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If you’re heading for the Emerald Coast this holiday season be sure to check out our beautiful beach rentals in Destin, FL. We have a wide range of rental properties sure to appeal to everyone in your group including rentals at these Destin condos and resorts:

Stay at one of our daily or weekly* Emerald Coast vacation rentals in or around Destin FL and get a “Freebies Card”. With this card, you can enjoy discounts on exciting family activities such as:

 

* Unfortunately, we are unable to extend these benefits to monthly rentals. They are available only to our guests renting by the day or week at these resorts and condos: Destin on the Gulf, Destin Towers, Dolphin Point, Grandview, Gulfview, Jade East, Mainsail, Sandpiper Cove, Seascape, Shoreline Towers, Silver
Shells, Southbay by the Gulf, The Aegean, The Empress, The Enclave

Destin has always been known as one of the finest fishing locations in the world so it is no surprise we are referred to as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.” With the largest fishing fleet in the State of Florida, we offer a wide variety of fishing from deep sea fishing to bay fishing.

There are unlimited ways to fish in the Destin Area. Deep sea fishing, bay fishing and surf fishing are all popular pastimes, with Destin sporting the largest fishing fleet in the State of Florida. There are over 100 charter boats to choose from ranging in size from 6 passenger capacity to over 100. A huge variety of fish including red snapper, grouper, triggerfish, scamp, amberjack, cobia, blackfin tuna, king mackerel and more are found in the area. The highlight of the fishing community is the annual Destin Fishing Rodeo that runs from October 1 through October 31 each year. For 51 years fishermen from all walks of life compete in over 30 different categories for more than $100,000 in prizes. All saltwater game is eligible so everyone has an equal chance to win. Destin also features other fishing tournaments including the Cobia Tournament in March and April, and the annual Destin / Ft. Walton Beach Sportfish Tournament.

Fishing Guide

Flounder
Best Location: Gulf – Bay
Average Size: 3/4 – 6 lbs.
Best Season: All Year
Best Baits: Cut Bait – Shrimp Blue Marlin

Best Location: Gulf
Average Size: 45- 550 lbs.
Best Season: April – Dec
Best Baits: Bonito, Strip, Skipjack, Mullet, Balao, Live Bait Tarpon

Best Location: Gulf – Bay
Average Size: 3 – 90 lbs.
Best Season: April – Nov
Best Baits: Mullet, Crabs Black & Red Grouper

Best Location: Gulf
Average Size: 1 – 60 lbs.
Best Season: All Year
Best Baits: Cut Bait – Live Bait Amberjack

Best Location: Gulf
Average Size: 1 – 65 lbs.
Best Season: All Year
Best Baits: Cigar Fish, Mullet, Spoon, Live Bait Whiting

Best Location: Gulf
Average Size: 3/4 – 5 lbs.
Best Season: Mar – Oct
Best Baits: Shrimp, Cut Bait, Sandflea Red Snapper

Best Location: Gulf
Average Size: 1 – 40 lbs.
Best Season: All Year
Best Baits: Cut Bait – Live Bait Little Tuna

Best Location: Gulf
Average Size: 3 – 21 lbs.
Best Season: All Year
Best Baits: Duster, Spoons, Bonito, Strip Sheepshead

Best Location: Bay
Average Size: 1 – 10 lbs.
Best Season: All Year
Best Baits: Sandflea, Crab, Shrimp Warsaw – Grouper

Best Location: Gulf
Average Size: 5 – 350 Lbs.
Best Season: All Year
Best Baits: Cut Bait – Live Bait Scamp

Best Location: Gulf
Average Size: 1/2 – 20 lbs.
Best Season: All Year
Best Baits: Cut & Live Bait Croaker

Best Location: Bay
Average Size: 1/2 – 4 lbs.
Best Season: All Year
Best Baits: Shrimp, Cut Bait Spanish Mackerel

