A local's guide to Destin Florida: Destin

Showing posts with label Destin. Show all posts

Although talking about leaving Okaloosa County may be just talk, it involves real issues. The Destin

City Council has become frustrated by providing most of the revenue for Okaloosa County every year through their tourist development, property sources, and numerous additional means. They are not seeing enough benefits for their efforts. One option being considered is annexing Destin into Walton County, and creating a tourist development department for the city. This created anger because the county had not budgeted for the efforts of the law enforcement provided by the Sheriff’s office for spring break. The country officials have plans to help pay for the cost.

The city of Destin was incorporated in 1984, encompassed 8.2 square miles, and provided approximately $59.5 million in taxes to Okaloosa County. An additional $11 million was provided by the taxpayers living on the unincorporated peninsula. If Walton County annexes Destin, the unincorporated areas will remain a part of Okaloosa County. Another issue is the $12 million generated by the hotels, condos, and properties for rent, the resorts in Destin, and the unincorporated areas.

Most options are unlikely, but the idea of Destin as a community stretching from the Bay County line, to the Marler Bridge has become an intriguing possibility. Walton County, and Destin have shared a border since the incorporation occurring in 1984. Until 1915, the area that is currently Destin, was a part of Walton County. The county was created more than a century ago by merging twelve miles of eastern Santa Rosa County, with twelve miles of western Walton County.

Another possibility is establishing a separate county for Destin. Unfortunately, history dictates this would-be a near impossible battle since it must be authorized by the Florida Legislature. This has not been accomplished since 1925, when Gilchrist City split from Alachua County. Five attempts have been made since then for the establishment of four new counties from 1917, until 2000. The last two attempts were made in 1999, and 2000, and neither effort was successful. The efforts were made in 1917 in Bloxham, and again in 1965 in Kennedy, and were also unsuccessful.

A new coastal city would be an incredible economic achievement. Destin is currently providing 27 percent of the taxes received by Okaloosa County, and South Walton contributes roughly ninety percent of the ad valorem taxes currently being collected in Walton county. The ad valorem tax roll receives 88 percent of their taxes from South Walton. This comes to $145,789,989.16, out of the total of all taxes collected in the amount of $165,493,361.43. The bed tax revenues are all collected in South Walton, and totaled $21,758,228 in 2016.

There are problems regarding incorporation in Destin that must be dealt with. The Destin City Council has set the date for the next meeting. The members of the city council intend to receive a report prior to the meeting. This is regarding the possibilities of Destin leaving the tourist development department for Okaloosa County, or Destin annexing into Walton County, and starting their own tourist development department.

According to a knowledgeable regional planner, the federal government could receive the final report regarding the restoration of passenger rail service to areas in the Gulf Coast as early as the end of this year.

Since 2005, Amtrak has suspended its Sunset Crescent route, which ran from New Orleans to Jacksonville. Portions of the infrastructure on this route were damaged when Hurricane Katrina came ashore the Gulf Coast. By 2006, the rail lines destroyed by the storm were rebuilt, but passenger rail service in this area has yet to be restarted. Even before the damage occurred, this portion of the line had a negative reputation due to its routinely late train service.

Those working toward restored service have the goal of daily train transport between New Orleans and Jacksonville. This means that both Orlando and South Florida would have a commuter rail connection from New Orleans.

If service is restored, the town of Crestview, FL, would be one of the stops. Before Hurricane Katrina, the town's small railroad depot provided service. Last year, the City Council of Crestview voted in favor of bringing back rail service, according to David Cadle, Regional Council Planning member and Crestview mayor.

Although service restoration is not yet certain, Crestview's Community Redevelopment Agency is already planning for the future. The town plans to build a new, ADA-compliant train depot to better serve travelers and comply with federal regulations. Cadle has been Crestview's mayor since 2007, but he isn't sure if the previous rail service had a major economic impact on his town and surrounding areas. According to Cadle, the final report submitted to federal officials will include the estimated passenger turnout as well as the costs of restoring and upgrading rail service to Florida's Panhandle.

According to Mr. Cadle, he has spoken with the President of the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Ted Corcoran, with the idea of having trolleys or other unique forms of transportation bring passengers from the depot to area attractions and hotels.

On Monday, the Destin City Council also voted to support the rail service. Vikki Garrett from Pensacola, a public transportation planner with the West Florida Regional Planning Council, also shared her thoughts before the vote.

