Experience Destin Florida & The Beaches of South Walton

Fishing with Children in the Beaches of South Walton and Destin Area

2008-07-13T17:28:00.006-05:00

The look on the face of a young boy when he is purchasing his first new rod and reel, is absolutely timeless. My son went fishing today and we decided he was old enough for his own equipment. The last time I saw him that excited was when the XBox 360 came out and I'll do just about anything to get him off of the computer or video games, so the investment was well worth it. My staff has been asked on numerous occasions for advice on where to take children fishing and I'd like to share some of our favorite spots:

In the Beaches of South Walton there are ample spots to steal away the day with rod and reel and your children. In the north end of South Walton (Niceville, Choctaw Beach, and Freeport area) you can simple pull off the side of the road on Highway 20 in several marked spots where the fishing is excellent for children. The water is not deep and the fish are ample. We've always caught catfish in these spots. Heading towards the beaches on Hwy 331 there is small park area where you can find folks fishing as well. In the south and southeast end of Beaches of South Walton we prefer Topsail Hill State Park. There are many "off the beaten path" spots that will take you to coastal dune lakes that offer great spots for quiet time and tranquilility with plenty of dry land to camp out for the day. Our other favorite it Eden State Park where this is a small dock that the children can stand on. Many times the fish will fly right out of the water which is more amusing to the children than actually get a bite on the line.

In Destin, there are a couple boats that cater to children's fishing on the harbor, but for something more simplictic, stick to right under the Destin bridge. You can park, and the water is calm and shallow with a great view of Crab Island.

Bait, Tackle, Rods and Reels can all be purchased quite reasonably at either the Bass Pro Shop at Destin Commons or Walmart on the west side of town. We spent less than forty dollars to get him fishing gear at Bass Pro Shop.

We had more rain than fish biting on the lines today, but my son came back with his first set of fishing tales.... even at 8 years old, he's already had his first, "the one that got away" encounter.

In Spite of it All

2008-07-06T16:04:00.005-05:00

The American spirit is resilient and beautiful, and despite the economic woes of our nation, the night sky still shone bright with red, white and blue on Independence Day. The flags flew high, the people sang, the children laughed and the nation celebrated.

Middle America is on a diet, but perseverance is rooted in American culture and this past holiday weekend, the Seascape Beach was home to those who were determined to continue life despite the stress of our current economy. Hundreds of families parked the car, spread out on the beach, grabbed a flag and basked in an old fashioned fourth. The grill was going all day and night, the music was soulful and promising, and the children’s games brought forth the most honest pleasure. There is a promise in a child’s laughter that is so powerful. Absent of high-tech gadgetry; the children were wooed with three-legged racing, face painting, and good natured tug of war. Free watermelon refreshed the crowd and fireworks were plentiful. Joyous and proud, the energy on the beach was overwhelming.

Seascape Resort has seen prosperity and despair fluctuate for over thirty years, an ebb and flow of life. Regardless of the economic tide, the resort has sustained the American traditions of family, friends and aspiration. With a sold out crowd this past weekend, Seascape knows that it will take more than high gas prices to keep Americans from upholding the institution of traveling to the beaches during the Summer. Glistening water, warm sunrays and powdery beaches are cultural mainstays. The nation may tighten the belt, but it won’t throw in the towel.

Celebrating independence day should be a reminder that the country was built by the people, with loud voices, strong hearts and steadfast dreams of something better for all.

An Evening on the Destin Harbor

2008-06-19T00:40:00.008-05:00

Living with a Destin photographer provides the perfect excuse for heading to the Destin Harbor on a beautiful evening. In the name of "work" we often pack up the equipment and head to our new favorite hangout - the boardwalk by Lucky Snapper and Harborwalk Village. Lively folk are cycling and walking about as the boats come in for the evening. Fireworks are displayed on Thursday evenings around 9pm and offer a glorious close to another remarkable day in Destin Florida.

