Resorts in Destin

When summer approaches, the first thought for some is to rush down to Destin, Florida where the sun kisses your skins and there are many activities to indulge in, but I almost always choose the month of October opposed to the Summer months. Why? Because during the autumn season, the weather is cooler and gives the opportunity to still soak up the sunrays. The weather is perfect because you can participate in all of the activities that Destin has to offer during the day and for longer periods of time. In addition to the weather, majority people are attracted to the summer months to visit meaning whatever you decided to experience while out and about in Destin will not have massive crowds of people and it’s a lot cheaper to lock in those amazing vacation deals. During our trip down, we often stop to visit the Smokey Mountains where it’s peaceful with an amazing display of colors while taking a hike. We particularly enjoy white water rafting on the Pigeon River. And who can forget staying in an authentic log cabin to complete the Smokey Mountains experience? Depending on the route you take on your way down to Destin, we highly recommend adding the Smokey Mountains to your must-see stops.


 The real breathing sceneries are the magnificent white sand beaches of Destin. If you have never stepped foot on a white sanded beach before then you are in for an incredible surprise because up close they are unbelievably stunning and different from the other open sands that majority are used to. The deep pigmentation of the colors blend so well together and create spectacular effects combing the sands and water. Deep-sea fishing is another reason to vacation in Destin, which is also known by the locals as the “luckiest fishing village in the world”. When we visit, we prefer to relax in condos such as Hidden Dunes and the Tennis Resort, as you are able to experience the ultimate resort gateway while being close to attractions that happen in the downtown area. If you are a fan of fantastic views, we also enjoy the Waterscape as it is right on the beach allowing you to walk out of your door and swim whenever you want in their pools, indulge in the waterfall as well as the hot tubs. Another site for the beach lovers is Beach Manor at TOPS’L that includes superb tennis courts, a variety of amenities and is close to several outlet malls with restaurants. This resort is very similar to Silver Shells and Sterling Shores.


  For our vacation gateway, we choice was to go with Best Beach Getaways vacation rentals where the ease of use, convenience, and customer service in regards to booking and travel plans was worry and stress-free. There have been beyond great deals that we have received on beach home rentals with forestry landscape, sand, and shopping attractions within walking distance. With this agency, our trips are by far much easier because we know they will place us in extraordinary properties that have included Beach Manor, Hidden Dunes, Waterscape, Silver Shells and Sterling Shores -- not to mention exploring around these properties is an additional bonus on the fun meter.


 October is right around the corner, which means it is almost time for us to take another trip on the Emerald Coast. We usually change our trip route every so often to set the scene for new memories. For this go around, we plan to visit Panama City Beach and check bask in everything that the famous St. Andrew Park is raved about. Nevertheless, without a doubt, the main goal is always is to always experience a new adventure in sunshine heaven of Destin!

Enchanting Home Away From Home

Between the beach resorts area of Fort Walton Beach and Destin, there is a shining gem within the Gulf of Mexico. Amidst the flawless and breath-taking beaches, Waterscape is a beach site vacation spot that has something to offer for singles on vacation or families wanting to bask in atmosphere.

 Their beachfront condo allows you to really appreciate the natural beauty of the crystal sands and aquamarine seas that surrounds the resort on the Emerald Coast. These trendy, yet family friendly Condo rentals were former Holiday Inn and Radisson hotels that were redesigned to better showcase the landscape of the Okaloosa Island, covering over approximately ten acres of natural sights that will never grow old. With every amenity you could need, Waterscape Resort has 339 Condominiums, some of which are rentals, that encases a Lazy River and three sparkling pools for anytime you want to lounge. If you want to relax with your family or hang out with your friends without getting too wet, the luxury condominiums, also, have two hot tubs, trellis-covered tables, barbeque grills, a gorgeous courtyard area, and even a children’s playground for parents who want to let their kids play in a safe environment.

 If you are looking more for a place to relax after being outside all day, Waterscape Resort has an impressive game room that is located behind the elegantly decorated main lobby and offices. If you want to get a good workout but still want to appreciate the sights outside of your room, the fitness center is located poolside and showcases the radiant views of the Gulf and the amazing waterfalls on the pool deck of the lower courtyard. This is possible due to the U-shape of the building that allows all rooms to be able to enjoy equally spectacular sights between the split-level courtyard that gathers so many visitors and residents alike. The boardwalk, which is handicap accessible, will be etched into your memory as it takes you 490 feet down the golden beach and through the exalting sea air. If you choose to stay in your room, the floor-to-ceiling glass windows and doors always give you a brilliant view anytime you look outward.

 The nightlife in the area is highly acclaimed by the residents with just a seven-minute drive on Highway 98 to get to Destin, where there are various options of retail shopping, clubs, and the Publix grocery store if you need to pick up any supplies while out. Destin Harbor is near the fishing pier on Okaloosa Island and adds flair to your choice of restaurants to dine, including Caffe Italia, the Crab Trap, AJ’s, The Bay Café, Anglers, Pandora’s and Old Bay Steamer. Filled with exciting sights and activities, Waterscape Resort is a must-see for anyone.

The annexation of Destin—Why?

While discussing Okaloosa County might be a simple conversation, it is actually about very real issues. It has been frustrating for the Destin City Council who has consistently provided the largest amount of money through donations to their tourist and properties for Okaloosa County. A few other resources were used, but it was predominantly Okaloosa County that funded them.

 It has been such a point of contention so much that annexation has become a serious point to consider for the counties. They would also create a new department of tourism. It isn't the most economical decision. When you consider that the law enforcement department was not covered by this plan, it is a considerably bad choice. County officials have said that they will cover the costs.