Ms. Garrett encouraged the council and city residents to contact U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson of Florida with their message of support. Sen. Nelson is currently the ranking member of the Senate committee charged with reviewing the final report, most likely toward the end of the year.

Alabama and Mississippi also join Florida and Louisiana in supporting the reestablishment of rail service. According to Garrett, the planning council works closely with CSX Transportation and the Southern Rail Commission.

Regional Planning Council Member and Destin City Councilman Jim Foreman reminded attendees that supporting the rail system would also help reduce traffic on U.S. Highway 98. In addition, Mr. Foreman noted it would also provide a boost to the area's economy.
Restoring the rail service also would help boost the area’s economy, he said.

The Okaloosa County Commission has not passed any formal resolutions regarding rail service. However, the Fort Walton Beach City Council approved a supportive resolution in 2009.

Visiting Destin, Florida, provides an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful sugar-white sand beaches and emerald colored waters. The area is wonderful for families and couples, making it an ideal destination for anyone considering a visit to Florida. When looking for high quality lodging that provides everything needed to have a wonderful getaway, travelers should consider the Henderson. This recently opened Salamander Beach & Spa Resort is currently welcoming visitors to their coastal-inspired, luxurious accommodations. When guests enter the resort, they're greeted with the feeling of being in a large and luxurious living room, rather than a hotel lobby.

The Henderson is located along one of the most popular beaches in America. The resort sits adjacent to a 208 acre state park that is environmentally protected. This park provides beautiful views of the natural Florida landscape, along with opportunity to see some of the native wildlife. The resort was designed in the traditional architecture style that is reminiscent of a classic manor home with artwork from local and regional artists. The result is a welcoming feel that provides guests with all the comforts of home, plus some extra luxuries to make the vacation relaxing.

This spacious resort has 170 guest rooms with various layouts designed to suit the different needs of guests. There are suites available for those needing extra space. Each room or suite is over-sized to ensure that guests feel comfortable during their stay. The Henderson Resort also has many amenities designed to offer plenty to do without leaving the resort grounds. There is a nature-inspired spa that has 11 different treatment rooms. The Salamander Spa has a ladies steam room, a sauna, and a whirlpool. The spa also offers treatments that contain locally derived products from indigenous plants and the local waters. Adults can also enjoy the octagonal bar with amazing views of the Gulf, along with the fitness room, and the adult-zone at the pool area.

The Henderson also provides plenty of entertainment for children. The family-oriented pool has a lazy river and is spacious enough for everyone to enjoy. Sprinkles, the on-sight, old-fashioned ice cream shop has everything from candy to delicious frozen desserts for an after dinner treat. The resort's kid's club, called Poppy's, provides a variety of activities for children of various ages. Of course, one can't forget the beach, which provides endless opportunities for water sports and outdoor play. There are several on-site dining options, including Primrose restaurant which offers Gulf-to-table cuisine featuring locally caught seafood. The poolside grill has chilled drinks and a relaxed dining atmosphere.

This resort features over 30,000 square feet of space that can be used for many different indoor and outdoor activities. There is a large Crystal ballroom, as well as a junior ballroom. The 5th floor has a beautiful terrace that provides guests with amazing views of the landscape and the Gulf of Mexico. The Henderson, one of Salamander Beach & Spa's newest resorts, provides guests with everything they need to have a wonderful vacation in Destin.

The city of Destin, Florida, has entered the next stage of an exciting renovation project to restore one of its most popular attractions. Officials from the city and with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection held a public meeting Tuesday night to confer on plans for the restoration of Destin’s historic Norriego Point tourist area.

“I’m delighted with the plans,” Destin Mayor, Scott Fischer, was quoted as saying. “It looks like they are trying to leave this area in as much of a natural state as the can. This is the last virgin land, the most decent sized piece of land that reminds you of what Destin was like 40 years ago.”

The much-loved area of Destin’s tourist hub has begun to see signs of deterioration in recent years, prompting officials to take action. The new plan centers around erosion control and updated designs for walking and light recreation areas. The design also includes a “sand-tight” extension wall that will restore 1,150 feet of shore, add 5.4 additional square acres of space, and erosion-resistant technology that will preserve the Point for future generations, a step that will save the city from frequent dredging in the future.

