Destin FL, Aug 15, 09

Old Aug 5th, 2009, 09:39 AM
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Destin FL, Aug 15, 09

We are taking a close-to-home vacation in Destin, Florida, beginning 8/14.

We normally rent a condo if we go to the beach, but this time we're going to try a house in the Destin neighborhood of Emerald Shores.

There is a tram that runs during the day from the neighborhood to the beach so we'll see how this works.

We usually don't have time for much when we go to the beach, but this time DH & I will be there a week. We are familiar with outlet and mall shopping there, but haven't been in this specific area in several years and not up on the best restaurants & things to do.

Are the local state parks worth a visit?
Any areas or things to do you'd recommend?
Exceptional (okay, good) eats?

We are not big on shopping so if you have any suggestions or ideas for things to do and see, please post them here. I would appreciate all input.

I will post a TR to let you know how renting a beach vacation home worked for us.

Thank you!
BayouGal is offline  
Old Aug 5th, 2009, 02:02 PM
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Hey BayouGal,

For starters, get yourself over the 30A (South Walton)and enjoy the bike path http://www.discover30a.com/tour/tour.html
My husband and I ride every morning while we are there.

Also take a drive down the full length of 30A stopping and enjoying the beach communities along the way. Seaside is especially fun to putter around in. http://www.seasidefl.com/

If you will check out the Destin forum on Trip advisor, you will get tons of info, including great restaurants reviews.

I am going to be there (South Walton) next week but will probably leave Friday or Saturday otherwise we could have our own little GTG.
Sunshinesue is offline  
Old Aug 5th, 2009, 04:07 PM
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Here are the places we ate while there last year: Old Florida Fish House
http://www.theoldfloridafishhouse.com/
Poppy's (at the Baytown Wharf)
http://www.poppysseafoodfactory.com/
Cafe' Thirty-A
http://www.cafethirtya.com/

All of them were somewhat upscale, but Thirty-A seemed the most formal - also the friendliest & best service in addition to the great food!

We enjoyed the casual outdoor seating & music while the ferry's unloaded more visitor's on the pier there by Poppy's There are many places to eat at the Baytowne Wharf. You need to see that place. Similar to Epcot. Here's a link:
http://www.baytownewharf.com/

We did not eat here, but when it's come up online before, it is often highly recommended:
http://www.budandalleys.com/

I'll send you an email as well.
olesouthernbelle is offline  
Old Aug 7th, 2009, 06:18 AM
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Thank you, Sue!

I sure would have enjoyed the opportunity to meet you. You are always so helpful planning our beach trips, and as usual, you came through this time too. We aren't bringing our bicycles, but surely there's a place to rent them in the area-I'll search that out today. Our daughters love Seaside, so I'll know we'll be there at least part of the weekend while they're visiting. I've been reading trip advisor, and you're right, plenty of FL panhandle experts happy to help over there. Thanks, again, and enjoy your beach vacation next week!!!

OSB, I got your email, and driving over to Perdido is not out of the question for me, but don't know if DH will want to make the drive. I'll talk to him and get back to you. We usually stay where you are staying in Perdido, so I know you will enjoy it. It is one of my favorites. I feel so pampered there. We always have at least one great meal at Zeke's (now Geno's). Haven't been to Florabama in years, but it was always a riot if you need a little nightlife, and it may not be crowded with kids this late in summer.

Thank you for all your Destin area recs, OSB!

I'm checking out all of them now. I really appreciate it. Hoping to see you again soon. Hugs!
BayouGal is offline  
Old Aug 7th, 2009, 12:22 PM
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Somehow, I got the mistaken impression you & DH were alone on this trip. I surely understand if it's not convenient - family comes first! But, if you see your way clear to connect up, let me know. I'd love to see you again & meet your DH!

Yes, there are many bike rentals in the Destin area. A Google search will bring up many links.
olesouthernbelle is offline  
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