Destin is the Perfect Valentine’s Day Destination

Valentine’s Day will be here in just a few short weeks and now is the perfect time to plan a romantic getaway to Destin, Florida. With the hustle and bustle that can happen after the holidays, it’s the ideal time to reconnect with your partner for a little getaways. This year instead of planning a dinner and movie night at home, make your Valentine’s Day getaway a romantic one that your partner will never forget. We have come up with a few easy steps for you to plan your perfect Valentine’s Day getaway.

Find the Perfect Vacation Rental

The first step that you can’t leave out would be to find and book the perfect romantic vacation rental. Destin offers visitors a variety of beautiful and well-appointed vacation homes that you can choose from. If you are a little concerned that you won’t find the perfect locations, don’t be. We have vacation rental homes close to the area’s best attractions or if you’d like to be more secluded, we have those as well. Don’t forget that you are spending the week away from the busy life back homes, so find a rental that will help the two of you escape for some relaxation.

Plan a Surprise

There is a way that you can inject some passion into your getaway by planning a surprise for you both. It doesn’t have to be extravagant but make it simple and yet sweet such as having a bottle of champagne and strawberries ready or having flowers delivered to your vacation rental. Another sweet surprise you can do is schedule a day at the spa. Think about what your partner likes and plan that surprise around that. No matter what you decide to plan, they will be surprised either way.

Take an Adventure

Destin holds an endless amount of exciting and fun things to do with your loved one. When you are planning our a day of romantic adventures, make sure to pick the things you’d like to do as a couple. A few suggestions that you can enjoy while you are here would be take a walk along the beach, go to the Track in Destin or head over to the Largest Water Park on the Emerald Coast. There are many different things that you can do and spend time together to help make this trip feel more special.

Romantic Dinner

Your Valentine’s Day getaway has to include a romantic dinner or two. Here in Destin you will be able to find several restaurants you may want to give a try. If you would like to give something different a little try, then we suggest taking a SunQuest Cruise where it’s a dinner dance yacht and perfect for a romantic dinner for two. For something more upscale you can head over to the Ocean Club or Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood Restaurant. No matter what you are in the mood for to celebrate Valentine’s Day, there is something for you and your loved one here at the beach.

Now that you have everything you need to plan your next romantic getaway to Destin this Valentine’s Day, it’s time to book your trip. If you would like to learn more about what Destin vacation rentals are available, please check our inventory or give us a call. We hope that you and your loved one will enjoy taking this romantic trip from the busy life at home and enjoy each other!

December 23, 2018

6 Things to Do When it Rains in Destin

When you come to Florida even during the winter months, it’s sunny but there are a few days where it may rain. Even though it may be raining while you are on vacation to beautiful Destin, we know of 6 things you can do when it rains. And staying in one of our Water Views vacation rentals, will keep you close to where the fun begins. Let’s look at what you and your family can enjoy while it may be raining when you vacation.

Let’s Get Wild

If you and your family love to have fun outdoors when on vacation, then have no fear because we have the perfect location but some of it is indoors. Head over to Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone where you can enjoy a 16,000 sq. foot indoor arcade along with two mini golf courses, 60-foot ropes course and more. Here you are also able to enjoy some Laser Tag and don’t forget about the 4D movie experience! What an amazing day you and the family can have over at Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone on a rainy day while on vacation!

That’s Science

6 Things to Do When it Rains in Destin

If getting wild isn’t your thing, then take the kids over to the Emerald Coast Science Center where they can learn all about science. Located in downtown Fort Walton Beach, the Emerald Coast Science Center features many things including hands-on learning, exhibits and guided programs. During the holidays they have some amazing Winter Workshops that your kids can get involved in while you vacation here. No child will be saying “I’m bored” when they come visit the science center. Make this a must do when you vacation in Destin whether it’s raining or not.

