Discover what hospitality really means as we unveil 12 of the best places to stay in Destin, FL. Each offers a unique blend of comfort, stunning views, and world-class amenities.
Whether it’s a beachfront retreat or a chic urban oasis you seek, Destin hotels promise an unforgettable stay in Destin, FL – one of the most enchanting destinations in the southeastern United States.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Destin, Florida is home to various resorts and hotels set on prime beachfront locations – providing unparalleled access to the sun-soaked shores and the mesmerizing views of the Gulf of Mexico.
- Looking for a family-friendly resort? A romantic getaway? Destin hotels cater to various preferences. There’s always a perfect option for every type of traveler, to ensure relaxation and pampering during your stay in Destin.
- Each featured hotel contributes to Destin’s charm. Each promises an unforgettable getaway marked by luxury, hospitality, and the coastal allure of Florida’s Emerald Coast.
Note: Hotel details and prices change over time. The provided pricing is based on the average price for a standard room. Meaning, it can be lower or higher than that, depending on your choice of unit and the services you avail.
Top 12 Accommodation Picks for Your Destin Retreat
1. Hilton Sandestin Golf Resort and Spa
The Hilton Sandestin Golf Resort and Spa is a 4-star beachfront resort located on Sandestin Blvd in Miramar Beach, Florida, which is considered part of South Walton. The resort is just an 8-minute drive from the shopping centers at Baytowne Wharf, and less than 24 minutes drive from Destin. 
It features 590 guest rooms, including luxurious suites, with free WiFi, wet bars, mini-refrigerators, contemporary decor, and all the amenities of a 4-star luxury accommodation to make your stay in Destin unforgettable. Some have private balconies with stunning coastal views.
One of the best resorts in Destin, the Hilton Sandestin Golf Resort & Spa offers easy access to 4 golf courses:
- Burnt Pine – the crown jewel of Hilton Sandestin. It’s near Choctawhatchee Bay, offering stunning water views.
- Baytowne Golf Club is conveniently located near the Village of Baytowne Wharf.
- The Raven is a unique par-71 layout through marshes, wetlands, and pines.
- The Links’ great location offers a links-style experience with rolling fairways and ocean breezes.
Other amenities include 15 tennis courts; 15 bike paths; 8 bars; 5 high-end on-site dining venues including a steakhouse and sushi bar; a state-of-the-art fitness center; full-service spa with whirlpool and sauna; indoor and outdoor pools; hot tub; a hair salon; business and events center; and a lot more.
The resort serves organic, vegan, and vegetarian meals from locally sourced ingredients. It’s also energy-efficient – has a waste reduction and recycling program.
The beach resort is a popular venue for weddings and professional gatherings, with over 40,000 square feet of flexible meeting space.
Price for a standard room: $363 per night. Book Now!
2. Henderson Park Inn
Perched on the Emerald Coast, Henderson Park Inn is a 4-star, adults-only resort in Destin, Florida, Its intimate vibe offers a secluded getaway for couples seeking a quiet relaxation.
This beachside inn features a veranda, a fitness center, and access to the neighboring Henderson Beach Resort’s facilities, including an adults-only pool and spa.
Guest rooms are designed for ultimate comfort and feature oceanfront views. Most of the rooms have terraces and flat screens with free WiFi. Some have whirlpool tubs, kitchenettes, or fireplaces.
Henderson Park Inn focuses on providing exceptional dining experiences to guests, with options like a beachside cantina, oceanfront dining, and picnic lunches.
The average price for a standard room starts from $382 per night. Book Now!
Situated directly on the beach in Destin, Henderson Park Inn is a 6-minute walk from Henderson Beach Resort.
And around 14-18 minutes walk to the sandy shores of Crystal Sands Beach, a public beach with white sand and calm waters.
- Destin Commons is a 5-minute drive, which is an open-air shopping mall in Destin, Florida. Its numerous retail stores, local boutiques, cinemas, and restaurants serve as a one-stop shop for fashion, dining, and family fun.
Destin Commons also hosts regular events like farmers markets, live music, and seasonal festivals, making it a lively hub for both shopping and entertainment.
- Henderson Beach State Park is a 6-minute drive. It offers a pristine white-sand beach, nature trails, and scenic dune landscapes.
- HarborWalk Village is famous for its dolphin cruises. This 11-minute drive vibrant boardwalk area offers shopping, dining, water sports, and live entertainment.
- The Village of Baytowne Wharf is a 16-minute drive away from the hotel. It’s a charming waterfront town center with numerous shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
3. Hotel Effie Sandestin
Hotel Effie Sandestin is a 4-star luxury hotel nestled between the sugar-white beaches of Miramar Beach and Choctawhatchee Bay in Sandestin, Florida.