Boats will still be allowed along the beach’s harbor side, but only in designated areas on the East Pass side. East Pass will also see other updates as well, including swimming embankments, additional parking and bicycle racks, dune bridges, and boardwalks. ADA-approved sun shelters and restrooms will ensure accessibility for visitors with disabilities.

Pearce Barrett, the FDEP’s project manager, is optimistic for the changes; “I think the restoration of the point will not only bring it back to like it was many years ago, but it will protect the interests of the harbor from erosion and it will provide access for everybody, including people with disabilities. There will be more shoreline, more areas for swimming and pathways for people to get around on it and enjoy it more.”

Funding for the project comes from the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill Trust, a large trust fund established by BP for exactly the type of restoration project that Destin is undertaking. “The project had to have a restoration component. Florida received damages in areas of environmental recreation and restoration,” Barrett said. “The damage Florida incurred was the loss of recreational use. Therefore, not only would we be doing stabilization, but we also … would then increase access for all people and all abilities.”

The activities are plenty at all times in Destin, making it when of the coolest places regardless of the season. When you think summer is about over, there’s several festivals, including the Destin Seafood Festivals along with the October long Destin Fishing Rodeo where you can find the finest seafood edible gifts. Along with those great festivals, you can also enjoy the annual Emerald Coast Poker Run which happens at the end of Boat Week. The boat with the best poker hand wins.
Check out the Destin Area Events

Summer may be over for many, but the weather here in the panhandle of Florida is still very pleasant. The crowds are gone, the beaches are less crowded and the available vacation deals are booming. No waiting lines at restaurants, traffic is light…but the most important part, the water is very calm and super clear at a pleasant 83 Degrees with very calm breezes.
I just received these great deals by email from a Best Beach Getaways, a place I have used to make condo reservations in previous summers. Take a look at the fall specials they have.

It's The Best Of Both Worlds.

Fancy Camps specializes in achieving the camping experience at any level. They have flexible accommodations that can be setup anywhere, any way, anytime! It’s great! They offer everything from an overnight camp at the beach (or even in your own backyard), to huge music festivals, and more. All setup and breakdown of your Fancy Camp is included.

Get the luxury of a plush king size bed, area rug, and cozy bedroom setup for roughing it in style! Choose your accommodation style, determine your campsite location, or let Fancy Camps help with that too! Then you are on your way to Camping in Style!

Need help selecting a campsite location? Fancy Camps has partnered with the Florida State Parks in the area to provide campsites and camping packages. Currently, they have availability at the Topsail State Park in Destin, Grayton Beach State Park, and St. Andrews State Park along the Gulf Coast. If you already have a campsite location, and just need to reserve a tent or tents by the night, you can do that too.

Here are some of the Fancy Camps available:

Luxury Tent Accommodations: The standard package includes tent, (2) twin or (1) queen bed with real mattress, linens, lighting, area rug(s), bedside tables, outdoor seating, outdoor string lighting, air conditioning. Complete setup and breakdown is included.

Traditional Camping: If you like camping, but hate the hassle of loading, unloading, setting up, you can try a traditional camping setup. They will have everything setup before you arrive and taken down before you go. This package includes a tent, cots, sleeping bags, a stove, and a lantern.

There are so many things to do in the Village of Baytowne Wharf - the sky's the limit! Located in the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, this 28 acre ultimate gathering place is a hot spot for locals and

visitors alike.

The Village is always alive with shopkeepers, window-shoppers, children eating ice cream cones, you can even enjoy a Starbucks out on the patio and take in all the sights. Most shops in the village are open day and night and there are tons of restaurants to choose from when you're ready for a bite to eat.

The late afternoon crowd heads to the waterfront to watch the most beautiful sunset over the Choctawatchee Bay. Destin is certainly known for their breathtaking sunsets, so be sure to catch at least one while you are in town. At night, the Village really comes to life with several night clubs and bars that entertain the late night crowd.

Knowing that the little ones quickly get bored with shopping and trolling the boardwalk, the Village has two kid-friendly areas for them to work off some energy:

The Baytowne Adventure Zone has activities for the adventurous for sure. The Baytowne Zipline gives an aerial view of the Village as you soar across the lagoon. Test your agility and balance on the Sky Trail Ropes Course. And if that's not enough, the Tower Climb and Eurobungy are sure to thrill you.

