Destin, Florida, is a family paradise, known for its breathtaking white beaches, clear blue waters, and endless family activities. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beachfront escape or a more active resort experience, Destin has a variety of family hotels and resorts to choose from. Below is a guide to the best resorts and hotels in Destin for families, offering everything from outdoor swimming pools and hot tubs to spacious suites and easy access to local attractions.
1. The Henderson Beach Resort & Spa
Located near the Florida Henderson Beach State Park, The Henderson Beach Resort & Spa is one of the best family resorts in Destin, offering a luxurious but family-friendly environment. This resort combines luxury with fun, providing a variety of activities that both kids and adults will love.
Family-friendly features:
- Spacious Suites: The resort offers spacious suites with a mix of modern and coastal-inspired decor, perfect for families who want the comfort of home while being close to the beach.
- Outdoor Pool & Hot Tub: A large outdoor pool with a hot tub allows families to unwind after a day of fun in the sun.
- Beach Access: With private beach access, families can enjoy the pristine Gulf of Mexico waters, perfect for swimming, building sandcastles, or engaging in water sports.
- Full-Service Spa: Parents can take some time to relax at the full-service spa while the kids participate in the resort’s kids’ club.
2. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
One of the most renowned resorts in the area, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort offers easy access to the beach, golf courses, and tons of family activities. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or a week, this resort has it all.
Family-friendly features:
- 18-Hole Golf Course: Families with older children or teens will appreciate the 18-hole Emerald Bay Golf Club, offering a fun family challenge.
- Outdoor Pools & Lazy River: Sandestin has multiple outdoor pools, including a lazy river, which is perfect for family relaxation.
- Tennis Court: Families can enjoy a friendly match on the resort’s tennis court, adding a bit of sporty fun to the vacation.
- Village of Baytowne Wharf: Just a short drive from the resort, this vibrant area offers shopping, dining, and fun activities for the whole family, including a game room and water park.
3. Destin West Beach and Bay Resort
Located in the heart of Destin, Destin West Beach and Bay Resort offers a unique blend of beach and bayfront accommodations. This family-friendly property provides a variety of family activities and amenities.
Family-friendly features:
- Outdoor Pool: Families can enjoy the resort’s expansive outdoor swimming pool, complete with a kids’ splash area, perfect for cooling off after a sunny day at the beach.
- Private Beach Access: The resort offers easy access to both the beach and the bay, ideal for a day of water activities such as paddleboarding and kayaking.
- Spacious Suites: The spacious suites offer fully equipped kitchens, making it easy for families to cook meals together.
- Gulf View: Many suites offer stunning Gulf of Mexico views, making every moment at the resort memorable.
4. Holiday Inn Resort Fort Walton Beach
Located just a short drive from Destin, this resort is ideal for families looking for a cheap hotel with plenty of amenities. It offers everything from water activities to a fitness centre, ensuring everyone in the family has something to enjoy.
Family-friendly features:
- Water Play Zone: A children’s water park with slides and fountains provides hours of entertainment for younger children.
- Outdoor Pool & Hot Tub: The resort features a large outdoor pool and a hot tub, perfect for a relaxing evening after a day of fun.
- Beach Access: Families can enjoy the white-sand beaches with easy access from the resort.
- Free Wi-Fi: Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi, allowing families to plan their next adventure or relax with a movie in the air-conditioned rooms.
5. Pelican Beach Resort
For a family-friendly hotel with a prime location and all the amenities you need, Pelican Beach Resort is a great choice. This beachfront resort offers families the perfect spot to relax while enjoying everything Destin has to offer.
Family-friendly features:
- Private Beach Access: Enjoy the convenience of private beach access for easy, direct access to the beach and the Gulf of Mexico.
- Outdoor Pool & Hot Tub: The resort features a large outdoor pool, and a relaxing hot tub to unwind.
- Game Room: Kids will love spending time in the game room, while adults can take advantage of the resort’s fitness center or relax in the hot tub.
- Convenient Location: The resort is within walking distance to Silver Sands Premium Outlets and just a short ride from the Destin Harbor Boardwalk, offering access to family-friendly attractions, shopping, and dining.
6. Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village
Situated right on Destin Harbor, Emerald Grande is a luxury resort that offers both adventure and relaxation for families. Its central location in HarborWalk Village means families are never far from the action.
Family-friendly features:
- Outdoor Pool & Lazy River: Enjoy the outdoor swimming pool, lazy river, and hot tub, all overlooking beautiful harbor views.
- Destin Harbor Boardwalk: This family-friendly spot is packed with activities and dining options. Take a stroll down the Destin Harbor Boardwalk to see the sights, or hop on a boat tour for a chance to see dolphins in the wild.
- Fitness Center & Business Centre: The resort also caters to business travellers with a fully equipped business centre, while families can keep up with their fitness routines in the fitness centre.
- Spacious Suites: The spacious suites are designed with families in mind, offering plenty of room for everyone to spread out.
7. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Destin
This hotel is perfect for families looking for a cheap hotel with great amenities and a convenient location. Located just a 10-minute drive from the beach and other top attractions, it’s ideal for a budget-friendly yet comfortable stay.
Family-friendly features:
- Outdoor Pool: The outdoor pool offers a relaxing space to swim and sunbathe.
- Free Wi-Fi: Enjoy complimentary free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, ensuring everyone stays connected.
- Short Walk to Shopping: The hotel is a short walk from Grand Boulevard Town Center, where you’ll find plenty of dining, shopping, and entertainment options for the whole family.
- Air-Conditioned Rooms: Stay cool and comfortable in the air-conditioned rooms after a day of adventure in Destin.
Conclusion
Destin is a fantastic destination for families, offering an array of resorts and hotels that cater to different preferences, whether you want to relax by the pool, explore local attractions, or spend the day at the beach. From the luxurious Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort to family-friendly options like the Fairfield Inn and the Wyndham Destin Hotel, there’s something for every family in this beautiful coastal town. With activities like water parks, golf courses, and easy access to the Beaches of South Walton and Jolee Island Nature Park, Destin promises an unforgettable family vacation.