Often taken for granted, those of us who are lucky enough to live in the area year round, forget that our environment is unique and worth noting. Joe snapped these photos while I gabbed with a very personable tourist who had wandered out on a pier with her daughters to catch a better glimpse of the fireworks display. A first time visitor to the area, she had just enjoyed a family outing on one of the dolphin cruises. As I watched her sit with her children and lean against the pier, I realized that it is the spirit of Destin Florida that is most valuable. Destin offers friends and family just the right experiences to make sure that "life moments" are captured.

Thai Delights - Hidden Destin Thai Food Treasure

2008-06-19T00:24:00.006-05:00

Off the beaten path in any tourist town, you will find the local treasures - and by that I mean... the places that locals go to eat that we know are fantastic and rarely ever mark on a map for the visitors to find. In this article, I'll only divulge one, but depending on the local outcry for my tar and feathering ... I might share others in the future.

I have been visiting Thai Delights restaurant for almost five years and to this day, I order the exact same dish every single time. It's that good. Number 51, Chicken, Medium. Ok, I ordered it Thai Hot once ... (and I'll only do that again if I ever choose to get my tongue pierced and want to make sure that I can not feel the needle going though!)

The staff is pleasurable and eager to please. A year round, small staff that works seamlessly together to provide an intimate, down home, family experience for each of their patrons. The menu is diverse and well priced with options for everyone. Seafood and vegetarian options are available, as well as old favorites like Thai Beef Salad and Pad Thai. The spring rolls are fresh and crunchy with delightfuly light sauce for dipping.

I bring my children regularly and they devour the Chicken Satee with peanut sauce for dipping. A seperate children's menu is not available, but it is a comfortable atmosphere for the entire family. The dining room is a nice size, but large parties should call ahead.

Small touches include linen napkins and drinks are served in wine goblets, irregardless of the content ... even diet coke feels like a treat. Be patient, even if the dining room doesn't look full, it does not mean the kitchen is not at full speed ahead - take out at Thai Delight is in high demand for us locals (put it this way, I have Thai Delights programmed in my cell phone). The heck with pizza, number 51 is way more satisfying!

Located on the corner of Mountain Drive and Palmetto Street, Thai Delights is a remarkable surprise offering for Destin dining. (850) 650-3945

Breakfast in Destin & Beaches of South Walton

2008-05-31T20:10:00.005-05:00

Waking up to the crisp Gulf breeze is relaxing but finding the right place to start your day with delectable breakfast treats will ensure that you don't soak up the sun without a full belly. Destin and the Beaches of South Walton have ample choices for morning meals, but my favorite by far is grabbing an old fashioned fisherman's breakfast at Harbor Docks in Destin. Located directly on the water, Harbor Docks allows old time favorite, Silver Shells restaurant to utilize the establishment since it's building was demolished in the name of progress years ago.

Patrons can choose to sit indoors or out, (I always choose out!). Grab a bench and a friendly local waitress will hand you a one page menu that has very reasonably priced offerings ranging from eggs and bacon to omelets and french toast. Famous for their Tennessee ham and cheese grits, everything on the menu is sure to please. Coffee is fabulous and the view is priceless. Unobstructed view of the harbor with boats of all shapes and sizes nestled throughout the nearby piers. Muted chatter from benches nearby are undetectable as the sound of the water and frequent visiting birds echo throughout the outdoor seating section. Portions of the deck are covered for those wishing to avoid direct sunlight, but even inside is a delightful experience with rare photographs of famous patrons and Destin's landscape before being developed. The atmosphere is very casual and the waitresses are unique.

Jode is a landmark waitress with a charming smile and southern hospitality attitude; although on a busy day she has been known to tell you to get your own coffee! The entire staff is welcoming and eager to please. Breakfast at Harbor Docks is not to be missed on your vacation!

Other local eateries that have great breakfast choices are:

The Donut Hole: Two locations, one in downtown Destin and the other in Santa Rosa Beach in the Beaches of South Walton. Fabulous homemade food, but be prepared to pay in cash. No credit cards are excepted and the prices are on the higher side.

Another Broken Egg: Second favorite breakfast spot with locations in Destin and Baytown in Sandestin Resort. Fabulous food and would have been my favorite except is doesn't have the view like Harbor Docks and is a little more expensive. Don't miss the Eggs Benedict!