Bowling

When you vacation in Destin there happen to be two great options for bowling when it rains. Head over to either Hurricane Lanes or Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl and Grill for some family fun and perhaps a little competition between each other. At Hurricane Lanes they feature 26 bowling lanes, pool tables, an arcade, and free ping-pong. What more could a kid ask for when it comes to bowling and playing ping-pong? Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl and Grill is a little cool as it has 16 different underwater themed lanes that any member of the family will want to bowl at. Both of these are in Destin and you will want to head here if you like a little family competition.

Be Artistic

6 Things to Do When it Rains in Destin

Do you have someone in the family who enjoys making their own art? If so, then we suggest heading over to South Walton – Fired Up Paint Your Own Potter Studio. Here you and your family can show your creativity among each other as you paint your own pottery piece that start at just $14. Remember your family vacation to Destin by coming home with a one of a kind pieces of artwork made by you. There are no reservations required to head here for a few hours while it’s pouring rain outside.

Destin History & Fishing Museum

We know that many families who visit Destin have someone in the family who loves to fish while they vacation. What a better way to spend the day when it rains by heading to the Destin History & Fishing Museum to learn a little more about the fish you may find in the Gulf of Mexico. With a 100 ft of wall space displaying what sea creatures you may find there is something for everyone. And enjoy some of the vintage photos and antique fishing rods that you will see including the original reel that belonged to Earnest Hemmingway. What a wonderful way to learn about the history of fishing in Destin and to get out of the rain.

Enjoy your Vacation Rental

Sometimes when you go on vacation you’d like to spend some time in your vacation rental. Many of our guests tell us that their #1 thing to do when it rains in Destin is to stay in their vacation rental and relax. Bring books, watch movies or play some board games while you wait for the rain to stop. Bake cookies or just allow the kids to make something fun for dinner. No matter what you and the family may do in Destin when it rains, relaxing in your rental can be wonderful as well.

No matter whatever you decide to do whether it’s relaxing or finding a new adventure while it rains in Destin, they are memories you will have forever. If you still haven’t booked your next vacation to Destin, then please check out our Destin vacation rentals today. We hope that we will be able to see you and your family on your next vacation making magical memories.

November 24, 2018December 10, 2018

Spend Christmas Vacation in Destin this Year

Are you looking for a good Christmas gift to give you family? Why not book an Beach Front vacation rental to spend Christmas week in? Christmas in Destin is a wonderful time to come visit with the family. While many others are dealing with the snow and cold weather, here in Destin you will be loving the warmer weather. Many other families love to come to Florida during the holiday season because of the warmth and fun you can have. Let’s look at why you should spend Christmas vacation in Destin this year.

Beautiful Weather

If you live in the north where the streets are covered in snow, you will find the weather here in Destin to be perfect. Here you can trade in the white snow for the white sands of the Emerald Coast to get your Christmas vacation started. With the temperatures in the low 60’s and not much humidity, your family will want to vacation in Destin for years to come. Spend the day in shorts and a t-shirt and the evening in a pair of jeans while you walk on the beach.

New Adventures

Spend Christmas Vacation in Destin this Year

When you are thinking of going on a vacation to Florida, you may think that headed to the beach is the best. But there are many other fun things for your family to enjoy and take part in for the holidays. If your family loves to skate, why not take a fun evening and spend it skating at the ice rink? Ice skating has become a tradition for many families in Destin and your family can make it your new tradition when you go on vacation. Head over to Baytowne Village Wharf from now until Saturday, February 2nd and skate your hearts content away. This can be a fun activity for the whole family to get involved in while you are on your Christmas vacation.

Water Fun

While there are a few water parks that are shut down for the season, there are many other ways you and your family can enjoy the water. Many of our vacation rentals have pools that you can take advantage of. And you may be able to enjoy putting your feet into the water on the beach for the day. Of course, the water may not be as warm as it is in the summertime, but it will be refreshing to enjoy a day on the beach.