The Adventure Landing Playground is an enclosed play area where kids can swing, run and play.

If you are planning a family vacation to Destin, there are so many things to fill your time, it’s not all about the beach! Here are my Top 5 picks for family activities to do while you are in town:

Big Kahuna’s Water Park

www.bigkahunas.com

This oversized waterpark is fun for the whole family. There are more than 40 water attractions at Big Kahuna’s. When you need a break from the water park, play some mini golf on one of the three tropical courses, or take a spin on the wild and fast go kart tracks.

The Track

http://www.destintrack.com/

The Track in Destin has everything you needed for hours of family fun. From go karts to bumper rides to mini golf, there is plenty to entertain.

Beach Sand Sculpture Lessons

www.beachsandsculptures.com

The entire family can spend a couple of hours on the beach with professional sand castle sculptors. They provide all of the tools and equipment needed. What a great time for everyone!

Boogies Watersports

www.boogieswatersports.com

Boogies Watersports can handle all of your watersports needs with jet skis, pontoon boats, boogie boards. For the more adventurous, try a parasailing ride. For those that prefer a more relaxing excursion, take a glass bottom boat trip and see everything without getting wet.

Gulfarium

www.gulfarium.com

At Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, you can feed penguins, watch otters play, watch dolphin and sea lion shows. You can even snorkel with stingrays and sharks. The Gulfarium is also home to seals, turtles, alligators, harbor seals, and more. You can become a “VIP” Trainer working side by side with a Gulfarium team member to see what it takes to care and train for the marine animals.

Have a suggestion for things to do in Destin?

This list is my Top 5 for family things to do in Destin. Feel free to add your suggestion in the comments below.

If you are visiting Destin on a family vacation, you definitely need to make sure that when dining out with the crew, you have some family friendly establishments to choose from. There are several great dining establishments in Destin that are family friendly.

Here is a quick list of my Top 5:

Fuddpuckers

www.fuddpuckers.com/

Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill has two area locations. One in Destin, and one in Fort Walton Beach on Okaloosa Island, both locally owned and operated. Great food and a fun atmosphere. There motto is “Food, Fun, and Friends”.

Callahan’s

http://www.callahansdestin.com/

Callahan’s is located in Downtown Destin on the North side of Scenic Hwy 98. They have a huge selection of fresh made sandwiches, fresh grilled burgers and steaks, and a great kid’s menu. Voted Best of The Emerald Coast 2011 by Emerald Coast Magazine.

Gilligan’s Seafood

http://www.gilligansseafoodrestaurant.com/

After a long day in the sun, take the family to Gilligan’s. Located on Harbor Boulevard in Destin, Gilligan’s has one of the most beautiful views in Destin and a spacious covered deck and patio. They prepare fresh, local seafood, caught right in the Gulf.

Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

http://www.bubbagump.com/locations/destin/

This is a great family fun place! Food is great and environment and staff are very casual and fun. The interior is decked out with old license plates and memorabilia from the movie Forrest Gump. Run, Forrest, Run!

Do you have a restaurant to recommend?

This list is my current Top 5 family friendly dining establishments in Destin. Please feel free to comment with your own suggestions!

#Destin was ranked no. 3 on Trip Advisor's recent list of Top Destinations on the Rise for 2016.

Saturday January 30th

Dress-up as your favorite superhero or glittering princess! The Capes & Crowns Fun Run and 5K will be a magical experience for the entire family! The 5K begins at 9am and the Half-Mile Fun Run at 10am. Event includes face painting, superhero and princess appearances from Enchanted Parties, post-race games, and complimentary post-race craft beer from Grayton Beer Company!

The 28th Annual Destin Boat Parade was held at Destin Harbor on December 13, 2015. It was a great display of holiday cheer with live music and performances, childrens activities and a visit from our friend from the North Pole. If you missed it, be sure to mark your calendar for next year's Boat Parade.

Visitors from around the globe know that the city is a world-class vacation destination, where the clear waters of the Gulf meet the pristine white sands. With plenty of comfortable accommodations, including the ever-popular Destin condo rentals, the city is a beautiful oasis is replete with plenty of attractions. Visitors can enjoy strolling along the Gulf Coast, waking up early enough to catch a glimpse of dolphins frolicking in the surf. Nights are the settings for spectacular sunsets, as the sun slowly sets beneath the waves off of Baytowne Wharf.