Best Location: Gulf – Bay
Average Size: 1 – 5 lbs.
Best Season: April – Nov
Best Baits: Jigs, Spoons Cobia

Best Location: Gulf
Average Size: 10 – 92 lbs.
Best Season: Mar – May
Best Baits: Jigs, Crabs, Plugs, Live Bait Speckled Trout

Best Location: Bay
Average Size: 1/2 – 8 lbs.
Best Season: All Year
Best Baits: Shrimp, Jigs, Plugs King Mackerel

Best Location: Gulf
Average Size: 3 -50 lbs.
Best Season: April – Nov
Best Baits: Jigs, Spoons, Cigar Fish Dolphin

Best Location: Gulf
Average Size: 1/2 – 55 lbs.
Best Season: May – Oct
Best Baits: Jigs Spoons, Bonito Strip, Mullet, Cigar Fish, Balao White Trout

Best Location: Bay
Average Size: 1/2 – 4 lbs.
Best Season: All Year
Best Baits: Shrimp, Cut Bait Wahoo

Best Location: Gulf
Average Size: 8 – 75 lbs.
Best Season: April – Nov
Best Baits: Jigs, Strips, Mullet, Balao Cigar Fish Pompano

Best Location: Gulf
Average Size: 1/2 – 8 lbs.
Best Season: Mar – Nov
Best Baits: Jigs, Sandflea Bluefish

Best Location: Gulf – Bay
Average Size: 1/2 – 6 lbs.
Best Season: April – Nov
Best Baits: Small Duster, Spoons Sailfish

Best Location: Gulf
Average Size: 5- 60 lbs. Best Season: April – nov
Best Baits: Bonito, Strip, Skipjack, Cigar Fish, Mullet, Balao, Live Bait Triggerfish

Best Location: Gulf
Average Size: 1 – 12 lbs.
Best Season: All Year
Best Baits: Cut Bait Sail Cat

Best Location: Gulf – Bay
Average Size: 1/2 – 20 lbs.
Best Season: All Year
Best Baits: Cut Bait White Marlin

Best Location: Gulf
Average Size: 20 – 90 lbs.
Best Season: May – Dec
Best Baits: Bonito, Strip, Cigar Fish, Mullet, Balao, Live Bait Blackfin Tuna

Best Location: Gulf
Average Size: 4 – 25 lbs.
Best Season: All Year
Best Baits: Jigs, Spoons, Mullet, Balao

Vision  Airlines has announced a major expansion of air service to  the Destin area of Northwest Florida. They’re adding low-fare direct flights to and from 17 new markets  around the South at  fares starting at $79 one-way.

Starting March 25 and April 1, Vision will offer daily service to the  Northwest Florida Regional Airport (VPS) in Fort Walton, a  20-minute drive from Destin.

The airline is celebrating the announcement with a great deal:  special $49 one-way fares (you must book between Jan.  18-23, 2011). View Vision’s Special page for more information.

For more information about Vision Airlines or to book a flight visit http://www.visionairlines.com or call  1-877-FLY-A-JET.

Walk along our 24 miles of powder-soft beaches and you’ll quickly forget the cares of your everyday world. Our soft, white sand is sculpted from Appalachian quartz so pure, that walking through our Gulf water is like having an aquarium at your feet.

You’ll delight in our spectacular beaches (voted “safest in the country” and among the top ten best in the country) and the expansive waters of Choctawahatchee Bay. Discover miles and miles of pure playground for shell-seeking, sun bronzing, sand castle building, soul searching, and surrendering to sun-drenched solitude.

» Protect Sand Dunes, Please: Do not walk or play on the dunes, at any time. Never walk on beach vegetation, always use the designated beach access. Dunes are built slowly over hundreds of years, but are very fragile. They are our primary defense against hurricane damage, and are a shelter for beach wildlife.