Relax

Spend Christmas Vacation in Destin this Year

Since the holidays are upon us now, it’s time to take a vacation and just relax. Don’t worry about decorating your home, or about having to clean it before your guests arrive for the day. Spend your time with your family and just relax on your vacation. While the beaches are less crowded, it’s the time to think of you and your family. Just sit back, breathe in the fresh air and relax while you are sitting on the beach soaking up the sun. Enjoy your vacation to Destin this year with the family for Christmas.

There are many other reasons as of why you should surprise the family with a vacation to Destin this Christmas, we thought that these might help you make your decision a little easier. This year we want you and your family to be able to spend the week together in a beautiful Beach Front vacation rental and relax. We hope to see you this December and this Christmas season.

October 31, 2018October 31, 2018

Fun Events Happening in November

November is a fun and exciting month to come visit. Not only do you have Thanksgiving to celebrate with friends and family, but there are fun events happening as well. Staying in one of our Beach homes you will be near where the fun begins. Let’s look at what some of the events you and your family can enjoy while you vacation in November.

20th Annual Pin Fish Classic

Fun Events Happening in November

If your children enjoy fishing, then this is the perfect event for them to enjoy. The City of Destin is holding its 20th Annual Pin Fish Classic on Saturday, November 3, 2018 behind AJ’s Restaurant. This event is a catch and release only and is open to all children 14 and under. Make sure you bring your own rod and the bait will be provided. You can register your child at the pier beginning at 8:30 am and awards will be given at 9:45 am. What a great way to allow your children to experience this fun event just for them!

11th Annual Blues, Brews & BBQ

If you enjoy some good BBQ then, we suggest going to the 11th Annual Blues, Brews & BBQ this year. Held on Saturday, November 3rd from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Harborwalk Village. Here you will be able to sample BBQ styles, enjoy live music and enjoy some brews too. You can purchase advance tickets for $25, tickets the day of the event will be $30 and get a VIP experience for $50. Bring the whole family for a day of fun, food and entertainment this year.

Destin’s Annual Holiday Craft Show

Fun Events Happening in November

If you are looking for some quality handcrafted gifts this year, then come to Destin’s 12th Annual Holiday Craft Show. The craft show will be held at Destin’s Community Center on Friday, November 17th from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm and on Saturday, November 18th from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. Here you will be able to find handmade jewelry, paintings, woodcarvings and so much more. With over 50 vendors who will be attending this event, you will be sure to find that perfect gift for Christmas. Admission to this event is free of charge. Don’t miss this amazing event to start shopping early for those gifts this year!

Destin’s Christmas Tree Lighting

Join the City of Destin as they celebrate the 32nd Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at the Destin Community Center on Thursday, November 29th at 6:00 pm. Here you and your family will spend the evening outside for some live entertainment, musical groups and refreshments being served after the lighting of the tree. Plus, you and your family will get a visit from the jolly man himself, Santa Claus. Bring canned food as they are collecting it for families in need in the area. What a great way to enjoy a fun evening outside to get ready for the holiday season.

There are many other events happening in the area during the month of November, but there are just a few that we thought you and your family would enjoy. If you are still looking for a Beach Home, we have plenty for you to choose from. We hope to see you in November and we hope that you can enjoy some of these events with us.

October 13, 2018

4 Reasons Why You Must Spend Thanksgiving in Destin This Year

Are you looking for a new place to come celebrate Thanksgiving this year? How about trying something different this year and come vacation in Destin, Florida. We are located on the Emerald Coast and Destin is the perfect location to take your family vacation in late November. And to help you decide if staying in a Beach Front vacation rental is what you need, we have 4 amazing reasons why you must spend Thanksgiving in Destin this year.

Perfect Weather

If you live in an area where it may be cold during Thanksgiving, then coming to Destin is the best remedy. The highs during the day are usually around 70 degrees with the lows around the 50’s. This can be perfect if you want to go for a bike ride, walking on the beach or maybe even going to play a round or two of golf. We feel that taking a Holiday vacation to the beach is better than spending it in the cold with your winter coat and gloves.