The city is also a popular spot for deep sea fishing, home to the annual Destin Fishing Rodeo where fishermen from all over the world come to compete for cash prizes, glory and fame. Several local charter companies offer unparalleled opportunities for anglers to ply the waters off of the coast, with a wide variety of game fish in abundance.

The city is also home to some of the country's best seafood, beginning with Royal Red Gulf shrimp caught just offshore. Other popular seafood delicacies include fresh oysters, lobster, and several varieties of tasty fish. Local restaurants offer fresh seafood at all budgets, ranging from take-out joints to fancy upscale restaurants. One thing is for sure - no one ever goes hungry when visiting this city!

For families searching for an enjoyable and refreshing vacation, the city is one of the most popular destinations in Florida. After enjoying the sun and surf, visitors can amble along the lovely Destin Commons, the renovated pedestrian area of the city, or do a little shopping at the Destin Sands Outlet Mall, where brand-name clothing and merchandise can be found at cut-rate prices.

Visitors can also partake in gorgeous views from along the harbor front from the vantage point of Baytowne Wharf. With plenty of local events and festivals throughout the year, the city is a wonderful place to visit any time of the year.

Although there are plenty of funky hotels and luxury hotels in the city, may visitors choose to take advantage of excellently-priced Destin condo rentals to make the most of their trip to this coastal paradise.

One of the events people can enjoy in Destin Florida this late Fall and winter season is Baytowne on Ice, located on the Baytowne Wharf, in the Apex Skating Pavilion. Who says it is too warm to skate in Florida?? Those who say it is not so, will find the options they need when they choose to skate Baytowne on Ice. it is one of the events to enjoy. Those who miss Northern cold weather may find it just one of the things they are looking for. Sunday, November 1st 2015 at 12:00am was the start date for this fabulous ice skating rink in Northern Florida.

End Date/Time:

Sunday, January 31st 2016 at 12:00am is the end date.So as you can see, you can participate in Baytowne on Ice the majority of the winter, and the rink is encompassing the whole of the holiday season. Make certain to make this ice festival one of the things you do in terms of something different in Florida. It is the way to get in touch with those winters you might be missing from up North.

Where:

This fantastic event is being held in Destin, Florida at the Baytowne Wharf. It is simply a great thing and one that you may get to find the options you are looking forward to. It is one of the many choices you can enjoy this holiday season. It is simply a way to get the skating you thought you would never see again. Bring your kids and the whole family. Skating at Baytowne Wharf in Destin is the way that kids in Florida who may never have seen snow or ice in their lifetime can participate in skating. Instead of sitting around letting your fruitcake digest, go skating in Florida of all places.

Skating at Baytowne is an event that well befits the winter season. An annual event that has kids of all ages ready to experience ice skating in sunny Florida is the Baytowne Ice Skate In December if you bring in an unopened toy you will receive a free skating session for 90 minutes to benefit Toys for Tots. This is one of the fun ways to help others in need. There is also BOGO skating Wednesdays in January. It is one of the events to participate in.

Those who are ready for this grand ice skating event will have the cold weather choices they need when they choose to participate. This is the fun city wide rink that many people will take advantage of when they choose to go skating in he city. Baytowne on Ice is a family event that you can make certain to take advantage of. The hours and days are conducive to let families enjoy the event.

Beginning November first and last through January, individuals can get the options they need when looking for the choices in quality skating ventures Baytowne is an indooor skating arena that allows individuals to skate to their hearts content. Baytowne on ice is simply set up for those who grew up North Floridians can get the options when you are looking forward to. it is just one of the fun options that you may need. it is simply a great choice that you are looking forward to.

Those who want fun will find it over the holiday season. It is just one of the ways that you get the excitement you are looking for. It is simply one of the ways to enjoy something different in Florida. Baytowne on Ice is a perfect family activity for those who enjoy ice skating. It is a nice change from sun and surf in Florida. It is one of the options that you can fin when you are looking for excitement. it is just a unique and fun way for families to enjoy their holiday season even if they are in Florida. It is a great way to play.

This is the perfect thing to do for those who are looking for something special to do. It is a perfect way to get the options they need. it is just a way that individuals can get the ice rink experience they need when participating in a fun indoor venue. it is just one of the ways you can find the fun that you are looking forward to. It is just a way to take the family out and let Florida children experience some of the fun of skating and enjoying some of the fun that kids in the North. it is just one of the special ways to get the options that you may like to take advantage of. See why this local rink has become a seasonal and holiday favorite. Go to the Baytowne Ice Rink and Enjoy!