The hotel features 250 luxurious rooms and suites with plush bedding, free WiFi, flat screen TVs, fridges, and tea/coffee makers. Some rooms have in-room dining, spacious balconies and stunning ocean or bay views. Suites feature separate living rooms and a kitchen.
Hotel Effie Sandestin offers a private beach area, a spa, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, a business center, a rooftop pool and lounge, and a restaurant. 
The hotel offers free parking, complimentary access to multiple dining options, championship golf courses, resort pools, tennis courts, miles of jogging trails, and other Sandestin activities. Guests can play tennis and golf, enjoy biking, beach lounging, and other activities.
Price: $473/night. Book Now!
4. Henderson Beach Resort
The Henderson Beach Resort & Spa is a 4-star luxury beachfront resort hotel located in Destin, Florida, near the Henderson Beach State Park. It’s known for its stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Henderson Beach Resort has a signature on site restaurant plus 4 others, a poolside bar, a grab-and-go market. The beach resort features 170 guest rooms with free WiFi, decorated in a relaxed, coastal style. Suites have balconies or patios with ocean views.
Henderson Beach Resort’s great location gives its guests private beach access, directly to the private stretch of Henderson Beach, which is known for its soft sand and calm waters.
Henderson Beach Resort has a conference center, sauna, steam room, relaxation lounge, hot tub, outdoor pool, an adults-only pool, a lazy river, splash pad, and a rejuvenating spa that offers massage treatments, facials, and body wraps.
The resort offers various activities for guests, such as golf, tennis, bike rentals, fishing, and other water activities. It’s 3-7 minutes drive from the Indian Bayou Golf Club and Big Kahuna’s Water Park, and a 6-minute drive from Holiday Isle.
Price: $473 per night. Book Now!
5. Silver Shells Beach Resort & Spa
The Silver Shells Beach Resort & Spa is a family-friendly 3.5-star condominium resort located at 15000 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL. It sits on a 31-acre pristine property bordering Henderson Beach State Park, offering stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
The condo resort consists of 5 condominium towers named after the Virgin Islands (St. Croix, St. John, St. Thomas, St. Maarten, and St. Barth), offering spacious condos with two, three, and four-bedroom layouts.
Each condo features private balconies with breathtaking ocean views, fully equipped kitchens, living rooms with flat screens, free WiFi, DVD players and movie rentals, large baths with whirlpool tubs, washers, and dryers.
It features a lagoon pool, heated pools, a children’s splash pad, a spa, and 2 restaurants. The resort is about a 6-minute (3.1 mi) drive from the Destin Harbor and a 26-minute drive from the Fort Walton Beach Airport.
Pricing: $278/night.
6. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Miramar Beach-Destin
Situated just off US-98, the hotel is within walking distance of Miramar Regional Public Beach. It’s a 10-12 minute walk from Miramar Beach and a short drive from Silver Sands Premium Outlets and Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Miramar Beach-Destin is a 3-star, pet-friendly, non-smoking property. Each guest room comes with an HDTV, mini ref, microwave, coffee maker, hair dryer, and a work desk with free WiFi. Suites have sofa beds. It also offers free breakfast and free parking.
The hotel is a 12-minute drive from Fort Walton Beach Park. La Quinta Inn features a seasonal outdoor pool, a shared lounge, a business center, a convenience store, a bar, and laundry facilities.
Pricing: $90/night. Book Now!
7. Pelican Beach Resort
Set on a prime location on the Emerald Coast, Pelican Beach Resort is a 3-star beach resort situated at 1002 US-98 in Destin, Florida. It offers a quieter stay in Destin, especially for those looking to enjoy the majestic sun, fine white sand, and attractions in the area.
Pelican Beach Resort caters to both families and couples. It features 340 spacious condo units, ranging from one-bedroom to four-bedroom, all with private balconies and many offering stunning ocean views.
Amenities include a spa, a fitness center, a sauna, a game room, and three sparkling pools, including a beachfront pool with a tiki bar, a cafe, an indoor pool, an outdoor pool, and a kiddie pool.
The average price varies depending on the season, unit size, type of services you avail, and length of stay.
Pelican Beach Resort has its own private beach, which is directly in front of the resort and steps away from the accommodation.
7.7 miles away or a 12-minute drive from the resort is Miramar Beach, which offers a laid-back atmosphere and beautiful shoreline, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the coastal scenery.
Price: $48.91/night. Book Now!
8. Courtyard by Marriott Sandestin at Grand Boulevard
The Courtyard is a mid-range (3-star) hotel located in Miramar Beach, Florida, within the sprawling Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort.