Thanksgiving Day Meal

4 Reasons Why You Must Spend Thanksgiving in Destin This Year

When you are at home, preparing the traditional Thanksgiving Day dinner can take all day long to get ready. But when you vacation in one of our vacation rentals, you can either prepare the meal yourself or why not take advantage of someone else cooking for you. In the morning you can watch the Thanksgiving Parade on the television, take a nap, go eat your Thanksgiving Day meal and come back to your vacation rental and take another nap! You need to be well rested if you want to go shopping the next morning. Some of the great restaurants that you can take advantage of getting a meal from would be Cafe Thirty-A, Harbor Docks and Dockside Cafe. If you still want to have your Thanksgiving meal at your rental but don’t want to cook, then try out Publix. You will be able to order a fully-cooked turkey and all the classic side dishes to go along with it.

Black Friday Shopping

4 Reasons Why You Must Spend Thanksgiving in Destin This Year

Even when on vacation, many people still like to get a jump on Christmas shopping. You and your family will be able to find some pretty good deals during Black Friday in Destin. From Destin Commons to the Silver Sands Outlets, you can find what everyone is looking for. And if you are looking for something special for that one person who loves the outdoors, we suggest heading over to Bass Pro Shops which have some great deals during Black Friday! Be sure to check out what other shops you and your family can enjoy while in Destin.

Enjoy the Beach

4 Reasons Why You Must Spend Thanksgiving in Destin This Year

While you are on your holiday vacation, why not take advantage of enjoying a few days at the beach. The weather will be the perfect temperature to spend the day at the beach. Bring a beach chair, umbrella and a book to read while sitting seaside. Take a walk on the beach with your family as the kids collect seashells. But remember the water may be a little chilly for you to go swimming in but wading your feet in the water should feel good to you. Watch the sunset and just enjoy what time you have while spending your Thanksgiving this year at the beach.

While there are many other reasons to vacation in Destin for Thanksgiving this year, we thought you would appreciate these 4 reasons. If you are still on the fence about booking a long weekend to Destin this year, we hope that you will find our specials to be just right for you and your family. We hope that this Thanksgiving, you and your family will be able to make new memories to share for a lifetime!

October 11, 2018October 12, 2018

Destin Florida After Hurricane Michael

*Note updates may be made to this post for current information

To our readers:

As news of our neighbors reaches us we are deeply saddened. Please keep Panama City, Mexico Beach, and so so many other communities in your thoughts and prayers. Below is hopefully some useful info for any that can benefit, and a link to support the Red Cross efforts. Our thoughts and prayers are to those affected, and the work of all first responders helping to bring relief.

10/11/2018 Image of Destin Pointe after Hurricane Michael

Destin Is Okay

Hurricane Michael made landfall on October 10th, 2018. It’s a day many Floridians will never forget, and recovery will take a lot of help and effort.

Destin fared well being west of the center of the storm. Damage along the coast of Destin FL was minimal due to off shore winds dominating our duration of the storm.

The beaches are open and many are making the most of their time, and we sure are thankful to do so.

Thank You To Our Guests

So many guests have contacted us, and we just want to shout out that we’re all okay, and blessed to hear from you all. We hope you take care too, and can’t say enough how much it means to us.

Life will quickly go back to normal here in Destin, but our hearts are heavy.

Helpful Information

Driving Information

We also want anyone reading this to stay safe. Be careful traveling as many roads may be closed to our east. One potentially helpful link to have is Florida 511, for immediately updated road closings.

https://fl511.com/

Red Cross Disaster Relief Effort

Our thoughts and prayers go out to our neighbors just east of the area. News is still coming in of the damage, but we’d like to spread a link to the Red Cross in an effort to help first repsonders work.

Support Red Cross Efforts For Hurricane Michael

Local Florida Emergency Information

The Florida Division of Emergency Management website with up to date information on emergency services, shelters, and more emergency information.

Florida Disaster Information

10/11/2018 Image of Holiday Surf & Racquet after Hurricane Michael

10/11/2018 Image of Oceania in Destin after Hurricane Michael

More Images of Destin After Hurricane Michael

We’ve posted more images on Facebook of the Destin beaches. Visit our page to see.

