Emerald Coast Area Guide

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Let's help you get to know the area a little better! Even if you've been vacationing in Destin, Miramar Beach, or along Scenic 30A for years, there could be some hidden gems that you've missed or new hot spots that have popped up since your last visit. 

Discover the Destinations Along Florida's Emerald Coast

Destin

Originally just a small fishing village, Destin, Florida now boasts a variety of activities for vacationers. From a large selection of golf courses to world-class shopping, Destin has something for the entire family. One of the most notable landmarks in Destin is Crab Island, a sandbar along the East Pass of the Choctawatchee Bay where boats anchor for some fun in the sun. Swim over to one of the stationary restaurants or watch for dolphins in the translucent water. There are many more attractions for you to explore while in Destin and have an adventure-filled vacation. 

Learn More About Destin, FL

Scenic 98

Also known as Old 98, this two-lane road features amazing beach views, spacious walking paths, and gorgeous vacation rentals. Plus you won’t want to miss the authentic Destin restaurants where you can enjoy great seafood and gulf views.

Learn More About Scenic 98

Sandestin and Miramar Beach

Nestled between the outer limits of Destin and the beginning of Highway 30A in South Walton, Miramar Beach, and Sandestin offer a variety of shops, restaurants, and fabulous accommodations. Miramar Beach is known for its family friendly atmosphere, boasting activities for the entire family. Grand Boulevard, Silver Sands Premium Outlets, The Village of Baytowne Wharf, and The Market Shops are filled with stylish stores, exquisite dining experiences, and entertainment, truly something for everyone in your group! There are also plenty of watersports to keep you entertained. Rent a pontoon boat for a casual family cruise, jump some waves on a jet ski, or glide over schools of fish when you go stand up paddleboarding out on the emerald waters.

Learn More About Miramar Beach & Sandestin

Santa Rosa Beach and 30A

Scenic Highway 30A parallels the Gulf of Mexico and runs for miles through some of the most beautiful and luxurious neighborhoods on the Emerald Coast. From the “Old Florida” feel of Dune Allen to the upscale establishments in Inlet Beach and everywhere in between, you’ll find stunning beaches, local eateries and boutique shops. Events are constantly happening along 30A including live music, wine festivals, weekly farmers markets and more. Click here to learn more about things to do near your vacation rental in 30A and Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.

Learn More About 30A & Santa Rosa Beach

Activities and Things To Do in Destin and Along the Scenic Highway 30A

Events

There’s no shortage of entertainment along the Emerald Coast. There are numerous events for both locals and visitors to enjoy throughout the year. At the farmers markets at Seaside, Grand Boulevard and Rosemary Beach you’ll find fresh produce, homemade hot sauces, cold pressed organic juices and more. Annual events include the Sandestin Wine Festival, 30A Songwriters Festival, ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival and 30A 10K. Check out all upcoming events here.

Events

Activities

You’ll never run out of things to do in Destin, Miramar Beach or Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. Whether you’re looking to cool down with an indoor activity or take full advantage of the Florida sunshine, there’s something that everyone in your party will enjoy.

Things to Do

Golf

Golf is a way of life on The Emerald Coast, especially when you're visiting beautiful Destin, Florida. My Vacation Haven has partnered with many local golf courses and pro shops to ensure that our guests have the highest quality experience when searching for a tee time.

Golf

Tennis

Serve up a good time with a friendly match of tennis! Hidden Dunes provides a fantastic tennis facility that is open to the public. Seascape Golf, Beach & Tennis Resort in Miramar Beach, Florida has award-winning tennis courts that are also open to the public. They are just steps away from many of our vacation rentals.

Tennis

Dining

The Gulf Coast is known for fresh seafood, but there are a variety of other restaurants that even the pickiest of eaters will enjoy. Get a healthy start to your day with a juice or a smoothie from Clean Juice in The Market Shops. Want a lunch spot overlooking the Gulf? Vue on 30A will not disappoint. When date night rolls around, wine and dine at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar in Grand Boulevard. There is no shortage of delicious places to eat along the Emerald Coast.