Cabana Cafe: Great location inside Seascape Resort that has a convenient breakfast buffet with incredible bacon, eggs and other offerings. The Sunday Brunch menu has fancier treats and the prices are very reasonable.

Whales Tail Beach Bar & Grill: Beachside location with great breakfast and perfect after late-night bloody mary's!

Of course, Destin has it's spattering of traditional breakfast locations like IHOP and Waffle House, but I highly recommend that you try one of the restaurants stated above for your first meal of the day.

The Real Value of a Vacation

2008-05-13T20:09:00.009-05:00

Okay, so this band is not yet prime time, but just like the book I'm going to tell you about - I highly recommend downloading some tunes for the road and they are a great place to start. Besides, the lyrics in their music are a good theme to this blog. Check them out at http://www.boyceavenue.com/

I intend to utilize this blog to not only educate potential Destin tourists on the Destin Experience, but I hope you wont mind if I also use it to let you know that while you might be lured to our beautiful destination by our beaches - we have something much more timeless to share with you.

I pride myself on my time management skills; I always accomplish an incredibly high volume of work in a short period of time, but it has come to my attention that I might be spending my time effeciently but not meaningfully. My boss reads this blog so bear with me here - I'm not talking about work tasks, I'm talking about life tasks.

I would imagine that the majority of you that find this blog like to read in general, so I urge you to pick up a copy of Randy Pausch's book, The Last Lecture. I'm only half way through, but I know that there is not one person who would not benefit from having it in their library. This book would be a perfect book on tape to burn to a CD before you hit the road down to Destin. The entire family should hear it. When I was a little girl my mother made sure that I read, Louisa May Alcott's book, "Little Women". I assure you that I will spend the next few weeks reading The Last Lecture to my family.

Destin has luxurious sugar-white beaches, and you might remark to your friends and colleagues about the amazing sunset, but I promise you it is the stories that you go home with that will last a lifetime. Life can be absolutely overwhelming with bills, children, educations, retirement looming, and lately - the gasoline prices! Let it all go, even if it is just for a few days, make sure you go home with stories. Vivid memories of your child on go karts for the first time, the look of terror as your child goes down a slide at Big Kahunas for the first time, the way the birds stole your ketchup packet at Whales Tail when you were eating some scrumptious tuna dip (they really do that by the way!). Play cards with the family and drink a bottle of wine or two, go to Walmart and pick out a game you have never played (I highly recommend every group of friends try Catch Phrase). Spend a few dollars on a professional photographer, dress up the friends and family in matching outfits and head to the beach - it will be a great mantle piece to come home to after those long nights at the office.

When I look back on my life thus far, it is marked by moments with friends and loved ones, not bills, due dates or task lists. And when you get here, turn off your cell phone and keep the laptop packed up - seriously, those things can wait.

Gasoline Crunch - Research your Route

2008-05-03T16:27:00.006-05:00

Contemplating the ride over the Mid-Bay Bridge on my bicycle has crossed my mind more than a few times lately. Unfortunately, my life insurance policy is just not adequate enough for me to actually partake on the endeavor of cycling to work each morning. To be honest, the gasoline hike is painful, but it has not changed our way of life drastically. Going out to dinner is a luxury, the morning latte is a seldom treat, but planning our annual vacation has not been curbed just yet.

We often shop around for the best deal on our accomodations, but adding a few vacation planning tips and tricks to your agenda will help you maximize your vacation dollar. First of all, most of you probably have a GPS in your vehicle or on your phone. Note to self, they are not always right! In fact, mine is a bonafide smart ass and can say, "please make a legal u-turn" in multiple languages when in fact it should have been programmed to say, "just kidding". Really research your route!

From the north we highly recommend that you take I-65 but avoid Highway 331 from Montgomery. Although previously my route of choice for years, I've recently discovered that following 65 a little further south to Andalusia and then following Highway 55 to Highway 85 into Florida will chop off almost an hour of your drive or about 3 gallons of gas!

