Sandestin

 

Sandestin is a 2,400-acre wonderland immersed in the beauty and grandeur of nature and bustling with activities and excitement. This resort area is located in Miramar Beach, between Destin, Florida, and Santa Rosa Beach. The south side has spectacular white beaches, the tranquil emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico, and meticulously landscaped fairways. The north side has more links, a festive wharf area, and the gentle blue waters of Choctawhatchee Bay. 

 

There are at least 70 neighborhoods sprinkled throughout the area, some of which are private, gated communities. There are condominiums, townhouses, single-family homes, and gorgeous villas. One of the more exclusive neighborhoods is the Bayfront community of Driftwood Estates. The waterfront homes along Choctawhatchee Bay are simply stunning. 

 

Many of the hotels in Sandestin are either perched along the shore or a short shuttle ride away. A free tram system carries you from the Gulf side of the resort to the Bay area, or you can use the unique tunnel under the highway that allows you to walk, ride a bicycle, or drive a golf cart to each end of Sandestin without having to worry about cars. 

 

Golf enthusiasts can take to the greens at one of the area’s four award-winning courses, and tennis players can participate in a round-robin on over a dozen courts. There are golf and tennis camps for children and lessons available for adults. There are also ponds, lagoons, and the Gulf where anglers can cast a line in the hopes of reeling in the big one. 

 

For other lively activities, there is the Village of Baytowne Wharf. The calm waters of Choctawhatchee Bay surround this picturesque harbor. Modeled after the famed Bourbon Street, the Baytowne Wharf has entertainment for children and adults. There are festivals, street performers, concerts, and attractions like a carousel, a rope course with ziplines, and a retro arcade. 

 

Between the magnificent beaches, the fantastic shopping and dining options, the phenomenal recreational activities available, and the bustling entertainment district, there is so much to see and do that you may have to move here to experience it all.

 

• Luxurious accommodations
• Rich, resort-style amenities
• Exclusive neighborhoods

 

Imagine spending your days relaxing at the beach while reading the newest book club find or paddling in a kayak along the glistening waters of the bay. You can take the boat out on the bay or the Gulf for a morning of fishing and still make it back in time for your afternoon tee time. Then, spend your evening dining at a five-star restaurant and retire for a quiet nightcap on your terrace overlooking the scenic landscape. This is not just a vacation; this is your new lifestyle at Sandestin, and the locals cannot imagine living elsewhere.

 

It is not only the world-class amenities that draw people to Sandestin but also the carefree atmosphere and the friendly southern hospitality. The warm subtropical climate allows for year-round outdoor adventures, and navigating Sandestin is a breeze. Most residents use bicycles and golf carts around the resort, but it is only a short car ride to places like Destin and the 30A communities. People of all ages visit and thrive here, but the fortunate ones get to stay and call Sandestin home. 

 

As you would expect, Sandestin is a terrific place to shop and dine. The Barefoot Princess is a premier boutique with casual beach wear and outfits for a night out on the town. 

 

After a day of shopping, stop at Ovide in the hotel Effie and savor a meal prepared under the watchful eye of noted Chef Acheson, or head to its rooftop lounge, Ara, and be wowed by the food and the views.

 

For some daytime fun or an evening fueled with excitement, The Village of Baytowne Wharf hosts festivals and other events. Peruse the cute shops and dine at fabulous restaurants during your stay. 

 

There is almost an unending amount of things to do in Sandestin. Watch the boats or fish off the dock that straddles the Baytowne Marina, the only marina in the area. Stroll over to the Village of Baytowne Wharf for one of its many festivals, like the Sandestin Gumbo festival, the wine festival, or the Mardi Gras parade.

 

Residents love the generous amenities at the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. There is a fitness center, tennis courts, golf academies, bike and kayak rentals, and much more. 

 

If golf is your game, The Links Golf Club, Raven Golf Club, and Burnt Pine Golf Club are award-winning courses designed with unique characteristics and challenges. Avid golfers and those new to the game will be tested and inspired by the fairways and the stunning landscape. 

 

Sandestin is part of the Walton County School District. A few of the schools in the area are shown below.