As striking as its name conveys, the Emerald Coast is a picturesque stretch of land that runs along the Gulf of Mexico and includes the upscale and always popular city of Destin. In a place where the beaches reign supreme, and everything else simply comes across as a side note in the grand scheme of beauty, staying along the sandy splendor in a Destin vacation rental is the perfect way to realize the Florida getaway you always imagined.



Although the sugary white sand at Henderson Beach State Park only runs for one-and-a-half miles, the quality of this stretch certainly makes up for its lack of quantity. The white expanse glows under the warm Florida sun and the emerald-green water, which seems even more brilliant as it brushes against its stark white neighbor, is as crystal clear as the waters of the Caribbean. Getting lost in your surroundings and forgetting that you are on mainland Florida, rather than a tropical paradise, is only the beginning of a memorable Destin experience.

While the beaches are certainly the biggest draw, and the place where you will probably spend a majority of your vacation, Destin is no longer a sleepy fishing village with one attraction to its name. Countless championship golf courses, delicious restaurants that also serve up live music, and the exciting Gulfarium marine park are just a few other opportunities for excitement that this emerald wonder has to offer. Destin is a growing vacation destination and as visitors continue to flock to its shores, finding peace and quiet during your stay may gradually become a little more difficult.

Destin used to be a hidden wonder, a city where aquamarine waters, towering sand dunes, and blossoming magnolia trees invited guests, but only a few bothered to heed to its call. Now, millions flock to its sandy shores for the sheer scenic beauty and warm, invigorating sunshine that seems to melt away stress while bronzing the skin. In a place where everyone wants the perfect sunning spot or the prime fishing hole, it may seem like you have to be trapped among the masses, fighting for the vacation the guide books promised. However, there is a simple solution that offers privacy, seclusion, and comfort without forcing you to sacrifice an ounce of your dream getaway.

You may have heard of vacation rentals before, and dismissed them since they were an unfamiliar option, but they are actually ideal for realizing the most relaxing and entertaining trip possible. You can find a wide selection of located directly on the Gulf of Mexico, creating a scenic safe haven away from the crowds but always within sight of the stunning expanse. Enjoy breakfast on the balcony with the sights and sounds of the water as your backdrop and then walk right off the patio to the beach for a day of swimming, sunning, and laughter.

If the crowds become too much or you simply want some time to yourself, you don't need to give up the water since your also has a private pool and hot tub. You can still enjoy the breathtaking views of the beach and the sea-oat covered sand dunes, but it's as if someone cornered off a little piece of water just for your enjoyment. And once the sun begins to set and the weather becomes a little cooler, your night is only just beginning since your outdoor grill and patio are ripe for a private waterfront party.

While appreciating the great outdoors from your private retreat is a large part of a vacation rental's appeal, your home away from home is also waiting with indoor comforts to make your entire day as easy-going and exciting as possible. Amenities such as a washer and dryer, fully-equipped kitchen, and wireless internet offer convenience, while extras such as a game room, media room, and bar area create an entertaining and inviting atmosphere at the end of the day. Consider all of the space and enough bedrooms for everyone to have their own personal sanctuary, and you have the makings of the best family getaway ever.