Fill up before you reach Florida. It's not fair for us folk that live here day in and day out, but gasoline in Alabama is significantly less expensive, sometimes twenty cents a gallon cheaper. If you forget to pump before you park, then take a short stroll to Fort Walton Beach, you'll save a buck or two that way as well.

Regardless of the gas prices - realize that you work all year long for this vacation. Just enjoy it.

Soggy Weekend Shopping

2008-04-06T17:04:00.015-05:00

Rainy weekends are not generally in the pre-vacation planning agenda for any traveling family or couple; but they do happen and shopping is a great way to make the best of a day not suited for the beach!

Grand Boulevard is the newest addition to Destin Shopping experiences and is located in the prestigious Beaches of South Walton, due east of Sandestin. Grand Boulevard provides an upscale retail atmosphere without abandoning the relaxed luxury that makes our area a famous beach excursion destination.

Anchored by nine fabulous Destin restaurants:

Having an urge to dine on a fabulous steak? Looking for a fine dining experience? Try Flemings Prime Steakhouse & Winebar. Discover 100 wines by the glass and the finest prime steak in a gracious, lively and elegant atmosphere. 850-269-0830 Reservations recommended but not required. Open 4:30PM daily.

Guacamole connoisseur? You can't miss this fresh treat, prepared right at your table while dining at Cantina Laredo Gourmet Mexican Food Restaurant. Cantina Laredo serves authentic Mexican dishes in a sophisticate, yet casual atmosphere. Margaritas are strong, but unbelievably smooth. More than two and you should walk home - they are tasty! 850-654-5649 Reservations not accepted. Open 11AM daily. Great brunch on Sundays too!

P.F. Chang's cuisine is reflective of China's evolving culinary landscape. The menu features traditional Chinese offerings and innovative dishes that illustrate the emerging influence of Southeast Asia on modern Chinese cuisine. The Mongolian beef is addictive, the Won ton soup is light and refreshing - all meals are served family style, so make sure everyone orders little bit of everything. 850-269-1806 Reservations accepted but not required. Open 11AM daily

Mitchell's Fish Market offers more than 80 items; the menus are printed twice daily to feature the freshest seafood available. The diverse offerings are sure to appeal to a wide variety of diners. The grape crush is a fabulous mixed drink, similar to mojito but made with freezing cold grapes - reminds me of a ice wine! I've tried several items, but I highly recommend taking a leap of faith and going with whatever is the daily special - I've never gone wrong. 850-650-2484 Reservations accepted but not required. Open 11AM daily.

Tommy Bahama's Tropical Café serves up sumptuous and tropical inspired menu items with delectable entrees, snacks, desserts and island cocktails. The food is truly amazing from appetizers and soup to your entree, nothing on the menu has ever been disappointing. The martinis are memorable. 850-654-1743 Reservations accepted but not required. Open 11AM daily.

The four other restaurants offer quick meal options for those who do not want to interrupt their shopping groove! Johnny Rockets with fabulous burgers, hotdogs and milkshakes; Starbucks for a java stop; Moe's Southwest Grill for fabulous Tex-Mex treats and Quiznos Subs for a sandwich on the go without sacrificing fresh ingredients and premium meats.

In the midst of the hustle and bustle, you'll find Grand Park. Grand Park is the designated green space for the downtown area which is also called the town center. The park offers a lovely space for sitting, people-watching, waiting, or enjoying a live performance. It includes a specially-designed water fountain, lush landscaping and lighting and places to sit and enjoy the view. Grand Park is also a great area for kids to play while waiting for dinner reservations.

So when the skies open up and the rain starts falling, turn off the TV. You're on vacation, CNN can wait. Grab the family and friends and head for Grand Boulevard.

Home on the Harbor

2008-04-01T22:22:00.009-05:00

Sunday afternoon is my favorite time to sneak into AJ's for a few drinks and a snack (or two!). Fine weather, a cool breeze off the Gulf and a perfect view of the Destin Charter Fishing Fleet - AJ's offers an unbeatable atmosphere, delectable treats and strong cocktails. This is a t-shirt and jeans, shorts and tank top, or well - whatever floats your boat kind of atmosphere. There's no judging at AJ's, especially past 10pm! During the day it is a family affair, children welcome upstairs and down; while the evenings are lively with music, local bands and plenty of drinking and dancing.

