This year, many families are seeking hassle-free domestic vacation spots that are easy to access and offer plenty of outdoor activities. An easy 7-hour drive from Murfreesboro, TN, the beaches of South Walton and Destin, Florida are a top option. Whether you’re looking to stay on the beach or tucked away on Scenic 30-A, these stand out vacation rentals offer unmatched atmosphere and a prime location for an unforgettable experience.
Jewel in the Sand – Luxury Beachfront Home in Destin
With four floors and eight bedrooms, this luxury vacation home overlooking the beach sleeps up to 24. What makes this home truly special are the four (yes, four!) beachfront balconies that provide plenty of places for soaking in sunshine and fresh air. Looking for the “WOW” factor? Look no further than the master bathroom, which features a giant glass walk-in shower with dual shower heads, a Jacuzzi tub that looks out over the Gulf, and split floorplan that divides his and hers vanities and latrines. Recently renovated, this home exudes a light, bright feel complimented with modern art, grey marble counters, and comfortable furnishings. With the addition of a private pool, outdoor dining, and ample lounge chairs, Jewel in the Sand is truly a gem along Florida’s Emerald Coast.
DRINK – Bric A Brac – Whether you start with the blue skies margarita or another of their specialty drinks, you’ll want to stay for dinner, live music, and dancing.
EAT – Breakfast! Whether you pick The Pancakery at the end of the street, Another Broken Egg at Destin Commons, or the famed Donut Hole in Destin, creative delicious breakfast options are all nearby.
EXPLORE – The Destin Harbor—This bustling boardwalk is the hotspot for dolphin tours, boat/jet ski rentals, fishing charters, shopping, dining, and entertainment of all kinds.
Stairway to Hammock Heaven – Beach Cottage in Crystal Beach
Located in the Crystal Beach neighborhood known for white picket fences and friendly neighbors, Stairway to Hammock Heaven is a cozy beach cottage. With a rooftop perch of hammocks, it offers one of the most unique ways to enjoy the coastal breezes and a bird’s eye view of Crystal Beach. The four bedroom home sleeps up to 12 and the remodeled kitchen provides a great gathering spot for creating meals and breaking bread together. The backyard serves up a private pool, and a large deck with a gas grill for barbecues and a Cajun boiler for low country boils. Stocked with books, games, and five flat-screen televisions, this coastal cottage is ready to entertain and delight vacationers of all ages.
DRINK – The Henderson Resort – Visit the rooftop bar for incredible views of the coast or head inside to Horizon’s, which features craft cocktails, including the deliciously spicy, “The H”.
DINE – Camille’s Restaurant – Owned by one of Destin’s most-notable fishermen, Camille’s features the freshest seafood and sushi in town.
EXPLORE – Rent Stand Up Paddle Boards from La Dolce Vita for a fun day on the water experiencing one the of most popular local watersports.
Penthouse 1700 at Hidden Dunes Beach & Tennis Resort in Miramar Beach
There is something to be said about the Penthouse. This enormous condominium features 3,200 square feet of living space, 9-foot ceilings, 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, and bonus sleeping rooms! With expansive views of the coast and a large Gulf-front balcony, it’s difficult to leave this rental. The “purple room” brings a fun, fresh vibe, and entertaining is made easy with a wet bar and ice maker. There will be no fighting over rooms since all bedrooms boast amazing water views, private bathrooms, and 50" Roku Smart TV's. Located within Hidden Dunes Beach & Tennis Resort, guests enjoy access to miles of white sand beaches, an award-winning tennis center, a basketball court, three swimming pools, a fitness center, picnic areas, and horseshoe courts.
DRINK – Tommy Bahama Restaurant—Offering daily happy hour and live music, Tommy Bahama offers a menu of creatively delicious cocktails.
DINE – Emeril’s Coastal Italian – Local resident and acclaimed Chef Emeril Lagasse shares his love of fresh seafood and Italian cuisine at his namesake restaurant.
EXPLORE – Sandestin’s Village of Baytowne Wharf—This walkable village features boutique shops, locally-owned restaurants, an Adventure Zone, and nightlife.
Re-Grouper Beach House in Miramar Beach
Forget the self-help books and therapy sessions- all you need is a vacation at ReGrouper. This four-story beach vacation rental can comfortably fit several families thanks to its six bedrooms, two living rooms, three balconies, and one of the coolest pool decks in the area. The private backyard was made for festive celebrations with its Margaritaville-inspired Tiki hut with a u-shaped bar that overlooks a lush green lawn for yard games, a private pool, plenty of lounge furniture, a gas grill, and a private wooden outdoor shower. Two small libraries for children and adults, a wet bar in the 3rd floor entertainment area, beach views from the 3rd and 4th floor bedrooms/balconies, and four master suites with luxury showers, make Re-Grouper a great catch!
DRINK – Slick Lips Seafood—Home of the award-winning bartender, Maggie White, Slick Lips features a new drink menu seasonally with some of the best craft cocktails in town.
DINE – Vintij Wine Boutique at Grand Boulevard—Ready to satisfy any foodie, this award-winning local restaurant is known for seasonally-inspired culinary creations made from the freshest ingredients.
EXPLORE- Silver Sands Premium Outlets—Take time to go shopping at the nation’s largest designer outlet center and enjoy 30-65% off brand-name merchandise.
Sanctuary at Redfish 3108 Penthouse on Highway 30-A in Blue Mountain Beach
Tranquility and peace are prized commodities, and Sanctuary at Redfish 3108 exudes serenity. Surrounded by the nature with views of a protected wildlife sanctuary and a coastal dune lake, Sanctuary at Redfish 3108 features four bedrooms (two are master suites with balconies). Each suite also boasts a large bathroom with an oversized spa bathtub and a walk-in glass shower. Guests enjoy access to resort amenities, including four pools (one heated seasonally), two hot tubs, a fire pit, four grills, canoes, and a covered dock. To get to the beach, take a relaxing stroll down tree covered walkways or a five-minute pontoon ride (March through October) where two chairs and an umbrella await your arrival.
DRINK – Redfish Taco – Try their signature Stink Juice (a frozen, orange daiquiri-style cocktail) to kick-start vacation vibes and follow with their famed redfish tacos.
DINE –The Grove 30-A—this outdoor restaurant features small plates, specialty sandwiches, and other fresh menu items under an umbrella of sunshades and white lights.
EXPLORE-Bike the Timpoochee Trail—a paved bike path that meanders through the coastal towns along 30-A. Tip: Up the fun by renting a Pedego Electric bike.
These one-of-kind Destin vacation rentals are professionally managed by Newman-Dailey Resort Properties and are available for your next beach vacation. Learn more at DestinVacation.com.