Dining

Health & Wellness

Vacations are all about rest and relaxation, so a trip to the spa is in order! Whether you want a new hairdo, therapeutic massage by the beach or rejuvenating facial, there are a variety of spas and salons along the Emerald Coast.

Health & Wellness

Shopping

The Gulf Coast is home to numerous shopping destinations. Spend the day shopping at the Silver Sands Premium Outlets, Destin Commons, Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, and The Village of Baytowne Wharf. You’ll find popular stores, family-friendly restaurants, an outdoor splash pad for kids, and fun events on the calendar throughout the year.

Shopping

Family Fun

The beach is obviously the main attraction when you visit the Gulf Coast, but there are numerous nearby adventures that the whole family is sure to love. Cruise the open seas on the Buccaneer Pirate Ship, swim with schools of fish while snorkeling in Destin or cast a line in the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village. If you’re looking to escape the heat (or the rain) head indoors to see a movie or visit Fat Daddy’s Arcade. You’ll never hear “I’m bored” during this family vacation!

Family Fun

Transportation Options

Airports

The best way to travel into Destin, Florida is through Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS). Located within Eglin Air Force Base, it’s just a 30-minute drive from the heart of Destin.

Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport in Panama City (ECP) is another option for air travel. This airport is east of South Walton, so if you’re spending your beach vacation along 30A or in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, this airport will be closer to your vacation rental.

Ground Transportation

My Vacation Haven has partnered with several shuttle and car services to help you save money while easily traveling around town. Many of our vacation rentals include a golf cart so that guests can easily cruise to the beach and explore all that Destin, Santa Rosa Beach and Miramar Beach, Florida have to offer.

South Walton Beach Flags, Rules, and Rip Current Information

The team at My Vacation Haven encourages you to have the best possible vacation. We also want you to have a safe vacation. Visit South Walton has compiled important information about local beach flags, rules, and rip currents on their official website. We have listed some of the information below so you can better prepare before heading to the Emerald Coast.

BEACH FLAG WARNINGS

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*Entering the Gulf during double red flag conditions can result in a $500 fine and criminal charges.

BEACH RULES

Violation of beach rules may result in fines or penalties per Walton County municipal code.

  • Leave No Trace. Overnight, unattended items will be removed.
  • Glass Containers, camping and charcoal grills are prohibited (Propane grills must be smaller than 225 sq. inches)
  • Vehicles, dogs and fires all require permits
  • Solicitation prohibited
  • Stay off dunes
  • Removal of vegetation, sand or Gulf water prohibited
  • Please allow a 15 ft setback from dunes and water’s edge for emergency vehicles
  • To prevent crowding, tents larger than 10'x10' are prohibited, and all tents are limited to the top 1/2 of open beach. 4-foot walkway between tents, except Grayton Beach.
  • No metal shovels allowed. Large holes create dangerous situations for beachgoers and marine life
  • Fill in holes dug in sand. Holes cannot be larger than 3 feet x 3 feet and no deeper than 2 feet. Holes cannot be left unattended.
  • No littering, nudity, or excessive noise

To view the official South Walton Beach Guide for information and safety, click here.

RIP CURRENT INFORMATION

How to Identify a Rip Current

  • Darker color surf, indicating deeper water
  • Murky brown water caused by sand stirred up on the bottom
  • Smaller unorganized waves, alongside more evenly breaking waves over a sand bar
  • Waves breaking further out to sea on both sides of the rip current

How to Help Someone Caught in a Rip Current

  • Notify a lifeguard
  • Have someone call 911, give accurate landmarks
  • Do not enter the water, you too will be caught in the current
  • Throw them a flotation device
  • Try not to lose sight of the victim

What To Do If You Are Caught in a Rip Current

  • Don’t panic or swim against the current
  • Relax, float with the current until it dissipates
  • Swim parallel to shore and back in
  • Of course, the best way to avoid a rip current is to know the surf conditions before entering the water!
  • Know the conditions and watch the flags!

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