20 Entry Level Players Experience Tournament Style Match at Tops'L

The excitement of playing in a tennis match is irreplaceable and recently a Florida resort provided an opportunity for young tennis players to experience it! Held in Miramar Beach at Tops'L Beach Manor, this entry level tournament provided the chance for twenty youths to try out their tactical, technical and physical skills on the court.

Geared for players at the beginning level, this was a Level 9 event (once referred to as ROGY, which is a system that ensures that appropriate rackets, balls, court size are provided for children so they can be successful). Florida’s United States Tennis Association or USTA have created various tournament levels which are based on an individual’s skill. For example Level 1-6 are for those who are experienced, while Level 7 are suited for players of intermediate skills and Levels 8 and 9 focuses on new players The Level 9 (L9) tournament events are a wonderful way for children to be there on the court and gain experience in a tournament environment, but without the intense pressure. This can be the greatest feeling they can get! For these L9 competitions, balls are used which have dots on them in colors of green, orange or red, according to the skill and age of the child playing in the entry level event.

Normally the tournaments comprised of L9 Levels last one day to half a day. These events consist of timed matches just like the professionals and held in front of a crowd of fans. Besides the skill and knowledge the child gains, the environment is reassuring, fun and they are meeting other children who share their passion for tennis. The criteria are that the players are knowledgeable regarding how to rally, serve and determine scores.

While participation certificates are given, the entire event offers a format consisting of “no elimination,” so no points are awarded that indicate ranking, plus court monitors are placed to help children. However prizes such as wristbands and hats were presented to those children who displayed an exceptional Best Serve, Fastest Feet and Sportsmanship, a trait important for youngsters. The Director of Tennis for Tops'L Beach Manor, Joe D’Aleo is impressed with these tournaments and hopes to see Florida organizers plan more of them in the future.

Tops'L will be hosting the Level 9 Fall Classic on Saturday, May 7, 2016.

The holiday season is upon us, and here’s what’s going on at Tops'L Beach Manor this December!

The resort will be hosting its regularly scheduled Saturday Morning Round Robins this month, with six dates to choose from. Thanks to the holidays, three of these dates come with a special twist. On December 11, take part in the Toys for Tots Charity Round Robin to benefit this great cause. Hit the courts the day after Christmas for a special Merry Christmas Round Robin. Or, how about ringing in the New Year with a fun tennis match? Close out the year with a special New Year’s Eve Round Robin. This event is sure to get the New Year started off right at Tops'L Beach Manor.

For those players who don’t want to wait until Saturday to show off their tennis skills, Tops’L offers daily and weekly clinics. The helpful staff will be glad to answer your questions and Tops’L Tennis Professionals are on hand to help you keep your skills sharp.

Want to play tennis but don’t have the right equipment?

Tops’L offers tennis supplies for sale or rent right on site. Plus, the fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. Ten courts are lit, so tennis enthusiasts can continue their games even after dark. After your day of tennis is done the resort offers fine dining and pristine beaches to make your stay complete.

There is always something to do at Tops'L Beach Manor, and December 2015 is no exception. Whether you’re just staying for the holidays or a member of the club, this resort has all your tennis needs covered. Located in beautiful Miramar Beach, Tops’L is the place to go for tennis instruction and lively events. It’s easy to see why Tops’L is ranked in the top 25 of the top 100 tennis resorts in the world.

Enjoy Christmas In Destin For 12 Nights

Christmas is coming up and it's a wonderful time of year, to spend with family and friends. Destin provides a wonderful climate to get out and bring your family and friends out to enjoy Christmas lights, entertainment, and much more. Build a bond with your children or show your co-workers a nice time. We offer a beautiful array of Christmas lights never seen before anywhere else in the world. Enjoy the 12 Nights of Lights, Wednesday, December 2nd through Monday, December, 28th. We offer endless possibilities in the village. We offer a wonderful one of a kind opportunity to enjoy the ocean alongside your Christmas festivities.

Why Destin For Christmas?