Holiday Isle Facebook Page

10/11/2018 Image of Jetty East in Destin after Hurricane Michael

September 24, 2018September 24, 2018

What’s Happening In Destin This Fall

Summer may be over and Fall is here, but that doesn’t mean that coming to the beach has to end. Here on the Emerald Coast you can still enjoy sitting on the beach and soaking up the sunshine. The average temperatures in October are low 80s for highs and lows in the mid 60s. Not too shabby. Sort of a secret season Destin Florida is about tranquil a place to be during the fall months.

There are many different events happening during the month of September into October that you can’t miss! Staying in one of our Destin FL rentals will make you want to come back each fall for your family vacations.

Concerts in the Village

If you are looking for a family-friendly fun, then check out the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation concerts on Thursday Nights. On September 27th hear the Pickled Pickers beginning at 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm, as you listen to them play some feel-good music for the soul. October 4th hear Forrest Williams Banks and on October 11th hear Season Ammons Band play. Admission to the concerts are $15 per person but children 12 and under are free of charge. What a great way to spend a family night while on vacation then listening and dancing to some great music!

Destin Seafood Festival

Are you a seafood lover and like to travel around to the different seafood festivals? Well look no further as our Destin Seafood Festival is the best around! Beginning on Friday, October 5th and ending on Sunday, October 7th, this 3-day event just can’t be missed. From live music to kid events happening there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy! Admission to the festival is Free so don’t miss this festival this October!

Artwork on the Harbor

If you are into artwork for your home or to give as gifts, we suggest going and checking out Artwork on the Harbor. This every 3rd Sunday each month from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm located at the Destin Harbor. There are more than 40 vendors that include painters, photographers, sculptors and even food vendors for you to shop with. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to get some local art to take home and share with guests in your home.

Pumpkinpalooza

Pumpkinpalooza is a 2-day event happening at HarborWalk Village that is fun for the whole family! Friday, October 27th begins at 6 pm where the adults can take part in the Monster Mash Pub Crawl, live music, fireworks and even a costume contest! For adults 21 and up who want to take part in the Pub Crawl you will have to pay $10 for each adult. On Saturday, October 28th beginning at 2:00 pm is where the fun for the kids begin. Have a Spook-tacular family fun day with tick-or-treating at local restaurants and shops along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk. There will also be a kid costume contest and even a contest for your 4-legged friends and their costumes! This is a Free admission day and it would be a great way to end a fabulous family vacation!

There are many other events happening during the month of October, but we thought you’d enjoy these events. If you have never been to Destin before, we hope that you will come visit during the fall months. The weather is just right and isn’t too hot for you to sit out and enjoy the sand and surf. If you are still looking for a Beach Front vacation rental we still have availabilities this fall. We can’t wait to see you!

January 29, 2018

GET STUFFED THIS SEASON WITH A HOLIDAY GETAWAY

Thanksgiving is almost here, and we’re so grateful for all of our guests who have visited our little oasis in the Sunshine State this year. Whether you’ve been a new guest, you’re thinking about a vacation getaway, or you’re seasoned vet with Holiday Isle Properties, we’re looking forward to the blessings of the new year and hoping you can join us for a fantastic holiday getaway this year. When you choose one of our vacation rentals in Destin FL, you’ll find that a family Thanksgiving getaway is just what you need!

Home Away from Home

What sets a vacation rental apart during the holiday season? Well, we’re here to help you out! When you pick a rental home with us, you’ll be getting more than just a room to curl up in at night and count sheep. Our condo rentals are pre-owned, and that means you’re not just walking into a hotel room, you’re stepping into a home. Thus making your holiday vacation already feel like you are where you are supposed to be before the ball drops in the New Years!

