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Sandestin: Why This Little-Known Spot Should Be Your Next Florida Beach Vacation

6 things to know about this northwestern Florida gem

The Vacationeer
Beautiful aerial image, breach umbrellas peppered along sugar-white sands, Sandestin, Florida.

Tucked along Florida’s Panhandle is a 2,400-acre golf and resort area known as Sandestin. Travelers visiting this stretch of the Emerald Coast enjoy miles of pristine shoreline, easy access to outdoor activities, renowned golf courses and shopping and dining for all tastes. Sandestin is worth considering if you want to shake up your next beach vacation.

Here’s everything you need to know about this little-known Florida beach destination. 

Idyllic golf scene, golfers on course, beach in the distance, Sandestin, Florida.    

1. What Is The Difference Between Destin And Sandestin?

Destin and Sandestin are two different destinations. Sandestin is in Miramar Beach on the peninsula between Santa Rosa Beach and Destin, Florida. While Sandestin gets its name from its well-known neighboring beach towns, it’s a separate entity comprised of world-class residential golf and beach resort.

2. Why Visit?

If you’re longing for a tropical paradise with sugar-white sand and idyllic clear water, look no further than Sandestin. Savor everything you love about a classic Florida beach vacation while discovering a new stretch of shoreline in a lesser-known destination. Whether you’re making new family memories, reconnecting with your other half or treating yourself to “me time,” Sandestin offers something for every traveler.

3. What To Do In Sandestin?

When you’re not soaking up the sunshine and panoramic ocean views, there are plenty of activities from which to choose. Active travelers can fill their days with outdoor fun ranging from kayaking to fishing to golf and tennis. Plan a laid-back day lounging by the pool, perusing boutiques or visiting the Village of Baytowne Wharf for family-friendly fun for your whole crew. 

4. Where To Eat In Sandestin?

Stunning aerial view, emerald water, white-sand shore, Sandestin, Florida.    

Get your fill of fresh catch from the Gulf of Mexico, enjoy American classics or satisfy almost any other craving. Check out TripAdvisor’s top “10 places to eat in Sandestin” list to narrow down the best eatery for you. If your accommodations include a full kitchen, consider visiting the Grand Boulevard Farmers’ Market to stock up on local bounty, fill your fridge or make family-style meals for a low-key evening. 

5. Do You Need A Golf Cart To Get Around Sandestin?

Golf carts are a popular way to get around Sandestin, but they’re not the only option. A free tram runs on two continuous loops, departing from each stop every 30 minutes or less. Just download the Sandestin app, decide where you want to go and check the schedule. The tram will take you from the beach to the bay and all the top stops in between.  

6. Where To Stay?

Kick back and relax at Hilton Grand Vacations Club Sandestin. Spacious 1- and 2-Bedroom Suites offer the ideal place to call home no matter your travel crew’s size. Finally, a long list of resort-style amenities and stunning views ensures you don’t have to go far for an unforgettable Florida beach trip. 

Read “What’s The Best Beach In Florida? Here Are My 4 Favorites” for one Owner’s take.

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Vacationeer

The Vacationeer

The Vacationeer is a collective of Hilton Grand Vacations storytellers whose goal is to inspire travelers to go further. We're always on the lookout for new destinations to explore, useful travel tips, and unique ideas to help you plan the most memorable vacations possible.

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