Southern hospitality is alive and well at AJ's, patrons are not shy and will share a story, cocktail or a dance! Every Sunday, AJ's prepares a fresh crawfish boil in addition to their diverse menu of seafood and appetizers. Scrumptious treats, crawfish lovers will endulge in this spicy concoction of crawdads, red potatoes and sweet corn on the cob!

The view during the afternoon usually consists of watching the fisherman unload their catch and prepare the fish for commercial use. Crowds gather around the docks to watch the local tradition unfold. Destin has the largest charter fishing fleet in the State of Florida and is known as the "Worlds Luckiest Fishing Village!". A complete listing of available Captains and boats for daily and trip rentals can be found at http://www.hookedondestin.com/.

Without a doubt, the Destin Harbor and AJ's is the one spot on your vacation that will send you home with plenty of tales to tell!

Family Day at the Beach!

2008-03-26T22:20:00.004-05:00

Many families that venture to the area want to bring a tangible memory home with them and having professional photos taken on the beach is a fabulous treasure for the whole family to share! By the way, just in case you were thinking you might take a little bit of our precious sugar-white sand - that's illegal! So stick to photos and shells!

Professional photographers are available in the area and pricing ranges from a minor pocket pinch to some major investing - but we love PerceptionsByMayer photography. Joseph Mayer provides his services in the Beaches of South Walton and Destin area and charges a very reasonable rate and allows his subjects to use his photography for printing at their own leisure and even finds time to throw together a cute video presentation with music for his customers!

Visit him online at www.PerceptionsByMayer.com or by telephone at 850-499-2213. Travelers who are staying through Seascape Resort or Bookit.com get a $100 discount on his services - check it out!

Volleyball at Seascape Beach

2008-03-24T23:35:00.005-05:00

Our seasonal guests might find Destin to be paradise, but locals call it home and we have to be creative to find ways to enjoy our paradise amongst the crowds. For the past four years, a local group has been turning the the sand and net, volleyball net to be exact; to work out some pent up aggression and mingle amongst the tourists.

Located due west of the Whales Tail Beach Bar and Grill, the volleyball net is open to any brave beach goers willing to test their might against the sand. It is much harder than it looks to play beach volleyball - it can be downright exhausting!
This group calls this weekly event, "Happy Friday" - and they welcome tourists and guests to join in the fun. Played for pure braggin' rights, there's no prizes, just plenty of calorie burning, beer drinking, and laughing.

Catch some net with this group every Friday after work, Saturdays and Sundays from 1pm until Sunset.

Blue Point Fish Club at Destin Commons

2008-03-24T23:07:00.007-05:00

Blue Point Fish Club is located in the Destin Commons mall; a popular spot in the Destin area to shop, drop and play. Known as a locals favorite watering hole, especially for the upwardly mobile - it is a full service restaurant and bar. Tasty cocktails, a large selection of unique beers on tap and a glamorous crowd make for a pleasing experience.

This past weekend two of our out of town friends dropped in and we all gathered for a few drinks. Standing room only by 10pm and a live band jazzed up the evening. Bartenders know the locals well and we were treated to vibrant drinks with more liquor than mix. The bar attracts a great mix of tourists and locals and although it has a more upbeat, dressy feel - it is still Destin, so casual is always acceptable.

Highly recommended for those who want to find a happening spot around town with live music and great drinks. Couples and singles will enjoy! Oh, and waffle house is located directly across the street - we all know that is a great perk for a late night bar!

Seascape Resort goes Pet Friendly!

2008-03-20T00:52:00.008-05:00

Seascape is located in the prestigious Beaches of South Walton on Destin’s eastern edge and provides visitors with a relaxing escape in a luxurious, yet comfortable atmosphere. Originally built in the mid seventies, Seascape is an original Destin icon and has preserved the “old charm” of the area while most neighboring land has been transformed by "progress". Still lush with tree lined golf course greens and tranquil lakes; Seascape is a respite from the commercial improvements in the Destin area.