 Destin incorporated as a city in 1984. It covers 8.2 miles and gives the county $59 million or so in their taxes. The county also gets $11 million from taxpayers. Incorporating as a peninsula has really helped.

 If annexation happens, then the areas that aren't incorporated won't be able to support the tax base. Considering the $12 million income from the tourist industry in that part of the county now, annexation might be a bad choice too.

 The stretch in county size for the potential change is from Marler Bridge to Bay County Line. This has been done already in Destin and Walton County since 1984. The whole area of 12 miles that merge eastern Santa Rosa and western Walton was created over 100 years ago.

 Some have suggested that Destin should just be its own county completely. The only problem is there is some history of the area within the Florida Legislature. Change like this has not happened since 1925.

 In Gilchrist City there was a split from Alachua County. The creation of four separate counties happened in 1917 and they have remained since a small change that happened in 1999 and then again in 2000. The changes failed miserably. There have been a few failed similar attempts.

 A plan to create a city on the coast would be a great advance in the right direction for the area. Each of the counties can contribute taxes to make the counties more profitable. Here is a breakdown of the taxes that each one contributes.

 - Destin provides 27%.
 - South Walton gives 90%.
 - South Walton pays 88%.

 Destin Condos for Rent is one of the tourist locations that is involved in this tax base. It offers a significant contribution to the county. Traveling to the area is a wonderful beach-side event. When you consider the tax base issues and how staying there help, it just makes everything feel great. While the tax discussions continue you can enjoy the gorgeous sights and sounds of the area. You might even like it enough to stay. If you decide to do that, then just ask us how you can become one of those contributing taxpayers that adds so much to this little corner of paradise in Florida.

Panama City Beach - New record revenue on condos rentals

The Bay County Tourist Development Council has reported that July 2017 saw a 13.42% increase in collections when compared to July 2016. As of October 2016, the fiscal year goal increased by 13.44 percent and Panama City Beach’s growth has increased for the past 11 months. This is great news for locals as well as tourists.

According to Dan Rowe, this is a record-setting year, one that will likely be reflected in the record books. The city has driven a level of tourism that the Bay Country should be proud of, one that has raised the standard for the city. This can be seen in the influx of visitors that come to the area each year.

Many people are flocking to the area, often for their very first visit or returning for a follow-up visit after falling in love with the area. July sees particularly fantastic weather in the area, and July Fourth festivities are an even bigger draw, making it a popular time to search for condos for rent.

Rentals make up 5% of the Tourist Development Tax, and marketing strategies are funded by derivatives from the tax. The Panama City Convention and Visitors Bureau is responsible for this program. In addition to marketing efforts, the Tourist Development Tax also helps to groom and clean the beach, in addition to being used for product improvement.

Your Children will love Waterscape..and so will you!

There are a lot of condos for rent in Okaloosa and beautiful resorts whose focus is on waterparks. Waterscape Resorts has two luxurious hot tubs in their courtyard and three pools in the resort style to promote relaxation. One pool features zero entry, the Lay-Z-River is gorgeous and the third pool has a ten foot waterfall. There are numerous pool decks, a pool for children and a kid's play area featuring a splash pad. This is the perfect place to socialize regardless of the age of the guest. There are areas designated for barbeques, gas grills in the courtyard and family cookouts abound. Parties and any type of conversations work exceptionally well in the courtyard.

 There are luxurious one, two or three bedroom units capable of sleeping ten people in the heart of the complex. The split level courtyard covers an amazing 10,000 square feet. The amenities include covered parking, a meeting room, a game room and a fitness facility. There is a little kitchen with chairs, tables and a big screen television in the conference room.

 Guests walking to the beach have a lovely dune crossover featuring four showers with fresh water and roomy stations for washing. A full size kitchen, utensils for cooking, DVD players and a washer and dryer grace every condominium. The spectacular views of the courtyard and Gulf can be seen through the


floor to ceiling windows and doors.

 Waterscape is so self contained many guests have no desire to leave the premises. There is even a Kids Club program available on a seasonal basis to keep the kids entertained and occupied with crafts, games and activities. Some guests choose to leave the resort and dine at some amazing restaurants conveniently located just a few miles away from Waterscape. Some of the restaurants are even close enough so the guests can enjoy a nice walk.

 The selection of restaurants is large and includes Pandora's Steak House for the guests who love steak, the tasty seafood of Angler's Beachside or the Old Bay Steamer and Pranzo's and the Caffe Italia for those who desire Italian. Pizza is available at the Helen Back Café and the French cuisine available at the Bay Café is divine. There are numerous options available for a casual meal such as the Crab Trap, the Magnolia Grill, the Big City Café or FudPuckers. For guests craving something south of the border there is Los Panchos and Thai cuisine at the Bangkok House is always an excellent option.

 These activities are for more than the summer months because the panhandle has gloriously warm days off season as well. Golf is played all year and shopping, museums, fishing, dining and arts and crafts are available at Waterscape for the entire year as well.

This is the place to be

Its vacation time and you heard that Destin, Florida was the place to be. With their beautiful and Baytowne Wharf with their first-rate condo rentals. A little more info in Finding the Right Condo in Destin
stunning bright emerald water and white sandy beaches you can’t help but to fall in love with this gorgeous place. On the other hand, the beaches are only part of it; you will find that it is a prime location for many other places to see

Best Beach Paradise

Panama City Beach has a little something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a spa getaway, a
relaxing massage, or you just want to take a nap on the beach, Panama City has your covered. The area has a number of fantastic restaurants, beautiful sights, and a wonderful old town area you can stroll around to take in the sights.

Panama City Beach is often referred to as one of the best beach