A Meal Together

Plus, we’ll make sure your rental or resort condo is like a piece of home while on vacation. To make it even better many of our locations feature full kitchens or kitchenettes, where you are free to create your own Thanksgiving or holiday meal. So, get your stretchy pants ready because hosting a meal at our rental locations are going to mean home-cooked everything! It’s sure to be like Grandma’s house, but with a way better view after stuffing yourself full of delicious savory bites and sweet treats!

Bring family and friends together this season even if you’re not at your own house this year, you can still create a home out of your vacation rentals in Destin FL. Holiday Isle Properties is here to be certain you have the best holiday season, and if you happen to be down along the Emerald Coast before those sleigh bells ring or the champagne starts flowing, make sure to cherish every minute with those you love! Finally, we wish all of our guests, past, present, and future, a festive season full of laughter and joy!

March 16, 2017September 5, 2017

Much Needed Break

Spring Break has arrived, and what better place to be than beautiful HOLIDAY ISLE in Destin, Florida. After a mild winter, things are definitely heating up on the Gulf of Mexico. Water temperatures were an average of 72 degrees for the month of February, which is the warmest since 1932.

One of the best ways to spend this break, besides laying in the sun, is to join in on the Saint Patrick’s Day festivities. Today, everyone is Irish! One event I would recommend is St. Patrick’s Day Grogg March on the 17th.
Go Green and “Sham-Rock” for a cause! Travel throughout HarborWalk Village for the largest Grogg March in Destin. Pub crawl passes are $10.00 with proceeds benefiting Emerald Coast Fitness Foundation.

The March Stops Include:
Fishheads
Margaritaville,
Jackacuda’s Seafood & Sushi
Harry T’s Lighthouse
Jester Mardi Gras Daiquiris
Crab Island Cantina
Coyote Ugly Saloon.

Dublin has 6 letters…Destin has 6 letters.
Coincidence? Never
Unless you’re in Ireland, Destin is the place to be.
Wear Your Green and Be Seen on Holiday Isle and Destin Harbor!

December 20, 2016September 5, 2017

Hopefully, there’s no end in sight

What is a beer garden? With their popularity growing, it is rare to find someone who has never been exposed to one yet you may still not be familiar with its details. The origins of such establishments date back all the way to 19th century Germany.

A beer garden is defined as an outdoor area in which beer and local foods are served, typically at shared tables. In my opinion, there should be one of these on every corner. A no hassle, relaxed atmosphere with food and drink. What could possibly top that? I know, maybe one with a view of a harbor… You could basically arrive by boat after a long day of fishing or soaking up the sun of a beautiful beach. Maybe one of the most beautiful beaches in the world with emerald green waters. Are you thinking what I’m thinking?

Thankfully, Joe Campbell was thinking that in 2014 when he established The Other End Restaurant and Beer Garden. Tucked behind The Kayak Experience, which is directly across from Sexton’s Seafood Market, lies a somewhat hidden gravel parking lot. Leaving behind the traffic of Highway 98, you are presented with a secluded area with wooden floors and a canopy top. By now you have noticed the Airstream food-truck sitting directly behind the bar, but have you noticed the 16 beer taps? Yes! If you haven’t fallen in love yet, chances are you just did. At least, that was my experience the first time I discovered The Other End.

It was a breezy summer day at the Destin Dog Park and my friend and I were searching for a pet friendly place to go for dinner (Oh yea, The Other End is pet friendly as well). We polled the other dog owners and heard the usual suggestions until a beer garden was mentioned. A few hours later I had found one of my favorite places in Destin. You just can’t lose with a place who’s selections include the “Pig In The Garden” slab cut bacon, lettuce, and vine ripe tomato served on a croissant topped with aioli or the “Duck Confit Grinder”, a sandwich with duck confit, top with grilled onion, peppers and mushrooms, smothered in house made beer cheese. Sometimes all you need is a fresh German bratwurst with sauerkraut and maybe a side of Belgian fries, which is hand cut fries cooked in duck fat.

Well, there you have it. The Other End is a great place and a great addition to Destin. Let’s do our part now and keep them around. Hopefully, there is no end in sight for The Other End.