» Protect Sea Turtles: Sea Turtles are an endangered species. They lay their eggs along the Beaches of South Walton. Avoid the use of flashlights near nests in the evening, do not leave beach chairs and other items on the beach overnight (they block the turtles’ path), and keep your distance if you see turtles or eggs. Sea turtles are protected by federal and state law and substantial fines and federal imprisonment may result from killing, harming, or even interfering with a sea turtle.

» Dogs: For safety reasons dogs are not allowed on the beaches in Okaloosa County. This policy is mandated by County Ordinance No. 77-19, Section 6, restricting dogs in public parks, beaches, school grounds, restaurants and food stores (except seeing eye & hearing ear dogs).

» Littering: No littering on the beach and no glass containers on the beach. Trash receptacles are provided at all public beach access points.

» Alcohol: Alcohol is allowed on the beach except in the state parks. Again, no glass. Underage drinking is not permitted.

» Vehicles: Here in the Destin/Fort Walton Beach area we promote optimal safety measures for our beaches. Vehicles are not permitted on the beach, County Ordinance No. 80-12, which restricts motor vehicles operating in areas not posted for vehicular traffic, in, on or over any public land, right of way, or recreational areas (public beaches included).

» Bonfires: Fires are illegal on the beach between the water’s edge and mean high water mark or vegetation line, whichever is further. Okaloosa County Ordinance 79-41. Sand Removal: It is unlawful to remove sand from the beach.

» Camping: Overnight camping is prohibited. Fishing from the Shoreline – A saltwater fishing license is required by all anglers who fish in saltwater. This includes each person fishing from a pleasure craft, on a sandbar or any other land mass accessible by boat or by swimming through water deeper than four feet. You should contact the Okaloosa County Tax Collector’s office at 850-651-7300 or you may purchase a license online.

Golf courses near Destin FL Sandestin Resort

The Links an 18 hole creation

The Raven a Robert Trent Jones Jr. design offering 18 holes

Burnt Pine an 18 hole course

Tee Times 850-267-8211  FREE 850-267-8211

Directions: Located in Sandestin Resort, 3 miles east of the Mid-bay bridge on Hwy 98

 
Indian Bayou

Built in 1978, Indian Bayou is a 27 hole course designed by Earl Stone.

Tee Times 850-837-6191 FREE 850-837-6191

Directions: From HWY 98 in Destin, take Airport Road N approx. 1/4 mile, entrance is on right.
 

Santa Rosa Beach County Club

In a beautiful setting, Santa Rose Beach Country Club offers 18 holes of golf.

Tee Times 850-267-2229 FREE 850-267-2229

Directions: Located on Hwy 30-A approx. 1 mile W of Hwy 98 in South Walton.
 
Kelly Plantation Golf Club

Kelly Plantation offers a Fred Couples signature 18 hole course.

Tee Times 850-650-7600  FREE 850-650-7600

Directions: Located directly on Hwy 98 1 mile west of the Mid-bay bridge.
 
Golf Garden

A par 3 course

Tee Times 850-837-7422  FREE 850-837-7422

Directions: Located directly on Hwy 98 2 miles east of the Mid-bay bridge.
 
Regatta Bay

Designed by Robert C.Walker, Regatta Bay boasts 18 holes of golf.

Tee Times 850-337-8080 FREE 850-337-8080

Directions: Located directly on Hwy 98 1/4 mile east of the Mid-bay bridge.
 
Emerald Bay

Designed by Bob Cupp, Emerald Bay boasts 18 holes of golf.

Tee Times 850-837-5197 FREE 850-837-5197

Directions: Located directly on Hwy 98 1 1/2 miles east of the Mid-bay bridge.
 
Seascape

An 18 hole John Lee creation.

Tee Times 850-654-7888 FREE 850-654-7888

Directions: Located directly on Hwy 98 4 miles east of the Mid-bay bridge.
 
Windswept Dunes Golf Course

A Golf Experience that Transcends the Ordinary

11 Clubhouse Dr. Freeport Fl 32439

Highway 20, 5.5 miles East of US 331 Junction

Tee Times 850-835-1847 FREE 850-835-1847

www.windsweptdunes.com

There are lots of ways to have fun away from the beach in Destin FL! You can enjoy exciting family activities compliments of Emerald Coast Vacation Rentals.

