s a great pick for guests who are looking for a central location near dining, shopping, and adventuring through places like Topsail Hill Preserve State Park.
The rooms are smart with plenty of light wood and gray hues. They’re also spacious, ranging between 374 to 454 square feet, and many come with an extra sleeper sofa to accommodate another family member or friend. There are only 84 rooms total so you won’t feel overrun by crowds, either. Book a high-floor room for a terrific view of the area’s natural attractions.
There are three dining options on-site, as well as plenty of additional restaurants within feet of the hotel for dining in, take-out, or delivery, including the highly recommended, local-and-seasonal Everkrisp.
COVID-19 procedures are available here.
Recommended Reading: Bologna Where To Stay
Holiday Inn Resort Fort Walton Beach Hotel On Okaloosa Island Your Florida Beach Vacation Destination
Its that feeling you get when you finally round the corner and spot the hotel for the first time. All your dreams and plans for your vacation begin with that moment. And when you stay at the Holiday Inn Resort Fort Walton Beach hotel, that moment is the start of something magical.
We are located on beautiful Okaloosa Island, directly on the beach facing the Gulf of Mexico. Go ahead, get excited. Take in the color. The wonder. The knowledge that the white sands and emerald waters are your new backyard.
Get out of the car. Race the kids to the front desk. Check out the view from our lobby. Place your key in the door, wait for the familiar buzz and unlock your personal adventure.
Whatever you want out of your vacation, its right here. Were at your service helping you have fun and create memories. This is how a vacation should feel. Our Okaloosa Island hotel is perfect not just for family vacations, but also for romantic getaways, meetings and events, and business travel.
The Holiday Inn Resort Fort Walton Beach hotel is located close to restaurants, nightlife and outdoor adventure. The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park and Boardwalk Okaloosa Island are within walking distance. The Emerald Coast Convention Center is across the street. Eglin Air Force Base and Hurlburt Field are mere minutes from the hotel.
Everything you need to have an unforgettable vacation is here. Dont believe us? Check out our reviews here.
The Henderson A Salamander Beach & Spa Resort
Typical starting/peak prices: $270/$515
Best for: Couples, travelers with pets
On-site amenities: Outdoor pools, lazy river, spa, private beach, multiple restaurants and bars, event space, water sports, free Wi-Fi
Pros: There are 16 “spa rooms” that have access to a private elevator, which leads directly to the spa.
Cons: The second floor of the hotel is dedicated to dog-friendly accommodations, with a limit of two pups per room. Dogs are not allowed in common areas, however, so getting them in and out can be tricky.
Wood-shingled and wind-swept, The Henderson looks like it should be perched on a moor. Instead, it overlooks a mile of one of the more underdeveloped beaches in Destin, affording guests the most privacy possible in town.
Take advantage of all the usual beach activities , practice getting your zen on in the adult pool cabanas, or float on the lazy river.
The 178 coastal-inspired rooms and suites are designed in shades of sand and sea blue, with four-poster beds and patterned carpets for a romantic manor house vibe. This lovely property, with a spa that includes a Himalayan Salt Suite, is ideal for taking a breather from the tumult of the past year.
Located next to the Henderson Beach Preserve, the resort features plenty of resources for the nature lover, but it’s also deeply invested in the arts, highlighting 13 local artists throughout the property. Learn about them, visit their galleries, and cap with a meal at signature restaurant Primrose.
Read Also: Best Places To Stay In Winthrop Wa
A Guide To South Waltons Cutest Towns
March 3, 2017 by Caroline
The sands of the Gulf Coast were where many of my childhood memories took place. The first time I rode a bike. The first time I swallowed a pill. The first time I swam in the ocean. My family and I rented houses all along the coast from Alabama to Florida, but my strongest memories are in the South Walton area of Florida, also known as 30-A, named after the highway that runs through it. It had been many years since my last visit, the year I graduated from high school, so I was overdue for a visit. My mom, a teacher, had time off work in September so we took a week off to relax. While I had planned on using the time simply to read and enjoy myself, I had to lock myself indoors to work for a bit. But that didnt mean there wasnt time to explore. We rented bikes and rode to many of the resorts and communities, browsing bookshops and stopping for snacks along the way. It had changed a lot since my last trip, but theres never been a better time to start planning your own visit.