To clarify, the Courtyard by Marriott Sandestin at Grand Boulevard and the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort are not sister companies. But they’re located close to each other and share some common attractions and amenities, making them popular choices for travelers wanting to stay in Destin.
The Courtyard by Marriott Sandestin offers various guest rooms and suites, some have balconies with pool views. All rooms are equipped with comfortable bedding, flat-screen TVs, minifridges, microwaves, and coffee makers.
The hotel features an outdoor pool with a whirlpool, a spa, an on-site bowling alley, a business center, an on-site restaurant, and a guest laundry facility. It also provides family-friendly amenities like cribs, high chairs, and children’s menus.
Because of its great location within Grand Boulevard, guests have direct access to numerous shops, restaurants, and entertainment options right outside the hotel door.
Price: Standard room price starts from $139/night. Book Now!
9. Embassy Suites by Hilton Destin Miramar Beach
The Embassy Suites by Hilton Destin Miramar Beach is a 3-star beachfront hotel located in Destin, Florida. It features 155 spacious suites with private balconies, most of which have ocean views. Each comes with a refrigerator, TV with free WiFi, coffee maker, microwave,
The hotel is situated across the street from the beach and provides a pool, hot tub, free breakfast, free parking, private beach access, and evening reception with free drinks and snacks.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Destin Miramar Beach is an eco-friendly, pet-friendly, and energy-efficient hotel. It features a fitness center, a business center, and meeting rooms. It’s located near various attractions, including the Silver Sands Premium Outlets, the Track, and Big Kahuna’s Water Park.
Price: $133/night. Book Now!
10. Ariel Dunes I (ADI) at Seascape Resort
Ariel Dunes in Destin is actually a complex of two high-rise condo buildings – Ariel Dunes I and II. They’re located within the Seascape Resort on Miramar Beach. The condos are a popular choice for vacationers seeking luxurious beachfront accommodations with stunning views and convenient access to resort amenities.
ADI is a 220-unit condominium complex. One of the tallest buildings in the area, the condo resort offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, the white sand beaches, and the wide golf course at Seascape.
The luxury condos range from one to three-bedroom units, with fully equipped kitchens, private balconies, and plenty of living space.
Guests at the condo resort have access to various amenities – heated lagoon pools, zero-entry pools, and kiddie pools. Some pools have poolside bars and grills. Several hot tubs are scattered throughout the resort.
Fitness centers, tennis courts, a game room, a spa, and on-site restaurants that offer various cuisines, including beachfront dining.
The condo resort is located right on the beach, just steps from the sand and the water. And close to numerous attractions including 2 championship golf courses, the Seascape Towne Centre, shops, restaurants, and other attractions in the area.
Price: $291.54/unit. Book Now!
11. Tru by Hilton Destin
Tru By Hilton Destin is located at 150 Henderson Beach Rd, Destin, FL. It’s less than 5 minutes drive from Destin Beach, putting you close to the action but with a slightly quieter atmosphere. It’s one of Destin’s modern yet cheap hotels – offers good value for money for you to enjoy your stay in Destin.
Tru By Hilton Destin is a 2-star, pet-friendly hotel that features non-smoking rooms with private bathrooms, safe, free WiFi, TV, microwave, and fridge; a fitness center; an indoor pool; a business center; a game zone, and a lobby with work space. It offers a hot and free breakfast buffet, free parking, baggage storage, and a 24-hour front desk.
Tru By Hilton Destin is situated in central Destin, near popular attractions in Destin including Fat Daddy’s Arcade; Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park and its lazy river. Destin Harbor Boardwalk is a few minutes’ drive. The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is about a 16-minute drive away.
Price: $89/night. Book Now!
12. Comfort Inn Miramar Beach-Destin
The Comfort Inn Miramar Beach-Destin is a 2-star hotel located at 12282 Emerald Coast Parkway West in Miramar Beach, Florida.
The hotel offers a convenient location for beachgoers and outdoor activities. Its air-conditioned rooms are equipped with private bathrooms. Some rooms have kitchenettes. No pool but guests can enjoy amenities such as free parking, free WiFi, and a continental breakfast served daily.
The property provides facilities for disabled guests and is non-smoking throughout. It’s located within walking distance of Miramar Beach (30-40 minutes walk). Fort Walton Beach Park is a 22-minute drive.
Price: Standard room price starts from $78/per night. Book Now!
When to visit Destin?
Here are some of the local seasonal highlights in Destin this year that you might want to tailor your itinerary to.