Current amenities may include free tickets or discounts on golf, mini golf, fishing trips, restaurants, boat trips, movies and local attractions.

Considering a Destin vacation rental but wondering if there’s anything going on now that summer season is officially over? Here’s the great news – September is the perfect time of year for a vacation to Destin or Florida’s Emerald Coast! You’ll enjoy blue skies and lots of sunshine without the soaring temperatures, plus the beaches are uncrowded and there are actually more fun Destin events and festivals happening in the fall than at any other time!

This September 17th – 19th, 2010, the 32nd Annual Destin Seafood Festival will take place at Destin Harbor at the Destin Fishing Fleet Marina, the City of Destin Royal Melvin Heritage Park, and Fisherman’s Wharf! This exciting 3 day event boasts fresh local seafood from some of the area’s best restaurants, live music and entertainment, arts & crafts, children’s activities, and much more. Headline acts are Starship starring Mickey Thomas on Friday September 17th and LOVERBOY on Saturday, September 18th.

Destin beaches are oil-free and more beautiful than ever, and there’s never been a better time to experience all that this incredible area has to offer. So choose from one of our great Destin condo or vacation rentals , pack your bags, and let’s celebrate Destin and Florida’s Gulf Coast!

With all the media coverage and conflicting news reports surrounding the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, it’s understandable to be concerned about your Destin vacation or Destin condo rental. Vacationers are left confused about whether the potential for oil will jeopardize this year’s hard-earned family vacation, and whether the condition of the spectacular white beaches will be affected. While predictions are optimistic and our beautiful beaches remain clean and open for business, here’s a reminder that even away from the beaches, Destin and the surrounding area is a great choice for a fun getaway or a relaxing break in our sun-drenched paradise. Here’s some reasons to come on down anyway.

1. Pools, Pools, and More Pools! If it’s hours of lazing by the water with a cool drink and a suntan you’re after, there’s no better place. Destin hotels and condos come complete with some of the best pools in the state. Choose from large pools with waterslides, lazy river and poolside grill/bar to quiet, boutique pools where all you can hear are the palms swaying in the breeze.

2. All our Amazing Attractions. Who needs the beach? Destin has always offered lots of fun activities and things to do, but now we have more attractions than ever! The list includes Big Kahuna’s Water Park, The Track Family Recreation Center, a multitude of water sports and a ton of others for all ages.

3. Big Kahuna’s Water Park. There’s no better way to beat the Florida heat and get your splash fix than to enjoy the multitude of rides and lazy river at Big Kahuna’s. Located in the center of Destin, Big Kahuna’s is a tropically-themed water park with something for everyone, and is one of northwest Florida’s top attractions.

4. Legendary Destin Dining. Our famous, fresh seafood is all still readily available, and in addition we now have a huge variety of eclectic and international dining options to choose from! Dining on the water is a vacation in itself, so kick back for a few hours and relax with some great food, gorgeous water views and warm Gulf breezes.

5. Come to Shop! Shopping is always a fun part of being on vacation, and there are some great bargains to be had! Destin Commons, Silver Sands Factory Stores, Grand Boulevard, HarborWalk Village and more boast everything from department stores to quirky galleries and boutiques. Beach gear, trendy apparel and accessories, gifts and furnishings – Destin truly is a shopper’s paradise!

6. True Southern Hospitality. It’s no exaggeration – the southern charm and gracious hospitality of the locals is reason enough to visit Destin. Forget for a minute that these are the “World’s Most Beautiful Beaches.” Destin and the surrounding area is also located in deep south USA, and everything from the regional cuisine to the laid-back atmosphere reflects this fact. Visit historical landmarks, stroll an antebellum mansion, or enjoy live blues music. Embrace the area’s southern roots and see a whole different side to your Destin vacation!

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