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The Beach!
There is something undeniably alluring about the beach—the sound of crashing waves, the feel of warm sand between your toes, and the salty ocean breeze caressing your skin. Whether it’s a tropical paradise or a hidden gem along the coastline, the beach has an irresistible charm that draws people from all walks of life. In this blog post, we will explore the myriad of reasons why it is good to go to the beach, beyond its picturesque beauty, and uncover the physical, mental, and emotional benefits that await those who seek solace in the gentle embrace of the sea.
I had mentioned before how much my family loves going to the beach! The beach offers a natural sanctuary for rejuvenation. The rhythmic sound of ocean waves acts as a soothing balm, helping to calm our overactive minds and promote relaxation. The negative ions present in the ocean air have been shown to increase serotonin levels, contributing to improved mood and overall well-being. The serene environment of the beach allows for a much-needed break from the daily hustle and bustle, providing a space to recharge, reflect, and find inner peace.
We always come back home refreshed and recharged. It has been shown that a trip to the beach lowers stress, helps you to sleep better and gives you plenty of opportunity to get some exercise. I always try to fit exercise into my “get away” time.
Destin Beach
Destin is another beach that we like to go to. Destin Beach boasts some of the most picture-perfect stretches of sand in the United States. With its powdery white quartz crystal sands that feel soft beneath your feet, the beach offers an inviting playground for beach-combing, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. The jewel-toned waters of the Gulf of Mexico are incredibly clear and shimmer with shades of emerald and turquoise, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for a day of relaxation or water-based adventures.
Beyond the pristine beaches, Destin offers a wealth of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts. With its prime location on the Gulf Coast, fishing is a beloved pastime. Embark on a deep-sea fishing excursion, where you can reel in marlin, snapper, and grouper, or opt for inshore fishing in the bay, targeting trout, redfish, and flounder. The area is also renowned for its water sports, such as paddleboarding, kayaking, jet skiing, and parasailing, providing exhilarating experiences and the chance to explore the coastal wonders from a different perspective.
We stayed in the Hilton and the views from there were amazing! The pools, the beach, the sites and the sounds… it is all so amazing.
There are restaurants on premises at the Hilton and the food is delicious. There is casual dining as well as more formal dining. We did some of each. Since we were there during the week of 4th of July, we went to the buffet the hotel had but you have to make reservations. We ate outside and enjoyed live entertainment. That evening we enjoyed a great firework show! If you want a break from the heat and the beach there are several things to do right across the street.
Baytowne Wharf
Baytowne Wharf is right across the street from the beach. Here you can find shopping and more dining. It is pretty deserted during the day so I would suggest going in the evening. In the evening, there are live bands that play on the center lawn. There are a lot of restaurants to choose from and there is unique shopping. We would take the free tram from the hotel to go over there.
Destin Harbor Walk
When I said “big town atmosphere” in a small town, this is what I meant. The Destin Harbor Boardwalk serves as the heart and soul of the community, offering a vibrant mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment. Stroll along the waterfront and indulge in fresh seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants, where you can savor Gulf-to-table delicacies while enjoying panoramic views of the harbor. Explore charming boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops, where you can find unique treasures and mementos. In the evening, the boardwalk comes alive with live music, street performers, and breathtaking sunsets, creating a lively and memorable atmosphere.
Grand Boulevard at Sandestin
This is another place to go when you want to get some dinner or just do some shopping. It is about a mile or two from the beach. You can catch a movie here or dine at some of the finest restaurants like Fleming’s Steakhouse and more. If you want to stock up on some snacks for your hotel room, you can stop by Publix.
The Donut Hole
You HAVE got to visit The Donut Hole! They have some of the best donuts I have ever eaten. I must warn you that there may be a wait when you go. Not only do they have the best donuts in town, they also have some tasty breakfast, lunch and dinner items as well. Whether you are in the mood for something sweet or something savory, this is a MUST for one of the restaurants to try.
When is the best time to go?
Summer, Spring, Winter, Fall? Let’s look at each season.
Winter time does not mean you can’t enjoy the beach. Even though the water is too cold to enjoy, you can certainly enjoy the sounds of the ocean. There is something so relaxing and it carries all of your cares away.
The sunrises and sunsets on the beach are amazing any time of the year. In the winter time, I think you can enjoy them more because you tend to sit on the beach or your deck nestled under your blankets.
What about Fall? Fall is an amazing time of year in Destin. This is the time when you see more locals come out since the summer crowds tend to have left and go back to their “normal” life. Fall will is usually when you see more adult visitors than families since the kids have just recently gone back to school after being out all summer.
And Spring? Well spring usually is when you see college students flock to the beaches. It’s not to say you shouldn’t visit during spring time. The weather is not necessarily the best either. Some days it may be warm and others it may be cold. And since most people that go to Destin during Spring are going there to play in the water at the beach. Something to consider.
Finally, Summer! Summer is probably the busiest time of the year for the beach. Families plan their vacations for summer. It stands to reason that this would be the most popular time to visit.
Personally, my family enjoys going during the summer. Our most favorite time to visit happens to be during July 4th week (as I mentioned earlier). We loved the firework show.
Final Words
There is so much to do in Destin that I don’t know if I could list it all. You really need to visit and check it out yourself. I promise, you will not be disappointed! Don’t worry about what time of the year you pick. Any time is a great time for BEACH TIME!
If you happen to go to Destin for you vacation or even a long weekend getaway, I would love to hear your thoughts and comments. Or even add some suggestions of places that I may not have gone to. And please, feel free to share!
