Hi,
I am researching the area to take a vacation with my husband in late April or early May.
Is Destin more commericalized and kid friendly? Is Sandestin more secluded? Can you sit on the beach in swim suits at that time of year?

We would love beachfront condo/resort, golf, pool and a nice area to walk around at night.
As you can tell, this will be a relaxing vacation, thanks for your advice!

Destin is more commercialized. Destin has begun to cater to families with a few go-cart tracks, restaurants of all sorts, and shopping (see Silver Sands outlet mall,etc). Sandestin (proper) is a sprawling planned community including shops, restaurants, beach, etc. as well, but is more of a gated-type community. Sandestin is seperated from, and perhaps more secluded than Destin. I would say that while Sandestin is kid-friendly too, Destin will have more to offer in the way of keeping the kids entertained. Right across the Destin Pass bridge is Ft. Walton, which has even more in the way of kid's amusements, including a marine park (Gulfarium?) and several beach "theme" restaurants.

Yes, you will be able to sit on the beach in your swimsuit. The water may still be a bit on the nippy side (70°-78°) depending upon where you're from (I swim in April/May, my wife doesn't-"too chilly").

Finally, there are so many resorts, condos, etc. to choose from I wouldn't even know where to begin to tell you. Most have the amenities you listed. Also, in order to stay competitive, most condos/resorts/hotels in Destin offer "bonus" type things like a free half-day of deep sea fishing, a round of golf, or dinner somewhere. Hope this helps. Enjoy!