Guests enjoy a great vacation retreat and traditional events for the locals. Destin always has a great climate and visible beautiful skies to enjoy in the day time or at night. They have wonderful locals that offer a friendly village community. In fact, the 12 Nights of Lights will be a once in a lifetime event. Remember, the sky is the limit and there is always something to do in the village.

Main December Attraction:

12 Nights of Lights
Wednesday, December 2nd through Monday, December, 28th
Time: 6,7,8pm Location: Events Plaza
Cost: Free

Every Friday and Saturday, we have festive lights that will set the mood for Christmas. Enjoy a wonderful lights show and great holiday music. December won't be the same on Friday and Saturday lights, leading up to Christmas, at 6,7, and 8pm. You don't want to miss out on this star studded event with your family and friends. Come out and spark something special under the Christmas lights and meet someone new. This sparkling event will be featured during the holiday editions of Wednesday Night Concert Series at 7pm. It's an event the whole family will enjoy.

Show dates: 2,4,5,9,11,12,16,18,19,23,25, and 26th

Choose any day you want to come out and enjoy the festivities. The fun isn't over on Christmas day, we still have one more showing the day after Christmas, to relive Christmas morning all over again, one more time before the New Year. We encourage you to come out and celebrate with us. There is a host of other events going on in and around the Village, for you and your family and friends to enjoy.

Other Village Activities:

Adventure Land Playground

Relax, while the kids find endless playtime on the nautical themed playground. Never worry about your kids safety. It is fenced in, for the kids to swing, run, climb, and jump, for hours. This is a wonderful activity to explore while your waiting to see the Christmas lights.

Baytowne Adventure Zone

Enjoy beautiful views of the area and (5) more reasons to hang around waiting on the 12 Nights of Lights Event. It has a spectacular ariel view, that takes you across the lagoon. We offer fun on the Christmas holidays, testing the strength and agility of the entire family. In fact, why not zipline across the lagoon? All of our events are reasonably priced at or under $20.00 for adults, and discounted rates for events that allow children.

-Baytowne Zipline
-EuroBungy
-Rockclimbing
-Sky Tykes
-Golf Challanges
and much, much more.

Still haven't found enough to do leading up to the Christmas lights event? Experience Baytowne Live. Our new renovated arts and entertainment law offers our guests a brand new stage. Guests can appreciate one of a kind art, live entertainment, and interactive entertainment. Just across the lawn, the kids can enjoy the Laser Maze and Blast Arcade. The arcade offers over 60 games, guests can win tickets and collect prizes. However, we always find the big kids love it just as much. Parents quickly find themselves in competition with the kids at this event.

If you're looking to slow down, enjoy the ride on the carousel. This ride puts a smile on every kids face. They have zebras, dragons, and reindeer's. Your child will find endless reasons to use their creative imagination on this ride. This ride comes alive with beautifully placed lights and kid-friendly music, that parents will approve of.

Parents can enjoy John Wehner's Village Door NightClub before or after the event for a great happy hour event, available everyday. In fact, adults enjoy free drinks every night between 8-9:30pm. The 12 Nights of Lights event offers great amenities nearby, that can't be compared to any other.

Graffiti and the Funky Blues Shack offers a great place to dine before or after the 12 Nights of Lights event. Wine & Dine for $39.00 per couple. Guest enjoy great music and a wonderful local cuisine. Enjoy the best food on the Emerald Coast.

Menu Includes:

-Starter Dishes
Clam Chowder, Fried Calamari, Smoked Tuna Dip, Fried Green Tomatoes, and Shrimp
(all under $20.00)
-Salads
Greek, Entree, and Caesar Salads
(all under $10.00)
-Kids Meals
Grilled Chicken, Mac N Cheese, Fried Shrimp and Fetti Mariana
(all under $10.00)
-Gourmet Pasta and Entrees (all of them are served with a salad)

There is so much to do before and during the 12 Nights of Lights event. There is lodging available for anyone that wants to stay over with us for a few nights. Make it a mini vacation. This is a great time to bring the family and/or your friends and celebrate Christmas with us. We over a friendly certified staff that is there to assist you with all your needs. Bring your camera and come out and take pictures of all the activities, lights, and fun. Capture that once in a lifetime moment that you're creating with the people that you loved, while your celebrating Christmas. We love our guests and have tailored 12 Nights of Lights around what our customers want.

Enjoy 12 Nights of Lights, a Christmas event to remember.