Seascape is home to one of the Destin areas most beloved golf courses and beachfront bar and grill, The Whales Tail. Known for its breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and mouth watering Mai Tai’s, locals adore the area and tourists will be pleased with the experience. Accommodations include Majestic Sun, Ariel Dunes I, Ariel Dunes II and the villas that intertwine the natural surroundings throughout the resort.

Majestic Sun and both of the Ariel Dunes sister towers offer luxury, high rise Destin condo rentals that will please even the most discerning traveler. Majestic Sun sits parallel to the undeveloped beach and offers unparalleled views of the gulf coast. The sister towers of Ariel Dunes I and II are set back a few hundred yards into the resort for a more serene experience with less traffic noise without giving up stunning views. Ariel Dunes towers are the tallest buildings in the Beaches of South Walton and have become a popular destination for families who want an all-inclusive Destin vacation with an onsite restaurant, kid friendly swimming pools, a beach tram and on-site management.

The Lakefront, Boardwalk and Golf Course villas have been updated over the years and offer a low rise option on the resort for travelers who prefer to walk right up to their Destin condo rental instead of being in a high rise. Endlessly flexible, the villas on Seascape Resort offer the best value and starting in 2008 have opened their doors to the four-legged members of traveling families. Dogs and cats are welcome with an up to date shot record and a small additional fee for cleaning. Currently, animals of non-residents are not permissible on Walton County beaches, but Pet Owners now have options when traveling so that they do not have to abandon their pets at home in kennels or with friends.

Seascape Resort is centrally located to the finest dining, shopping and activities in the Destin area. Prepare to Vacation, Seascape is more than an accommodation, it is an experience.

For more information please contact
Seascape Resort
800-874-9106

Seaside Town Square

2008-03-20T00:33:00.005-05:00

Seaside is famous for its role in the 1998 film, The Truman Show. With just a glance you can envision Jim Carey strolling down the streets in an endless quest for the outside world. But the glory of Seaside's town square is in the details. Masterly crafted artistic archways, pristine gardens and original artwork fold into the natural surroundings.

With plenty of quaint spots to eat, drink and relax, Seaside Town Square is a worthy day trip. Of all odd things that caught our attention, the doors on some of the buildings were just beautiful. Reminiscent of cobblestone paths in rural Italy with lazy gardens and antique laterns, be sure to pay attention to the entrances of the stores. Lost in the whimsical limbs of the trees that adorn the paths you will find metal sculptures worthy of Manhattan.

The Seaside Chapel is just breathtaking and a popular spot for South Walton Weddings, though you will need a healthy budget to afford this spot for your special day. Deeper into Seaside you will find plenty of activities for the whole family, including kayaking or canoeing on the lake.

Be sure to grab a burger at Pickle's Beachside Bar & Grill or sit down to a delictable treat at the popular Bud & Alleys.

Eden Gardens State Park

2008-03-19T21:48:00.008-05:00

Locals work unbelievably hard during the season to ensure that Destin Travelers have an amazing experience. Every day is the opening act for a new set of guests and it is a rare occasion for some of us to get out and about during Spring or Summer, but last Sunday we had the most amazing time strolling through Destin and the Beaches of South Walton on our motorcycle.

Down Beach Road 98 in Destin, along Highway 30A in South Walton, with a final destination of Eden State Park. Breathtaking beauty nestled gently within the borders of one of America's finest beach destinations. Perfect for calm walks on the gorgeous nature trail, picnicking with the family, or fishing off the pier for a quiet respite. Awarded on multiple occasions as one of America's most beautiful State Parks, this is a must see while on the area. Take a break from the beach, put down the golf clubs and discover one of South Walton's treasure locations.

During our two hours at Eden Gardens we sat on the pier and snapped a few photos of the Flying Fish, walked the nature trail, gazed at the reflection pool and met a few friendly travelers.

From Destin, take Highway 98 East toward Panama City. Take a left on County Road 395 and then follow the signs to the park. You'll stroll through an older, yet charming neighborhood and view one of the oldest schools in the area before embarking on the park. Entrance is $1 per person without a vehicle or $3 per vehicle.