- The Sandestin Gumbo Festival (Feb 23-24, 2024) is an annual event held in Baytowne Wharf. It celebrates the local culinary scene with gumbo tasting, live music, and arts and crafts vendors.
- Spring break (March to April). Destin comes alive with college students enjoying the warm weather and beach parties. If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere, this is the time to visit.
- Destin Charity Wine Auction (April 26-28) is an annual event in South Walton that raises money for local charities with a silent auction, live music, and fine dining.
- Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic (June 19-23, 2024) is a world-renowned fishing tournament in Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. It draws tourists and anglers worldwide. Spectators can watch the weigh-ins and enjoy live music and food festivals.
- The beach season (June-August) is the peak season in Destin. The weather is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
- Destin Seafood Festival (Sept 27-29, 2024) along Destin Harbor. It celebrates the bounty of the sea with fresh seafood dishes, live music, and cooking demonstrations.
Related blog: Discover the Best Restaurants in Destin for a Memorable Dining Experience
- Fall fishing season (Sept-Oct). The cooler weather brings in the big fish, making it a great time for saltwater fishing.
- The Destin Fishing Rodeo (Oct 1-31, yearly) is a saltwater fishing tournament held in Destin Harbor Boardwalk. The rodeo is open to anglers from across the globe, of all ages and skill levels. There are divisions for both inshore and offshore fishing, like kayak fishing, and paddleboard fishing.
- The off-season in Destin (November to February) offers a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere, with fewer crowds and lower prices.
What you shouldn’t do when in Destin
- Disregarding beach regulations. Beaches have rules and regulations, including some restrictions on activities or protected areas. It helps maintain the natural beauty of the coastal environment.
- Neglecting sun safety. Don’t underestimate the Florida sun. Wearing sunscreen, and protective clothing, and staying hydrated will prevent sunburn and dehydration.
- Littering on the beach. Avoid littering on beaches, and dispose of trash properly to contribute to the conservation of Destin’s pristine shores.
- Ignoring wildlife cautions. Avoid disturbing nesting areas and follow guidelines to protect sea turtles and other species that inhabit the coastal regions.
- Skipping water safety measures. Follow lifeguard instructions, and be cautious of strong currents to ensure a safe beach experience.
- Neglecting weather warnings, especially during hurricane season, can lead to safety issues. Stay updated on local forecasts.
- Being unprepared for the crowds. Destin can attract a significant number of visitors, so be prepared for busy areas and plan accordingly.
Conclusion:
This article has unveiled 12 of the best places you can stay in this coastal haven. Destin hotels cater to different traveler preferences. And are focused on providing comfort and style.
Destin’s hotels offer a lot of options. As you explore your choices among these establishments, consider nearby attractions and activities that can further enhance your stay in Destin.
Destin experiences a peak season in the summer, with higher prices on accommodation and activities. Not to mention the larger crowds. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for more moderate weather and smaller crowds.
FAQs:
Is Panama City close to Destin?
Destin and Panama City aren’t right next to each other. But they’re within a day trip’s distance (an hour and 11 minutes drive) via US-98. This makes it easy to visit both cities during your vacation.
I’m visiting Destin and I’d like to check out the Destin History and Fishing Museum. Where should I stay?
Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village. This refined 4-star hotel is located right on the harbor, just steps from the Destin History and Fishing Museum. It offers stunning views of the Emerald Coast, spacious condos with balconies, and a variety of amenities, including multiple pools, a spa, a fitness center, and several restaurants.
Why book your Destin, FL hotel with Agoda.com?
Agoda features not only hotels but also vacation rentals, hostels, and guesthouses. This allows you to find the perfect match for your needs and budget – giving you more flexibility to personalize your stay in Destin. You get to save some from discounts and occasional flash sales.
Where to indulge in the best seafood when in Destin?
Destin is famous for its fresh seafood. It’s easy to find excellent seafood dishes in its local restaurants. Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant at 9 Calhoun Ave, Destin, FL. is a family-owned chain that serves Gulf-to-table seafood dishes like crab cakes, gumbo, and fresh catches of the day.
What makes Destin a popular beach getaway?
Destin’s charm boils down to a potent mix of…
- The powdery white sand and gentle emerald waters of its beautiful beaches is a haven for a lot of water sports activities like snorkeling, diving, dolphin watching, fishing, kayaking, etc., with the Gulf of Mexico as your playground.
- The world’s luckiest fishing village lives up to its name. Destin lures avid anglers with deep-sea adventures and abundant marine life.
- It’s a family fun zone that keeps kids entertained, leaving their parents relaxed – with its water and amusement parks, game arcades, museums, dolphin encounters, casual seafood shacks, vibrant shopping districts, and lively nightlife.
